A Baby Registry Checklist For First-Time Parents

A Baby Registry Checklist For First-Time Parents

A handy guide to everything you need for baby

A Baby Registry Checklist For First-Time Parents

As a team full of parents ourselves, we understand how overwhelming putting together a baby registry can be, so to save you the time (and grief) of spending hours researching, we put together a checklist for you. From gear to clothing and bathing essentials, we hope it helps ease your registry-making journey and gives you a sense of what to look for as you prepare for baby's arrival. 

And a note of encouragement before you dive in: Apart from diapers, a safe place to sleep, and you—there's really not much that a new baby needs. Try not to stress (easier said than done, we know) and just enjoy the ride. You're already rocking this whole parenthood thing. xx

What is a baby registry?

When you’re expecting, friends and family are eager to celebrate and support you. A baby registry is a simple way to share exactly what you need (and want!) for your little one. It’s a curated list of products, all in one place, that helps loved ones choose the perfect gifts while ensuring you’re prepared for baby’s arrival.

When to build your baby registry

Most parents-to-be start their registry sometime in the second trimester—once the big news is out and the first-trimester haze has lifted. It’s the perfect window to dream a little, research what you’ll actually use, and start adding items you love without the last-minute rush. Think of it less as a checklist to finish in one sitting and more as a living list you can build slowly as you discover what feels right for you and your little one.

Where to build your baby registry

Though there are many options out there, we love Babylist because it allows you to register for items from any retailer in one single spot (no pregnant woman has time to manage multiple registries) and provides a seamless user experience for those purchasing gifts. Now, on to the good stuff. 

Baby Registry Checklist

Now for the fun (and sometimes overwhelming) part—deciding what really belongs on your baby registry. With so many products out there, it can feel like the list of “must-haves” never ends. The truth is, every family’s needs are different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all checklist. What matters most is choosing the pieces that will make you feel confident and cared for as you welcome your little one. Still, there are a few essentials almost every parent leans on in those early days. To help you sort through the noise, we gathered expert insight and parent-loved favorites to bring you the ultimate list of baby registry basics—so you’ll feel ready when baby arrives.

 

For the Nursery

  • Crib: Convertible, mini, mobile—there are tons of options out there when it comes to picking a crib, and what you choose will largely depend on your budget and style. 

  • Crib mattress: No matter what mattress you choose, they all have to be made according to the same safety standards, so you can rest easy knowing that baby will too regardless of what you get. This one is 100% organic and is double-sided with two levels of firmness: one for infants and one for toddlers.

  • Waterproof mattress topper: Because accidents happen and throwing a topper in the wash is 1,000x easier than cleaning a mattress…especially when you’re facing a 2 am blowout. This two-pack allows you to have one on the mattress and one at the ready.

  • Crib sheets: Again, accidents happen, so go ahead and register for a few sets! We're biased, but our Solly Crib Sheets are SO soft and come in the cutest patterns and colors.

  • Blankets: Another register-for-multiple item. Solly Swaddles double as the perfect blanket for summer and fall because of how lightweight and breathable they are. Saranoni is another great brand for heavier-weight and keepsake blankets.

  • Bassinet: A couple things to consider when you’re choosing a bassinet—the size of your space and whether you’re wanting something you can easily move from room to room. The collapsible sides and swivel design of this bassinet make for easy nursing in the middle of the night. Moses baskets are cute and double as functional decor once kiddos grow out of it.

  • Glider: Between nursing, bedtime stories, and everything in between, you'll spend a lot of time in your glider, so it's worth investing in one that you find comfortable.

  • Dresser: Another thing you'll choose based on the size of your space, style, and budget. Consider whether you also want to use it as a changing table and whether you have a closet for additional storage.

  • Drawer dividers: Not a must, but helpful. These are adjustable, don’t require any tools, and create a neat space for clothes, diapers, burp cloths…you name it.

  • Changing pad
    Dirty diapers inevitably mean a dirty changing pad, too, so it's nice to have a wipeable one.

  • Monitor: There are lots of the market, so pick one based on what you're looking for.

  • Diaper pail: Because even though it’s not the cutest accessory in the world, there will be a lot of diapers. This one is great.

  • Clothing hamper: New baby = looooots of laundry. Pick something based on your style and budget here—it doesn’t need to be fancy.

