In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician
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We tested night lights from Hatch, LumiPets, Skip Hop, and more to find the very best available
Our review includes a variety of night light styles from high-tech to projection. There is sure to be a night light here that will meet you and your baby's needs.
Need a kid-friendly night light? We've researched, purchased, and tested the top 8 night lights available today. To determine the best, each product experienced side-by-side comparisons and hands-on testing to evaluate various factors, such as ease of use, range of brightness, durability, and more. Whether you need a soft glow for late-night feeds or to calm your child's fear of the dark, we are confident there is a top-notch night light in our lineup that will meet your needs and budget.
If you think a night light is soothing, don't forget the value of a simple top-ranked sound machine to help calm little ones. To up your nighttime game, many have nature sounds, white noise, rain, and lullabies. Finding one of the best baby monitors can help you keep an eye or ear on all the nursery action, light, and sound.
Editor's Note: We updated our night light review on April 16, 2024, with buying advice.
Don't be fooled by the sleek and straightforward appearance of the Hatch Baby Rest Night Light. It is a high-tech night light, combining three light, sound, and time-to-rise tools for toddlers and children. The exterior is plastic, and a charging cord and plug come with the device. Arguably, one of the most innovative features of the Hatch is its app control. Download the Hatch app onto a smartphone or tablet, and it will connect to your device through Bluetooth. This convenience means you can access and adjust the Hatch from the comfort of your bed without entering your child's room. Otherwise, control the device with its touch-sensitive silver ring on top or a button interface underneath. The app does provide a broader range of options than the other control methods. Create and save programs with your favorite color, sound, and brightness level through the app, which will run automatically. The program settings include a "Toddler Lock" option, so if a curious toddler touches the device, it will not disable a running program. Considering its range of functions, the Hatch will grow with your little one and provide years of service.
The Hatch has a few downsides. It only operates when plugged into an outlet. This lack of portability means you cannot take it from one room to another. Using the button interface underneath the device requires two hands (one to hold the device and the other to push buttons), which is slightly inconvenient if your arms are full with a baby. If you want something simpler even a baby can hold, the LumiPets Bear is a glowing animal that is suitable for subtle illumination without the bells and whistles of the Hatch. However, once you set up a program on the Hatch app, it will run automatically, and if modification needs to occur, the app is the easiest method to use. All in all, we think the Hatch has many praise-worthy features. If you fancy its minimal design, value its multiple functions, plus consider yourself tech-savvy and like the idea of using an app, we recommend the Hatch Baby Rest.
The Hatch Rest is a top-performing 3-in-1 product. Operate this device through an app and customize programs that will run automatically for naptime, bedtime, and time-to-rise.
The LumiPets Bear is a perfect buddy for any child with eye-catching, bear-shape cuteness. The soft, squishy, non-toxic silicone material (free of BPA, latex, lead, and phthalate) is an adorable cuddle companion kids can hold. It is rechargeable, portable, and includes a micro USB cord. The Lumi is operated by tapping it to select one of nine colors or flowing through the color spectrum. Alternatively, you can use the remote control to choose the same color options, adjust the brightness, and set the sleep timer to 15, 30, and 60 minutes. The remote control is easy to use and exciting for children. Also, the LumiPets is dishwasher safe (what?!), a rare perk we appreciate in just about all baby gear.
The LumiPet does not come with a wall plug, and the charge cord is short, limiting where you plug it if you're using it. The remote control offers more features than tapping, so if the remote is accidentally lost, the options of adjusting brightness or setting a sleep timer will no longer be available. The remote control will only function with a power button pressed on the LumiPets first. We feel this flaw defeats the remote's purpose, especially if you need to walk across the room to press the button. Users mention the battery life is not ideal, and if you leave the LumiPets on through the night, it will need to charge for the next night. If you were hoping for cute but with more pizzazz, the Cloud B Twilight Turtle has a ceiling star projection that can be soothing for some little ones. However, the LumiPets is a straight-up kid magnet. Seriously. If you think your child will enjoy an adorable light with multiple colors and remote control, we are sure LumiPets will provide bedtime happiness.
As with all wall plug-in lights, the Eufy Lumi Plug-In embraces the set-and-forget mentality. Plus, at a budget-friendly cost per light, this option may appeal to those on a tight budget yet who need to illuminate multiple dark spaces around the home with a soft glow. So, if you need to brighten the route to the nursery and the bathroom for your toddler, you may consider this option. Also, this product offers longevity, providing light beyond late-night feeding and diaper changes and well into childhood for sleepovers.
The Eufy's appearance is not baby-centric, which may be a deal-breaker if you seek an adorable accessory for your nursery. Alternatively, if adorable is the name of your game, then the LumiPets Bear or the Cloud B Twilight Turtle are both super cute, and kids can hold them or keep them close. But if practical and affordable solutions are your goals, then the Eufy can illuminate several locations, such as hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms.
