Baby registry must-haves for the expectant parent
Not sure what to add to your baby registry? Here’s the scoop on some surprising items we love!
Parenthood is one of those things in life that you can never fully prepare for — although we certainly try! When you’re worried about what to expect, it’s easy to overcorrect by stocking up on well… everything. But how do you know what you really need on your baby registry checklist — and what you can skip?
After welcoming our little ones, we discovered some unexpected, often-overlooked items we wish we’d included when creating our prenatal and newborn baby registry. To help you out, our team of real parents rounded up a quick list of those baby registry must-haves (and a few you can skip). After all, we know many of our most-used and most-loved baby items were ones that other parents recommended to us!
Refills and back-ups
It’s amazing how quickly you’ll go through your stock of consumable and reusable supplies. These not-as-exciting items are the ones you’ll really use, so go ahead and add them to your registry! Trust us, you’ll be so thankful to have lots of diapers in different sizes, wipes, baby shampoo, body wash, and breast milk storage bags on hand. An extra set of crib sheets, swaddle blankets, and burp cloths can help cut down on the constant washing.
Sick day supplies
You don’t want to think about it, but there will come a day (or night!) when your baby is feeling under the weather — and you won’t want to drag them out to the store for supplies. Register for a rectal thermometer, baby-friendly fever reducers, saline drops, a snot sucker (not fun, but totally necessary), and a humidifier so you’re prepared for sick days.
Baby monitor
Peace of mind is paramount with a new little one in the house. No matter how big or small your space is, you’ll really appreciate having a baby monitor on hand. There are hundreds of options, so you can choose from a range of prices and features. A video monitor lets you keep an eye on your sleeping sweetie, while audio-only might work perfectly if you’re listening out for the end of naptime. Some new models even track movement, making them a great option for older kids who might be prone to exploring.
Foolproof basics
OK, it’s fun to add those fancy baby clothes to your list. But have you ever been to a baby shower? People can’t resist buying those cute little outfits, so you’re likely to end up with a bunch of them even if you don’t register for them. Besides, babies are messy, and there’s nothing like cleaning spit-up out of seven layers of ruffles. So, what should you consider including instead? Easy-peasy one-piece sleepers. Snaps are fine, but ones with zippers or magnetic closures make all those diaper changes a breeze!
Diaper duty
Speaking of diaper changes, we discovered some items that make that task quicker, easier, and cleaner. Our top new parent must-haves in this category: A set of changing pad liners so you don’t have to strip off the entire cover after messy changes, an odor-trapping diaper pail, and some diaper cream (with an honorable mention to a diaper cream spreader, too). Wipe warmers are a known safety hazard, but a wipe dispenser isn’t a bad idea. These nifty holders will help you grab a single wipe one-handed, saving you from having to wrestle with the entire pouch.
On-the-go baby registry must-haves
Once you and your baby are ready to be out and about, a few must-have pieces will make those trips and travels go more smoothly. A car seat cover keeps your baby warm, dry, shaded, and bug- and germ-free, whether you’re strolling through the park or the store. We also love an easy travel system for popping the infant car seat in and out during errands (with bonus points for a one-handed fold). Don’t forget those first flights: An infant wrap or carrier and a backpack car seat travel bag or cart will help you get through the airport with ease.
Items for 6–12 months
It can be tough to think beyond the first few months when determining your baby registry must-haves. However, there are several things you’ll need in the latter half of your little one’s first year. Why not get a head start and add them to your list now?
We wish we’d included feeding items like bibs, bowls, spoons, and straw cups; teething supplies like bandana bibs, mesh feeders, teething rings, and a baby toothbrush. Toys for that older age range, like a small activity table, a convertible high chair, and interactive books are also great to have. Register for a convertible or 3-in-1 car seat too — with one caveat. If you want to use the seat for future kids, consider buying it later so you can maximize the time before the seat expiration date.
Be sure to add a breast pump to your list from The Lactation Network’s trusted marketplace partners. You can actually order a pump through our trusted marketplace partners before your due date. If you aren’t sure which to pick, or if you have any other questions about what you’ll need for your feeding plan (or what a feeding plan even is), reach out to an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). They can help you prepare for breastfeeding and new parenthood before you give birth.
We’re here for you, every step of the way. We work with your insurance to provide in-home, in-office, or telehealth visits with an IBCLC.