  • Sound machine: Barking dogs? Noisy guests? Phone on loud? No problem. Sound machines are magic when it comes to helping your little one fall and stay asleep. There are tons on the market and you can’t go wrong as long as they make that soothing whooshing sound.


Diapering

  • Diapers: So. Many. Diapers. Tip: Instead of cards, ask baby shower attendees or loved ones to purchase a pack of diapers. The last thing you want to do in those first few weeks is wake up to a blowout at 3 am only to find yourself out of diapers. These are hypoallergenic and made to stand up to blowouts.

  • Wipes: Stock up and keep them in your bag, the car, stroller…everywhere. These are great.

  • Diaper cream: Diaper rash isn’t fun for anyone. A favorite among many mamas, this is made without harsh chemicals and can be used for both treatment and prevention.

  • Wipe dispenser: Not a need, but definitely nice to have. This one features a weighted plate that dispenses one wipe at a time and a silicone gasket in the lid that keeps wipes fresh and moist. Think of it as your best friend when it comes to one-handed changes (which there will be plenty of).

  • Diaper caddy: Helpful for keeping diapering things organized and in one spot. This is a good size with lots of compartments.

  • Diaper bag: Choose a diaper bag that fits both your style and your everyday needs. If you’re someone who likes to have everything on hand, you’ll probably want something roomy. If you tend to keep things minimal, a smaller, more streamlined bag might be all you need. Think of it as an extension of your purse—you’ll pack it the same way you always do.

  • Travel changing pad: A must when it comes to on-the-go changes. This is soft, compact, and machine washable. 


Gear

  • Car seat: All car seats in the United States are required to pass the same minimum standard testing, so when it comes to picking one, you’ll want to choose one based on your vehicle, budget, and lifestyle. (Do you need something that’s easy to travel with, compatible with your stroller, or extra compact?)

  • Car mirror: Like having eyes in the back of your head (especially since baby will be facing backwards). Tip: Register for multiple if you have more than one vehicle.

  • Stroller: An essential.

  • Carrier: The easiest way to keep your hands free and baby close. The Solly is perfect for those early days to ease baby's transition from womb to world. 


Feeding and Nursing

  • Burp cloths: You can’t have too many! Muslin ones are great.

  • Bibs: These silicone options are great because they’re easy to clean and the pocket catches dribbles and spills.

  • Electric breast pump: Tip: You might be able to get one free through your health insurance, so be sure to check. This one is lightweight and portable.

  • Manual breast pump: Helpful when you don’t want to bring your bulky electric pump with you or need to take the edge off before your next nursing session. The Haaka gets the job done and rings in at $12—score!

  • Bottles: This six-pack has two flow and size options (you'll want a slower flow for younger babies, and then you'll gradually increase over time). You can also get a box with different brands on Babylist, which is a great option since babies can be picky.

  • Bottle drying rack: Not necessary, but helpful. You will clean lots of bottles.

  • Bottlebrush: For cleaning the lots of bottles. Tip: You don't need special soap to wash baby's bottles or your pump parts! Your regular dish soap works just fine.

  • Freezer storage bags: To keep that liquid gold safe and stored.

  • Pacifiers: Another item where baby will probably have a preference (if they end up taking one at all) and yay! Babylist has a box of options for this one too.

  • High chair
    You won’t need this for a little while, but it’s great to put on the registry anyway.


Bath and Health

  • Bath tub: Helpful to keep your little one contained and safe early on. This foldable Puj can be used in the kitchen sink, and this one is great as your baby grows.

  • Towels: Let’s be honest, you can certainly dry your little one off with any bath towel, but the hooded ones are too cute to pass up. 

  • Shampoo / Body wash / Lotion: Clean ingredients and beloved by parents around the world.

  • The Basics: The essentials you might not think about, but you’ll use them often. This kit comes with a snotsucker (seriously, so helpful), gaspasser (again, helpful), a nail clipper, and skin soother (for when cradle cap makes its appearance).

  • Thermometer: A 10-second quick temp, because (unfortunately) fevers happen.


Clothing

  • Short-sleeve bodysuits: Your best friend when it comes to dressing your newborn.

  • Long-sleeve bodysuits: Part two, for the colder months. 

  • Pajamas: BUTTERY-SOFT, naturally non-toxic, easy to put on, super cute, available in preemie and newborn sizes.

  • Socks: No cold feet around here!

  • Swaddles
    A sleep essential for your little! Ours are silky soft and just the right material to keep baby cozy but not-too-hot during warmer months. 


For mom

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