Image: MomJunction Design Team
It is natural for parents to become anxious about their baby’s health, even if it means fretting about their breathing pattern. By placing the best breathing monitor near your baby, you can have peace of mind knowing that the little one is breathing normally.
If you are not aware of what breathing monitors do or how they work, this post can help you understand it. We tell you about its uses, provide a comprehensive list of some tried-and-tested baby breathing monitors, and tell you the factors you should consider when choosing one.
Top Picks
What Is The Use Of Baby Breathing Monitors?
Newborns could have an irregular breathing pattern. This irregularity often worries parents because babies’ breathing pathways are small and easy to obstruct. Commonly, this irregularity in breathing is resolved within the first few months itself. However, for some babies, the issue does not resolve even after six months. This could be because of some medical condition and is common in premature babies. Doctors usually advise a breathing monitor to parents so they can be alerted each time the baby experiences abnormal breathing.
A breathing monitor observes the baby’s breathing movements or patterns, and in case it does not capture any movement from the baby, it sounds an alarm. Note that these monitors should be used under the advice of your pediatrician.
7 Best Baby Breathing Monitors In 2024
1. Best Hypoallergenic: Snuza Hero (SE) Premium Baby Movement Monitor
This portable baby breathing monitor is a tiny and lightweight device. Clip it to the baby’s diaper, and it monitors the baby’s abdominal movement. If it does not detect any movement for 15 seconds, it vibrates gently to move the baby. If the breathing does not resume within the next five seconds, the handheld unit sets off a loud alarm to alert the parent or guardian. The cordless wearable device is hypoallergenic and BPA-free. Have a look at this video by a reviewer to understand more about this baby monitor with an alarm system.
Pros
- Made of medical-grade silicone and plastic
- Easy to clip on to diapers
- Lightweight and portable
- Adjustable settings for convenience
Cons
- Functions may be complicated for some
- May be slightly big
Point To Consider2. Best Snap-On: MonBaby Baby Breathing Movement Monitor
MonBaby’s monitor helps track your child’s breathing pattern while sleeping and informs you through audible alerts to your phone in case of any pause. The Infant respiratory monitor offers real-time and historical graphs to track your child’s breathing movement over a long period. This classic monitor also works as a baby sleep monitor that tracks your baby’s changing positions while sleeping and lets you know when they roll over on their stomach. Its patented snap-on design makes it easy to attach to any outfit or diaper.
Pros
- Bluetooth-enabled
- Near-zero radiation level
- Communication range of up to 50ft
- Optimized battery life
Cons
- Works only if attached to the first layer of clothing
- App may shut off randomly
"This simple unit is a helpful tool for new parents looking for extra reassurance. It tracks chest motion and works well if you and your baby co-sleep in the same room."
3. Best Contact-Free: Miku Smart Baby Monitor
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 901 Amazon shoppers have left good reviews about this product, citing its quality features and benefits.
Miku Pro smart breathing monitor gives you real-time updates and enables you to keep a check on your baby from anywhere through your smart device. This safe monitor with movement tracking is equipped with a camera that focuses on the baby and sets off an alarm when it detects no movement. Its speakers enable two-way talk so you can hear every sound in the baby’s room and talk to the baby through the speaker. Click here for a video showcasing a reviewer’s experience to learn more about this wireless smart monitor.
Pros
- Contact-free monitor
- Encrypted for safety
- Digital zoom with 1080p HD video
- Monitors nursery conditions
- Wireless design
Cons
- App may not be user-friendly
- May disconnect frequently
Snuza Hero (SE) Premium Baby Movement Monitor Best Hypoallergenic | MonBaby Baby Breathing Movement Monitor Best Snap-On | Miku Smart Baby Monitor Best Contact-Free | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | - | 9"L x 1.5"W x 0.25"H | 2.8 x 2.8 x 5.25 inches |
| Weight | - | 0.19 Pounds | 8 ounces |
| Color | - | - | White |
| Material | - | - | Plastic |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 497 | 285 | 901 |
| Price | $129.99 | $49.99 | $399 |
4. Best Bluetooth Enabled: Sense-U Baby Monitor with Breathing Rollover Movement Temperature Sensors
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 1,059 reviews on Amazon.
Sense-U baby monitor lets you constantly monitor your baby through your smart device. It not only notifies you of the baby’s breathing, but also alerts you when the baby sleeps on their stomach. It works on Bluetooth Low Energy (BT 4.0), which has a range of about 50ft and a negligible radiation level. The handheld unit comes with a sensory chip that closely monitors your baby’s breathing and sends an alert to your phone in case of any abnormality. The mommy-approved monitor also enables you to check your baby’s breathing rate and temperature on your cell phone.
Pros
- Notifies if baby’s temperature levels changes
- Tracks the child’s sleeping position and breathing
- Displays humidity levels
- Smart device can track room temperature
Cons
- Does not support hotspot Wi-Fi from hotspots and 5G networks
- Clip may not be durable
"This baby monitor with a low-profile design and easy-to-setup options ensures convenience. Although the Bluetooth range could be better, it's a trustworthy choice with alarms and real-time updates."
Quick Tip5. Best Versatile: iBaby Smart Baby Breathing Monitor
Suitable for new parents, the iBaby baby audio monitor and breathing detection is Wi-Fi-enabled and offers two-way audio, sleeping analytics, and crying/movement tracking. The versatile Wi-Fi baby monitor does not cause discomfort to the child as they do not have to wear it. This classic monitor with a smartphone app offers real-time breathing and movement data that you can view from the app.
Pros
- Prompt alerts
- Night vision available
- Features a full HD 1080P baby camera
- Plays sweet lullabies
Cons
- Connecting to smart devices like smartphones may be challenging
- May not be easy to position it at the right angle
"This monitor is stunning and has an effective breath-tracking option. From temperature monitoring to two-way communication, it facilitates all, and the wearable sock is super convenient."
