You’re going to have a baby — congratulations! But along with all the joy, you might feel a bit nervous and overwhelmed. It’s not just about welcoming a new person into your life, but also all the stuff that comes with them. In America, we tend to focus on buying a lot for our babies. For example, in Japan, baby registries aren’t even a thing. In 2018, the average Babylist baby registry in the U.S. had 121 items! Mine had 57, but I ended up buying more of some things and not using others, so it probably balanced out.
Everyone is Different
Before we dive in, remember that every mom and baby are different. My first baby was colicky and didn’t sleep much until four months or so, while my second was sleeping through the night solidly and consistently by two months. No product can change who your baby is; from the moment they’re here, they are their own person. It’s truly wild!
By the way, I’ve included some affiliate links in this post, so if you buy something through them, I’ll earn a very small commission. Thanks for your support!
Baby Registry Must-Haves
Below is my baby registry must-haves after having two girls. I hope it helps!
Sleeping Necessities
Let’s start with sleeping items because it’s the one thing you can’t get enough of as a new parent: sleep. Baby items can be expensive, especially cribs. I loved the IKEA SNIGLAR crib with the Newton Original Crib Mattress. (My registry had the Original one, but they have a waterproof one and a cheaper, less thick one to the original. I think you could go for the Essential option and be fine. I’m not sure the waterproof part matters too much, considering the outside unzips and it’s quite thick, so you can wash it when necessary.) Even though I was a second-time mom and co-slept with both babies for a few months, I still wanted the peace of mind that the Newton mattress gave me regarding SIDS. But if you’re less anxious, a more affordable IKEA crib mattress might work just fine.
For fitted sheets, I got one from Crate & Barrel and two from Pottery Barn Kids. Honestly, you could get away with just two so if one is dirty, you can throw it in the wash and use the spare. I like 100% cotton because this material is breathable and provides easy temperature regulation, which is perfect for a baby. (Organic cotton wasn’t a big deal to me.)
Fresh babies often prefer to be held rather than put in a crib or bassinet, so a comfortable rocking chair is essential. We used the Babyletto Kiwi Cream Power Recliner in Eco-Performance every day for almost a year with my first baby. It was expensive but totally worth it for the comfort and convenience. With my first kid, it was an absolute must for her to sleep. We had to rock constantly. In terms of cost per use, we used it daily with my first for almost an entire year, who contact napped a ton. Let’s say I used the rocking chair once every day (which is being conservative). At its current price, $999, that comes out to only $2.74 per day. And trust me, I used it a LOT. My second kid doesn’t need to be rocked, but it’s a lazy hack so still 100% worth it. We use it pretty often and people regularly lounge in it. Do you need this expensive one? No, not necessarily, but it’s important to have one that’s comfortable. (The USB and reclining features are definitely nice bonuses.)
As for pacifiers and pacifier clips, it depends on your baby. My first didn’t use one and my second sucks her fingers. If your baby takes one and it helps them sleep, go for it! If you can avoid it, you’ll save yourself the headache of trying to take them away someday. I think it should be on your list just so you’ll have it on hand, however, because sleep is so important for everyone’s sanity.
Snuggle Me Lounger — it’s not a must, but I’ve found it’s really nice with two kids. I would set my baby down in this while I briefly helped my toddler pretty often. Babies aren’t supposed to sleep in these, but it does help replicate that snuggly feel babies crave.
Swaddles are also a must. When I asked my cousin what the most important item was for her two kids, she said Copper Pearl swaddles. This specific swaddle is my top recommendation because they’re stretchy and easy to use. They help babies feel secure and know it’s time to sleep. I still don’t know how nurses swaddle so well with the cotton muslin ones from the hospital. Swaddling couldn’t be easier with the Copper Pearl swaddles and they come in so many fun patterns too. It’s probably my top recommendation for new parents.
Transportation Essentials
With two kids, a baby carrier becomes almost necessary (and I don’t even like baby wearing). With the first kid? Probably not necessary, but you might love it. I used the BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini in Cotton, Dusty Pink, which does the job. If you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable option, Artipoppe carriers are highly recommended. If money wasn’t an object — or you have a rich aunt who loves something stylish — then maybe you can add one of those to your registry.
A travel play yard is handy for vacations or when visiting family. If you stay somewhere long enough where your kid might need a nap, then it’s worth having. I love this Dream on Me playpen because it’s easy to set up and has plenty of space. The setup is literally just two steps: open and pop into two metal spots to lock into place. Most are not this easy and/or have more parts, which honestly surprises me because that’s such a hassle. Another bonus is you can curl up next to your baby with this type of play yard, which is nice when you’re in a new place and your baby has trouble sleeping.
