Is a baby registry necessary?

When making a list of things to get your newborn, you may be tempted to add everything that comes to mind. In this post, I’m going to discuss the most used baby registry gifts so you can make sure they’re added to your list. 

Is a baby registry necessary?

There are a few reasons why a baby registry may not be necessary for you. For starters, if you do not plan on having a baby shower, chances are you can get by with communicating what you need to those who have asked to buy the baby something. Another reason may be because you still have most of the things leftover from your previous baby.

Even if you are not having a baby shower or have recycled items, it can still be a good idea to put a baby registry together just in case. It can also serve as a list of things you may need or eventually want to get yourself.

When should you create a baby registry?

Some parents-to-be begin working on their list as early as the beginning of the second trimester or the 13-week mark. This may seem a little early; however, if it is your first child, you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of time to make a list of the things you need and/or want for your baby. If you plan on finding out your baby’s gender, then you may want to wait until the middle of your second trimester to add the gender-specific items.

Where are the best places to have a registry for your baby?

Some of the most popular places are Amazon (who also give you free stuff for registering your baby with them), Target, Walmart, Pottery Barn Kids, and Amazon. If there are other stores you’d prefer to use, don’t hesitate to create more than one registry to give yourself and those purchasing from it options. Websites like The Bump will consolidate all your registries into one for you to share with people.

Top 10 Most Used Baby Registry Gifts

If you’re expecting a new baby, the items I’ve rounded up below are a must-have for your baby registry list.

Nursery

Your baby’s room is often one of the most important spaces that you’ll be purchasing items for, which is why it’s the first one I’m mentioning on my list. When it comes to gifts, be sure to add a crib or bassinet. I highly recommend choosing a crib that will transition with your baby as he or she grows. This will save you a lot of money and time.

Favorite crib: Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib

Baby Clothes

What you will put on your baby is just as important as where you plan to lay them. One of the top registry gifts in this area are onesies. These are universal pieces of clothing that can come with all types of designs, be worn with other clothing, or be an outfit all on it’s own.

Favorite onesies: Cat & Jack at Target

Diapering

Diapers and wipes are another important registry must-have. You’ll have to decide on what brand you prefer and be sure to be specific as all brands are not created equal. If you’ve never used diapers and wipes before, be sure to check out reviews from other parents before making your decision. In most cases (and depending on the store), if you have unopened packages or boxes, they can be returned or exchanged for another brand.

Favorite diapers: Pampers Swaddlers

Baby Gear

For this area, one of the most purchased gifts is the convertible car seat. Most parents opt in for the convertible option because they will transition along with the child and typically up to a booster seat. These can be a little expensive but you may be able to find a group option where you get a carseat and stroller for a good combo price.

Favorite car seat: Graco Extend2Fit

Feeding

There are several ways to feed your baby, which will make this something you will have to choose for your particular situation. For example, if you are planning to exclusively breastfeed, it may suit you better to purchase nipple shields. If you are going to do breast and bottle feeding, you can’t go wrong with adding bottles to the top of your list. Another popular item from this area is a breast pump.

Favorite feeding product: Haakaa Manual Breast Pump for Breastfeeding

Bath

Making the top of the list here are towels and washcloths. Since you baby’s skin will be super delicate, it’s best to use the kind that are made specifically for their skin. They will most like be some form of cotton, but a much lighter thread count.

Favorite bath towels: Pottery Barn Tassel bath set

Health

A baby’s first-aid kit will have everything you need for your baby’s first few years of their life. These kits often include a variety of things such as a small comb, brush, nail trimmers, a nasal aspirator, thermometer, and a pacifier at the very least.

Favorite first aid kit: TOMY – American Red Cross Deluxe Health and Grooming Kit

Soothing

There are times when you may have a fussy baby and would like to use a little assistance to help with calming them down. Adding a white noise machine or one that plays lullabies can certainly help with this.

Favorite white noise machine: Hatch Rest+ Baby & Kids Sound Machine

Activity

You may think you infant is too young to have activity play, but they aren’t. Most parents add infant-type activity toys to their registry such as black and white books, toys that hang from the car seat, or fine motor toys they can hold.

Favorite activity mat: Wooden Baby Gym

Travel

This may also be considered “gear,” but I think it needs a section of its own. For this area you’ll want to make sure you have a diaper bag of some sort for travel purposes. There are lots of different options out their from bag to backpacks.

Favorite diaper bag: Petunia Pickle Bottom

Final Thoughts

Using the ideas above, you are sure to create the perfect baby registry filled with gifts that you and your baby will need in the first months to years of their life. What are some other things you would add to the list?