Among all of the attractive and spirited things a new parent faces, one surprisingly difficult task is creating a baby registry. It seems like such a fun idea – picking out the nursery patterns and tiny little outfits – until you realize you know absolutely nothing about what a baby needs. In my own experience, it was the bottle aisle that completely overwhelmed me. But, after spending a week or two tracking down a couple of new moms and asking for their advice, I was able to resume the registry process. I’ve compiled this list to save you time and energy and to make your registry experience the most pleasant and stress-free possible.
Below you’ll find a list of recommendations to support you decide which baby items you need and a few you might want, as well. When helpful, I have recommended a quantity in parentheses. Most times, the quantity is dependent on how great laundry or bottle washing you wish to do.
Clothing
Footed sleepers/gowns (5-7 recommended) Footed sleepers can be worn day and night and keep baby’s feet warm. Gowns are not just for girls and great for those middle-of-the-night diaper changes. They slide up and down easily over the legs and have no snaps to deal with.
Onesies (8-10) This odd cramped word is something you’ll become very familiar with if you haven’t already. It describes little t-shirts that snap between the legs. They are often sold in packs of 3 or 5, and I recommend registering for a few packs. They are substantial for layering in the cooler months, and in the summertime are perfect with a pair of jeans or tiny sweats. Or, if it’s really hot, no pants at all. I suggest registering for two sizes: 0-3 months and 3-6 months
Mittens (2-3 pairs) Tiny babies have tiny fingernails, but they always manage to find a plan to scratch up their beautiful faces. Baby mittens are a great way to help avoid that, especially in the early weeks. Be sure to find ones with the stitching on the outside of the mitten to keep any loose threads from wrapping around baby’s little fingers.
Socks (3-5 pairs or more) They will topple off constantly, so be prepared to lose some. They work well as an extra layer of warmth when wearing sleepers. Also, as shoes are not necessary (nor are they recommended at this young age), socks will protect feet. A bonus tip: Wash baby socks in a lingerie bag as they have a knack of finding their way into washing machine parts that are quite expensive to repair. Don’t learn this the hard way as I did.
Outfits Obviously, these are completely subjective, so I won’t recommend anything in particular. But I will warn you that newborns go through more clothes in a day that most adults do in a week. So, you may want to hold off on registering for designer clothing or anything hand-washable. Durable fabrics, such as cotton or cotton blends, are best, since they will be able to withstand multiple washings. You might want to wait to get most of the clothes until after the baby is born since babies range so widely in size and grow at such different rates. You may be in the 0-3 month size for only 3 weeks, or you could be buying that size for 5 months.
Bedding
Receiving blankets (5-7) These are vast for swaddling your baby and also for a light covering when it’s not too wintry. They are also often sold in packs of 5.
Other blankets (2-3) Thicker blankets are useful for cold nights or as a shelter when draped over the infant carrier.
Crib sheets (2-3) Crib mattresses are smaller than twin mattresses, so be sure to register for sheets that fit your mattress.
Waterproof plastic mattress cover (1) This cover zips around the mattress to fully protect it from accidents.
Padded mattress pad (2) Having an extra mattress pad will hopefully withhold you from having to do laundry in the middle of the night.
Lap pads (5-7) These can be shrimp enough to fit on the changing table and large enough to cloak the crib mattress (sheet protectors). They are high-absorbency and help protect sheets and changing pads.
Sleep positioner This helps keep your baby on his or her befriend while sleeping, as recommended by pediatricians to reduce the risk of SIDS.
Bottles/Feeding
Bottles (8-4 oz, 5-9 oz) Newborns won’t need the larger bottles for several months, but it’s sometimes nice to have them on hand. As for the quantities, you must decide how often you want to wash bottles keeping in mind that newborns eat every 2-3 hours. If you’re breast-feeding, you may still wish to have some bottles on hand for emergencies or if you plan to pump.
Breast milk storage bags/containers If you’re planning to nurse and pump, these are essential. Bags are great for freezing milk, and some containers convert to bottles for easy transferal.
Breast pump There are all types of pumps, and generally, the more money you invest, the more efficient it is. If you can afford an electric pump, I recommend it since it’s such a time-saver.
Breast pads These fit in the mother’s bra to help absorb any leaks that might soak through to the shirt.