For strollers, I highly recommend one with a car seat that can move between the car and stroller without taking the baby out. Going places with a baby is hard enough, so it’s nice to simplify where you can. I used the Graco Modes Travel System, which made outings much easier. I think the one that’s linked is the new and improved version.
A diaper bag is essential, especially for first-time moms. As I mentioned, my first would barf and drool constantly, so having extra changes of clothes and swaddles was super nice to have in one place. I also used pumps and bottles for the first four months with my first, then formula for the rest of the time and exclusively with my second. For those reasons, having a bag to hold everything is very convenient. Admittedly, the second time around, I wanted to be cute and I don’t seem to need as much with my second kid, so I got this Ralph Lauren tote and throw in what they need. I still think the Eddie Bauer one from Target is excellent. It’s spacious, holds one bottle, and has an appropriate amount of pockets inside. Plus, it’s still cute too.
For diaper changes on-the-go, I really liked my small changing mat from Gathre because it’s wipeable, light, and folds easily. I don’t think they sell the design I got anymore, but I think the dog one is SO CUTE.
If I had to choose one baby blanket for a baby to lay on, it would be this 100% cotton muslin plat mat from Etsy. It’s a muslin baby play mat. But the reason I really enjoy this one is because it’s more plush, so I don’t mind if it’s on a hard surface. For instance, I brought it to Kauai when she was only four months old because I knew it would be great on hardwood floors. While it’s not the most easy to pack into a backpack, I’d say it’s great for trips, around the house, or even thrown in the back of your car for whenever you need it. (They also make a great backdrop for the monthly photos if you do those!)
For something a little less plush than the Etsy one, but thicker than some other blankets, I think this 100% cotton dog quilt blanket is perfect. It’s perfect for dog lover parents. It’s another great blanket for taking on a picnic, to grandma’s house, etc. and let them lay on and chill or even nap.
And finally, the infamous Sophie la Girafe Teether. Made in France, it’s a registry staple for a reason. I love taking this one on the go, especially around 6 months or so because they can hold it themselves, but the shape lends itself well for gnawing without getting bored.
Naturally, I think this leads to the toys and books section …
Toys and Books
There is truly a rattle in every shape, size, and texture on the internet. But I personally love the Pretzel & Taxi Rattle Set from Estella. It is a bit pricy for rattles, but I think they’re one of the few heirloom type items I will save. It’s fun and different and when you’re in the new mom stage adjusting to your new identity, having something small like cute rattles remind you of who you are pre-kids. (“Oh, right, I love New York!” 😂)
I did not put this on my registry, but I bought this activity table on Facebook marketplace. Both of my kids loved it. Plus, there is a part that plays a song that is not overly annoying, but can also be turned off or even detached, so you could potentially bring this part of it to a restaurant. It’s awesome. The one I got on Facebook Marketplace don’t include the toddler add-on, so if you want all of it or simply want it brand new, you can buy this activity table at Target.
For books, you definitely don’t need to put any specific ones down as I think people have their favorites and buy those anyways. But it can be a nice cheaper item to have on your registry. Plus, books like Madeline are a classic (and yes, it was on my registry!). I also had a book called Women Artists A to Z on my registry because I wanted my daughter to feel empowered since day one haha. Do you need to add something like that? Probably not, but it’s fun.
For a floor mobile, I made my own here because I wanted them to become Christmas tree ornaments someday, but I think Skip Hop makes some adorable play gyms like this ice cream one or this fruit one. It’s probably much easier to buy one than make one, but if you’re sentimental like me, you might want to make your own using ornaments from Craftspring, a lovely company from Brooklyn that creates high-quality, artisan-made items.
Speaking of feeling sentimental …
Sentimental Pieces
You might want to add a couple of sentimental items, like a special outfit for your baby’s first birthday or a lovey blanket they can keep as a keepsake. I chose a couple of items that I knew would be special memories for my kids.
One was this Disney Minnie Mouse Tulle Dress from Gap. I knew I wanted to go to Disneyland for my first kid’s birthday when she turned one, so I bought it myself. You could totally add this to your registry if you already know you have something like this in mind.
The second one was this mini blanket called a lovey. It’s basically one they can sleep with when they’re older and just have as their own. I requested the Paris Houses in the “Ballet Cuddle” for my first and got the French Hot Air Balloons in “Elderberry Cuddle” for my second kid. (I absolutely love this Etsy seller! She is so kind too.) I don’t plan on keeping much from their baby days, but they’ll each have the blanket they came home in from the hospital and they can use it for their own kids or as a keepsake. Either way, it’s special. She has tons of designs, so there’s something for everyone. Also, something I love about the lovey — when they come home from the hospital, it perfectly covers their tiny little body in the car seat. 🥰
Health & Wellness
Frida Baby Baby Nasal Aspirator — just do it. Is it a gross concept? Yes. Will you need it? Yes, because at some point, you will need it. The hospital has one of those balloon shaped ones, which might be sufficient, but in a moment of panic the Frida Baby nose sucker is pretty helpful.
