Getting ready to welcome your little one into the world? Creating a baby registry can be exciting (and maybe a little overwhelming!). As a labor and delivery nurse and mama of two, I’ve seen firsthand which products really make a difference for new parents.
So, grab your favorite mocktail and get comfy, because I’m sharing my top picks for those must-have baby registry items that will make your transition into parenthood a little smoother and a lot more joyful.
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Building your baby registry is like assembling your parenting toolkit, mama! These 2024 must-haves are the MVPs (most valuable products) that I’ve seen make a real difference for new parents in those early days (and beyond!).
From soothing those late-night cries to simplifying diaper changes, these gems will have you feeling like a parenting pro in no time. Grab your registry checklist and get ready to add some game-changers!
Must-Haves for Soothing Your Little One
1. Swaddles
These cozy wraps are a lifesaver for calming fussy babies and promoting better sleep. Look for breathable, stretchy fabrics like muslin or cotton and get that baby snug as a bug!
Here are a few of my personal favorites when it comes to swaddles.
2. Baby carrier
A carrier allows you to keep your baby close while getting things done around the house. Choose one that’s comfortable and adjustable for both you and your baby.
3. Sound machine
Mimicking the calming sounds of the womb, a white noise machine can work wonders for lulling your baby to sleep.
4. Pacifiers
While not for every baby, a pacifier can be a helpful tool for soothing and comforting your little one.
Diapering Essentials
1. Diapers
Everyone has their favorite diaper brand – and there isn’t a “best” one out there. Try some out and see what you like. The options below are some of my personal favorites.
- Pampers Swaddlers (soft and highly absorbent, great for the littlest littles)
- Huggies Little Movers (my favorite for crawling and toddling)
Related Reading: How Many Diapers Per Day? A Guide to the Entire First Year!
2. Wipes
Another constant and very draining expense is pairing these diapers with a good set of wipes. We never really deliberated much on these. We tried a few different brands just purely out of circumstance and never liked anything as much (but there are plenty of other options out there!)
- Pampers Wipes – Sensitive
3. Diaper cream
Much like all baby products, there are lotsss of brands and types of diaper creams out there. When my boys were little, I was more of a purple top Desitin Maximum Strength gal myself. Yes, it’s super thick, yes, it can make a mess, but dang it can get a diaper rash taken care of in no time!
4. Changing pad
These changing pads can be used on any flat surface. They are literally a lifesaver since the raised edges make it much more difficult for your little one to roll off when you turn your head. It goes without saying though, NEVER leave your baby unattended on one of these!
I loved the Graco Changing Pad with my boys! Well known brand, good price point, raised edges, gets the job done!
Feeding Must-Haves
1. Bottles & nipples
Whether you expect to supplement or plan to exclusively breastfeed, you’ll still want a night off at some point – cue bottles and nipples!
I recommend having multiple different size bottles as well as different size nipples on hand. With bottles – different brands and styles work for different babies. One of my boys loved Dr. Brown’s and the other Medela, go figure. There are so many bottles on the market and there’s really no way to predict which kind your baby will prefer.
I would recommend getting a couple smaller size bottles, 2oz or 4oz, in a couple different brands. This way you have a backup on hand if your baby happens to refuse one kind. A lot of babies tend to like Dr. Brown’s bottles so that should be a safe option for your little one.
2. Bottle warmer
Bottle warmers are controversial, I totally get that. Some parents are all for warming the bottle up in a mug of hot water and some babies actually don’t care what temperature their milk is when consumed.
One thing I will say though, if you have ever listened to your newborn scream for 10 minutes while you warmed their bottle in a cup of hot water, I guarantee you would be adding this item to your Amazon cart ASAP.
And, news flash: it doesn’t have to be fancy and it doesn’t have to be expensive! What’s more, you can keep it in the box and return it if you end up not needing to use it!
3. Nursing pillow
Probably not as important if you don’t intend on breastfeeding baby. For breastfeeding mamas, however, nursing pillows can help position your baby comfortably and support your arms during feedings.
I happened to have and use, for different reasons, both the Boppy and My Brest Friend pillows. My Brest Friend is great for when your baby is a tiny newborn but the Boppy pillow, in my opinion, can be used longer and is more multi-functional. So, if you have to pick just one, I say go with the Boppy!
Boppy also has a newer option too. It’s the Anywhere Travel Nursing Pillow. I never had the chance to try it but it’s got some great reviews on Amazon!
4. Breast pump
I’m trying to keep this article as concise and to the point as I can. With that being said, instead of going through every.single.pump I tried when I was nursing my boys, I’m going to send you to MLN’s recommendations page where you can find my breast pump reviews tab in turquoise.
