For many expecting parents, creating a baby registry is one of the best things you can do while preparing for your bundle of joy to arrive. It’s a chance to choose all the essentials and maybe, a couple of fun extras for them.
However, with so many products available, it can quickly feel overwhelming. From strollers and cribs to diaper bags and caddies, it’s hard to figure out where to start.
We get it — so we’re here to help you figure it all out. Here’s a simple (and helpful) baby registry guide for first-time parents.
What is a baby registry?
A baby registry is a list of items that expecting parents like you would like to receive as gifts from friends and family during your baby shower or before your baby comes.
The items on your registry can be from retail stores (e.g. Target) or websites like Amazon.
Why do I need a baby registry?
You’ll need a baby registry because it will help you keep track of the baby items or gear that you want. That way, you’ll ensure that you have everything your baby needs when he/she arrives.
Another reason why you need a baby registry is for your baby shower gifters. Your friends and families will have a better time shopping for things they know you’ll want and like, and it helps them decide what to get for your baby shower.
On that note, a baby registry also helps your friends and family keep track of which gifts have been bought or not. This can help prevent duplicate gifts and not getting other things that you might need — imagine receiving only diaper bags and nothing else. Whew!
When can I start creating a baby registry?
You can start creating a baby registry at any time of pregnancy, but most parents start at the 20-week mark when they know their baby’s gender.
But if you want to start early with research, you can start creating a baby registry as early as 12 weeks.
At 24 weeks, you can start sharing your baby registry with your friends and family. During this time, you can make sure they’re ready and then send them out alongside your baby shower invitations.
@thekatiebeach Where to make your baby registry part 1! #babyregistry #pregnant #babyregistrymusthaves #babyregistrytips #babylist #newmom #firsttimemom #babiesoftiktok #momsoftiktok #pregnancyannouncement #firsttrimester #secondtrimester ♬ original sound - Katie Beach | mom & lifestyle
How can I start creating a baby registry?
Step 1: Decide where to create a baby registry
Before creating a baby registry, you need to decide where you want to create one. There are a lot of baby registry sites out there, but four of the most popular ones are Babylist, Amazon, Target, and Walmart. Poppylist and MyRegistry are great options too.
Step 2: Create a baby registry account
Once you’ve chosen where you want to create a baby registry, it’s time to create and set up your registry account. Some of the details they’ll ask for are your name (and your partner’s in some cases), your due date, and your address.
Step 3: Create your baby registry
Once your baby registry account is ready, it’s time to add your registry must-haves! Browse through baby clothes, baby gear, and other essentials like a safe playmat.
You’ll definitely come across the same items from different brands while curating your baby registry, so don’t forget to do some research!
Step 4: Share your baby registry
Is your baby registry ready?
If you answered yes to that question, then it’s time to share it with your friends and family!
Other than that, you can also link your registry to other registries. For example, you can link your Amazon registry to your Babylist registry. Here’s how you can do it: https://help.babylist.com/hc/en-us/articles/217843448-How-do-I-add-other-registries-to-my-Babylist
How many items should I put on my baby registry?
Remember, we wanna ensure that our baby has everything they might need once they arrive in our world.
On average, most parents add 100-120 items to their baby registry but it varies between families. So if you’re a bit worried about overdoing your registry, it’s totally okay.
When you’re closer to your due date, you can update or remove items depending on what items you already have and what you don’t need anymore. But if you’re still unsure about the number of items in your registry, you can ask your friends and family.
What should I add to my baby registry?
Now that we’ve settled the why’s and how’s of our baby registry guide, let’s tackle the ‘what’ section of this blog. Here are the must have baby registry items you should add to your list:
Nursery essentials
- Cribs and mattresses: A safe and sturdy crib that grows with the baby is a must. Look for one made with non-toxic materials, and meets safety standards (e.g. no missing or broken hardware and slats). As for the crib mattress, it should be tight and fitted.
- Bassinet: Many parents like to have a bassinet for the first few months because it lets their baby sleep in your room safely.
- Swaddle blankets: Swaddle blankets are perfect for newborns because they’re light and breathable.
- A baby monitor: A video or an audio baby monitor offers you peace of mind when your baby is sleeping in another room.
- Changing table or dresser: Choose one with plenty of storage to store diapers, wipes, and baby clothes within reach.
- Storage solutions: To keep your baby’s essentials organized, you’ll need nursery storage solutions like storage pins, a rack, storage cubbies, and more.
Nursing and feeding essentials
- Baby bottles: Whether you plan to breastfeed or bottle-feed, having a set of baby bottles is essential. Make sure to get bottles with varying nipple flow rates for different stages.
