Where Should a Baby Monitor Cord Go?
At least 3 feet away from every side of the crib, bassinet, or play yard -- per CPSC guidance. Measure from the top, bottom, and all four sides, not just the side nearest the outlet, and never let a cord hang inside or over the crib's edge.
The one thing to know: CPSC guidance keeps baby monitor cords at least 3 feet from every side of the crib — never draped inside or over the edge — because monitor cords have been linked to infant strangulation deaths.
Why this exact distance
CPSC has documented at least eight infant strangulation deaths since 2002 tied to baby monitor cords -- a specific, recurring nursery hazard distinct from the monitor device itself. The 3-foot rule keeps the cord well outside a baby's reach even as they grow, roll, and eventually stand and pull.
How to route a cord in a tight nursery
If your outlet sits close to the crib, use a longer cord and cord-management clips mounted high and away from the crib frame, rather than positioning the monitor closer for convenience. Recheck the distance periodically -- a placement that was safe for a newborn may be within reach once your child can stand or pull on furniture.
Always follow your product's manual and current CPSC/NHTSA guidance; this page summarizes published standards and is not a substitute for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
At least 3 feet away from every side of the crib, bassinet, or play yard -- top, bottom, and all four sides -- per CPSC guidance. Never route or drape a cord inside the crib or over its edge.
CPSC has linked at least eight infant strangulation deaths since 2002 specifically to baby monitor cords -- a well-documented, recurring hazard distinct from the monitor device itself.
Use a longer cord or cord management (like a cable clip mounted well above and away from the crib) to route the cord at least 3 feet clear, rather than placing the monitor closer to the outlet.
It removes the camera-unit cord from the hazard, but the camera still needs a power cord, and that cord (and any other nursery cords -- lamps, sound machines) should still be kept at least 3 feet from the crib.