Getting your baby to sleep is vital for both you and your child, but it’s not always easy to create the right environment to promote sleep. Not a lot of people know this, but having the right night light can help immensely. If you need to nurse, provide light for your little one, or even want to add some decoration to your child’s room, a night light is what you need.
- How to Choose the Perfect Baby Night Light
- Top 10 Best Baby Night Lights 2023
- 1. Best Overall Baby Night Light: Hatch Baby Sound Machine and Nightlight
- 2. Best Portable Baby Night Light: Skip Hop Stroll & Go Portable Baby Sleep Soother
- 3. Best Premium Baby Night Light: Luckkid Night Light
- 4. The Best Night Light for Babies and Adults: Moredig Night Light Projector
- 5. Best Soft Baby Night Light: Lumipets Night Light
- 6. Best Budget Baby Night Light: Munchkin Light My Way Nightlight
- 7. Best Night Light for Children of All Ages: 3D Moon Lamp
- 8. Best Baby Night Light for Girls: Goline Cat Lamp
- 9. AnanBros Remote Baby Night Light
- 10. Easiest Baby Night Light to Use: VAVA Home VA-CL006
- Everything You Need to Know About Baby Night Lights
- Final Words
How to Choose the Perfect Baby Night Light
We know that shopping for a night light might seem simple, but when shopping for any baby-oriented product, you need to make sure that you consider all of the options. Night lights for babies have different benefits, and your child might react to each one differently. So, before you buy, make sure you have all of the right information. We’ll be showing you ten great night lights that you can try out, and we have great pointers for you to keep an eye on to help you throughout the selection process.
Types of Night Lights
Night lights may seem like a standard, basic light, but this is not the case. While adult night lights may be simple, night lights for babies come in all different shapes and sizes.
Traditional Night Lights
Traditional night lights are the most basic night lights that you’ll come across. These night lights don’t have a lot of additional features or any sort of wow factor, but they serve their purpose. Traditional night lights can come in all different shapes and sizes, and they’re usually affordable for any budget. Always be sure to check the number of colors they have, as each color can set the mood for things like nursing, wakeup time, and bedtime.
Projection Night Lights
Projection night lights create a projection that can be seen on the ceiling. These night lights will typically project the stars of the solar system, and they can be great for showing your baby that it’s bedtime. Some projection lights have typical night light settings while others don’t, so always pay attention to the description. If you want a night light to last your baby well into their toddler years, a captivating projection night light is a great option.
Sound Machine Night Lights
Sound machine night lights are a packaged deal. These lights can be used to soothe a baby with gentle sounds, and they can also be used as a night light to relax your baby for nursing time. Sound machine night lights aren’t for everyone, but for parents that like the idea of a sound machine, keep your eyes peeled. These night lights tend to be a little more expensive, though.
Age Group
Night lights aren’t always great for every age group. Some night lights may work better for very young babies, while other night lights can be used well past the one year mark. Always consider the needs of your child, and be sure to see what ages work for you. Traditional night lights will have a longer lifespan, but projection night lights can be great from birth to the early toddler years.
Portability
There are many aspects of a night lights design that determine how portable it is. Some products must be continuously plugged in to a USB charger or AC adapter to stay on, while others run on internal or external batteries. On top of that, some options include handy clips and other features to really make them perfect for ensuring your little one gets a good night of sleep wherever you go.
Timers
Night lights can burn out quickly if they’re left on all night long. At times you may want to leave your night light on for an extended period of time to make sure your child has the light they need. So, to create the perfect balance for your child and electricity bill, high-quality night lights will come with timer settings. Standard timer settings include, but are not limited to, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, and up to an hour.
Top 10 Best Baby Night Lights 2023
1. Best Overall Baby Night Light: Hatch Baby Sound Machine and Nightlight
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Price: $$$
- Type: Sound machine and night light
- Ages: All
- Timer: Custom
- Power: AC adapter
Features
The Hatch Baby Sound Machine and Night Light is a night light that serves more than just one purpose. The device comes with a mobile application that you can use to control colors and timers, and plenty of sounds to help your child get the sleep they need. The Hatch Baby Sound Machine and Night Light offers a sleep experience that can last your child well over a decade. Whether you need to put your baby to sleep, help them nurse, or wake them up, the Hatch Baby Sound Machine and Night Light has you covered.
