Wireless Baby Monitor : What Does This Mean Exactly?

In the past, baby monitors were a mess of wires and parents could only stray so far. Yet some parents liked this type of baby monitor system because they felt it was reliable: they knew where the receivers were at all times and they knew how far they could go to keep in touch. The modern wireless baby monitor solves both of these problems by having a "Page" function that allows you to find misplaced receivers, and by sounding an audible alarm or flashing lights when you begin to get out-of-range. In some cases, wireless digital baby monitors can interfere with cordless phones and other wireless equipment, so it's important that you shop around for a quality system.

One wireless monitor to consider is the Graco Ultra Clear II. The Graco baby monitor is a budget product that has received positive reviews for its excellent reception and sound quality. Bonus features include a night-light and sound indicator lights, so you can simply see when your baby is crying, rather than be startled by the sudden, shrill shrieks. The system also comes with two parental unit monitors, which is a nice bonus. In consumer baby monitor reviews, many parents give the UltraClear II 5/5 stars. However, like many other monitors, interference can be a problem in busier areas, so you might want to upgrade to the $60 Graco iMonitor system, which offers even better clarity. The only cons listed for this item are that the monitor is too sensitive and that the volume can only be turned off, not kept down low. Prices range from $36.99 at Amazon to $44.95 at Ebay. Target and Walmart also carry this product if you need it right away.

On the high-end, Philips baby monitors like the SCD 589 DECT Digital are guaranteed to have no interference from other electronic devices. With 60 different channels, compared to competitors' two, the DECT baby monitor automatically switches to clear, unused channels. Many parents also like the intercom function, which allows them the ability to communicate with the baby through their handheld receiver. They can also remotely check the temperature and humidity of the baby's room, cue up lullabies and turn on a night-light. Some complaints have been that the battery life doesn't perform as advertised, that the volume doesn't pick up baby talk as well as it picks up full-blown screaming and that it's expensive. Prices for this wireless baby monitor run from $100 at Amazon to $200 in stores.

Nothing is worse than knowing your baby has been screaming his or her lungs out for the past hour, while you were out of earshot range, doing laundry, cooking or watching television. The wireless baby monitor enables parents to give the baby a little bit of encouragement from afar, while not caving in to the fussiness and whims of the child. Digital baby monitors are a great way to get chores done around the house and take a little break, without having to worry about the safety of your little one.