There have obviously been new pumps that have come out since that I never personally had a chance to review. From my own experience and talking to mamas that have given birth more recently my opinions hold true: Spectra’s S1 or S2 or the Motif Luna pump is the way to go!
Head here for info on all the bottle feeding equipment and here for the breastfeeding essentials!
5. Burp cloths & bibs
You’re gonna need a lot of both of these mama, trust me on this one! Babies are messy and it gets even worse once they start eating solids.
Nursery & Sleep
Nothing is more important to a little munchkin than their sleep, mama. Except maybe you.
But, as you work on your registry, I want you to make sure you’re designing your nursery with an optimal sleep environment in mind. You can check out my article on newborn sleep tips to help with this!
1. Crib mattress
There is seriously so much to love about this mattress:
- 100% breathable
- Proven to reduce the risk of suffocation
- 100% washable (say what?!)
- 100% nontoxic
- Hypoallergenic
It is a little pricier but comes with such peace of mind. It can be used on a toddler bed or with subsequent babies to get more use!
Dream On Me 2-in-1 Sweet Dreams Coil Spring Mattress
This inexpensive and durable coil spring mattress by Dream On Me is incredibly affordable and leaves nothing to be desired for your little one.
The binding and protective cover resist liquids and can be wiped clean easily, making this a very affordable and practical alternative if you want to spare your party-goers a penny or two.
2. Crib Sheets
American Baby Cotton Jersey Knit Crib Sheets
These little crib and toddler sheets are absolutely adorable and feature a jersey knit that makes them incredibly soft to touch.
American Baby has gone out of their way to make this the only crib sheet you will ever need and provides a bunch of options in terms of colors and styles.
This is a very affordable and quality sheet!
Ely’s & Company Waterproof Crib Sheet
If you want a maximum convenience when it comes to cleaning up the messes we sometimes wake up to with our little ones, look no further than this adorable setup by Ely’s & Co.
These fitted sheets are absolutely waterproof, so you have only to pop them out and into the wash.
No need for a protective sheet beneath the actual sheets. These guys are a steal, mama.
3. Baby monitor
Infant Optics Video Baby Monitor
I know there is some divide on whether video monitors are worth the expense or not, but for me, they’re totally worth it! The problem is, if you get a more budget option it’s probably not gonna last or have very good range.
I loved this video monitor, and when I did have an issue with it (I dropped it, so it was totally on me!) the customer service was amazing–they sent me a new one no questions asked! When I got a second one for baby number two, I was able to get a refurbished camera and saved a bit on cost.
If you don’t go with this monitor, I’m going to urge you to still choose one on a closed circuit (aka NOT one that uses WIFI). I’ve read and seen too many horror stories on the news about monitors that run on WIFI being hacked. Why are there so many awful people out there.
VTech DM111 Audio Baby Monitor
If a video monitor doesn’t feel important to you, or you’re looking to save a little, this is a great option! It’s not anything fancy, but it has a good distance range/quality, it’s cheap, and it’s incredibly durable.
4. Owlet Smart Sock
The Owlet Smart Sock is one of the items that I KNEW I wanted to get for baby number two. I had pretty significant anxiety with Walter, especially when he slept.
The Owlet smart sock measures baby heart rate and oxygen levels to alert you if there is any kind of red flag. This is the kind of peace of mind this mama needs to get some rest and sleep herself.
Bath Time Bliss
1. Bath tub
2. Baby soap
Soap can seem a small detail, but babies have crazy sensitive skin sometimes. Be sure you pick the soap that fits best within your moral outlook and then pay close attention to what your baby’s skin does as a result.
- The Honest Company Calming Lavender Shampoo and Body Wash
- Aveeno Healthy Start Newborn Baby Wash
- Johnson’s Newborn Baby Wash
3. Towels
Okay, so you don’t NEED a baby towel with a hood, but it’s not a bad idea to get a couple of baby towels that are just for your little one. Most baby towels are softer than ours, plus they’re perfectly sized for your little one.
4. Washcloths
5. Lotion
6. Bath toys
Not a necessity, but definitely a lot of fun. 🙂
Books & Toys
- Guess How Much I Love You (soft book for babies)
This is a basic version in cloth-bound, to once against support a younger crowd. Use this and its longer versions, and you’ll have an extra goodnight that your children will love to hear: “I love you right up to the moon.”
Baby Soap
Baby Towels w/ Hood (1-3)
Okay, so you don’t NEED a baby towel with a hood, but it’s not a bad idea to get a couple of baby towels that are just for your little one. Most baby towels are softer than ours, plus they’re perfectly sized for your little one.