The Eufy Lumi Plug-In will eliminate one outlet access, which may not be a deal-breaker unless you have many devices that need electricity in that space.
If you're hitting the road and need a dual-purpose product (a night light and sound machine), the VTech Myla The Monkey might be a good choice. This adorable monkey does it all, plus the travel-friendly size makes it a must-have when you are away from home. The monkey's cheeks let out gentle light, providing a familiar glow to help soothe your child's fears of the dark while falling asleep away from home. Plus, it can work in various locations, thanks to the monkey's stretchable tail that can hook around a stroller handle, doorknob, or baby's car seat. It is truly a cute pal you'd love to have tagging along. Customize the light's brightness with a button on the monkey's tummy, and it plays lullabies and white noise. You can also control the volume and an auto-timer (60 minutes) or choose to have it play on until it drains the rechargeable battery. We do appreciate not having to worry about ordering and storing alkaline batteries.
If you're charging the monkey while in use, keep in mind that the rechargeable cord is short, so this will limit where you can use it. Also, the Myla does not come with a wall plug. Therefore, you'll need to sacrifice a plug adapter or modern USB plug or purchase one for the monkey. If you want something with a little more bells and whistles, then the Hatch has white noise, lullabies, nightlight, and time-to-wake features that can take your darkness illumination to a whole 'nother level. Despite some minor drawbacks, the Myla works well as a dual-purpose, travel-friendly product.
Myla the V-Tech portable sound machine has a nightlight, lullabies, nature sounds, and timers all in a portable, adorable little monkey.
The Cloud B Twilight Turtle is a dreamy soother for little ones as they drift off to sleep. This soft, plush toy with a hard plastic shell projects eight major constellations onto the walls and ceiling in three color options: green, blue, amber, or flow through all colors. This product is durable and will withstand the rage of toddlers. Plus, it is portable as a battery-operated light and will automatically shut off after 45 minutes, preserving the battery. Use this light to entertain your baby during tummy time or incorporate it into naptime and bedtime routines. Regardless, we are sure this product will be a family favorite and provide years of enjoyment.
If you hope to use the turtle once it arrives, we advise having batteries on hand, as the turtle does not include any. Also, there is no option to adjust brightness or to have it run constantly through the night. Therefore, we don't view this lovable turtle as a primary night light. If you want something for all-night illumination, then a product like the Eufy would be a better fit. Or, if you want something that lights up but doesn't project and is still adorable, then the LumiPet Bear should make your shortlist. Instead, we believe it is perfect for families who want a kid-friendly, adorable creature with an astral projection that will leave kids of all ages oohing and aahing. It may make the darkness seem less frightening.
Under the fabric flap, the battery-operated Cloud B Twilight Turtle has a power switch, and we appreciate the safety in securing the batteries into place.
We researched and purchased top night lights for quality, popularity, and applicability for nursery use. We tested the night lights side-by-side for considerations like quality, ease of use, features for little ones, durability, brightness range, and usefulness in the nursery or to help little ones relax or sleep. We consider your different needs for a nightlight, from illuminating a pathway to a soft glow for little ones' comfort while sleeping. We also took into consideration how toddlers and older babies felt about baby-centric nightlights and the features they have for little ones.
Why You Should Trust Us
Led by a pediatrician and mother of two children, BabyGearLab has tested baby-related products over the past decade, developing unique testing procedures and gaining expertise to rate and rank products. Directing our night light review is Molly Bradac, Senior Review Editor, as well as Nanny and Newborn Care Specialist with over 14 years of experience. Molly has worked with dozens of families, and her skills include sleep training, establishing sleep routines, and providing overnight care for newborns. Molly's experiences and knowledge render expert recommendations for you and your family. Also contributing to our review are little testers who play an essential role in our testing, allowing our experts further to assess usability and durability from a child's perspective.
How to Choose a Nightlight
Choosing a nightlight can be fun and provide much-needed light for different activities. Considering why you want a light and how you will use it is the key to being happy with your final purchase.
Why do you need one?
The first thing to consider is why you need an alternate light source. If you are buying one to give your baby comfort, then your choice might be more baby-centric or adorable than utilitarian. If you are looking to light a pathway to the nursery or kitchen to get feeding supplies in the middle of the night, then a cute ceiling projector is likely not going to meet your needs. If you are unsure or need something to do multiple duties, the night lights often have prices that mean you can buy more than one to meet your needs.
Other Features
While you might be choosing this kind of product for the light, many have other features, and you should consider if those features matter to you. If you have the choice between two similar products but one offers more, then it can help you determine which will suit your needs best. For example, some lights have sounds, while others offer motion detection or turn on automatically when the room gets dark.
The Tecboss Smart Chick has silicone material on top with plastic on the bottom.
The Vont Lyra LED Night Light is a wall plug-in light and will automatically brighten and dim as the ambient light changes.
The LumiPets Bear's silicone exterior is removable and dishwasher safe, which is a feature that no other product in our review offers.
