Creating a baby registry can feel exciting and overwhelming all at once. This baby registry checklist helps you focus on what really matters, offering guidance for essentials that make life easier and more comfortable for new parents.
A thoughtful baby registry helps new parents prepare for the moments that matter most. The right mix of essentials supports feeding, sleep, and daily care while giving loved ones confidence that their gifts are meaningful and useful. This list highlights the must-have items for every stage.
- Baby Registry Must-Haves
- Baby Feeding Essentials
- Baby Sleep Essentials
- Baby Changing & Diapering Essentials
- Baby Clothing and Soft Goods
- Baby Bath and Health Essentials
- Baby Travel and Gear
- Baby Toys
- Nursery and Home Organization
- Maternity and Postpartum Must-Haves
- Baby Registry Nice-to-Have Extras
- Tips for Building the Perfect Baby Registry
- Prepare for your Baby with Help From Boppy
- Baby Registry FAQs
Explore Boppy’s variety of baby and maternity items to get ideas for your baby registry list.
Baby Registry Must-Haves
The early days of parenthood are filled with discovery, care, and constant change. Having the right essentials ready brings peace of mind when everything feels new. A thoughtful baby registry includes daily-use items as well as practical gifts that ease the transition home. Services like meal deliveries or grocery cards help parents focus on rest and bonding instead of errands. Combining tangible must-haves with helpful gestures gives families a stronger foundation for those first few weeks, when energy is low but love runs high.
Baby Feeding Essentials
Feeding is one of the most important parts of caring for your baby. Whether you plan to breastfeed, pump, or bottle feed, being prepared helps make each feeding more relaxed and meaningful. A variety of feeding essentials supports flexibility as you learn what works best for your family’s needs. This category helps you create a comfortable, organized setup so feeding time feels like a calm, shared moment instead of a chore.
Breastfeeding Must-Haves
Nursing supplies support both comfort and connection during feeding sessions. Soft, ergonomic tools help parents focus on bonding rather than logistics, while small items simplify the routine.
- Breast pump (electric or manual)
- Nursing pillow
- Nursing cover
- Nipple balm
- Milk storage bags or bottles
- Baby burp clothes
Bottle Feeding Must-Haves
Having bottle-feeding essentials prepared ensures smoother feeding schedules and easier clean-up. These tools make each meal simple and efficient, helping parents feel confident during long days and nights.
- Baby bottles (4 oz + 8 oz sizes)
- Bottle brush and drying rack
- Bottle sterilizer (electric or microwave)
- Formula dispenser (if using formula)
- Bottle warmer (optional but popular)
Solid Feeding (for later months)
Introducing solid food is a fun milestone for families. The right setup keeps it easy and engaging while supporting independence and exploration.
- Booster seat
- Silicone bibs
- Baby bowls, spoons, and food containers
Learn how to use your nursing pillow and the factors to consider when choosing yours.
Baby Sleep Essentials
Sleep plays a big role in helping babies grow and parents recover. Creating a safe, comfortable environment makes rest easier for everyone. Adding sleep essentials to your registry ensures you have what you need for consistent, soothing routines that help baby settle more easily. With a few reliable pieces in place, bedtime becomes a peaceful part of your daily rhythm.
Safe Sleep Must-Haves
A simple, secure sleep space helps babies settle and sleep safely. Each piece in this setup supports comfort and consistency while keeping baby protected.
- Crib or bassinet
- Firm crib mattress
- Fitted crib sheets (2–3)
- Baby monitor (video or audio)
- White-noise machine
- Nightlight or soft lamp
Optional Sleep Helpers
Some families find that soothing accessories make bedtime a little easier. Small additions can create a familiar, calming environment as baby grows.
- Pacifiers (different shapes to test preference)
- Crib mobile
Learn how to get your newborn to sleep in a bassinet to ensure they are getting the right amount of sleep in a safe environment.
