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Top baby registry must-haves

ByCristy Posten

These top baby registry must-haves are for new parents overwhelmed by the number of products on the market. Don’t know exactly what you need to take care of your new bundle of joy? We’ve got you covered with these must-haves for your baby shower registry, plus a checklist to get you started.

Table of contents

How does a baby registry work?

A baby registry is a wish list of all the essential items new parents need for their baby. It’s a great way to help family and friends shop for your baby shower. A baby list can also help you stay organized and on budget. 

What are the benefits of a baby registry?

Creating a baby registry is a great way to let your friends and family know what you need for your new baby. It can also help you save money on big-ticket items, and you can even score some free baby products.

Here are some of the benefits of creating a baby registry:

  • You avoid getting duplicate gifts.
  • You save money on big-ticket items with completion discounts.
  • You can get free baby products with welcome kits and exclusive deals.
  • You can stay organized and share your registry with your friends and family.
  • You’ll know what last-minute items you still need after your baby shower.

Is it necessary to have a baby shower to register for a baby?

No, having a baby shower or baby sprinkle isn’t necessary to register for a baby. Many expectant parents create a baby registry independently and share it with friends and family, whether or not they plan to have a baby shower.

When do I create a baby registry?

You can start your baby registry anytime, but most parents create theirs when mom-to-be is about 20 weeks into her pregnancy. By then, she’s feeling well enough and energized to start adding items to the registry. The 20-week mark also gives you plenty of time to research and choose the best baby products.

Where do I register for a baby?

The most popular places to register for a baby include:

  1. Amazon Baby Registry: Amazon is a great place to start your baby registry. They offer a huge selection of baby products, and many are shipped quickly with Amazon Prime.
  2. Target Baby Registry: Target is every mom’s favorite place to shop, so it’s the perfect store for your baby registry. Their baby registry service lets you create a list of newborn must-haves available at their stores or online.
  3. Walmart Baby Registry: Walmart is another store that offers a wide range of baby products, from diapers and wipes to strollers and car seats.
  4. Pottery Barn Kids Baby Registry: Pottery Barn Kids is a great place for your baby registry if you want higher-end baby items. They offer a registry service for their products, which include a variety of nursery furniture, bedding, clothing, and accessories.
  5. Crate&Kids Baby Registry: Crate&Kids is another great store for higher-end baby products and adorable gifts.
  6. Etsy Baby Registry: Etsy is the perfect place for your baby registry if you like unique, handmade items. They offer a baby registry option where you can add products from various sellers on their platform. Etsy is also a great place for personalized and monogrammed baby gifts.

Can you register for baby items online, or should you visit a store in person to start your registry?

You can register for baby items online or in-store. Many retailers have online registry services to create and manage your baby registry from your computer or phone.

How many items should be on a baby registry?

There’s no set number of items that should be on a baby registry. First-time moms typically have 100-120 items on their baby registry.

Is it appropriate to register for expensive items like cribs?

Yes, it’s perfectly acceptable to register for expensive items like cribs. Many people, like grandparents, aunts, uncles, and close friends, may want to contribute to a larger gift rather than buy multiple smaller items.

Tips for creating your baby registry

Here are some of our top tips for creating a baby registry:

  1. Start by listing all the things you need for your baby. Think about your lifestyle, living space, and budget. Consider the essential items for the baby’s care, comfort, and safety. Include must-have items like a crib, stroller, car seat, diapers, clothing, swaddle blanket, bottles, baby monitor, baby bath tub, and hygiene items. 
  2. Do your research and compare prices. Many baby registries are available, so take some time to compare prices and features before you choose one.
  3. Choose a registry that offers the benefits that are important to you. Some registries offer free gifts, discounts, or completion bonuses. Others make it easy to share your registry with your loved ones. Choose a registry that provides the most benefits.
  4. Share your registry with your loved ones. Once you’ve created your registry, share it with your loved ones. You can share your registry online, via email, text, or social media.
  5. Consider the future. Babies grow fast, so plan for things that will be useful in various stages of their development. For example, consider items for newborns, like a white noise machine, and those suitable for older infants, like play mats or a play gym. You may also want to register for some items the baby can grow into, such as convertible car seats or larger-sized clothing.
  6. Avoid registering for too many similar items. You want a diverse set of gifts and not too many similar items. For example, you don’t need to register for 10 different brands of diapers.
  7. Include a variety of price points. Some guests may have a limited budget, so be sure to include a variety of price points on your registry. This will allow your guests to choose gifts that fit their budget.
  8. Consider your lifestyle. If you live in a small apartment, you may not have room for a large crib or stroller. If you have pets, you’ll need to register for pet-friendly items. Consider your lifestyle and living space when you’re creating your registry.