Controls
The Hatch Baby Sound Machine is controlled through a companion app called the Hatch Baby Rest app. The Hatch Baby Rest app is easy to use, and even those of you that may not be the best with smartphones, you should have no problem getting used to it. If you’re someone who loves the idea of an app and machine that can genuinely help your baby sleep, the Hatch Baby Rest Sound Machine is a great choice. Overall, the controls are modern and geared towards younger or new parents.
What sets it apart
What sets the Hatch Baby Sound Machine and Nightlight apart is the two for one product that you get. There are a lot of great night lights out there, like the Munchkin Light My Way Nightlight, but the rest fail to incorporate a mobile interface that makes parent’s lives easier. The Hatch Baby App makes it a breeze to change the color, set the timer, and adjust the sounds that your child will hear. Instead of getting up in the middle of the night, or early in the morning, simply open up the Hatch Baby Rest app to configure your baby’s night light from anywhere.
Things you should know
The mobile application makes the Hatch Baby Sound Machine and Night Light a great tool, but it can be very complicated for parents who might not be used to this type of technology. The Hatch Baby Rest app is easy to install, but depending on your device, in some cases, the app can be unavailable. If you’re a parent that’s up to date with the latest technology, you’ll have no issues, but for those that aren’t comfortable with technology, the Hatch Baby Sound Machine and Night Light can be more of a burden than a blessing—the simple VAVA Home VA-CL006 would be a great alternative.
Pros
- Mobile application makes it one of the most accessible devices to control from any location
- Comes with different light options, sounds, and timers
- Can be used as a sound machine, night light, and nursing light
Cons
- Older users might have trouble using the application
- If the app is down, you'll be left without a night light and sound machine
2. Best Portable Baby Night Light: Skip Hop Stroll & Go Portable Baby Sleep Soother
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Price: $
- Type: Sound machine and night light
- Ages: Up to 2 years
- Timer: 15, 30, and 60 minutes
- Power: 3 AAA batteries (not included)
Features
The Skip Hop Stroll & Go Portable Baby Sleep Soother provides you with everything you need to get your baby to sleep away from the house. It functions as a dim night light, sound machine, and lullaby machine. There are some great nature sounds, two lullabies (Sunrise and Brahm’s), and a faint white light to ward off the dark. The device itself is tiny, and it can be clipped onto a stroller or carrying bag for increased portability.
Controls
The Skip Hop Stroll & Go Portable Baby Sleep Soother is very straightforward when it comes to the controls. Everything you need is right on the front of the device, and the buttons are all very self-explanatory.
What sets it apart
The Skip Hop Stroll & Go Portable Baby Sleep Soother is the best portable night light on the market. If it comes with a clip that fastens to whatever you need it to, and it can last a full day on one charge. There are plenty of night lights (like the VAVA Home VA-CL006) that can be used on the go, but none of these lights can be clipped right onto a stroller.
Things you should know
The Skip Hop Stroll & Go Portable Baby Sleep Soother is very affordable, but it does feel a bit cheap. The plastic is not BPA-free, and the sound quality from the sound machine and lullaby portion of the device is not the greatest. The night light itself also only has one setting, and when used in the dark, it’s very dim.
Pros
- Can be clipped onto strollers or other surfaces to enhance portability
- Sound machine, lullaby machine, and night light all in one
- Owl design is appropriate for both genders
- Affordable
Cons
- Made with cheap plastic and the sound quality is not the best
- plastic is not BPA-free
- The light itself is dim
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Price: $$
- Type: Projection and traditional night light
- Ages: All
- Timer: None
- Power: AC adapter or 3 AA batteries (not included)
Features
The Luckkid Night Light combines a projection based night light and traditional night light into a straightforward system. The Luckkid Night Light comes with up to 6 different light settings, and when you take the lid off, it becomes a starry night projection system. The starry night projection comes with five different films that you can choose from, and you can also combine this with any of the light options found within the traditional night light. A bonus feature that the Luckkid Night Light features includes are a few different rotation options to immerse your child within the solar system. If you are using the Luckkid Night Light with younger children, under the age of one year, you can also adjust the brightness to make sure that the system is safe for their eyes.