Organic Bamboo Hooded Baby Towel and Washcloth Set
This kit is not a necessity – but I still think it would be super handy. I WISH I would have had an elbow pad with my littles, because leaning on the bathtub gets tiring after a while.
Not only that, but it also comes with a spout cover to prevent burns if the water gets the metal too hot. While a newborn isn’t going to be at risk for this, an older baby/young toddler WILL.
Skin Care
I definitely recommend preparing in advance when it comes to skin care items – ESPECIALLY when it comes to diaper rash cream.
Your mission, should you choose to accept it (which, you basically already have!) is to check that nappie once every hour at first, and change it any time there’s a sign of wetness.
With that being said – even IF you do that, your baby can still get a rash.
Desitin Maximum Strength Diaper Ointment
You will find all sorts of brands toting different benefits or maximum relief when it comes to diaper rash cream. Desitin is nice because it does the job done(most of them do), but it doesn’t have the nasty texture that many of the others have.
Babyganics Daily Lotion (fragrance free)
Talk with your doctor before using lotion, because if your baby doesn’t need it, it’s best not to use it. Baby skin is so sensitive and it’s not worth risking a possible reaction.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment & Diaper Rash Cream
Aquaphor makes pretty AWESOME products, but they’re also very greasy. I find it’s one brand that’s rarely upsetting to baby’s skin, so definitely consider it if your sensitive-skinned baby is suffering from a particularly stubborn rash.
Related Reading: 9 Essential Hospital Bag Must-Haves for Labor and Delivery!
Safety
There are things we can do to ensure that our baby has every chance to keep all their parts together past toddlerhood. We can’t prevent every bump or scrape or burn, but we can do our best!
Do you have stairs? Pets? Rooms you don’t want baby in? DEFINITELY invest in some baby gates. This is a great low-cost baby gate option, although I personally prefer the option below.
You luckily won’t need them until baby is crawling around.
Invisible Magnet Cabinet Locks
These also are not necessary until baby is crawling, but they’re going to be totally worth it to help prevent squished fingers.
Clothing and Sleepwear
No baby shower gift registry should EVER go without some adorable clothing.
This is where a lot of ladies will want to put their dollars, so be very specific about what you want for your little one, or you’re going to get a ton of stuff that isn’t really your style.
Pro tip: Add BIGGER sizes of onesies to your baby registry – otherwise you’ll get a TON of newborn/size one onesies that you’ll never use.
Crawlers / Onesies (5-10 per size)
You almost CAN’T have enough onesies. There were days that I went through four or five different ones (at least), so make sure that you get enough that you can keep a few spares on hand.
Simple Joys by Carter’s Bodysuit
Fun fact: “Onesie” is a registered trademark of Gerber! Carter’s isn’t even allowed to say it!
Pants (5-10 per size)
With our baby, onesies and pants made the easiest outfits. Your kiddo can go through pants as fast as they do onesies, so keep some extras clean and ready.
Outerwear (1-3 per size)
This is obviously going to be dependent on where you live and what you plan on doing outdoors. Also, remember that you can’t leave a coat or heavy jacket on baby in the car. If transporting a short distance (from the car to indoors) is ALL your baby is going to see their first winter, you may not need a heavy jacket.
Pajamas (5-7 per size)
There are a couple of different jammie styles for baby, and what’s “best” comes down to personal preference. Some of the most common pajama types are:
- Nightgowns
- Footed jammies
- Footless jammies
- Normal jammies (shirt and pants)
Everyone prefers something different, but I really like footed jammies. They’re simple, warm, and easy to get on/off.
If you decide to go with footed jammies, try and find ones where the zipper can be opened from the top OR bottom. They aren’t available in many places (that I’ve seen), but having these makes diaper changes soooo much simpler in the middle of the night.
Also – avoid buttons. Trust me on that. Here are some of my favorites (which I LOVE Carter’s brand btw!)
Baby Carrier
Baby carriers aren’t for everyone, but they are for a lot of people.
They allow you to go grocery shopping or hiking hands free, and you get to keep baby snuggled close to you all of the time.
Because of the extra weight you’re going to be carrying around, it’s worth spending a little extra on something comfortable. There are quite a few Facebook groups of mom baby wearing exchanges where you can try on and borrow other mom’s carriers to get a feel for what you like.
The two main types are wraps and convertible carriers. I’ll list my favorite of each.
Lille Baby Complete All Seasons
This carrier has six different carrying styles, which is great as it will support your baby from infancy to toddlerhood. They also have a zipper in the front that will help control your baby’s temperature.