Analysis and Test Results
We purchased each product in our lineup to evaluate real-world performance. While completing hands-on testing and side-by-side comparisons, we focused on specific factors, such as product ease of use, range of brightness, and durability. A product's overall score is a combination of scores in these metrics.
Value
If you plan to illuminate multiple dark spaces, such as hallways, staircases, bathrooms, and bedrooms, the Eufy Lumi Plug-In includes multiple lights in a pack, making the cost per light budget-friendly. This night light option embraces the set-it-and-forget-it mentality, offers longevity, and is a possible solution for families with multiple children. However, if your tot seeks a more kid-focused night light to bring happiness to bedtime, the adorable LumiPets Bear is the true winner. It not only has a budget-friendly price tag but it is well-loved by children.
Some night lights are easier to use, whereas others require a learning curve.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Ease of Use
As busy parents and caregivers, we already have enough to focus on, so why add to it? We believe a top-notch product should have a user-friendly interface, offer portability, illuminate throughout the night, and include a charge cord and wall plug-in adaptor, allowing the product to be ready to charge out of the packaging.
Among the competition, the Eufy Lumi Plug-In ranks higher. These products shine in this metric mainly due to their design. Considering their power source, they are ready to illuminate straight out of their packaging and require no learning curve. Plug them in and forget about the rest; they'll automatically operate as the room darkens or brightens. The only downside is that they're not portable, which impacts their score; however, with multiple lights in a pack, you should have enough to illuminate many areas around your home.
The Eufy Lumi Plug-In couldn't be easier to use, and it provides a soft glow.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
If a plug-in wall style is not what you seek, the Hatch Baby Rest is a runner-up contender that scores high and may meet your needs. This device is app-controlled, and although it may require a slight learning curve, it is convenient and easy to use. You can also operate this device remotely or customize programs with your favorite settings that will run automatically. Plus, we were happy to see that the product includes a rechargeable cord and wall plug-in adaptor. In contrast, some contenders did not have an adaptor, causing us to sacrifice one from around the house.
The Cloud B Twilight Turtle is hands-down, a family favorite providing tummy time entertainment, but it also soothes bedtime fears with its projection of constellations onto the ceiling and walls.
We wish the battery-operated Munchkin Light My Way had a more prominent power button that is easier for little ones to find in the dark.
On the flip side, the Cloud B Twilight Turtle and Munchkin Light My Way rank low in this metric. Both products do not run throughout the night, and although the Cloud B Twilight Turtle has easy-to-push and operate buttons, we can not say the same about the Munchkin, which has a small power button that is tricky for toddlers to find in the dark. Plus, the sleep timer on the Munchkin is only 20 minutes, increasing the likelihood that you'll need to get out of bed to help your child in the dark.
The LumiPets Bear includes a remote control and offers a variety of fun colors.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Range of Brightness
Ideally, a night light should illuminate enough space to provide adequate vision, but it shouldn't disrupt your baby's sleep. Therefore, we value products that offer adjustability and a wide range of illumination over those that do not, and we considered this when scoring the competition.
Most of the competition offers brightness variability; however, the Hatch Rest provides the most extensive range, giving it some leverage and a high score, making it a top performer in this metric. However, the Cloud B Twilight Turtle, Eufy Lumi Plug-In, and Munchkin Light My Way do not offer brightness you can adjust and, thus, rank low.
Each product in our round-up varies in material, such as plastic, silicone, or a mixture of plush fabric and plastic.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Durability
Children are not always gentle or careful creatures, and we anticipate a product to drop, fall, or crash at some point. Therefore, durability is vital, especially if your little one will be handling it. We assessed each product for material, sturdiness, and areas that may raise concerns.
Among the competition, the Cloud B Twilight Turtle, and Eufy Lumi Plug-In rank high. The plug-ins are nearly indestructible; from our experience, the Cloud B Turtle stands the test of time, moving from one child to the next. However, the Smart Chick scores low in this metric. While testing, we noticed that the chick's eyes could fall off, which we believe is unsuitable for younger tots.
The Munchkin Light My Way is a portable, easy to carry night light for toddlers. However, the power button is not prominent and tricky to find in the dark.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Tip: Many products use LED bulbs, which are energy-efficient and last a long time; plus, they don't get as hot, which is key since children like to touch everything.
The VTech Myla The Monkey is a great option for travels away from home and offers both night light and sound machine functions, all wrapped up into one.
Credit: BabyGearLab Staff
Conclusion
A night light can provide a soft glow for midnight feedings and changes, a quick peek at your sleeping baby or reassure your little one that the darkness doesn't harbor lurking monsters. No matter why you need a night light, we think most parents will be grateful to have illumination at night. We've tested a variety of styles, including child-centric choices and more straightforward lighting. Let our expert recommendations help streamline your decision-making process. We are confident there is a perfect night light here to meet your needs and budget.
