Turning an old phone into a baby monitor is a clever way to save money while giving new life to a device that would otherwise sit in a drawer. With just a few free apps, you can create a reliable system that watches over your baby, or even your pet or elderly relative.
This guide presents the best baby monitor apps available both for Android and iOS, explaining how to set up your devices step by step. You’ll also learn which features matter most, how to ensure safety, and where this setup goes beyond the nursery.
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How to turn your old phone into a baby monitor
The transformation begins with assigning roles, designating one phone as the camera unit, positioned near your baby’s crib or play area, and using another as the receiver to monitor activity.
Overall, the setup works best when the camera phone stays plugged into a power source.
Most apps connect over the same Wi-Fi network, creating a secure stream between the two devices.
Once paired, the parent unit displays a live feed with optional audio, motion alerts, and environmental monitoring features.
While some apps support remote viewing over cellular data, others prioritize local-only access for greater privacy.
This flexibility allows you to choose between reach and security based on your comfort level.
Mounting the camera phone properly is key. So, use a phone stand or shelf to maintain a stable angle and minimize disruptions during sleep or playtime.
Best baby monitor apps for repurposing old devices
Below, we listed three standout options of baby monitor for different types of families and phones.
Dormi – Baby Monitor
Dormi is a straightforward Android app that balances simplicity with smart automation.
It automatically adjusts audio sensitivity, so you won’t be overwhelmed by background noise, and it alerts you even if the screen is off or the phone is in your pocket.
With Dormi, you can talk to your baby through a two-way mic and monitor sound levels in real time.
It runs quietly in the background and uses minimal battery, making it perfect for long nights or daytime naps.
Its offline mode and local network support give it an edge when Wi-Fi is weak or limited.
4.2/5
Bibino – Baby Monitor – Nanny Cam
Bibino (iOS/Android) works across multiple platforms, offering a premium experience without needing external hardware.
Its key features include noise detection, motion detection, lullaby playback, and even a timeline that logs sleep patterns.
Moreover, you can speak to your baby remotely, adjust video quality, and switch between front and rear cameras at any time.
Also, its intuitive interface helps first-time users feel confident, even with more advanced options.
The app also supports Bluetooth pairing, ideal for those traveling or managing multiple devices in one household.
4.6/5
Cloud Baby Monitor
Exclusively for iOS, Cloud Baby Monitor provides high-quality audio and video with low latency. It supports Apple Watch notifications, background operation, and encrypted communication, ensuring maximum privacy.
Parents can play white noise, enable night vision, or dim the screen during night mode. The interface is sleek and familiar for Apple users, minimizing the learning curve.
Its private connection feature lets the app work without the internet, useful during travel or in case of outages.
4.8/5
Features to look for in baby monitor apps
A reliable baby monitor app must go beyond video streaming, it should deliver consistent performance, adjustable settings, and quick responsiveness to ambient changes in the room.
In summary, good baby monitor apps adapt to different routines and noise levels without user intervention.
That said, real-time alerts are essential, especially for sound or movement, so you’re notified instantly when your child wakes or cries.
Two-way communication adds peace of mind, allowing caregivers to soothe the baby without physically entering the room.
Also, video clarity and audio sharpness matter as much as security, especially for remote access.
Consequently, parents should look for apps with password protection or local-only settings when privacy is a concern.
To add even more convenience, look for battery-saving modes, background operation, and multi-device compatibility, particularly in busy or tech-diverse households.
Setting up your DIY baby monitor: Step-by-step guide
Step 1: prepare devices and network connection
First of all, prepare both devices by charging them fully and connecting them to the same Wi-Fi network or enabling Bluetooth, if supported.
Step 2: download the baby monitor app
Then, download the chosen baby monitor app from trusted sources like Google Play or the App Store.
Step 3: set up the camera device
After downloading, assign one phone as the camera and place it near the baby’s resting or play area. Use a stable, elevated position that avoids cords within reach.
Step 4: activate the monitor device
Use the second device as the monitor, testing the sound, video feed, and microphone functions before leaving it unattended.
Step 5: adjust sensitivity settings
You can also, adjust the sensitivity settings for movement and noise to fit your home’s environment, reducing false alarms.
Step 6: enable alerts and background mode
Finally, enable alerts and background operation, so you can receive notifications even while using other apps or with the screen off.
This entire setup can be completed in under 10 minutes and works seamlessly across both modern and slightly older phones.
Safety tips when using phones as baby monitors
While convenient, using smartphones as baby monitors requires thoughtful precautions to ensure safety and data protection.
So, always download apps from official stores and avoid sideloaded versions that may lack proper encryption.
Also, secure your home network with a strong password and, if possible, set up a guest Wi-Fi just for monitoring. This reduces the risk of interference or unauthorized access to your feed.
Another major safety tip is to disable incoming calls and notifications on the camera phone to prevent interruptions, and activate Do Not Disturb or silent mode for a calmer experience. Turn off other apps to avoid bandwidth competition or overheating.
Lastly, avoid placing the phone directly in the crib or on surfaces where it could be knocked over, use mounts or wall shelves to keep it both effective and out of reach.
Baby Monitor: Turn Your Old Phone into a Baby Monitor with These Apps – Conclusion
Converting an old phone into a baby monitor is a sustainable choice that supports modern parenting with efficiency and peace of mind.
With reliable apps and a secure setup, you’ll have powerful monitoring capabilities in the palm of your hand.
The baby monitor apps above serve different purposes. They open the door to repurposing older tech with results that rival, or exceed, store-bought monitors.
From baby care to pet observation or elder safety, this setup adapts easily to changing household needs while keeping your loved ones just one glance away.
Correlato: Creare un ambiente tranquillo per il sonno con i suoni rilassanti di BabySleep
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