Baby Registry Must-Haves: What to Put on Your List

New baby incoming? Congrats—and welcome to the chaotic wonderland of diaper math, midnight snacks (for you), and tiny socks that disappear like they owe someone money. Let’s skip the fluff and build a baby registry that actually helps. Not a museum of stuff. You’ll use this list daily, and your future sleep-deprived self will thank you.

Sleep Essentials That Buy You Peace

You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect nursery. You need safe, simple gear that keeps baby snoozing and you surviving. Start here.

• Crib or bassinet: Choose one safe sleep surface. A bassinet saves space and helps during those first months. A crib grows with your baby, so if space allows, go crib first.
• Breathable, firm mattress + 2–3 fitted sheets: No extras. No bumpers. No pillows. Simple equals safe.
• Swaddles and sleep sacks: Get a couple of each. Swaddles for newborns, sleep sacks for when they start rolling. Velcro is your friend at 3 a.m.
• White noise machine: Drowns out doorbells, barking dogs, and your snack drawer opening.
• Blackout curtains: Cheap ones work fine. Darkness = naps = sanity.

Pro Tip: How Many Swaddles?

Three to four swaddles, two sleep sacks. That covers laundry pile emergencies and spit-up surprises. IMO, that’s the sweet spot.

Feeding Gear (Yes, You Need More Burp Cloths)

Whether you nurse, pump, or use formula, set yourself up to make feeding less of a juggling act.

• Nursing pillow: Saves your back and shoulders. Even bottle-feeding parents love it.
• Bottles (6–8) + slow-flow nipples: Babies have preferences (divas). Register for a small variety to test.
• Sterilizer or big pot + drying rack: Keep it simple. A drying rack keeps counters organized.
• Burp cloths (10+): You’ll think this is overkill. It’s not.
• Bibs (4–6): For drool and milk dribbles. Cloth bibs feel comfier for teeny necks.
• Formula starter kit or pump supplies: Even if you plan to breastfeed, having a formula backup saves stress.

If You’re Pumping

• Electric pump + hands-free bra: Game-changer, FYI.
• Milk storage bags: Don’t overbuy. Start with one box.
• Extra pump parts: One to use, one to wash. You’ll thank me later.

Diapering Without the Drama

You’ll change hundreds of diapers. Make it ergonomic and efficient, and you’ll avoid back pain and meltdown vibes.

• Changing pad + 2 covers: Waterproof and wipeable is best. Add liners to stretch time between washes.
• Diapers: Register for multiple sizes, not just newborn. Some babies skip newborn entirely.
• Wipes (unscented): You’ll go through them faster than coffee.
• Diaper cream: Thick, zinc-based formulas work wonders.
• Diaper pail: Nice-to-have if the nursery is far from a trash can. If not, a regular trash bin with a lid works.
• Portable changing clutch: Toss it in every bag and your car. Boom—instant changing station.

Cloth vs. Disposable?

Do what fits your life. Cloth saves money long-term but requires laundry commitment. Disposable = convenience. You can also mix—cloth at home, disposable on-the-go. IMO, flexibility wins.

Gear That Actually Leaves the House

Leave the complicated stuff behind and prioritize safety, comfort, and ease of use.

• Infant car seat + base: Non-negotiable. Most hospitals won’t let you leave without one. Check that it fits your car and stroller.
• Stroller: Think about lifestyle. City sidewalks? Get good suspension. Tiny trunk? Choose compact and light.
• Baby carrier or wrap: Two free hands = you win. Try a soft wrap for newborn days and a structured carrier for longer walks.
• Diaper bag: Backpack style distributes weight evenly. Add a wet bag for messes.

What to Keep in the Diaper Bag

• 2–3 diapers, wipes, diaper cream
• Change of clothes (onesie + pants + socks)
• Burp cloth + bib
• Portable changing pad
• Pacifier + clip if using
• Hand sanitizer—your new BFF

Bath Time and Baby Care Basics

Bathing a slippery baby feels like wrestling a wet watermelon. Set yourself up right and it becomes fun—ish.

• Infant tub or sink insert: Choose whichever fits your space.
• Gentle baby wash and lotion: Fragrance-free keeps skin happy.
• Hooded towels (2) + washcloths (4–6): Cute and practical. Baby towels dry faster.
• Nail clippers or file: Those tiny talons are shockingly sharp.
• Baby brush/comb: Also helpful for cradle cap.
• Thermometer: Forehead or rectal—choose what you’ll actually use.
• Saline spray + nasal aspirator: Congestion happens. Be ready.

Clothes You’ll Actually Use

If you register for a dozen fancy outfits, your baby will wear them, what, once? Maybe? Go for comfy and easy.

• Onesies/bodysuits: 6–8 in newborn/0–3 months. Short and long sleeve mix.
• Footed sleepers (zipper!): 5–7. Avoid snaps unless you love puzzles at 2 a.m.
• Pants + socks: 3–4 pairs of each. Socks love to vanish—stock extras.
• Hats: A soft beanie for newborn days, a sun hat for later.
• Seasonal layer: Swaddle-friendly sweater or sleep sack with appropriate warmth.

Laundry Reality Check

Register for gentle, fragrance-free detergent and a hamper with a liner. Babies generate laundry like it’s their job.

Play, Soothing, and Sanity Savers

You don’t need a toy store’s worth of gear. A few smart picks go a long way.

• Play mat or activity gym: Tummy time essential.
• Baby swing or bouncer: Not mandatory, but often a lifesaver.
• Pacifiers: Try a couple of styles. Babies have opinions—loud ones.
• Board books + high-contrast toys: Stimulate their brains and give you something to do besides counting ceiling fan blades.
• Teethers: Even before teeth, babies love gnawing.

Nice-to-Haves That Feel Luxe

Not essential, but they make daily life smoother if your budget or generous friends allow.

• Video baby monitor: Peace of mind without tiptoeing into the room.
• Humidifier: Helps with dry air and colds.
• Bottle warmer: Great if your baby hates cold milk. Otherwise, a warm water mug works fine.
• High chair: You won’t need it right away, but adding it to your registry lets others cover this bigger item.
• Second changing station: If your home has two floors, this saves your knees and your patience.

FAQ

How many newborn clothes should I register for?

Babies grow fast. Register for a few newborn essentials, but lean into 0–3 month sizes. FYI, some babies never fit newborn. Keep tags on until you know your baby’s size.

Do I need a wipe warmer?

Short answer: no. Nice if your house runs cold, but not necessary. Babies adjust quickly, and you won’t want one in every room anyway.

What’s the best stroller?

The best stroller is the one that fits your life. Test for weight, fold, trunk fit, and how it handles your terrain. IMO, spend more on the car seat and pick a mid-range stroller that checks your boxes.

How many bottles do I need if I’m breastfeeding?

Start with 4–6 bottles and slow-flow nipples. You’ll have enough for pumping or occasional feeds without drowning in dishes. Add more later if needed.

Do I need both a bassinet and a crib?

Nope. You can choose one. A bassinet saves space early on, while a crib lasts years. If you get a bassinet, plan for the crib transition around the 3–6 month mark.

What about a registry for second-time parents?

Go practical: diapers, wipes, a fresh set of nipples/teethers, second monitor camera, and any gear you wished you’d had last time. Also, stock up on snacks for you—seriously.

Conclusion

You don’t need everything—just the right things. Build a registry around daily routines: sleep, feed, change, go. Add a few sanity savers, skip the gimmicks, and leave room for the adorable stuff people can’t resist buying anyway. You’ve got this—and IMO, your streamlined list will make those early weeks easier, cozier, and a lot less chaotic.