- Breast pump: If you plan on breastfeeding, a good-quality breast pump is helpful for those times when you're away from your baby.
- Milk storage bags: If you’re pumping, you’ll need milk storage bags to save and store your milk. They usually take up less space in the freezer and prevent unwanted spills or leaks before feedings.
- Other nursing essentials: Add these must-have registry items for nursing moms: Nipple cream, breast pads, a nursing pillow, a nursing cover, and a nursing bra.
- High chair: While it’s not needed until your baby is around six months old, it’s a good idea to add it to your registry first.
- Burp cloths and bibs: Babies are messy, so you'll want plenty of burp cloths and bibs to protect your clothes (and theirs).
- A pacifier: A pacifier for babies is a great sleep and travel aid that helps with self-soothing and ensuring comfort.
@theclairenecessities A complete list of everything you need to register for if you’re expecting your first baby! I used Babylist.com for mine. #whatshouldiregisterfor #babyregistry #babyproducts #pregnant #howtoregister @lovevery #firsttimemom #sahm #firstbaby #babygirl #babyboy @littlesleepies #littlesleepies #greenscreen ♬ original sound - Claire Edwards
Diapering essentials
- Diapers and wipes: Newborns go through an average of 5-12 diapers a day, so stock up on different sizes. You can also add eco-friendly or cloth diaper options if you prefer.
- Diaper cream: They help prevent diaper rash and protect your baby’s skin from urine and poop.
- Diaper bag: A spacious, well-organized diaper bag is a must-have for outings and trust me, it’ll also be a huge life saver while you’re running errands. Choose one with plenty of compartments for diapers, wipes, bottles, and personal items. Our BabbleRoo diaper bags also feature tons of convenient features like insulated bottle pockets, a pacifier compartment, and stroller clips.
- Changing pad: If you don't have a changing table, a portable changing pad is essential for diaper changes on the go. Besides the previous listed features, our diaper bags also include a washable changing pad.
- Diaper pail: A diaper pail is a dedicated bin to store dirty diapers. This helps keep your nursery smelling fresh.
- Diaper caddy: A diaper caddy like our Babbleroo diaper caddy is a basket that stores your baby’s diapering and changing essentials. Make sure to get one that’s easy to organize and can hold a lot of stuff including diaper balms, clothes, diapers, and more!
Also read: Essential Must-Haves For Your Diaper Bag
Bathing essentials
- Baby bathtub: Baby bathtubs are another baby registry must-have item. They let you safely bathe your baby without the strain and hassle of washing them in the sink or an adult-sized bathtub. They also feature an anti-slip design, a contoured head rest, and some do include water thermometers.
- Baby shampoo and body wash: Choose a baby shampoo and a baby wash that’s non-toxic, fragrance-free, and gentle on your baby’s hair and skin.
- Baby washcloths and towels: As your baby’s skin is sensitive, go for baby washcloths that are made with soft organic fibers. For baby towels, choose hooded towels to keep their heads warm after a bath.
- Baby grooming kit: Besides shampoo and body wash, you’ll need a baby grooming kit that usually includes a nail cutter, a brush or comb, a nasal aspirator, and a thermometer. Some may also include other items like a cradle cap brush and a bottle medicine dispenser.
@madison_rennae This stroller will last you years and years!!!! #babyregistry #babyregistrymusthaves #strollerreview #babyjogger #babyjoggercitymini #carseatreview #babyregistrytips ♬ original sound - Madison | Mom Life
Travel essentials
- Car seat: A car seat is a non-negotiable item for bringing your baby home from the hospital. Make sure it meets safety standards and fits securely in your vehicle.
- Stroller: A baby stroller is a must-have baby registry item for outings. Whether it’s for walks around the neighbourhood or long shopping trips, get a stroller that fits your lifestyle.
- Baby carrier or wrap: A baby carrier like our BabbleRoo baby carrier allows you to keep your little one close while staying hands-free. Look for a baby carrier that fits you securely, easy to put on, and comfortable to wear for you and your baby.
Also read: Why You Should Get A Baby Wrap Carrier
Clothing essentials
- Sleep sacks: Also known as sleep nests, they’re a great way to provide warmth and comfort as your baby grows. (We love the ones from Baby Deedee!)
- Baby onesies and body suits: Babies outgrow clothing fast, so it’s a good idea to register for multiple sizes (newborn, 0-3 months, and 3-6 months).