All of that is nice, but my FAVORITE thing about this carrier is how comfortable it is. It has great support for your back, and will keep your baby safe and snug.
Oh – there’s also a TON of different styles, and they’re super cute.
Boba is known for making a fantastic wrap. These are stretchy, breathable, soft, and washable.
They’re ergonomic, easy to breastfeed in, and made of organic cotton (with a TON of color options!).
The fact that it’s just one long piece of fabric can be intimidating for some mamas–but get your YouTube on and you’ll be a pro in no time!
What’s more, the fact that it’s one piece of fabric makes this super versatile. There are so many ways to wear this wrap and different carrying positions.
This gives you the best of both worlds! It’s a soft fabric carries but is easier to put on than one piece of fabric because it is connected in the back to create two loops.
It still offers a bunch of versatility in terms of positions but is less daunting than the Boba for many mamas. It was also the most recommended cloth carrier when I asked y’all for input on my Instagram!
Play and Development
It’s becoming more and more clear how important these first few years are for our little ones. Studies show that early play is strongly linked to development in both language and cognition.
That said, it has to be the right KIND of play. Video games can work against these things, big loud toys with lots of arbitrary messages and signals don’t really do much.
The key to getting the perfect baby registry items to help support the right kind of development at the right time. Familiarize yourself with the stages of development your baby.
If you’re interested, the CDC offers a free milestones phone app (it’s called milestones). You can input your child’s age, and they’ll send you mini quizzes to evaluate how your child is moving through developmental milestones.
Here are some of the toys right off of my favorite registry for babies (keep in mind, some of them are developmentally appropriate all the time, and some might need to wait).
Skip Hop Bandana Buddies Baby Activity and Teething Toy
Some babies get really bored on car rides, or at places like the grocery store. Having a special toy they can play with during these times will make it easier on both of you.
Not only that, but this toy is great for stimulating baby’s brain, and also exercise their grab reflex!
MAGIFIRE Tummy Time Baby Water Mat
We have ALL heard about how important tummy time is, but it’s hard to make it into something your baby will actually enjoy.
That’s why I think these mats are GREAT. They encourage tummy time, strengthen muscles throughout the body, and help your baby positively explore new things.
Related Reading: 10 First Trimester Tips From a Labor and Delivery Nurse!
Expensive Baby Registry Items
Sometimes it’s hard to justify putting something big and pricey on the list. The fact remains, there are PLENTY of things you will need that you might not have the means or the time to get for yourself.
Some registries allow you to add higher-priced items and allow multiple people to contribute.
Here are some of my favorite baby registry items that have a high price tag associated with them.
Crib
You have a TON of options when it comes to cribs. Personally I like the convertible cribs because they can stay with your little one until they’re past the preschool years.
There are plenty of cheaper and more expensive options. I encourage you to READ THE REVIEWS on the crib you’re considering buying so that you know what common issues are seen with different options.
Dream On Me Cape Cod 5 in 1 Convertible Crib
This is definitely a great budget-friendly option. The biggest downside (in MY opinion) is that if you want to convert it to a toddler bed at some point, you have to purchase the toddler bed conversion kit (you can find it here).
With that being said – this is still a relatively cheap option. The reviews are generally good, it has three heights, and you have a TON of different colors to choose from. It’s sturdy, safe, and simple (which is perfect for some of us).
DaVinci Meadow 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
This crib is a pricier option, but it does come with a few more perks (not to mention it just looks fancier).
For one, it is GreenGuard certified, which means it is clear of over 10000 different chemicals (where many other cribs are not tested/certified like this).
It also comes with four different heights, and you don’t have to purchase a separate random kit just to switch it over to a toddler bed.
Bassinet
I think it’s worth spending some time considering whether you REALLY need a bassinet or not. For some families, it makes sense. But since baby only stays in it a couple of months, it’s not worth the investment for some people.
Also – if you’re shopping for bassinets, be aware that words like “sleeper and rocker” do NOT mean that they’re safe sleep spaces for your baby. An item needs to be marketed as either a bassinet or a crib.
I’m not gonna lie, Mama, this bassinet is a bit of a splurge, but the mamas I know that have it or have used it have the BEST things to say about it. In this case, the cost really does mean more sleep!
I’m using one with my second, and LOVING IT! Seriously. So impressed with the fact that it really is all that it’s cracked up to be.
If you’ve got a bigger budget, or some family members that would be excited to splurge a bit, the SNOO is a wonderful choice.