For teething babies, it’s nice to have a baby teether. If you’ve ever had a puppy, then you probably recall their teething stage where they want to gnaw on everything. Similarly, but less painfully for you, babies also need something to gnaw on. I particular love this baby teether because they can easily hold it. Both of my kids loved this little teether and it is only $5. I’ve seen it at T.J. Maxx for only $4. It’s a great baby gift if you’re shopping for someone else! And for baby registry shoppers, they’ll appreciate a registry item that’s not $100.
For baby nails, it can be a bit nerve-wracking to trim. Because of this, they have little machines that can be used. I never tried it and the idea of a machine doing it made me nervous too. (Maybe I’m just a nervous mom?!) But I found this baby nail kit and thought it was adorable. Plus, it has everything you need. Tip: Try to trim them while they’re sleeping when they’re younger so they aren’t so squirmy.
Bath Time Essentials
Can you add cute baby bath items? Of course! When it comes to the essentials, there isn’t much you need. This is what I recommend.
For infants, I recommend the Puj baby bath tub. This is nice because it’s compact and easy to pull out for a bath in the sink. Once they outgrow the sink — which for my kids was around 5 months old — you can graduate them to the Munchkin Sit & Soak tub. I like this one because they are usually able to sit up better by the time they’ve outgrown the Puj.
I used to buy the Pipette body soap and wash, which I still like, but my first kid has more sensitive skin. Since then, I purchase this pediatrician-recommended soap by Aquaphor, which is a body wash and shampoo. I still use this on my toddler and just add conditioner to her hair now. Then, for body lotion, I use the Eucerin Original Healing Cream, which is not made for babies. Since my first has dry skin, I was told by her pediatrician to use this one, which is intended for adults. She said some baby products have added junk to them, which (obviously) totally goes against what babies need. I didn’t start using this on my first daughter until about 9 months or so, but I’ve used it since the first month with my second daughter. It’s been great for both of them — and you can use it for yourself too!
Feeding
Feeding varies depending on how you feed your baby. As a result, this is probably the area most moms will differ the most when it comes to “must-have” items. I definitely needed bottles and formula because I did not breastfeed. I did, however, pump with the Elvie portable ones for my first until I was burnt out 4 months in. Insurance covers this brand now I think, so just do that if you can! I think the old-school ones where you’re hooked up like a cow works better, especially if you’re cursed with mastitis at any point. So, I would consider having both, but seeing if insurance can cover the more expensive one. This is my personal experience, however, as I absolutely hated breastfeeding (and some moms love it! You just don’t know until you’re in it).
For burp cloths, I don’t think there’s a wrong choice, but I probably had about 20 of these burp cloths by Carters.
A note on mental health: If you’re like me and use bottles and formula, don’t feel guilty. Your mental health is more important. I mean, I was fed with formula and I turned out fine, yet I still felt guilt over switching to formula simply because I didn’t like being needed 24/7 and not being able to split feedings with anyone else. Just because you’re a mom doesn’t mean you’re suddenly not a human. Remember this. Once you get past the mom guilt (at least in this situation becuase it never really goes away!), I recommend the Nuk Smooth Flow Anti-Colic bottles. You can buy the Nuk microwave baby bottle sterilizer, but I don’t think it’s necessary. I only used the sterilizer a couple of times with my first, once being before they were born. With my second kid, I think I used it on brand new bottles before she was born. I don’t think the sterilizer is important because most dishwashers do a more than sufficient job. Plus, in my case, my dog loves giving kisses to the babies, and we all know dogs aren’t the cleanest. In other words, I am not sure if the sterilizer was really protecting them from much anyways. When you’re ready to upgrade your bottles, you can simply buy the Nuk Active Spouts, which goes with the Nuk Active Sippy Cups. Thankfully, the cups are the same, so it’s perfect. You don’t have to go buy new bottles simply because your 8+ month old baby needs to transition to the bottles that require the sipping skill.
From the first bottle to the last, I’ve always liked the Philips AVENT baby bottle brush for washing and hung it on a nail next to the sink.
Once they’re ready to transition to solids, I saw a lot of people recommend the IKEA high chair. I’m not against it and I got one myself with a super cute cushion to go in it from Etsy, but I’d say to skip the IKEA one and go straight for a booster chair instead. I like this Monbebe booster chair. Then, you can use the Mushie Silicone Baby Bib and Mushie spoons. When they’re a little older, you can get the Mushie plate when they’re ready to have more than “mush.”
Diapering
Let’s talk diapers. Did I think I’d have an opinion on Huggies vs. Pampers vs. fancy organic ones before kids? No, no I did not. Now? Huggies all the way. This could be based on the fact I have super tall kids, but I found they just work well and had less blowouts. Costco seems to have the best prices.
