Baby Registry Checklist: 17 Things to Add (and What to Skip)

A blank baby registry can feel huge. There are thousands of products, and everyone has a strong opinion about what you need. It is easy to add too much and still miss the basics. For your own comfort list, see these pregnancy must haves.

This baby registry checklist keeps it simple with 17 things to add, each with a photo, a few notes and a tip. You will also find a short list of what to skip. Pick what fits your home, your budget and your family, and leave the rest.

1. A Sturdy Crib

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A crib is a big purchase, so many families add it to the registry as a group gift. This simple gray crib in a navy room shows the look to aim for: nothing inside but the mattress, with the mobile, baskets and armchair kept outside it. Follow the maker's instructions for setup.

The AAP advises placing baby on the back on a firm, flat mattress with only a fitted sheet, with no pillows, bumpers, blankets or toys in the crib.

Best for: Big gifts from family or a group.

Try this: Measure the room before you add it, so the crib fits.

2. A Comfy Rocking Chair

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Feeding and soothing take hours, so a comfy seat helps. A plain wooden rocker with curved rockers is a classic pick. Wood is lovely, but add a soft cushion if you plan to sit for long stretches.

Best for: Night feedings and cuddles.

Try this: Sit in one at a store before you add it.

3. Changing Pad and Station

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Diaper changes happen around the clock. A pad with a washable cover, like this white arrow-print one, and a couple of spares make them quick. Keep a hand on baby during every change.

Best for: Every diaper change.

Try this: Put one pad on a dresser and a travel pad in your bag.

4. Baby Bottles

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Even if you plan to breastfeed, a few bottles are handy, like this clear one with a yellow cap. Add a small set first, since babies can be picky, and ask your pediatrician or a lactation consultant for guidance.

If you use formula, prepare it exactly as the label says (the AAP says to mix it as the maker directs), and ask your pediatrician which one to choose. Clean bottles as the maker directs.

Best for: Feeding by any method.

Try this: Start with a few types to see what your baby likes.

5. Stroller

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A stroller is one of the most used items, so test a few. This black and red one has a big seat and a basket underneath. Pick one that folds easily and fits your trunk.

Best for: Daily walks and errands.

Try this: Fold it and lift it at the store to see how heavy it feels.

6. Baby Wrap

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Wraps keep your hands free and baby close, snug against your chest like in this teal woven wrap. Learn the right way to wear one and ask your pediatrician about safe positions. Keep baby's face visible and uncovered at all times.

Best for: Newborn weeks at home.

Try this: Practice with a stuffed toy before baby arrives.

7. Or a Soft Structured Carrier

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Buckled carriers are easier to put on than a wrap, and many parents end up using one or the other. A gray carrier like this one works well for playground trips. Check the fit guide and weight limits for your baby's age.

Best for: Walks, errands and fussy evenings.

Try this: Have your partner try it too, so the straps fit you both.

8. Diaper Bag

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You will carry diapers, wipes, a spare outfit and snacks for you everywhere. A roomy messenger-style bag, like this brown one with two front pockets and a long strap, holds it all. You do not need a bag labeled for babies, but a wipe-clean lining makes life easier. For the birth itself, use our hospital bag checklist.

Best for: Outings and visits.

Try this: Keep it packed and ready by the door.

9. Baby Bath Tub

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Bath time can be the sweetest part of the day. A baby-size tub is easier to handle than a sink. Follow the product's instructions, and never leave baby alone during bath time.

Best for: Daily or every-few-days baths.

Try this: Ask your pediatrician how often to bathe a newborn.

10. Hooded Towel

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A hood keeps a wet head warm after bath time, and a soft white one looks extra cozy. Pick thick, absorbent cotton that is gentle on skin.

Best for: Bath time and pool days later on.

Try this: Warm the towel in the dryer for a minute before bath time.

11. Soft Blankets

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Tiny feet on a fluffy blanket are a classic newborn photo. Blankets are used for cuddles, strollers and pictures, but keep them out of the crib: the AAP safe sleep guide says no blankets in baby's sleep space.

