As your pregnancy approaches the halfway point, it’s time to start thinking about setting up a baby registry.
Opening a baby registry is an easy and convenient way to get what you need for the baby without having to pay full price. More than that, it also gives your friends and family a chance to contribute if they wish; think of it as an easy way to make their shopping trip easier!
Setting up a registry will ensure you’re well prepared for your bundle of joy arrives in no time.
But what is the best baby registry to register with, and what items should you add to your baby registry? Keep reading to find out!
Most Popular Baby Registry
By far, the most popular baby registry is Amazon. Amazon has become the most popular website when it comes to baby registries for good reason. Many of today’s top-brand items are available on Amazon, which makes creating a baby registry a breeze. Plus, they offer so much more than just convenience: a free welcome box for you and completion discounts to help make those big purchases even more affordable.
Some other baby registries that you can start include: Walmart, BuyBuyBaby, and Target.
While preparing for your baby, you should also see what free baby stuff is available to you, either as samples or from different baby registries.
When Should You Start a Baby Registry?
Ideally, you should start your baby registry between 16 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. This will give you plenty of time to figure out what items you want to add to your list before your baby shower, and it also gives your family and friends enough time to purchase the items in your baby registry.
12 Items You Should Add to Your Baby Registry
Now that you know what the best baby registry is and when you should start a baby registry, let’s talk about the items you should add to your registry. I’ve listed out some items you may want to consider adding to your baby registry if you want to save on baby items while also allowing your family and friends to help out with the expense of having a new baby.
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Crib and Mattress Set
When welcoming a baby into the world, comfortable and safe sleeping space is essential. That’s why a crib and mattress set should be at the top of any new parents’ shopping list. These pieces provide the best foundation for restful sleep and come in myriad style options so parents can select one that will coordinate perfectly with their nursery decor.
Bassinet or Moses Basket
When creating a baby registry, adding a bassinet is a must. Bassinets provide secure sleep environments and can be moved around more easily than cribs. Sleeping in their own space helps the baby to develop healthy and secure sleeping habits from an early age. A bassinet can also help moms have better sleep since having a little one in the bed with you can present many sleep challenges over time.
Stroller
A reliable stroller will make taking the baby out for walks an easy and enjoyable experience. From transport-friendly models that fold up easily to more feature-heavy options with all the bells and whistles, there are plenty of strollers out there that can suit any parent’s needs.
Car Seat
Among the many things that need to be added to the registry, a car seat is an absolute must. You will need a car seat in order to go home with your newborn, so make sure this item is added to your baby registry.
Nursing Pillows and Nursing Covers
One item that is often overlooked but incredibly beneficial is a nursing pillow and a nursing cover. Nursing pillows provide comfortable support while your baby is feeding, while nursing covers let you feed your baby wherever you are, even in public.
Baby Bathtub
A baby bathtub is also an essential item to add to any baby registry. It will make bath time easier and is safe and comfortable for your little one. You can choose one that is compact and ergonomically designed. When looking for a baby bathtub, make sure to look for a bathtub that comes with features like bumpers and support for added extra comfort for your baby.
Bouncer, Swing, Rocker
When setting up a baby registry, it is good to think of furnishing your baby’s space with the essentials. To make sure your little one is comfortable and entertained, consider adding a bouncer, swing, or rocker. These items will provide entertainment to your little one while providing supportive seating options for lounging and snoozing. It also benefits you as the mom-to-be because it gives you a way to put the baby down safely so you can rest her arms from carrying your baby.
Baby Monitor
A baby monitor is an essential item to add to a baby registry. When I was putting together my baby registry, I didn’t think a baby monitor was necessary, but now that my baby is sleep-trained, I think it is very useful! A baby monitor enables parents to hear and see their baby even if they are in a different room.
Baby monitors have come a long way and now contain features such as temperature sensors, night vision, motion detectors, two-way audio, and synchronized smartphone apps so that parents can get real-time alerts no matter where they’re at. With all these great features, a baby monitor is simply a must-have for any expectant family.
Baby Bottles
A baby needs bottles to consume milk and other liquids. The right baby bottle can reduce colic symptoms, slow the intake of milk to prevent overfeeding, and provide an ergonomic design for easy handling and use. When choosing which bottle to add to your baby registry, additional factors include durability, liquid capacity, and the material the bottle is made from. Knowing that your baby is drinking safely from a quality product brings peace of mind to many new parents.
Breast Pump
A breast pump is essential for a new mother and her baby. Breast milk provides important nutrition for a growing baby, and having the right tools available can help ensure that the breastfeeding journey is successful. With a breast pump, a new mom can provide breast milk in bottles while she is away from her baby, helping to ensure that her baby is well-fed and that her milk supply doesn’t decrease.
Bottle Sterilizer
A bottle sterilizer is a must-have item for any newborn registry. This convenient device ensures baby bottles and utensils are properly disinfected. It is an essential tool to provide your baby with the cleanest feeding experience possible. Not to mention, a bottle sterilizer can also sanitize pacifiers and other non-food items as well!
Diaper Pail
No parent wants to be overwhelmed by the smell of dirty diapers. That’s why a diaper pail should be at the top of any baby registry list. It is an essential item for all parents who are welcoming a new baby, which helps contain and mask the odor from used diapers. It also makes disposing of dirty diapers easy and mess-free, protecting both your hands and nose from all the unpleasantness!
Arnie Nicola
Arnie is a first-time mom to her darling daughter and runs a blog aimed towards answering questions first-time moms might have about pregnancy and motherhood. When she is not working on her blog, she can be found running after her very active toddler.