Baby registry checklist with (free printable)

As a mom of 3, I know there are things you absolutely need and things you don’t. These are the top baby registry must-haves for new parents (many of these items I’ve used personally for my children).

Nursery:

Bedding:

Diapering:

Feeding:

Clothing:

Bathing:

Health and safety:

Playtime and entertainment:

Miscellaneous baby items:

Free Baby Shower Registry Checklist

Baby Shower Registry Checklist
Free Baby Shower Registry Checklist Printable

Grab the free Baby Shower Checklist Printables for girls and boys here.

What NOT to add to your baby registry

1. Unsafe or recalled baby products: Always check for product recalls and safety standards before adding any item to your registry. Avoid things that don’t meet safety regulations or have a history of recalls.

2. Too many newborn-sized diapers: Babies grow fast, and you’ll only need newborn diapers for a few short weeks. Have a few on hand, but focus on size 1 diapers.

3. Out-of-season clothing: Avoid adding clothing that will be too small or too big for the baby when the appropriate season comes around.

4. Breast pump: The Affordable Care Act offers free high-end breast pumps to all mothers. Call your insurance company for more information.

5. Crib bumpers: Crib bumpers are unsafe for babies and can increase the risk of suffocation.

6. Wipe warmer: Wipe warmers are unnecessary and can dry out wipes, making them less effective.

7. Baby shoes: Babies only need shoes once they start walking, so there’s no need to register for them.

8. Bathrobe: Babies don’t need a bathrobe; they can wear diapers or clothing afterward.

9. Baby powder: Pediatricians advise against using baby powder due to respiratory concerns when inhaled.

10. Diaper Genie: Diaper Genies are convenient, but they’re not necessary. You can use a regular trash can with a lid.

What to put on a second baby registry

When creating a registry for a second baby, focus on items that need to be replaced or replenished, such as diapers, wipes, and clothing. Consider things that make life with two children easier, such as a double stroller or baby carrier.

  • Diapers and wipes: You’ll need a lot of diapers and wipes for two babies, so be sure to register for a good supply.
  • Clothing: You’ll need a variety of clothing for two babies, so register for a mix of newborn, 0-3 months, 3-6 months, and 6-9 months sizes.
  • Feeding supplies: If you’re breastfeeding, you may not need to register for as many feeding supplies as you did with your first baby. But if you’re formula-feeding, you’ll need to register for formula and bottles.
  • Stroller: If you have a single stroller, consider registering for a double stroller. This will make it easier to take both babies out at the same time.
  • Baby carrier: A baby carrier is a great way to keep two babies close while on the go.
  • Travel gear: If you plan on traveling with two babies, you’ll need to register for some travel gear. This could include a portable crib, car seat adapters, and a travel stroller.
  • Miscellaneous items: There are a few other miscellaneous items that you should consider registering for, such as a diaper bag, bath towels, and burp cloths.

Creating a registry list for twins

Creating a registry list for twins can be overwhelming, but it’s important to make sure you have everything you need for both babies. Here are some tips to help you get started:

  1. Start by listing the essentials. This includes diapers, wipes, bottles, formula, and feeding supplies. You’ll also need cribs, car seats, and a stroller.
  2. Consider larger, more expensive items. If you have the space, you may want to register for a double stroller or a twin bassinet. You’ll also need a double breast pump if you plan on breastfeeding.
  3. Don’t forget the smaller items. You’ll need a lot of burp cloths, bibs, and onesies. Register for a diaper bag, a nursing pillow, and a baby carrier.
  4. Think about the future. You’ll need to register for items that will grow with your twins. This includes things like high chairs, booster seats, and toys.
  5. Ask for help. Feel free to ask for help from your friends and family when creating your registry list. They can help you think of things you may have yet to consider.

Here are some things to keep in mind when creating your registry:

  • What are your must-haves? What are the things you absolutely need for your baby?
  • What are your preferences? Do you have a preference for a particular brand or type of product? For example, do you want a drop side or a convertible crib?
  • What’s your budget? If you’re purchasing many of the items yourself, how much money do you want to spend on your registry? This will help you narrow your options, so you’re not overspending.

Here are some additional tips for creating a baby registry:

  • Start early. Creating a comprehensive registry list takes time, so don’t wait until the last minute.
  • Be specific. When adding items to your registry, be as clear as possible. This will help your friends and family find the perfect gifts for your baby.
  • Keep it updated. As your needs change, be sure to update your registry. This way, your friends and family will always know what you need.

So, those are our top baby registry must-haves. Every baby and family is unique, so you’ll need to adjust your baby registry items based on your needs and personal preferences.

What are your baby registry must-haves? Share them in the comments below!

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