Controls
The Luckkid Night Light is complicated when it comes to controls. While everything you need is conveniently accessible on the face of the device, changing from a night light to a projector can be a hassle. The lid needs to be removed, and changing the film can also be time-consuming. You’ll be able to work the device with practice, but make sure you understand the learning curve.
What sets it apart
The Luckkid Night Light is unique in that it combines a projection night light with a traditional night light. Other projection night lights like the AnanBros Night Light may offer starry night simulators, but they lack the option of being used as a typical night light for younger babies.
Things you should know
The Luckkid Night Light is an excellent product for parents that love the idea of a starry night system. A projection-based night light can be an excellent tool for children, but the design of the Luckkid Night Light is a bit flawed. The film that the Luckkid Night Light uses to alter projections is unique, but it can become damaged. If this film gets damaged, the projection of the Luckkid Night Light becomes very limited. If this happens, you’re left with a basic night light with limited features.
Pros
- Can be used as a projection and traditional night light
- Six different colors to choose from
- Can be used with babies, toddlers, teenagers, and even adults
Cons
- The films used to change the projection are flimsy
- Complex controls
4. The Best Night Light for Babies and Adults: Moredig Night Light Projector
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Price: $$$
- Type: Projection light and sound machine
- Ages: All
- Timer: 5 to 500 minutes
- Power: USB powered
Features
The Moredig Night Light Projector is a very well-rounded product. Not only can the Moredig Night Light Projector be used as a projection night light, but it can also be used for adult room decor, date night, and children’s parties. The eight different light settings make the Moredig Night Light Projector very visually appealing, and it even rotates a full 360 degrees for an authentic starry night experience.
The Moredig Night Light Projector also features sound machine capabilities. There are 12 different sounds that you can choose from, and while they may not be white noise sounds, they can still soothe your child to sleep. For example, one sound is designed to explore the universe through music, almost like a lullaby.
Controls
The Moredig Night Light Projector is controlled with a remote, which makes it a great night light for parents looking for that hands-off approach. The remote can be used to change the song, the projection, and the light brightness or color. The remote can also control the timer. It may be difficult for young children to use on their own, though.
What sets it apart
The Moredig Night Light Projector combines projection, light, and sound. Other projection night lights like the AnanBros Night Light and the Luckkid Night Light may make use of light, music, or sound, but not all three combined. The Moredig Night Light Projector is also great for adults, which adds to the product’s value.
Things you should know
The Moredig Night Light Projector is all about space and the universe. This features is a better fit for children that are over the age of 5 years, as younger children will more likely prefer a plain light. While the night light can be used with four warm colors for infants, the Moredig Night Light Projector comes to life as your child grows older.
Pros
- Combines projection, sound and all of the features a traditional night light has
- Can be used by older children and adults with a curiosity for space
- Rotates a full 360 degrees
Cons
- Toddlers, teenagers, and adults benefit the most from this machine
5. Best Soft Baby Night Light: Lumipets Night Light
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Price: $$
- Type: Traditional night light
- Ages: All
- Timer: None
- Power: USB rechargeable
Features
The Lumipets Night Light is a simple yet efficient night light. There are a few different animal options that you can choose from, even a unicorn, and they all have up to 8 different light colors, each of which can be dimmed if needed. The night light itself is made with high-quality silicone that’s both safe and durable, so even if your child is a bit grabby, there is nothing to worry about.
The Lumipets Night Light is powered by a lithium-ion battery that’s charged by a micro-USB charger. The battery life itself is decent, and it will last a few nights before needing a recharge on lower settings.
Controls
The Lumipets Night Light can either be controlled by tapping the device or using the remote control that it comes with. The colors can be changed by simply tapping the device, but the remote control has a button for each color, which makes choosing the right color hassle-free.