Baby Changing & Diapering Essentials
Diapering happens often, so being organized makes a big difference. A few key items help create smoother changes at home and on the go. A good setup keeps everything within reach, cuts down on stress, and helps parents handle even late-night changes with ease. With the right supplies, diapering becomes another manageable, caring moment in your day.
Changing Station Must-Haves
A well-organized station saves time and reduces stress. Simple, washable surfaces and soft fabrics keep baby comfortable while making clean-up quick.
- Diapers (starter packs in newborn + size 1)
- Wipes (sensitive, fragrance-free)
- Changing pad liners or covers
- Diaper pail with liners
- Diaper cream
- Changing table or dresser-top pad
On-the-Go Diapering
Portable essentials allow for smooth diaper changes away from home. A good diaper bag keeps everything ready when you need it.
- Diaper bag
- Portable changing pad
Baby Clothing and Soft Goods
Soft, easy-to-layer clothing helps babies stay comfortable and cared for through every moment. Stocking your registry with cozy basics ensures you have plenty of clean, breathable options for daily changes. The right mix of clothing keeps your baby warm, relaxed, and ready for snuggles or naps while giving parents a sense of preparedness for each new stage.
Baby Clothes & Accessories (0–3 months)
Choose pieces that feel gentle against delicate skin and can adapt to temperature changes. A few well-chosen basics go a long way in those first months. Since laundry becomes part of everyday life, adding a dye- and perfume-free detergent to your registry ensures you’re prepared with something safe for baby’s skin.
- 6-8 Onesies (short- and long-sleeve)
- 4-6 Sleepers / footies
- 2-3 Swaddles or sleep gowns
- 3-5 Pants / leggings
- 4-6 Socks
- 2-3 Mittens and hats
- 1-2 Seasonal sweater or jacket
- Dye- and perfume-free baby laundry detergent
Baby Bath and Health Essentials
Bathing and baby care are gentle routines that help parents connect with their little one. With a few essentials, you can make these moments calm, safe, and comforting. Including bath and health items on your registry helps you feel ready for everyday care, from bath time to basic wellness, so both baby and parents can relax into the routine.
Bath Time
Soft, supportive bathing supplies make water play and washing safe and enjoyable. Gentle products simplify the process while protecting baby’s skin.
- Baby bathtub or sink insert
- Gentle baby shampoo + body wash
- Soft washcloths (4–6)
- Hooded towels (2–3)
- Rinse cup
Baby Health and Wellness
Health care basics keep parents ready for the small but important details of baby care. These tools help handle everyday needs with confidence.
- Digital thermometer
- Nasal aspirator
- Baby nail clippers or file
- Infant hairbrush or comb
Baby Travel and Gear
Leaving the house with a new baby feels easier when you have reliable gear to help. Travel essentials make errands, appointments, and family visits more comfortable for everyone. A few key items create flexibility while keeping baby safe and close, allowing parents to move through daily life with confidence and ease.
On-the-Go Must-Haves
Each of these essentials helps parents move comfortably through their day while managing transportation, errands, and family outings.
- Infant car seat (rear-facing with base)
- Stroller or travel system
- Baby carrier
- Multi-use cover (for car seat, nursing, or shopping cart)
- Car mirror (for rear-facing seat)
Baby Toys
Playtime is how babies learn about the world around them. Including a few toys on your registry adds opportunities for development, curiosity, and bonding. Simple, engaging baby play items help build early motor skills and make daily routines more fun, turning small moments into joyful discoveries.
Playtime Essentials
Focus on sensory activities and gentle movement that help baby discover the world. Choose soft textures, light colors, and items that can grow with your child.
- Play gym or play mat
- Bouncer or swing
- Tummy time pillow
- Developmental toy
- Soft toys, rattles, or teethers
Nursery and Home Organization
A calm, well-arranged nursery makes everyday care smoother. Each piece in the space should add comfort, safety, or ease.