Bottle brush/drying rack If you’re planning to use bottles, you’ll want to invest in a bottle brush that comes with a nipple brush attachment. You’ll also want to come by a bottle drying rack (usually sold near or with the brushes) and/or a top-rack dishwasher basket to hold dinky pieces.
Burp cloths (12-15) Depending on how much your baby spits up or drools, this number may be too high or too low, but it’s a marvelous starting point. A package of 12 cloth diapers works well, but, as with most baby products, there are a variety of other cute options.
Breast feeding pillow and cover (2 covers) The most common of these is a Boppy, which is a C-shaped pillow that wraps around your stomach or side and helps you hold your baby up while feeding. As your baby grows, you can also use it to help with “tummy time” or when first sitting up. Covers are sold separately and are machine washable.
Bibs (7-10) Velcro bibs are so great easier to effect on and remove, and at this young age, your baby will not yet be able to engage it off.
Pacifiers (4) Pay attention to size (0-6 months and 6 months +) and material (latex or silicone).
Pacifier clip This attaches to the pacifier so it can be clipped to your baby’s clothing or bib to prevent the pacifier from falling to the floor.
Furniture/Nursery
CribIf at all possible, I highly recommend borrowing furniture. If you plan to get a new crib, I would register for a one that converts to a bed. It will save on the expense of buying your child a bed when they outgrow the crib.
Crib mattress
Changing tableThis isn’t absolutely essential, but it does provide some extra storage, and more importantly will save you the inevitable befriend ache that comes from changing multiple diapers on the floor.
Changing pad and covers (2-3 covers)The changing pad can be placed on top of the changing table or dresser or on the floor, but it is useful for keeping your baby from rolling around while changing diapers. Terry cloth covers will keep your baby from touching the vinyl pad directly and getting too cold, will absorb any leaks, and is machine washable.
Dresser This or another section of furniture to fill your baby’s clothes and blankets is very handy. Your child will use it for years.
Rocking chair This is another non-essential but convenient part of furniture to have in your nursery, especially for nighttime feedings.
BassinetteThis is a smaller crib that your newborn can sleep in before moving into his or her absorb room. There are many different kinds so rep the one that’s right for you.
Crib bumper In addition to your other crib bedding, you will want to register for a bumper which will pad the sides of the crib and offer protection as your baby starts to roll around more. You can often find them in patterns to match crib sheets, quilts, and bed skirts.
MobileMany babies delight in staring at the moving mobile above their crib and listening to the soothing music. Make distinct you listen to the mobile before you register for one and find one that plays music you won’t mind hearing over and over.
Crib mirror This ties on to the inside of the crib to allow your baby to study his or her gain face–something they love to do.
Nightlight (2-3)You may want one for the bathroom, your child’s room, and maybe the hall, depending on the size of your home.
Hangers(16-24)
Baby Gear
Car seatAn infant carrier with a noxious (one nefarious for each car is helpful) will get you through the first six months or so. If you’d like to go ahead and register for a convertible car seat, you can do that as well. This is the car seat your child will exhaust until he or she is big enough for a booster seat (approx age 4).
Stroller Many manufacturers produce “travel systems” that include a stroller and infant carrier. These are very convenient as the infant carrier snaps into the stroller and offers extra stability. Once the baby outgrows the carrier, he or she can sit in the stroller seat. These can be rather substantial, so if you have a smaller trunk, you may want to scrutinize at more compact strollers.
High chair/booster seatDepending on your available space, you may want to forgo the traditional high chair and just register for a booster seat. If you have room, however, I’d recommend getting both as they have different benefits. A high chair with a 5-point harness system (with shoulder straps) is very marvelous for holding a wiggly baby still. Also, padded and brilliant cushions help too. Some manufacturers have toy attachments that are very helpful for keeping a little one occupied while the rest of the family tries to eat. Booster seats are a great way to save space, as they fit onto a chair and usually can be folded up for storage or transportation. Whatever you decide, make sure the tray is easy to remove and is dishwasher safe.
PlaypenMore commonly known as a Pack N Play, these wonderful items can work as a bassinet, a play yard, and a crib. They also collapse and fit into a carrying case, which makes traveling that much easier. You can find all sorts of accessories to fit your needs–from a changing table attachment, to a diaper shelf, to a tent covering, and more. Most playpens are made by the same companies that make strollers, so you can register for matching patterns if you like to be coordinated. Don’t forget to register for sheets, as well. They are packaged separately, and depending on how often you planning on using the playpen, you may want several.