- Sleepers and footies: Choose soft, breathable pajamas that are easy to put on and take off, especially for nighttime diaper changes. Footed pajamas are also a great choice as they keep your baby’s body and feet warm in cooler months.
- Socks, mittens, and hats: Other than baby-footed pajamas, socks, mittens, and hats keep your baby warm. Add a few pairs to your registry checklist to keep their head and those tiny hands and toes cozy!
@annashieldss At 4 months old im just putting away all of the 0-3 month items so i figured id recap what we actually used! #newmom #newborn #babyclothes #babyregistry #momhacks #thirdtrimester #fourmonthsold #momtips #babyclothes ♬ Darkest (Dim) - TOKiMONSTA
Toys and playtime essentials
- Play mat: A non-toxic, soft play mat with bright colors, textures, and patterns will encourage your baby’s hand-eye coordination and stimulate their senses. It’s also a great companion for a play gym
- Teethers: Once your baby starts teething, teething toys toys will soothe their sore gums and keep them entertained.
- Musical toys: Wind chimes, rattles, and musical mobiles are wonderful for stimulating their sense of hearing. Choose black and white baby toys with high-contrast patterns for the first few months.
- Books: Reading to your baby from day one promotes language skills, so don’t forget to include a few books for your baby. Here are some tips to find the best books for your baby:
- For the first few months, they won’t be able to see details and colors so choose books that are visually simple with black and white images.
- Babies also love to look at faces, so go for books that feature cartoons/characters with huge faces against a simple background.
- Look for books for babies that engage the senses with a shiny cover, textures, sound, and moving elements like a pop-up page.
Nice-to-have extras for your baby registry
After covering the basics, you may want to add a few extra items to your registry checklist that are convenient or simply fun for you and your baby:
- Baby swing or bouncer: A swing or bouncer can be a lifesaver when you need to keep your baby entertained while you get things done around the house. (We love ComfyBumpy’s bouncer seat!)
- White noise machine: Many parents swear by white noise machines to help their babies sleep longer and more soundly.
- Humidifier: A humidifier is great for keeping your baby’s room at the right moisture level, especially during cold months.
- Bottle warmers: A bottle warmer allows you to heat up your baby’s milk faster (you’ll need it for late-night feedings with your little one), and some include anti-overheating features to ensure your baby doesn’t drink milk that will be too hot.
- Bottle sterilizers: They’re a handy device that sterilizes your baby’s bottle quickly and easily, especially between frequent pumps or feedings.
How do I share my baby registry?
Once your baby registry is set up, you'll want to share it with friends and family. Here are some ways to spread the word:
- Baby shower invitations: Include your registry link on your baby shower invitations, whether they're paper or digital.
- Registry announcement: Send a registry announcement to close friends and family who may want to help out early.
- Social media: If you're comfortable, sharing your registry on social media platforms is an easy way to let everyone know where to find it.
Some tips to create the best baby registry
- Include baby products with different price points: Give your friends and family options by including items at various price points. It’s okay to add high-ticket items (e.g. stroller or crib) since people may want to go in on a group gift.
- Prioritize essentials: Focus on essential items first, like diapers, clothing, and feeding supplies. Once those are covered, add extras like toys and décor.
- Do lots of research: Read the reviews and ask friends and family for recommendations. Compare a few brands offering the same items and try finding the products in physical stores to get a feel of the models you like.
- Consider your lifestyle: While it may be tempting to choose items that’s probably the best for your baby, your lifestyle might not allow it. Choose the right baby furniture and other baby registry items that will fit your lifestyle, home, and budget.
- Completion discounts: Take advantage of baby registry completion discounts to purchase remaining items on your registry at a lower cost after your baby shower. Babylist, Amazon, and Target offers a 15% completion discount if you’re planning to save on your registry must-haves.
@leahova Yes, I've been wearing the same outfit for 2 to 3 days. Don't judge me. #pregnant #babyregistry #babygear ♬ original sound - Leahova
Bonus: Is BabbleRoo on any baby registry?
Yes, we are!
You can find our Original, Travel, and Wide Top diaper bags on Babylist. You can also add our diaper caddy or baby carrier to your Amazon registry as well, and then connect it to Babylist if you can’t find the backpack color you want.
Conclusion: Let’s get ready, baby!
Creating a baby registry is a fun and exciting way to prepare for your little one’s arrival. By focusing on must-have items, selecting the right platform, and sharing your registry with loved ones, you’ll be well on your way to building a nursery filled with everything your baby needs. You got this!
Featured Image: Vegan Leather Diaper Backpack - Eggshell White