Preparing for your baby feels like a full-time job- and putting your baby registry together can feel extremely overwhelming. Do you really need a sound machine? How many newborn clothes are necessary? How many baby blankets are too many? You also have to consider postpartum. What things will make recovery and new mom life easier?
Table of Contents
I got you! This is not just any old list. This guide will help make momming easier.
Whether you are a first-time mom or expecting your second bundle of joy, this real-life tested list of recommendations helps you get everything you need, stock up on items that are nice to have, and discover hidden baby things you’ll be so thankful for later.
Let’s set up a registry that is actually practical- and maybe even get some freebies along the way (like your free download!). Don’t forget to grab your free baby registry checklist at the bottom of the post!
Before unpacking everything, create your baby registry.
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Baby Registry 101
Do Your Homework
As a mom of two, I want to begin by telling you that not everything is a must-have. When I was pregnant with my first, I thought I needed everything. Think about your space, how you plan to feed your baby, and your lifestyle before adding all the things to your baby registry.
Talk to your mom friends, research the materials used in baby products you’re considering, and prioritize items that you think you will actually use.
Build the Registry That Works for YOU!
Every family is different. So cookie cutter lists don’t work for everyone. The baby registry checklist I created reflects my honest opinion of what new moms will benefit from having. No fluff stuff. So before you click “add to registry,” consider these factors:
1. Your Living Space
- Small space? Try to scoop up space-saving gear. Think foldable or portable high chairs (we are so happy with this one!), compact baby swings, and slim, lightweight strollers.
- Larger space? You probably don’t have to consider the size of baby gear as much as families living in smaller environments.
2. Feeding Choices
- Breastfeeding? Nursing pillows, nipple cream, and a hands-free pump will be your best friends.
- Formula feeding? Look for great bottles, sterilizers, and research the brand of formula you want to go with.
3. Baby’s Due Date
- Summer due date? Pay attention to the thickness of swaddles and grab a few sun hats.
- Winter due date? Warm footed pajamas, sleep sacks (these sleep sacks were a game-changer), and winter hats are essential.
4. Splurge vs. Save
I believe some items are worth the investment. Other baby products, I was fine to spend less money on.
- Splurge: Nursery furniture, travel system, bassinet.
- Save: Onesies, pants, burp cloths.
Essentials You Don’t Want to Skip
These must-haves will be used on a daily basis:
- Infant Car Seat– Choose a safe car seat that is a good fit for your car.
- Stroller/travel system– Would you rather have a lightweight stroller or a travel system?
- Crib– Safe sleep is crucial. You don’t have to spend a fortune for your baby to sleep safely. I will admit I decided to splurge here.
- Bassinet– Since your baby will be sleeping in a bassinet from day 1, this is definitely something you want to have ready to use. This one made recovery and taking care of a new baby easier.
- Baby Monitor– I can’t imagine life without my baby monitor. Hello peace of mind!
- Swaddles & Sleep Sacks– When sleep regressions hit, sleep sacks will save your sanity! My second baby was colicky and these sleep sacks helped him sleep through the night.
- Bottles– Start with a few bottles and test out which ones your baby likes best. I made the mistake of buying a full set, and my baby hated them.
- Nursing Pillow– These are great for feeding and giving your arms a break.
- Diapers & Wipes– Register for multiple sizes to avoid getting too many newborn diapers. Babies grow fast, and it would be really unfortunate to be left with a bunch of diapers your baby can’t use.
Extras You’ll Appreciate Having
They may not be used every single day, but they sure make life so much easier:
- Baby carrier/wrap– This is a preference thing. I started with a wrap and didn’t love it. A baby carrier was easier for me to slide my baby into and keep it moving.
- Sound Machine– My first baby was always a great sleeper, but my second was a horrible sleeper. It nearly broke me and let me tell you we use a sound machine every day for him. It is truly magical and I wish I bought one sooner.
- Portable Changing Pad– These are great for when you’re on the go and need to change your little darling.
- Play Gym or Activity Mat– Wonderful for tummy time!
Diapers!
If you want to splurge a little and want diapers that are free of chemicals and ultra soft, these are the best. They’re a bit more expensive than your typical diapers, but they are so worth it. My kids never got diaper rash while wearing these.
SHOP THROUGH THIS LINK AND USE THE CODE “BUMP20” FOR 20% OFF A PURCHASE $40 OR MORE.
Tubby Todd All Over Ointment
One thing you may not be prepared for is how to deal with your newborn’s skin. My daughter had terrible eczema. Her precious little skin was always so irritated. It took me months to discover this ointment. Any time she gets a red spot, mark, dryness, or irritation, I spread this ointment all over the area. After just a few applications, her skin clears up.
Even if your child does not have eczema, this ointment is super gentle on the skin and SO worth having around. If you shop for All Over Ointment (or any other Tubby Todd products) through this link you can get 10% off. I have several of their products and truly love this brand.
Two babies later, and I am still using Tubby Todd religiously.
Quick Reminders
Before publishing your baby registry, keep these tips in mind:
- Always check safety standards before buying something for your baby.
- Add a range of clothing sizes. You will be so glad you did this! Babies grow so fast.
- Register essentials and “nice-to-haves.” This way, people have options.
- Consider your space! If you have a small space, you’ll appreciate compact items.
- Don’t forget about registry completion discounts. Take advantage of the chance to get a discount on what’s left to buy for your baby.
Bonus Tips
- Register for multiple registries to enjoy all the freebies and welcome boxes.
- Don’t feel funny about adding “non-baby” items like postpartum clothes or gift cards to take advantage of eating out on the tough days.
- Keep your registry updated. You can always make changes if you decide to remove or add a product to your wish list.
Did you create your baby registry?
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Grab Your Free Baby Registry Checklist
Other Posts You May Like:
Newborn Survival Guide I Wish I Had
18 Essential Ways to Bond With Your Newborn
50 Practical Newborn Hacks I Swear By
These items are spot on. I lovvvvved the white noise machine and used it until my little one was a toddler! And yes, what is with all the baby shoes that they won’t be wearing!
The perfect list of items. It is so much nicer going to a baby shower when the parents have registered but many don’t know what to put on their list. Will be pinning this article to share with a few soon-to-be parents!
While I’m not yet pregnant, we are planning to start trying in 2023. I like that this article had some non-traditional items as well as items to not buy.
This list is spot on! I wish I had put the Hatch on our baby registry. Great tips for new moms! Thanks for sharing.
My first grand baby in 8 years is coming in April. This article is just the thing I needed to help my daughter prepare!
This is a great list! I wish I had known about the wet-dry bags during the baby stage. I used to carry around plastic grocery bags in case of a blowout, but I love that the wet-dry bags are reusable. It’s also a great tip to leave baby shampoo and lotion off your registry list. My youngest daughter had eczema and her skin was extremely sensitive, so we had to be very selective about the products we used. Thank you for sharing!
Lots of great gift ideas. I always like to see unique ideas for gift options.
Such a great and helpful list. I have a couple friends who’ve just given birth and a couple of these items would make good gifts 🙂