SwingThis item is not essential, but a lot of babies like the soothing motion of a baby swing. My children rarely used their swing but I know other moms who couldn’t live without one.
Activity center/jumperThese can be free standing or attach to doorways, but they all accomplish the same thing. They keep your child entertained but contained so you can be free to cook a meal or do some laundry. They, once again, are not essential, but they are very qualified once your baby is sitting up and starting to move and explore.
Baby CarrierThis will free up your hands while still keeping your baby close whether it’s at the grocery store, cleaning up around the house, or even going for a walk. They come in several different styles: the front carrier, the sling, the backpack (for older children). Try several on (maybe with a weighted bag) and see what feels most comfortable to you.
Baby MonitorThis will allow you to hear (or even see) what’s going on in your child’s room from anywhere in your house. There is a wide range to choose from, but at minimum, I’d recommend an audio monitor with at least two channels (to slash picking up noise from your neighbor’s house) and two receivers (to keep in separate parts of the house).
Baby Care
Digital Thermometer Pediatricians recommend taking your child’s temperature rectally, but in-ear thermometers are also available if you recall that arrangement.
Infant Tylenol
Saline nose drops
Nail clippers
Nasal aspiratorThese are often sent home with you from the hospital or birthing center, but you may want an extra one.
Cotton balls
Petroleum jelly, gauze padsIf you’re having a boy, these will be essential.
Baby shampoo/body wash
Hooded towels/washcloths
Baby tubThere are several types of tubs for babies (space-saving folding tubs, sponge tubs, etc), and all can work very well. The most well-known thing is that your baby can have a bath in a safe environment.
Cool mist humidifierThis is the biggest relieve for a stuffy nosed baby. Just be sure the humidifier blows cool air to avoid burning your child.
Laundry detergentBabies have very sensitive skin, and Dreft and All both make wonderful, gentle detergents that also clean well.
DiapersYou’ll need more than you could ever imagine. You may want to register for a few different brands to see which work best for your baby. If you have access to a warehouse store (Costco, Sam’s, BJ’s, etc), invest in a membership, and buy your diapers there.
Diaper wipes
Diaper bagMost hospitals will send you home with a diaper bag, but you may want one of your own. Explore for bags in a neutral color (so dad won’t mind carrying it) with extras like a changing pad, a small cooler bag (to hold bottles or cups) and lots of pockets. Also, a padded strap to ease back pain is also a plus.
Diaper pail When looking for a diaper pail, you’ll want to accept one that eliminates or masks odor the best. Some are veteran with special bags (sold separately) and others expend garbage bags. It’s up to you to choose if better odor protection is worth the added cost.
Toys/Playtime
BooksBoard books and soft, teething books are great for babies and toddlers.
Teething toys
Rattles
Activity matThis has a colorful, padded mat for your baby to lie on and toys hanging down from above for them to swat at. Best of all, it folds up and out of the way very easily. My babies loved their mat so much that they sometimes even took naps on it.
Music/DVDsIn addition to your own music collection, your baby might enjoy a CD of lullabies. Unprejudiced make definite you also enjoy it because you could be listening to it for years. There are some great DVDs available for babies (Baby Einstein, for example). A couple of these are nice for long car rides or a rainy afternoon.
Digital cameraIf you don’t have one already, I highly recommend registering for one. Every parent wants to capture his or her child’s every move, and with a digital camera, there’s no limit on how many photos you can take.
Baby bookYou can register for scrap booking material and earn a book completely from scratch or find the fill-in-the-blank kind. Either way, you will want a place to narrate the events of your baby’s birth and first-year milestones. It’s also a great place to achieve all of those pictures you’ve taken.
CamcorderRecord everything from the actual birth, to the first steps, to the first birthday and beyond.
CD playerPlaying music in the nursery is a great plot to soothe your baby and also to block out household noise.
BatteriesYou’ll want batteries in all sizes and lots of them–AA’s for your camera all the way to D size for the baby swing.
I hope this list has been helpful. I know there are some things I’ve left off, as the baby market is limitless, but this should get you started. If you’ve got any questions, please ask or if there’s something you’d like to add, please do.
Good luck and happy registering!
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