Nursery Essentials: The Ultimate Must-Haves for Your Baby Registry
With your due date fast approaching, you might feel like you have a giant list of things to do. From getting the nursery ready to installing the car seat, there are a number of must-do’s before baby arrives. One of the more fun, and sometimes difficult things, is putting together your baby registry. They may be little but newborns need so many things, ranging anywhere from essential items for feeding to diaper bags and everything in between. That’s why putting together your baby registry can be an overwhelming task for first time parents. But fear not, we’ve put together the ultimate baby registry checklist for new moms and dads. You’ll find tips on the must-haves for any nursery as well as great ideas for baby products you won’t be able to live without.
So before you head to the store to make your list, check out these awesome ideas first!
When to register
It’s really up to you as to when you create your registry but most new parents start thinking about their registry at around 12 weeks. It might seem early, but if it’s your first, you’ll want to take your time going through your checklist.
Where to register
This will depend on where you and your family/friends live. Pick stores that are easily accessible to both you and your family/friends. Most baby stores will offer the option of a baby registry. Head to the store first and browse around for a bit to see if the style, brands and price range are what you’re looking for.
What to register
This is where things get tricky – there are so many baby items on the market it can be difficult to figure out exactly which ones you really need – and which you can do without. There are going to be some essential items (like bottles, crib sheets etc.) and there are going to be some fun items that might just make your life a little easier. Below is a list of the must-have items for your baby registry - the items you’ll definitely want to have on hand when your little one arrives
Must-Have Neutral Baby Nursery Room
Most new parents will choose to have their newborn sleep in their room for the first few weeks, but even so it’s a good idea to get the nursery ready before the arrival of your newborn. There are many things you’ll need but a couple of things your nursery isn’t complete without is a sound machine and night light. Bubzi Co.'s Baby Sleep Soothing Owl is the best of both worlds. It sings 10 gentle lullabies and projects colorful starlight to help lull your baby to sleep. The soft nightlight is just enough to soothe your baby and comfort them to sleep.
- Crib
- Crib mattress
- Rocking chair
- Baby monitor
- Nightlight
- Dresser
- Humidifier
MORE TIPS FOR NEW MOMS: 9 Neutral Nursery Decoration Ideas
Must-Have Baby Crib Bedding
Swaddling (or receiving) blankets are a must for helping comfort your newborn to sleep. You’ll definitely want to register for several packages so that you always have one on hand in case the others are in the wash. And of course you’ll need some fitted crib sheets too!
- 3 washable crib mattress pads
- 2 fitted crib sheets
- 7-10 soft, light swaddles/receiving blankets
- 2 heavier blankets (for colder climates)
Must-Have Newborn Clothes Essentials
Newborns go through a lot of clothes, especially in the beginning when spit up and diaper changes are at their peak! It’s good to have a variety of onesies, both long and short sleeve, as well as sleepers and rompers for warmer weather.
- 8 onesies/bodysuits
- 8 one-piece sleepwear
- 3 rompers
- 5 socks or booties
- 3 hats/beanies
- 3 pairs of no-scratch mittens
Must-Have Baby Diaper
Whether you’re choosing cloth diapers or disposable diapers, you definitely want to have plenty of hand before baby arrives. And because you won’t know exactly what size diaper you’ll need once baby is born, plan on registering for at least a few packs of different sizes.
- Diapers (10 per day)
- Changing table or cushioned changing pad
- Diaper clutch / portable changing pad
- Diaper pail and liners
- Diaper bag
- Diaper cream or healing balm
- Unscented baby wipes
- Soft washcloths
Must-Have Baby Bath Products & Accessories
There are certain things that are essential before baby arrives that might not necessarily be on your radar, like soap, shampoo, moisturizer and washcloths. Having these things on hand will make that first bath with baby that much easier!
- Baby bathtub
- Natural or organic baby soap
- Natural or organic baby shampoo
- Rash cream
- Moisturizer
- 2 hooded baby towels
- Soft-bristle baby hair brush
- Soft washcloths
- Gentle laundry detergent
- Bath toys
Must-Have Breastfeeding Products & Accessories
If you choose to breastfeed, you will definitely want to register for breast pads and nipple cream. They might not be the most exciting things on your registry but they will make you feel better in the first few days of nursing.
- Pump
- Milk storage bags
- Nursing pads
- Nipple balm
- Nursing pillow and cover
- Nursing bra
- Nursing tank tops
Must-Have Baby Feeding Products & Essentials
Whether you choose to breastfeed or formula feed, you’ll definitely need to put bottles on your registry. There are many bottle brands and types out there, so put a few different ones on your registry so baby can try them out. There are all sorts of feeding accessories out there too, but only choose the ones that make sense to your particular home and situation (i.e. a bottle-drying rack might not fit your counter space).
- 6 bibs
- 6 Burp cloths
- 2 pacifiers
- Formula (if not nursing)
- 6 bottles (4 & 8 oz.)
- Bottle brush
- Dishwasher basket for small items
- High chair
- Food maker
- Baby plate
- Baby utensils
Must-Have Baby Health & Safety Products
For peace of mind, you’ll want to have some health and safety products on hand. A thermometer, a first aid kit and a Bubzi Co.’s Baby Nasal Aspirator are all things you’ll be happy you have if baby suddenly runs a fever or has a stuffy nose.
- Baby nail clippers or blunt scissors
- Baby thermometer
- First aid supplies
- Nasal aspirator
- Teething toys
MORE TIPS FOR NEW MOMS: A Good Parenting Guide on How to Use Nasal Aspirators
Must-Have Baby Gear Essentials
The big ticket baby items like car seats and strollers can get expensive but are definitely must-haves for any family on the go. Do your research before you choose one for your registry. There are many different types of car seats and strollers, or even travel systems that combine both. Think about what would work best for you and your family.
- Infant car seat
- Stroller or infant carrier
- Baby swing or bouncer
- Portable crib or play yard
- Bouncer