What’s cool is that you can also opt to RENT one since the window of use is only usually 0-4 months (depending on when baby starts to roll). So check that out as a more budget-friendly option.
Simmons Sleeper Bedside Bassinet
This bassinet is a great budget-friendly option if you want a bassinet, but prefer not to spend a ton of money on it (I’ve seen bassinets for over $300!)
It has lights and sounds, and comes with an adjustable canopy.
Changing Table
There are plenty of parents that never spend the money on a changing table. A changing pad on the ground can work just as well as a changing table, but if your heart is set on one, find one that has a dresser attached to it.
Dream on Me Changing Table and Dresser
Combo Nursery Set
A combo set for the nursery is a great option if you can afford it. It’s definitely the best way to make sure you get matching furniture if nothing else!
Delta Nursery Baby Furniture Set
Gliding Rocker (optionally including an ottoman)
I would consider this one of my FAVORITE baby registry items simply because if you’re breastfeeding – you’re likely going to LIVE on your glider for a couple of months.
This is one item I’d encourage you to go instore and try out before adding it to a registry, and don’t feel guilty about splurging.
Costzon Baby Glider and Ottoman Cushion Set
Car Seat
With car seats, you have a couple of options. You can grab a baby car seat that’s going to require an upgrade someday or start out with a convertible car seat that you can use for the entire time period that your child will need one.
Personally, I like having the infant car seat. You can pull these out of the car easily and trek it around with you as you go to the grocery store or over to a family member’s house.
Yes, you’re going to have to spend more in the long run, but it’s SO convenient to not have to pull a sleeping baby out of the car seat after every car ride.
Of course, you’ll want to make sure you’re watching baby like a HAWK in the car seat, but there’s something magical about an infant + car ride. If you can’t get them to sleep any other way, this will often do it.
I LOVE the Graco SnugRide. It comes with a car seat base that you anchor to the car. When you’re removing it, you press on a latch to release the car seat but leave behind the base.
If you decide to go with one of these, I’d recommend grabbing a base for each car that you use regularly because they are a pain to install and remove.
Graco Milestone 3 in 1 Convertible Car Seat
This car seat is an awesome option as an upgraded seat, or the one you start out with. The weight rating is 5-65 pounds, so you definitely won’t need anything else but this.
There’s also a four-position recline, and ten headrest positions to make sure your littles is as comfortable as possible. Graco is known for making great car seats, so I’m confident you wouldn’t go wrong with this one.
Stroller
There are plenty of different types of strollers, so definitely consider your lifestyle and how/when you plan to use it before making a purchase.
Ergobaby Metro Lightweight Baby Stroller
This is a lightweight compact stroller that can fit on the bus, subway, or even in MOST airplane overhead bins. It has great suspension, a deep recline, and it also has 40% more padding than other strollers in its class.
It only weighs 14 pounds and is easy to fold up/put down. Ergo is known for having great baby carriers, and their stroller will provide your little one with similar excellent support.
Portable Play Crib (Pack ‘n Play)
There are some people who use a portable play crib instead of a bassinet or crib. If you’ve ever felt a play crib mattress, you know they aren’t super comfortable.
If you decide to go that direction I’d recommend getting a different mattress for the porta-crib (MOST brands have something like this). Regardless, plenty of babies have slept in these and are PERFECTLY fine, so definitely do it if it’s what works for your family.
Delta Children LX Deluxe Portable Baby Play Yard
This charming little portable play yard sports a removable changing pad and a removable bassinet, which makes this a perfect set for traveling.
The hanging mobile arm that features some hanging plush toys. Don’t worry – it’s removable.
What not to Put on a Baby Registry
Tons of newborn size diapers and onesies–that little one will crash right through them in NO time.
Special keepsake stuff. Consider purchasing this stuff for yourself, because you know what you’ll want to keep forever.
Things for dad in general: while daddy will be a huge part of all this, the point of the shower is really to baby the mama and mom the baby, at least for a little while.
Make no mistake: Dad should be invited, but I think he’ll agree that this is not the place for him to supplement his personal arsenal of needs.
Related Reading: Gift Ideas for the Mama-To-Be
Collecting Your Favorite Baby Registry Items
That’s really all there is to it, mama. Take your time to shop through this list, check out the related items, and really put all the thought in the world into what you think you’ll like, what you know you’ll need, and how it will all come together.
No one knows you and your baby as well as you and your baby. Get inside yourself and dig deep for the styles, colors, and quality of good that will give you the best chance of making this baby your easiest one.
With a little thought and preparation, you can easily make your own favorite baby registry items list so that all your loved ones can contribute to that perfect image!
Happy baby shopping, mama!
