Baby shower registry checklist for first time parents (2025 guide)

Getting ready for your baby shower registry checklist for first-time parents can feel exciting and overwhelming. As a first-time mom and dad, it’s tough to know what you really need on your baby registry and what you can skip. That’s why we created this must-have checklist with free printable. Whether you’re building your list for a baby shower or a baby sprinkle, this guide will help you choose the must-haves and avoid the nice-to-haves you may not need.

We’ve talked with experienced parents, reviewed expert recommendations, and analyzed top registry picks to help you make smart, confident choices for your first baby registry.

Why first-time parents need a baby registry checklist

If you’re getting ready to welcome your first baby, chances are you’re wondering what to put on a baby registry for your first baby—and maybe feeling a little overwhelmed. That’s completely normal! As a first-time parent, you’re stepping into a brand-new world of baby gear, and it can be hard to know what’s essential and what’s just nice to have.

That’s exactly where a baby shower registry checklist for first-time parents comes in handy. A good checklist helps you focus on the must-have items you’ll really use in those first few months, while keeping you from buying things you don’t need. Plus, it gives friends and family a clear list of what will truly help you get ready for your baby’s arrival.

When you’re creating your baby registry checklist for first-time moms and dads, remember that you don’t need to add everything—just what fits your lifestyle, space, and budget. 

This guide will walk you through the top baby registry must-haves for first-time parents, so you can build a list that’s practical, easy to manage, and personalized for your growing family.

When to start your baby registry (timeline for first-time parents)

One of the most common questions first-time parents ask is, “When should I start my baby registry?” It’s never too early to start thinking about what you might want to include on your baby registry checklist for your first baby.

Many first-time moms and dads begin building their baby shower registry checklist sometime in the second trimester—around 12 to 16 weeks. By this point, you’re likely past the early pregnancy symptoms and starting to think ahead to baby’s arrival. It’s the perfect time to research products, compare options, and add your baby registry must-haves for first-time parents over time, without feeling rushed.

Here’s a simple timeline to guide you:

First trimester (weeks 1–12)

• Start researching baby products
• Talk to other parents
• Read reviews and save ideas

Early second trimester (weeks 12–16)

• Begin creating your baby registry checklist for first baby
• Add key big-ticket items (crib, car seat, and stroller)

Mid-second trimester (weeks 16–24)

• Add everyday baby registry must-haves for first-time parents
• Think about diapering, feeding, clothing, sleep essentials
• Share your registry with close friends and family if ready

Third trimester (weeks 28–32+)

• Finalize your baby shower registry checklist
• Add last-minute items
• Share with baby shower guests or broader family circle

Expert tip: Starting early gives you plenty of time to compare options, grab sale prices, and avoid last-minute stress. Plus, it helps your friends and family shop early.

Where to register: best baby registries for first-time parents

One of the first questions new parents ask when building a baby shower registry checklist for first-time parents is, “Where should I register?”

The good news is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best registry for your first baby depends on your shopping style, the types of products you want, and how easy you want it to be for friends and family to shop.

Here’s a look at some of the most popular registry options for first-time parents:

Amazon Baby Registry

Amazon’s registry is a favorite among first-time parents for good reason. You’ll find nearly every baby registry must-have for first-time parents, along with fast shipping, competitive prices, and a generous completion discount. Plus, it’s easy to manage everything in one place.

Target Baby Registry

Target offers a great in-store and online experience, which is helpful for friends and family who prefer to shop in person. Their registry includes a welcome kit and a completion discount.

Babylist

Babylist is a universal registry that lets you pull products from multiple stores into one baby registry checklist for your first baby. This gives first-time parents flexibility. It’s perfect if you want to include unique finds from smaller shops or Etsy.

Walmart Baby Registry

Known for budget-friendly prices, Walmart’s registry is a good option for first-time parents looking to stick to a budget. They also offer helpful starter lists and an easy-to-use registry interface.

Pottery Barn Kids / Crate & Kids

If nursery design is high on your list, Pottery Barns Kids and Crate & Kids offer premium options and design services. They’re great for special items, though many first-time parents choose to combine them with a more all-purpose registry.

Tips for choosing where to register

• Keep it simple. First-time parents often find it easier to stick to 1–2 store registries.
• Think of your guests. If many friends and family prefer in-person shopping, choose at least one store with brick-and-mortar options.
• Look for perks. Completion discounts, free welcome kits, and easy returns are all worth considering.

The best baby shower registry checklist for first-time parents is one that works for YOU! Don’t be afraid to mix and match! Many first-time parents use a universal registry like Babylist for flexibility, paired with a major retailer like Target or Amazon for ease of shopping.

Budget tips: how to prioritize your baby registry as a first-time parent

As a first-time parent, it’s easy to feel like you need everything, but your budget may tell a different story. The good news is that you absolutely don’t need to buy it all at once! This section of your baby shower registry checklist for first-time parents will help you figure out what to prioritize, so you can create a registry that fits your immediate needs and your budget.

