Time to Register! Use This Baby Registry Checklist

Depending on the type of person you are, the thought of starting your baby registry might either excite or intimidate you. After all, with everything babies need, and with all of the selections to choose from, it can feel a bit overwhelming.

With so many products to choose from, how do you know which are worthwhile and which to pass up? Use this guide to help you create your list of must-haves. And when you go to register, consider inviting a friend along who has been through this before. It’s helpful to have someone there to offer suggestions and answer your questions — oh, and to ooh and ahh with you over all the cute baby stuff you’ll find.

And when you go to register, consider inviting a friend along who has been through this before.

Clothing 

To start with, register mainly for clothing in the 0 to 6 month size, so you have what you need for the first several months. After that, you’ll want to add to your child’s wardrobe based on changes in weather and personal preference (both yours and your baby’s).

• Onesies, both short- and long-sleeved
• Elastic-waist pants
• Infant gowns for layering
• Clothing appropriate for the season when your child will be born – i.e., winter coat, a light jacket, or sun hats
• Socks (you can hold off on shoes until your baby starts walking)
• Infant caps
• Footie pajamas
• Mittens
• Blankets: both lightweight receiving blankets and heavier for colder temperatures

Changing Supplies

• Diapers, cloth or disposable based on your preference, in a variety of sizes
• Diaper pail and liners
• Changing table
• Changing pad – one for the changing table, and some for the diaper bag
• Diaper bag
• Wipes and/or washcloths
• Baby safe laundry detergent

Bathing Supplies

• Baby bath tub
• Hooded towels
• Washcloths
• Baby shampoo, body wash and a mild lotion
• Hair brush
• Bath toys

For the Medicine Cabinet

• First aid kit
• Baby-safe nail clippers or scissors, emery boards
• Diaper rash ointment
• Thermometer

On the Go

• Infant car seat, or travel system with seat, carrier and stroller all in one
• Stroller – consider one that fits your car seat/carrier, as well as an easy-to-transport umbrella stroller for when baby gets bigger
• Baby carrier – your preference of sling, wrap, soft structure, backpack, etc.
• Play yard or portable crib
• If desired: stroller bunting, car seat bunting

Feeding

• For breastfeeding families: Breast pump, additional bottles/nipples as needed, breast milk storage bags, nursing pillow, nursing covers
• For bottle-fed babies: Bottles, nipples, formula, a bottle brush and a bottle drying rack
• Burp cloths
• Bibs
• High chair or dining table booster seat
• Sippy cups
• Baby food containers

For the Nursery

• For newborns: a bassinet or co-sleeper for safe sleep room sharing in your bedroom
• Crib (remember: no bumpers, blankets or stuffed animals in the crib for baby’s safety)
• Glider or rocking chair
• Dresser
• Pacifiers
• A “lovey”/security blanket
• Baskets and bins for organizing
• Baby monitor
• Night light

Bedding

• Firm crib mattress
• Mattress protector
• Crib sheets

Play Time

• Swing or bouncy seat
• Activity center and/or activity mat
• Books: both soft “infant” type and traditional
• Toys: rattles, teethers, stacking toys 
• Safety gate, if needed

The Bump, First Time Parent Guide, What to Expect