Baby Monitors
Baby monitor guides built from AAP, NIH Safe to Sleep and FDA information and CPSC recall records: what audio, video and wearable monitors can and cannot do, cord safety and security.
Explainers
Do you need a baby monitor? (2026) What to know before you buy
Short answer: a baby monitor is optional. It can let you hear or see your baby from another room, but the AAP says no monitor lowers the risk of SIDS and none replaces safe sleep. If you buy one, keep it and every cord at least 3 feet from the crib, secure Wi-Fi models with a strong password and updates, and check recalls.
GuideSmart sock baby monitors (2026): what the AAP and FDA say
Short answer: a smart sock is optional. The AAP says there is no evidence wearable monitors reduce SIDS risk and that it’s fine to use one only if it never replaces safe sleep. The Owlet Dream Sock is FDA-authorized as an over-the-counter infant pulse-rate and oxygen monitor, but that is not an authorization to prevent SIDS.