You’ll need a diaper cream at some point. My old boss when I was pregnant with my first purchased the Desitin Maximum Strength (the purple one) for me. She said something along the lines of, “I don’t really care what everyone says about organic being better when it comes to diaper cream. This is the only one you’ll need,” and she was right. It’s the best. And while others work okay, the Desitin brand is the great and the purple one is the best.
There are tons of trash cans that claim to lock in the smell of stinky diapers. I just don’t see how it’s possible though. I’ve heard mixed reviews from popular diaper trash cans, some claiming it works great and others saying they’re a waste of money. Because of this, I decided I should just invest in a trash can that’s (1) good quality, (2) aesthetically pleasing, and (3) not complicated to take out or replace. This is how I ended up with the Brabantia NewIcon Step On Trash Can, 8 gallon (30L) trash can. It’s not perfect, but it’s pretty good at keeping things “locked in” and when the trash needs taking out, it’s not hard to do. I’m very happy with this purchase and I love that it can replace the kitchen trash can at some point!
For diaper changes, my recommendation is to go ahead and ask for a Padded Micro+ Mat from Gathre. I requested a cute changing basket with liners for my registry. While it was cute for the nursery, it felt impractical when they’d inevitably pee and require changing the liner. That’s why I think it’s best to go straight for the Padded Micro+ Mat. This will last you through toddler years too! They’re super cute, easy to wipe clean, and provides cushion for their little heads. When they’re super little and only a couple of months old, you can always wrap incontinence pads for beds around it so pee doesn’t get everywhere. At least, that’s what I’d do now!
When you’re changing diapers on the go, which is always a hassle, I used the Micro+ mat. Super durable, easy to clean, and folds quickly so it’s compact. With my second, I actually don’t use anything anymore, but I used it for every single diaper change when I was out and about with my first one. It’s definitely nice for public spaces like airport bathrooms too.
Clothing and Accessories
You don’t need to add much clothing to your registry since people love buying cute outfits. I didn’t add any clothing (outside of the Minnie dress) because I knew people would want to find their own. There’s no shortage of cute onesies! You can also find these secondhand on Facebook or Poshmark easily if you need more. Or buy some new ones at Target! I liked buying new ones at Carter’s or Target personally. As a general note, I would just focus on onesies and/or pajamas mostly. The cute outfits take too long and they aren’t comfortable. I feel like 8 months and on you can start checking out something like jeans. But I’m also a bit lazy in this department if I’m honest haha.
I will say this about pajamas — Carter’s makes the best pajamas because they are cotton and get softer with every wear. I like the zip up onesies best. And when they get older, Walmart has surprisingly affordable and cute clothing (you can read that in the toddler bonus section).
For the Parents
If you’re a coffee or tea drinker, buy a Keurig. Having a pod you can pop into a machine, allowing you to drink your coffee within a minute, made me so thankful. Even if you normally take your time and do something fancier, it’s nice to have something quick and easy. It was a game changer once my second one came along and I should have bought it with my first!
Even if you’re normally a relatively chill, relaxed, easygoing person, baby cries that won’t stop when you are completely exhausted and overwhelmed can be super aggravating. Do yourself a favor and buy some noise canceling headphones now so you have them when you need them. (You don’t need Bose, but they are certainly effective.)
I also think a robe is nice as a new mom trying to figure everything out. Target has nice ones for reasonable prices (or maybe you already have a favorite!). I didn’t use it with my second, but I think it’s a must-have for a first time mom.
Lastly, I think decor is a big one. (You can check out my first daughter’s nursery here!) I don’t think you have to do this, but when life is a little chaotic and new and exhausting, having some pretty things to be surrounded by with decor just the way you like it can be a great sanity booster. At least it was for me.
Toddler Bonuses
You didn’t ask for them, but I’m giving them to you anyways!
These Elk and Friends storage jars are so nice! I use them daily with my toddler to store everything from leftover rice to goldfish in my purse. That brand is awesome (you can read more about them and see why).
Also, as kids get older, you realize that everything is so expensive. But you still want your kid to look cute! I found these ruffle shorts from Walmart and the Garanimals brand is super affordable.
There’s lots more to say on toddlers, but that’s definitely for another day.
Welcome to Parenthood!
Creating a baby registry can be overwhelming — and it’s just the start of parenthood! — but you will find what works best for you and your baby. I hope this list helps give you a head start in navigating all of the options and make the process a little easier. I found blogs explaining why someone used different baby registry items to be helpful. There is a ridiculous amount of stuff for babies and it can be overwhelming. I hope this list helps you narrow down your selections, at least a little bit. And again, congratulations!!! You’re joining the insane and wonderful club of parents. 😎
