When to Stop Using Baby Monitor: A Helpful Guide for Parents

Knowing when to stop using a baby monitor is a question many parents struggle with. For some, the monitor provides essential peace of mind, while for others, it can start to feel unnecessary as their child grows. Every family is different, and there’s no set age when you must switch it off. What feels like the right time for one family might not suit another. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of baby monitors, explain when it is advised to stop using a baby monitor, and share creative ways you can repurpose it once your child no longer needs it.

Benefits of baby monitors

Baby monitors have become a staple in many family homes because they offer parents reassurance during the early years. Whether it’s listening out for your baby’s cries in the middle of the night or checking on them during daytime naps, monitors give you the ability to relax in another room without worrying that you’ll miss something important.

Video monitors, in particular, add an extra layer of security. Being able to see your child sleeping soundly can bring comfort to new parents who are still adjusting to life with a baby. Some models also come with two-way audio, allowing you to soothe your baby without rushing straight into the room, which can help them learn to self-settle.

Another benefit is safety. If your baby becomes restless, starts climbing, or rolls into an awkward position, a monitor allows you to respond quickly. For example, the Tapo C840 baby monitor can detect if a blanket covers a baby’s face and send a real-time alert to your phone. Monitors can also give parents more freedom, whether you’re cooking, catching up on household tasks, or enjoying some downtime, they help you stay connected without being physically present all the time.

When to stop using a baby monitor?

So, how long should you use a baby monitor for? There isn’t a single right answer. Most parents choose to stop somewhere between the ages of 3 and 5, once their child is sleeping through the night and able to call out if they need help. By this stage, many children are moving into their own beds, and parents may feel that constant monitoring is no longer necessary.

However, deciding when to stop using a baby monitor depends entirely on your circumstances. Some parents find that the monitor starts causing more stress than reassurance, especially if they wake up at every little noise. In those cases, lowering the sensitivity or removing the monitor altogether can ease stress and help everyone sleep better.

On the other hand, there’s nothing wrong with keeping it for longer if it gives you peace of mind. The key is to think about whether the monitor is still serving a positive purpose for your family. When it is advised to stop using a baby monitor comes down to when you feel confident that your child is safe, secure, and able to communicate their needs without it.

How to repurpose a baby monitor

Once you decide to stop using your baby monitor, you don’t have to pack it away in a cupboard. They can be repurposed for other uses around the home. This makes them a worthwhile investment that can continue to be useful long after the baby stage. Here are some creative ways to give your monitor a second life.

Keep an eye on playtime

If your child is old enough to play independently in their bedroom or a dedicated playroom, your baby monitor can help you keep watch from another part of the house. Instead of hovering nearby, you can let them enjoy independent play while still checking in occasionally. This setup works particularly well with video monitors, as you can see exactly what they’re doing and step in only if necessary. It gives your child a sense of independence while giving you peace of mind.

Use it as a pet camera

Just because your little one has grown up doesn’t mean the monitor has no use. Many parents successfully repurpose baby monitors as pet cameras. Whether you want to check in on your dog while you’re out, see what your cat gets up to when you’re not in the room, or if you’re leaving your pet at home for a few hours, it’s a simple way to make sure they’re safe and comfortable. For more tips, take a look at our guide on how to leave your dog home alone.

General indoor security

One of the most practical ways to repurpose a baby monitor is by turning it into an indoor security camera. Positioned in a hallway or living room, it can help you keep your home safe by letting you check in remotely through your smartphone. Tapo indoor cameras, for example, can send motion alerts directly to your device, so you’ll know if there’s unexpected activity when you’re away from home. It can also give you recorded footage if needed.

Keep an eye on elderly relatives

If you live with or regularly care for elderly relatives, an old baby monitor can serve as a discreet way to check they’re safe. This can be reassuring if you’re worried about falls or if they need assistance quickly. Two-way audio can also be incredibly helpful, allowing them to talk to you without needing to move around. Repurposing your monitor in this way adds an extra layer of care without being intrusive.

Keep an eye on the garden

Another smart way to reuse a baby monitor is by positioning it at the rear window to monitor your garden. Whether your children are playing outside, pets are exploring the lawn, or you want to keep an eye on garden furniture and equipment, the camera gives you a clear view without stepping outside.

Conclusion

Deciding when to stop using a baby monitor really comes down to what feels right for your family. Many parents phase it out by the time their child is 3 to 5 years old, while others may keep it longer for reassurance. The great thing is that Tapo baby monitors don’t lose their value once your child no longer needs them. From supervising playtime to enhancing home security, Tapo devices are versatile and easy to repurpose, helping you get the most out of your camera. For more tips on setting up a secure home, read our guide on how to fit security cameras.