What sets it apart
What sets the Lumipets Night Light apart from the rest is its ability to be washed and slept with. The silicone material is very durable and washable, which means that your child can cuddle with the device while they sleep. Other night lights like the Goline Cat Lamp may be made with BPA-free plastic, but they’re not washable. So, even if there is a spill, you don’t need to go out and buy another night light.
Things you should know
The Lumipets Night Light has a lot of great features, and it works for all ages, but it does lack a timer. With no timer, you’ll need to make sure that you monitor and turn off the device on your own.
Pros
- Washable and waterproof proof
- Children can sleep with this night light in their bed
- Eight different light settings
Cons
- Lacks a timer
6. Best Budget Baby Night Light: Munchkin Light My Way Nightlight
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Price: $
- Type: Traditional night light
- Ages: 2 years
- Timer: 20 minutes
- Power: 3 AAA batteries (not included)
Features
The Munchkin Light My Way Nightlight is one of the more simple night lights that you’ll find, and it comes in one design style that resembles the appearance of an owl. The light itself has one setting that’s safe for your child to look at, and your child can operate the light by themselves. The Munchkin Light My Way Nightlight is powered by batteries, which eliminates the need for cords or charging cables. The design is also great for parents that need a portable light as well—and three AAA batteries last over 100 hours, so you won’t need to replace them too often.
Controls
What makes the Munchkin Light My Way Nightlight simple is the switch-based control. There is only one way to turn the device on and off, and it’s through a small switch at the base of the light. The timer is automatic and will turn the night light off after 20 minutes to save power.
What sets it apart
The Munchkin Light My Way Nightlight comes with a meager price tag that makes it unique. For less than the cost of a meal, your child can have access to a simple night light that gets the job done. The owl design is also unique and works well for children that have attachments to stuffed animals.
Things you should know
The Munchkin Light My Way Nightlight may be simple, but in some cases, it’s too simple. The timer can work against children that don’t fall asleep quickly because there is no way to deactivate it.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Easy to use for both parents and children
- Portable and battery-operated (no cords)
Cons
- Timer is fixed and can't be adjusted
7. Best Night Light for Children of All Ages: 3D Moon Lamp
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Price: $$
- Type: Traditional night light
- Ages: All
- Timer: None
- Power: Micro-USB rechargeable
Features
The 3D Moon Lamp is one of the more unique options out there. It works as any other traditional night light does, but the moon design is both practical and fun to look at. Thanks to this 3D printed design, there are up to 16 color options that can be dimmed to your preferences. These light settings bring out the detail put into the surface of the moon itself. The 3D Moon Lamp also comes on a 4″ wooden stand, which helps rest on any surface within your child’s room. The light texture of the wood is also designed to fit most room decor options, and it looks lovely in rooms for babies, toddlers, and teenagers.
The 3D Moon Lamp is charged with a USB charger (micro-USB), and it lasts for more than one day per charge. The lamp itself can be removed from the stand, which makes it great for reading, taking under the covers, and other activities like coloring. For children of all ages, the 3D Moon Lamp is an excellent choice. Plus, once your child grows older, the 3D Moon Lamp can be used as a regular lamp on brighter settings.
Controls
There are two primary ways to control the 3D Moon Lamp. The first way, and the easiest method, is to utilize the lamp itself. The surface can be used to change the color and turn the device on and off. For parents that prefer a hands-off approach, the remote be used instead. The remote is basic and has a few different buttons for color and brightness.
What sets it apart
What sets the 3D Moon Lamp is the accuracy in the moon design itself. Thanks to 3D printing, the surface resembles the surface of the moon that you see in the sky every night. Also, the ability to remove the night light from the stand makes it a great portable choice for both children and parents. When you put all of these features together, you have a night light that’s great for boys, girls, teenagers, toddlers, and babies.
Things you should know
While the 3D Moon Lamp comes with plenty of features, it does lack a timer setting. This can cause the battery to burn out quickly, which can lead to sleepless nights if not used properly. So, when using the 3D Moon Lamp, always remember to have yourself or child turn it off or leave it plugged in.