Best for: Cuddling, strollers and photos.

Try this: Choose a neutral color so it matches every outfit.

12. Bibs

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Babies drool and spit up, so you will go through many bibs. A bright yellow cloth one is cheerful and easy to wash. Choose soft fabric with an easy snap or hook-and-loop closure.

Best for: Feeding time and drool.

Try this: Keep a few in the stroller and car.

13. Everyday Basics

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Basics are the best gift: plain tops, pants and onesies, stacked and ready like these. Add both newborn and 3-month sizes, since babies grow fast.

Best for: Everyday wear.

Try this: Ask for a range of sizes, not only newborn.

14. Bodysuits and Sleepers

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Sleepers with zippers save time at night, and bodysuits cover the daytime. A mix of plain, bright and striped pieces goes a long way. Look for footed styles, and wash everything before use.

Best for: Daytime and night changes.

Try this: Choose zipper sleepers so you do not fumble with tiny snaps in the dark.

15. Knit Booties

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Knit booties look sweet, but plain socks that stay on may be more practical. Add a pair or two to your registry for photos and cold days.

Best for: Cool days and keepsake photos.

Try this: Pick socks that stay on a squirmy foot.

16. Cozy Hat

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A soft hat keeps small heads warm in cold weather, and a cream knit one with two pom-poms is hard to resist. Ask your pediatrician how to dress baby for the weather.

Best for: Cool weather and photos.

Try this: Choose a hat that is easy to pull on and off.

17. Grooming and Health Kit

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A small grooming kit covers nails and hair. Keep everything together on a tray or in a basket, so it is easy to grab. For anything health-related, like a thermometer, ask your pediatrician what to buy and how to use it.

Best for: Weekly care.

Try this: Trim nails when baby is sleepy.

How to Build Your Baby Registry Checklist

You do not have to add everything at once. Start with the basics and update as you learn what you need. Pair it with a nesting checklist to get the house ready too.

1. Start with a short list. Add the items from this list that fit your home.
2. Ask friends. Moms are happy to share what they used.
3. Add a range of prices. Include small, mid-size and big items so guests can choose.
4. Add sizes. Include newborn, 3 months and 6 months.
5. Update often. Remove things you got and add new ones.

Type	Examples
Big items	Crib, stroller, chair
Everyday	Bottles, bibs, blankets
Clothes	Onesies, sleepers, hats
Care	Bath tub, towel, grooming kit

Car seat: add an infant car seat, since you need it for the ride home. Do not use a secondhand car seat unless you know its full history. Check the date it was made and how long the maker says to use it, check for recalls, follow the seat manual and your vehicle manual, and have the install checked by a certified technician (AAP car seat guide).

Check with your pediatrician about anything related to sleep, feeding or health.

What to Skip

A registry works best when it is short. Here is what to leave off, at least at first:

• Lots of newborn-size clothes. Babies outgrow them quickly.
• Shoes. Babies do not need them until they walk.
• Duplicate gear. Skip a second stroller or a third carrier.
• Fancy gadgets. If it needs a manual and a battery, wait and see.
• Too many toys. Newborns need very little.
• Extra furniture beyond a crib and chair. Measure your space and wait to see what you use.

FAQ

When should I make a baby registry?

Many people create one in the second trimester. That gives you time to research and gives guests time to shop.

How many items should I add?

There is no set number. Aim for a mix you can use, with some small items and a few bigger ones.

Should I wait for a baby shower to start?

No. Starting early lets you add things slowly and lets family know what you want. If friends are planning one, these baby shower ideas can help them get started.

What can I buy secondhand?

Many clothes, books and toys are fine secondhand. Do not use a secondhand car seat unless you know its full history. Check the date it was made and how long the maker says to use it, check for recalls, follow the seat manual and your vehicle manual, and have the install checked by a certified technician (AAP car seat guide). For a used crib, check recalls at cpsc.gov.