Welcome to parenting in the 21st century, where technology is here to lend a helping hand —even with your newborn. Today’s baby tech gadgets make those first few months easier, offering support with sleep, safety and daily routines.
Read on to learn some of the latest smart baby products, their benefits and what to consider before making an investment.
Disclaimer: These products are suggestions, not endorsements by Banner Health. Always consult your pediatrician or health care provider before introducing new products to your baby’s routine.
Smart monitoring devices
One of the biggest concerns for parents is keeping an eye on their little one’s safety. Smart monitors have come a long way from traditional audio-only baby monitors, offering features that track breathing, movement and sleep patterns.
“Many parents find these insights helpful for building sleep habits and giving them extra peace of mind,” said Alice Antonescu, MD, a pediatrician with Banner Health. “However, it’s important to remember that these types of monitors are not medical devices and give little or no protection from SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).”
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, even if you use these smart devices, always practice safe sleep habits.
Nanit Pro Smart Monitor
The Nanit Pro is a popular choice for parents who want Wi-Fi-enabled video monitoring and insights into their baby’s sleep habits. This wall-mounted camera offers a crystal-clear view of the crib and its smartphone app gives you analytics on your baby’s sleep patterns. It tracks sleep quality and breathing motion and can even alert you if your baby rolls over.
Owlet Dream Duo 2
The Owlet Dream Duo combines the Owlet Smart Sock and Owlet Cam to offer a complete monitoring solution. The smart sock tracks your baby’s oxygen levels and heart rate while they sleep. Paired with the Owlet Cam, a high-definition Wi-Fi video monitor with two-way audio and night vision, the Dream Duo gives you a full picture of your baby’s safety and comfort.
The sock and camera sync through a phone app, allowing you to view real-time health stats and live video. If something seems off, the app will alert you.
Want a budget alternative?
Consider a basic audio and video monitor for a simpler, budget-friendly option like Vtech or Babysense. Although these devices don’t track health metrics, many affordable options still can provide good sound quality and video.
Sleep aids for peaceful nights
Getting a newborn to sleep can be challenging, and that’s where sleep aids come in handy. From gentle sound machines to high-tech bassinets, there are many options to help your baby (and you!) get a good night’s sleep.
Snoo Smart Sleeper
The Snoo is a smart bassinet that gently rocks and plays white noise to help soothe your baby back to sleep. It automatically responds to fussing before your baby cries with rocking motions and soothing sounds, making it ideal for parents who want hands-free help during nighttime wakeups. The Snoo’s sleep-safety features, like a swaddle that keeps babies on their backs, are a bonus.
Babysense and Baby Shusher sound machines
Sound machines like the Babysense and Baby Shusher create a calm environment for your baby with soothing sounds. The Baby Shusher, a handheld device, is popular for its rhythmic shushing sound that mimics the womb. For a more stationary option, the Babysense sound machine offers a variety of sounds and lullabies.
Hatch Rest
If you are looking for a versatile sound machine, the Hatch Rest combines a nightlight, sound machine and time-to-rise alert into one device you can control through an app.
Want a budget alternative?
For a more budget-friendly bassinet, consider the Graco Sense2Snooze Bassinet. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles but still provides soothing motions and calming sounds.
For an affordable sound machine, consider the Dreamegg Sound Machine or download an app like Insight Timer or Calm to play white noise or gentle lullabies on your phone.
Ear protection: Noise-canceling headphones
Baby headphones shield your baby from loud and harmful noise, which is more common than you might think.
“Babies have very sensitive hearing and loud sounds can easily cause damage,” Dr. Antonescu said. “Noises over 80 decibels (like traffic noises) may harm a baby’s ears if they are exposed for too long and sounds over 100 decibels (like a concert) can cause immediate harm.”
Alpine Muffy Baby
These noise-canceling earmuffs help block out loud sounds. The adjustable elastic headband provides a snug fit and firm hold. These headphones also won’t break the bank.
Gentle nail care
Nothing is scarier for a new parent than attempting to trim your newborn’s tiny fingernails to prevent scratches. The good news is you don’t have to fret with traditional nail clippers anymore.
Little Martin’s Baby Nail Trimmer
This battery-operated device is gentle and silent. Its gentle filing pads make it easier to trim nails without fear of pinching or cutting your baby’s delicate skin.
Hands-free breastfeeding
For breastfeeding parents, wearable pumps offer a convenient way to pump while staying mobile.
“Wearable pumps let parents stay active and multitask, which can make a big difference during busy days,” Dr. Antonescu said.
Lansinoh Wearable Pump
The Lansinoh pump provides hands-free convenience, allowing parents to pump milk without being tethered to a stationary machine. Its discreet design fits comfortably in a bra, making it easier to multitask or move around during pumping sessions. The pump also has the highest-capacity 8-ounce cups, click-tight seals and an easy-pour spout to collect breastmilk.
Want a budget alternative?
Most insurance plans cover breastfeeding essentials. Check with your insurance provider to see which pumps are covered. Many hospitals and medical centers also rent out hospital-grade breast pumps, although they may not be wearable.
Takeaway
New advancements in baby products offer parents a wealth of tools for creating a safer, calmer and more manageable environment. Whether you decide to splurge on high-tech options or stick with simpler, budget-friendly alternatives, the right tools can make a world of difference in supporting you and your baby’s needs.
Talk to a pediatrician or health care provider for questions or concerns about your baby’s care.