Pros
- Realistic moon surface design
- Up to 16 lights to choose from, each with their dimming settings
- Comprehensive remote control
- Portable
Cons
- No timer included
8. Best Baby Night Light for Girls: Goline Cat Lamp
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Price: $$
- Type: Traditional night light
- Ages: All
- Timer: None
- Power: Micro-USB rechargeable
Features
The Goline Cat Lamp is a night light that works well for children of all ages. The night light itself has up to 7 different color options, which provides both children and parents with some options. The material used in the Goline Cat Lamp is BPA-free plastic, which means that it works well for younger children that may still be teething. Overall, the Goline Cat Lamp is a great choice for girls of all ages.
Controls
An on and off switch controls the Goline Cat Lamp, and the colors can be changed by simply tapping the surface of the device. It’s simple and straightforward, making it great for parents and children of any technological skill level.
What sets it apart
What sets the Goline Cat Lamp apart is the fact that its baby, toddler, and teenager friendly. No matter how old your child may get, depending on their preference, the cute Goline Cat Lamp can always have a place in their room. Other animal night lights like the Lumipets Night Light may offer options, but the Goline Cat Lamp has a design that will last.
Things you should know
The Goline Cat Lamp does not come with a timer, which makes it a bit more appealing to children of older ages. The cat design is a bit on the girly side, which makes it a poor choice for young boys. For parents that want a more hands-free approach, there is an option that comes with a remote. The remote option will cost a bit more, so just something to keep in mind.
Pros
- Seven different color options
- Easy to turn on and off
- Great for babies, toddlers, and teenagers
Cons
- Better fit for girls versus boys
- Lacks a proper timer
9. AnanBros Remote Baby Night Light
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Price: $$
- Type: Projection night light and traditional night light
- Ages: All
- Timer: 5 to 999 minutes
- Power: USB Rechargeable
Features
The AnanBros Remote Baby Night Light is a projection based night light paired with a sound machine. This makes the AnanBros Remote Baby Night Light an excellent choice for very young children, and it comes with a 128mb memory card to download your baby’s favorite lullabies onto. If you don’t know any songs off the top of your head, don’t panic, because the AnanBros Remote Baby Night Light comes with 12 of its own tracks to start with.
The night light can be used as either a traditional night light, which has a blue color to it that’s safe for your baby’s eyes, or a projection night light that displays the solar system in 9 different color choices. The device will rotate 360 degrees, which can help make your baby tired when it’s time for bed. Then, once your baby is sound asleep, the timer system will automatically turn the device off to save battery life.
Controls
The AnanBros Remote Baby Night Light is controlled by a remote control that works up to 32 feet away. So, no matter where you are in the house, there is a good chance that you’ll be able to control the device. The device can also be operated using the buttons on its surface, and you can remove and add the memory chip with a small button located on the face of the night light.
What sets it apart
The AnanBros Remote Baby Night Light is set apart by its ability to combine a lullaby with a starry night. The device itself combines rotation, music, and nine different colors to immerse your child and put them to sleep. While other projectors, like the Moredig projector, may work similarly, the 128 MB SD card is really what makes the AnanBros Remote Baby Night Light unique.
Things you should know
The AnanBros Remote Baby Night Light can be too complicated for some parents. The ability to upload songs is a great concept, but it can be a hassle for parents that are just looking for an uncomplicated night light. The sound quality also isn’t the best.
Pros
- Up to 128 MB of external storage for lullabies
- Standard night light, projection night light, and sound machine all in one
- Great for children of all ages
Cons
- Uploading songs can be complicated or a hassle for parents that want a pure night light
10. Easiest Baby Night Light to Use: VAVA Home VA-CL006
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Price: $$
- Type: Traditional night light
- Ages: Newborn to toddler
- Timer: 1 hour
- Power: USB rechargeable
Features
The VAVA Home VA-CL006 is a night light that should please both you and your children. There are a few different brightness settings, and the battery can last for up to 200 hours on the lowest settings (but only 6 hours on the brightest). The charging port itself sits right underneath the device, and for parents that would prefer to leave it plugged in, that’s safe as well. The VAVA Home VA-CL006 is a portable night light that works well for bedtime, nursing, and general lighting.
