GUIDE
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A category-by-category breakdown of what to put on your registry — and what is just marketing.
Most registries include too much. We organized this by must-haves vs nice-to-haves so you can focus on what you will actually use in the first year.
Be prepared from day one
Baby registries have a tendency to become overwhelming. Retailers want you to scan everything in the store, but the reality is that most families use a core set of about 30-40 items heavily and barely touch the rest. The goal is not to register for every product on the market — it is to cover the essentials and let people know what would genuinely help.
Start by thinking about the first three months. You do not need a high chair on day one or a childproofing kit. Focus on feeding, sleep, and diapering — those three categories will dominate your life for the first several weeks. Then add gear, clothing, and a few quality-of-life items.
If you are also setting up the nursery, coordinate your registry with that list to avoid duplicates. And for the essentials you will need from the very first day, see our newborn essentials checklist.
Whether you breastfeed, formula feed, or combo feed, you will need bottles. Do not invest heavily in one brand until your baby shows a preference.
These items are convenient but not essential. Many parents buy them after the baby arrives if they find they need them.
Buy small sets of 2-3 different bottle brands (Dr. Brown's, Philips Avent, Comotomo, MAM) instead of a full set of one brand. Babies can be surprisingly picky about nipple shape. Once your baby picks a favorite, then invest in a full set. This saves money and frustration.
Safe sleep is non-negotiable. A firm, flat mattress with only a fitted sheet — nothing else in the crib. See AAP guidelines.
Blackout curtains are arguably a must-have for daytime naps, but many families manage without them early on.
The AAP safe sleep guidelines are simple: baby sleeps on their back, on a firm and flat surface, with nothing else in the sleep space. No blankets, no pillows, no bumpers, no stuffed animals, no positioners. This applies from birth through at least 12 months.
When registering for sleep products, be cautious of items that market themselves as improving baby sleep through inclined surfaces, weighted wearables, or pod-style sleepers. Many of these products have been recalled or do not meet current safety standards. Stick with a CPSC-certified crib or bassinet and a firm mattress. For more on setting up a safe sleep space, see our nursery setup guide.
You will change 8-12 diapers a day in the newborn stage. Stock up, but register for multiple sizes — many babies skip newborn size entirely.
The diaper caddy is one nice-to-have that most parents end up loving. It keeps everything in reach during 3 AM changes.
The car seat is the single most important safety item you will buy. Buy new, install early, and get it inspected.
Many of these items can be purchased secondhand — except the car seat, which should always be bought new.
Do not wait until labor starts to figure out the car seat. Install it by 36 weeks and have it inspected at a local fire station or hospital. Most installations have at least one error the first time. Your baby cannot leave the hospital without a properly installed car seat. Add this to your hospital bag checklist.
Zip-up sleepers are a lifesaver at night. Snaps in the dark with a squirming baby is a special kind of challenge.
People will buy you cute outfits regardless. Focus your registry on practical basics and let others fill in the fun stuff.
A few things experienced parents wish they had known: register for consumables like diapers, wipes, and diaper cream in large quantities — you will use them all. Include a range of price points so that everyone from your college roommate to your parents can find something in their budget. Add a few treat-yourself items: a nice robe for postpartum recovery, a good water bottle, or a meal delivery gift card.
Most registries allow group gifting for big-ticket items. If there is a stroller or car seat you want that costs several hundred dollars, enable group gifting so multiple people can contribute. This is especially helpful for baby shower guests who want to go in together on a gift.
Finally, take advantage of registry completion discounts. Amazon, Target, and Babylist all offer 10-15 percent off remaining items after a set date. This makes it worth registering for expensive items even if you expect to buy them yourself.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your pregnancy.