Nursery Furniture
A calm, organized nursery helps parents feel prepared and makes caring for baby easier. The right furniture and storage pieces create a comfortable space that grows with your child. Adding nursery essentials and safety features to your registry gives you a peaceful, functional environment that supports everyday routines.
- Dresser or storage bins
- Glider or rocking chair
- Bookshelf or toy storage
- Diaper caddy for quick changes
Nursery Safety
Simple safety features give parents peace of mind while creating a cozy, functional home environment.
- Outlet covers
- Baby gates (for multi-level homes)
- Door knob covers
- Cabinet locks
- Furniture wall fasteners
Maternity and Postpartum Must-Haves
Comfort and care matter for parents, too. Pregnancy and recovery are times when support and rest are essential, and the right items make those stages easier. Including maternity and postpartum essentials on your registry helps parents feel prepared, nurtured, and ready to focus on bonding with their baby.
Maternity Items
Comfortable maternity wear and support pillows promote better rest and posture. Staying hydrated and comfortable during pregnancy helps make each day easier.
- Maternity leggings or pants
- Comfortable nursing bras or tanks
- Belly support band
- Pregnancy pillow
- Large water bottle for hydration
Postpartum Recovery
Recovery tools help parents feel more comfortable as their body heals. Having these items ready means more time to rest and bond.
- Peri bottle
- Mesh underwear or disposable briefs
- Postpartum pads or cooling packs
- Sitz bath or healing spray
- Cozy robe or loungewear
Healing during the postpartum recovery period can be tough, but practicing self-care can make the transition more manageable.
Baby Registry Nice-to-Have Extras
A few thoughtful extras can make life with a baby a little simpler or more special. These nice-to-have items bring comfort, convenience, and joy to early parenthood. Keepsakes and small luxuries may not be required, but they often become the touches families treasure most.
Keepsakes and Convenience
Combining practical and sentimental gifts makes a registry feel personal. Keepsakes mark special moments, while convenient tools simplify daily life.
- Baby memory book or keepsake box
- Monthly milestone cards
- Portable sound machine
- Wi-Fi baby camera
- Subscription boxes (diapers, wipes, or meal delivery)
- Gift cards to baby stores or delivery services
Tips for Building the Perfect Baby Registry
A well-planned baby registry reflects your family’s daily life and priorities. Include items that bring comfort, support, and practicality into your routine. A mix of price points and product types gives loved ones options that fit their budgets while helping you feel fully prepared for baby’s arrival.
- Mix practical and fun items
- Include items across various price points
- Register early (around 12–20 weeks) and update over time
- Don’t forget comfort and recovery items for parents
Prepare for your Baby with Help From Boppy
Preparing for a new baby is a mix of anticipation and love. The right essentials make the experience calmer and more comfortable for everyone. Boppy’s collection of supportive products nurtures parents through pregnancy, feeding, and play.
Explore Boppy New Arrivals and other helpful baby products to add to your baby wishlist!
Baby Registry FAQs
What is a baby registry?
A baby registry is a personalized list of items parents create to help friends and family choose thoughtful gifts for their new arrival. It keeps track of what’s needed, what’s already been purchased, and ensures parents receive essentials they’ll truly use.
What to put on a baby registry?
Baby registry must-haves include items that support daily life with your newborn. This can include feeding gear, safe sleep essentials, diapers, clothing, and travel items. Don’t forget comfort items for parents too, such as maternity and postpartum support pillows.
How many items should be on a baby registry?
Most registries include between 80–120 items, depending on lifestyle and space. Aim for a mix of essentials and nice-to-haves across a range of price points so loved ones can choose gifts that fit their budget.
When to build and share a baby registry?
Start building your baby registry around 12–20 weeks of pregnancy. Share it once you’ve added your core essentials, typically before your baby shower invitations go out or by the start of your third trimester.
Where to make a baby registry?
You can create a baby registry through popular online stores like Amazon, Target, Babylist, or directly with your favorite brands. Many parents choose universal registries that let them add items from multiple retailers in one convenient place.