The primary color that it emits is a light blue that either increases or decreases in intensity depending on the settings. The light itself is also safe for your child to stare at, which we don’t encourage, but it does add some peace of mind. If you’re looking for a basic and affordable night light for an infant, the VAVA Home VA-CL006 is an excellent choice.
Controls
A touch-screen surface controls the VAVA Home VA-CL006. The surface itself is safe for both parents and babies, and the VAVA Home VA-CL006 is designed for babies to take control of their preferences all on their own as they grow older. The controls are limited, and everything is controlled by taps against the surface of the device. For example, two taps on the logo will set the device’s built-in timer. For additional usage, tapping the top controls the brightness and sets the VAVA Home VA-CL006 into night light mode. The controls are what make the VAVA Home VA-CL006 the easiest night light for both you and your child to use.
What sets it apart
The plastic used in this light is ABS and PC rated, which means that it’s very safe for children to use. Using this type of plastic is common, but the fact that the whole device is waterproof nature helps it stand out. If something is spilled, or even if you want to use the VAVA Home VA-CL006 outside, you can do so safely.
Things you should know
This surface control system can be challenging to use at first, making it difficult to get the exact brightness level that you need. Thankfully, once you get used to the system, these problems do go away.
Pros
- The blue light is safe for your child's eyes
- The device works well at home or on the go
- Long-lasting battery on low brightness settings
- Waterproof
Cons
- Surface controls can be challenging to work with the first few times
- Battery life is poor on high brightness settings
Everything You Need to Know About Baby Night Lights
Choosing the Right Night Light for Your Child
There are a lot of options to choose from, which can make the buying process a bit difficult. So, if you’re a little lost, use this brief section to compare products to your needs. We’ll provide you with some significant situations for night lights and the products that fit each one the best.
Nursing
If you’re a mother, you know how tricky it can be to set the mood for feeding time. Having a night light can help stimulate your baby’s spirit and can make feeding time much more manageable. If feeding time is one of your primary concerns, we recommend going with a night light like the Hatch Baby Sound Machine and Night Light. Using a sound machine combined with a warm colored light is a great way to set the mood for both you and your child.
Sleeping
Night lights can provide enough light to keep your child comfortable without overwhelming them. From a young age, some children may show signs that they’re afraid of the dark. This is more common in toddlers, but even some younger infants may have this fear. If you notice that your child is always crying when the lights are off, it’s an excellent time to try out a night light. Depending on the age of your child, any night light can work well. If you’re looking for a simple view that will turn off once your child is asleep, the Munchkin Light My Way Night Light is a great option.
While being afraid of the dark is a great reason to get a night light, for babies, showing them that it’s night time is also a good idea. Projection night lights work very well because they can place your baby right under the stars. If you’re looking for an excellent projection night light to help your baby drift away, the Luckkid Night Light is a unique projection night light that comes with soothing lullabies.
Soothing
Night lights that have a few different light colors can be very soothing for both you and your child. You would be surprised by how much the color of a room can impact your baby’s mood. So, if you want to give this a try, some great night lights to consider are the Lumipets Night Light and the VAVA Home VA-CL006. The Lumipets Night Light is great for setting the mood through different color choices, and the VAVA Home VA-CL006 has great brightness settings that can create a mellow atmosphere for hours on end.
Learning
Once those baby years come to an end, your child will start to get curious. So, when your child gets a little older (around two years), if you want to promote learning, a projection night light can do the job. Night lights that work well for curious children include the 3D Moon Lamp and Moredig Night light Projector.
Clutter
You’ve probably noticed that your child’s room can fill with clutter quickly. This applies to children of all ages, and as they grow older, this problem is going to get worse. In this situation, using a dim night light like the Skip Hop Stroll & Go Portable Baby Sleep Soother can help illuminate the room without disturbing your child’s sleep. When using a night light in this situation, you’ll be able to attend to your child without harming yourself in the process.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is always something to keep an eye on. When you use a night light as the primary source of light in your baby’s room, compared to an overhead light, you’ll notice that your electricity bill will decrease. So, not only can a night light create a pleasant sleep atmosphere, but it can also save you a lot of money. Most of the night lights on our list can help, but options like the Munchkin Light My Way Night Light and the Skip Hop Stroll & Go Portable Baby Sleep Soother work well thanks to their efficient use of AAA batteries.