6. Best BPA-Free: Owlet Smart Sock + Cam – Heart Rate, Oxygen, Video & Audio – The Complete Baby Monitor Solution
This baby monitor system by the trusted brand Owlet lets you keep a close watch on your baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels. The package includes a camera and a smart sock. The secure, encrypted Wi-Fi network allows you to watch your baby anytime, anywhere and the smart sock connects to the base station to alert in case the baby’s heart rate changes drastically. The two speakers of this baby heart rate monitor allow you to soothe your baby even from another room.
Pros
- Night vision enabled
- Access to Owlet’s award-winning sleep program
- HD vision available
- Superior 130° wide-angle 4X zoom
- Free of BPA, latex, and lead
Cons
- May lose certain smart features during updates
- May disconnect often
"I am relieved after installing this device at home. It offers updates on oxygen levels, heartbeat rate, and other baby vitals on my phone. It's a valuable tool for any new parent, even if the loud base alerts can be a tad intrusive."
Remember7. Best Under-The-Mattress: New Babysense 7 – Under-The-Mattress Baby Movement Monitor
If clipping or tying a medical device to your baby makes you uncomfortable, try this mom-approved under-the-mattress baby monitor with motion detection. It is highly sensitive and notes every little movement of the baby on the mattress. This baby health monitor instantly sets off an alarm if it fails to detect any movement for 20 seconds or if the movement is slower than expected. The handheld unit is safe and effective, equipped with two sensor pads fitted to the crib.
Pros
- No-Wi-Fi
- Covers the entire crib area
- No direct contact with the infant
- Enhanced sensitivity
- Easy to install
Cons
- Alarm may go off multiple times
- Movement sensor may not be sensitive
Factors To Consider Before Buying A Baby Breathing Monitor
Baby breathing monitoring devices are aplenty, but good breathing monitors are relatively less. So, when buying a breathing monitor, you may consider the following essential features in the device.
- It should be highly sensitive to track the baby’s heart and breathing rate constantly.
- It should not make sounds that can disturb the baby’s sleep pattern.
- It should capture other sounds the baby makes, like crying.
- It should be safety-tested to ensure it gives accurate alarms.
- It should meet the ASTM International F2951 safety standards.
- It should have a mechanism to indicate the draining of battery life.
Before you decide to buy a baby breathing monitor, you should also consider the following shortcomings of the device.
Shortcomings of Baby Breathing Monitors
- Misconception: Baby breathing monitors are often perceived as life-saving devices, which is not entirely true. A baby breathing monitor cannot regulate the baby’s breathing or prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). It can only alert the parents of any abnormality and help the parents to resuscitate the baby after the alarm.
- False alarm: One of the most common problems with baby breathing monitors is false alarms. Hence, you must test it under controlled circumstances to ensure this does not happen. Doctors have indicated that it is normal for babies with irregular breathing patterns, to stop breathing for 20 seconds and then resume normally. So, monitors that set off at 20 seconds after detecting a lack of movement in babies can cause unnecessary and frequent panic for parents.
- False sense of security: One of the main drawbacks of this device is that it cannot detect obstructive apnea, a condition in which the baby’s abdomen makes regular movements, but the air does not reach the lungs. It can be a fatal condition, parents should be aware of it.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a baby breathing monitor?
Most healthy babies do not require a breathing monitor. However, you may consult a doctor if you wish to use one. While a baby breathing monitor may help reassure you, it is not a substitute for checking on your baby in person. Also, The American Academy of Pediatrics states that baby breathing monitors cannot prevent SIDs (1).
2. How long should I use a baby breathing monitor?
Most parents use a baby breathing monitor for their newborns for the first six months after birth. However, doctors may suggest using hospital-issued baby breathing devices for longer periods for babies with conditions such as sleep apnea.
3. Do baby breathing monitors emit radiation?
All baby monitors, including baby breathing monitors, emit a certain amount of electromagnetic radiation. However, the EMF radiation range differs from device to device. It is recommended to research and compare the EMF radiation levels of different baby breathing monitors before making a purchase.
Why Trust MomJunction?
We understand how significant a breathing monitor is when you have a little one at home. So, we bring you this list of the best baby breathing monitors after going through multiple customer feedback and specifications of different products. We also bring you a buying guide to help you choose the right product. The breathing monitors mentioned on this list are easy to hold, lightweight, and suit your requirements.
The Bottom Line
As anxious as you may be about your baby’s health, it can be impossible for you to be near your little one at all times. To make sure your baby is breathing well and is safe, you need the best baby breathing monitors that track the baby’s breathing and denote the pattern, thus letting you know if you should be concerned. The options listed here are compact, lightweight, made of safe materials, and are highly effective at alerting parents about any irregularities. Our top pick is the Babysense Under-Mattress Baby Monitor as it requires no Wi-Fi and is portable. Among the wearable breathing monitors, consider the Snuza Hero (SE) Premium Baby Movement Monitor, which gently rouses the baby if no movement is detected.
Infographic: Points To Consider When Using A Baby Breathing Monitor
While baby breathing monitors can help keep track of your baby’s breathing pattern, it is essential to note that they are not a cure or a complete solution to breathing-related issues. Check out the following infographic to understand specific vital pointers about these devices to ensure proper use.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Apnea, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, and Home Monitoring
https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/111/4/914/63137/Apnea-Sudden-Infant-Death-Syndrome-and-Home?redirectedFrom=fulltext - Baby breathing monitors
https://raisingchildren.net.au/newborns/safety/equipment-furniture/baby-monitors
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