Focus on true must-haves first

Start your registry with the items you’ll use daily during those first few weeks and months. Here are some essential baby registry items to include:

• Bassinet
• Crib
• Crib mattress (choose a firm, flat mattress that fits your crib snugly)
• Crib sheets (2–4 fitted crib sheets; expect to change them often)
• Sound machine (many parents swear by these for helping babies sleep more soundly)
• Car seat
• Diapers and wipes
• Diaper pail (with liners, to help control odors)
• Changing pad and covers (portable options are great too)
• Bibs (you’ll go through several a day)
• Burp cloths (a must for spit-ups; you’ll use them constantly in those early months)
• Diaper cream or diaper rash ointment (help prevent and treat diaper rash; look for a gentle, pediatrician-recommended formula)
• A few basic baby clothes (onesies, sleepers, socks)
• Pants or leggings (soft and easy to pull on; pairs well with onesies)
• Diaper bag (choose one that fits your style and is comfortable to carry)
• Baby carrier or stroller
• Baby bath and baby wash
• Baby towels
• Baby essentials kit
• Baby laundry detergent
• Baby swing

Pumping and breastfeeding essentials for first-time parents

If you’re planning to breastfeed, having the right pumping and breastfeeding essentials on your baby registry can make your life a lot easier. Here are a few items to consider:

• Breast pump (most insurance plans cover one—check your benefits first!)
• Pumping supplies: milk storage bags, extra pump parts, bottle nipples compatible with your pump
• Bottles
• Bottle brush
• Bottle drying rack
• Nursing bras and nursing pads (disposable or reusable)
• Nipple cream to help with early soreness
• Breastfeeding nursing pillow (many first-time parents find this helpful for positioning)
• Cooler bag for pumped milk on the go
• Manual hand pump (a convenient backup option for occasional use on the go)

Expert tip: Even if you’re not sure if you’ll pump regularly, it’s a good idea to add some basic pumping supplies to your baby shower registry checklist for first-time parents. It gives you flexibility and helps you prepare for any feeding routine.

Think about timing

Some items, like a high chair or baby toys, won’t be needed right away. It’s fine to add them to your baby shower registry checklist, but remember you’ll likely have plenty of opportunities to pick these up later—during sales, holidays, or baby’s milestones.

Take advantage of completion discounts

Most retailers offer registry completion discounts—usually 10% to 15% off remaining items. This is a great way for first-time parents to buy big-ticket items after the shower, with savings in hand.

Don’t forget about group gifting

If you’re adding big-ticket items (like a stroller, crib, or glider), look for stores that offer a group gifting option. This lets friends and family chip in—one of the best ways to cover high-cost items on your baby registry checklist for first-time moms and dads.

Be realistic about your space and lifestyle

Live in a small apartment? Skip bulky gear you may not need. Prefer babywearing? Maybe a full-size stroller isn’t top priority. Tailor your list to what works for you, not just what you see on everyone else’s baby registry checklist for first baby.

What not to put on your baby registry (first-time parent tips)

When you’re building your baby shower registry checklist for first-time parents, it’s easy to get swept up in all the adorable gadgets and trendy products out there. But the truth is, not everything marketed for babies is necessary, or even safe. Here are a few items first-time parents can confidently leave off their baby registry checklist for your first baby:

Crib bumpers and sleep positioners

These items aren’t safe for newborns. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a bare crib with just a fitted sheet. Skip the bumpers, pillows, and sleep positioners. They can pose a suffocation risk.

Wipe warmers

Babies don’t need warm wipes, and many first-time parents find that wipe warmers take up space, dry out wipes, or go unused. If you feel a wipe is too chilly, you can warm it in your hands for a few seconds.

Baby shoes

We get it—tiny baby shoes are irresistibly cute! But for babies who aren’t walking yet, shoes aren’t necessary. Stick with socks or soft booties instead.

Formula dispensers and bottle prep machines

Some of these gadgets sound convenient but can be inconsistent, and in some cases, unsafe. For first-time parents, it’s often simpler and safer to mix formula by hand following package instructions.

Baby walkers

Baby walkers aren’t recommended by pediatricians because they can delay development and pose injury risks. Instead, offer lots of safe tummy time and floor play.

Fancy, expensive clothes for newborns

Your newborn will likely live in cozy onesies and sleepers for the first few months. While a special outfit or two is fine, you don’t need to load your baby registry checklist for first-time moms and dads with dressy clothes, because they often go unworn.

Too many newborn-size diapers

Babies grow quickly! Register for a small pack of newborn diapers, but focus more on size 1 and size 2, which you’ll likely use longer.

The best baby shower registry checklist for first-time parents focuses on what will make your life easier and your baby safe and comfortable. If you’re unsure about an item, ask a trusted parent friend, check product reviews, or consult your pediatrician.