Changing Time
Those midnight diaper changes can be a hassle when the lights come on. Having a light abruptly turned on late at night can disrupt your child’s sleep, and it can make it difficult for them to fall back asleep again. Using a powerful yet night light like the Hatch Baby Sound Machine and Nightlight to illuminate the changing table can make those midnight diaper changes go smoothly.
The Downsides to Using a Night Light
Night lights may be a great sleep companion for your child, but they’re not perfect. Night lights can cause problems if they’re not used correctly, which means that you should always know the risks and how to avoid them. Luckily, if you choose the right products, risks can be avoided.
Light Exposure
Exposing anyone, including babies, to too much light can cause problems with their sleep routine. Children either become dependent on the night light being on, or it can be hard for them to fall asleep in general. If you want to keep the risks associated with light exposure down, night lights like the VAVA Home VA-CL006 and the Hatch Baby Sound Machine and Night Light are great options. Both of these lights can be dimmed and set on a specific timer.
Harmful Plastics
You might not think that plastic night lights can be dangerous, but if your child happens to put a night light in their mouth, there can be health risks. BPA-free and silicone night light options are the best way to avoid potential hazards in very young children. Two great products to combat this risk are the Lumipets Night Light and the VAVA Home VA-CL006. The VAVA Home VA-CL006 uses BPA-free plastic, and the Lumipets Night Light uses a silicone body that’s both washable and cuddle friendly.
Fire Risk
Poorly made night lights can spark and catch fire. The risk is very minimal, but the risk of a fire is something you should be aware of. To avoid this risk, be sure to consider a night light that runs on a timer. Most of the products on this list, including the Moredig Night light Projector, are all great choices that include timers.
FAQ
How long should a night light be kept on?
Night lights can be kept on all night, but this can put a strain on the light and your power bill. We always recommend leaving it on while your little one drifts away, but either use a timer or turn it off on your own after about one hour. Turning a night light off before it heats up can also help reduce the risk of a fire.
Should toddlers use a night light?
Once your baby reaches their toddler years, you might want to begin removing the night light. While this may work for some children, if your child is displaying a fear of the dark (or if they enjoy the light but turn it off while they sleep), there is no harm in leaving it with them for a while longer. Some night lights like the 3D Moon Lamp or the Goline Cat Lamp can even be used well into your child’s teenage years.
Is a night light worth the money?
The value of a night light depends on how you use it. If you’re just looking for a basic traditional nightlight, there are a lot of inexpensive options on the market like the extremely affordable Munchkin Light My Way Night Light. When night lights become more costly, like projection night lights, that cost rises because it has more features.
Are night lights safe for babies?
Night lights are safe for children of all ages, and in most cases, they can enhance your baby’s sleep experience. Night lights can also be used to set the mood for things like feeding, and have been known to reduce stress in toddlers that fear the dark. Overall, there are risks, but using the best baby night lights will provide benefits without the risks.
What color should I use for a baby?
Choosing the right color is a lot harder than it sounds, and a lot of night lights have a bunch of options. A good rule to follow is that shades of red can be the most helpful. The color itself won’t impact your child’s sleep, and with red being a warm color, it can set the mood. If you’re not sure what colors your child prefers or you want to experiment, try a light that offers many different options like the the Hatch Baby Sound Machine and Night Light.
When should I introduce a night light?
Babies don’t always need a night light, and if your child is sleeping fine without one, there is no need to introduce one. At the age of 3 years old, anxiety around the dark may develop, and if this occurs, three years old is a great time to introduce a night light into the mix.
Final Words
Shopping for a night light is not what it used to be, and great care needs to be taken when shopping for your baby. Night lights come in all different shapes and sizes, so always be sure to consider the needs of your child. For example, for nursing mothers, a traditional night light might work better than something flashy like a projection night light, but an interesting complex light could entertain your child for years. Remember, something that works for someone else may not work for you, so take your own unique considerations into mind before making your selection.