Common mistakes first-time parents make (and how to avoid them)

Building your baby shower registry checklist for first-time parents is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming with so many choices. To help you feel more confident, here are some of the most common mistakes first-time moms and dads make when creating their baby registry checklist for first baby—and tips to avoid them:

Adding too much

It’s tempting to put everything you see on your list, especially as a first-time parent. But more isn’t always better. Focus on your baby registry must-haves for first-time parents first—items you’ll truly need in those early weeks—and skip the “extras” you may never use.

Tip: Start with essentials. You can always add more items later—or shop as needs arise.

Registering for everything in newborn size

Babies grow quickly! It’s common for first-time parents to add lots of newborn-size clothes and diapers, but many babies move up to size 1 within weeks.

Tip: Add a mix of sizes (0–3 months and 3–6 months), and don’t overbuy newborn diapers.

Not considering their space or lifestyle

What works for one family may not work for yours. Do you live in a small apartment? Travel often? Plan to babywear? Choose gear that fits your space, needs, and daily routine—not just what’s popular on social media.

Tip: Personalize your baby registry checklist for first-time moms and dads to match your home and lifestyle.

4. Forgetting postpartum and parent needs

Many first-time parents focus only on baby items, but don’t forget about your own recovery and comfort after birth.

Tip: It’s perfectly fine to add postpartum essentials (like nursing bras, recovery kits, or cozy loungewear) to your baby shower registry checklist for first-time parents. Friends and family love gifting these, too!

5. Waiting too long to start the registry

Creating a baby registry checklist for your first baby takes time. If you wait too long, you may feel rushed, or your guests may not have time to shop before your shower.

Tip: Start around 12–16 weeks. This gives you time to research, compare, and thoughtfully build your list.

There’s no “perfect” list—just the right one for your growing family. Keep it simple, focus on what matters most, and remember—you’ve got this!

FAQs: baby shower registry checklist for first-time parents

How many items should a first-time parent put on a baby registry?

There’s no magic number, but most baby registry checklists for first-time moms and dads include 25 to 50 items across a range of price points. The key is to focus on what you’ll use most in the first few months, and skip the “extras” you don’t need right away.

When should I share my baby registry with friends and family?

Many first-time parents share their baby shower registry checklist once the list feels mostly complete—usually between weeks 20 and 28, before the baby shower invitations go out. But it’s never too early to give close family a sneak peek!

Should I register at more than one store?

Many first-time parents find that using a universal registry makes things simple. You can pull items from several stores into one master baby registry checklist for your first baby, giving friends and family more options, and making it easier to manage.

Is it okay to add big-ticket items to my baby registry?

Absolutely! First-time parents should feel comfortable adding essentials like a crib, stroller, or car seat to their baby shower registry. Many loved ones enjoy pitching in on larger gifts, or you can take advantage of completion discounts to purchase them yourself.

Do I need to register for toys or books for a newborn?

You can! While they aren’t must-haves for the early weeks, many first-time parents add a few board books, soft toys, or sensory items to their baby registry to encourage early bonding and development.

Do I really need a baby monitor?

For many first-time parents, a baby monitor provides peace of mind, especially if your baby will be sleeping in a separate room. If you live in a smaller space or plan to room-share, it may not be essential right away. Your baby registry checklist for first-time moms and dads should reflect what works for your home, family, and comfort level.

Do I need to register for postpartum recovery items?

Yes! First-time parents often overlook these essentials, but adding them to your baby shower registry checklist is a good idea. Friends and family love gifting practical items that will help you rest and recover after birth.

Should I register for newborn-size diapers?

It’s fine to add one or two small packs of newborn-size diapers to your baby registry checklist for your first baby, but many babies move into size 1 quickly. To be safe, include more size 1 and size 2 diapers on your registry. If you’re hosting a diaper raffle at your shower, kindly ask your guests to not bring newborn size diapers.

Free baby shower checklist printable

As a first-time parent, this is your moment to prepare for your baby’s arrival, and friends and family are eager to help. By following this baby registry checklist for your first baby, you’ll give them a clear, thoughtful list of ways they can support you and your baby. Grab our free baby shower checklist printable below!

Creating your baby shower registry checklist for first-time parents should feel exciting, not stressful. You’re building a list that fits your family, your space, and your lifestyle. Start with the essentials, add items that feel right for you, and know that it’s perfectly fine to skip things you aren’t sure about yet.

Have fun with it! Building your baby registry checklist for first-time moms and dads is a fun milestone. Celebrate each step, trust your instincts, and enjoy imagining all the sweet moments ahead.

Did you find this baby registry checklist helpful?

If you’re a first-time parent, we’d love to hear what’s on your list! Share your must-haves in the comments, Pin this guide to your baby board on Pinterest for later, and pass it along to friends and family who are building their first baby shower registry checklist.

Meet the Author
Cristy Posten is a party stylist, entertaining expert, and founder of Pretty My Party, with over a decade of experience helping readers make life’s biggest milestones truly special. She shares creative ideas for parties, holidays, and everyday celebrations — all designed to inspire and make hosting feel fun, beautiful, and stress-free.