37 Baby Registry Must Haves

Looking back now, there are so many baby registry must-haves that I wish I had put on my registry.

My daughter Lily is now 14-months-old and I cannot believe how clueless I was about what she and I were going to need after she was born!

I remember walking through a baby store when I was pregnant and scanning random items as if in a haze. I was just guessing what I might need or not need. My mom and dad were with me and let me take the reins. They were trusting I knew what I wanted and needed.

I love them so much for that because they know I am a control freak, but in hindsight, I really wish I had someone there giving me concrete suggestions about the best brands, etc. Especially for those first months after having a baby when having the right “equipment” can mean the difference between getting to enjoy motherhood or losing your mind.

I decided to make a list of 37 Baby Registry Must-Haves in the hopes of helping other clueless new mothers like myself to have a better understanding of what they will need.

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Keep reading to discover 37 baby registry must-haves I wish I had on my list!

1. Monthly Photo Blanket

This is one of the items I am kicking myself for not having. I didn’t register for a monthly photo blanket or the stickers. I did, however, get the stickers after Lily was born. If I could go back in time, I would get the monthly photo blanket instead of the stickers. I just think it’s easier to place your baby on a blanket rather than try to stick the sticker on or near your baby. Because eventually, they will want to eat the sticker, and taking photos will be very difficult! I know from personal experience.

My Pick: Rainbow milestone blanket

2. Bouncer

I swore up and down that I would not need a bouncer. I really thought I would just always hold Lily or someone else would be around to hold her if needed. Boy was I wrong! I would highly recommend getting at least one bouncer to have in your house. I might even recommend having multiple bouncers in different locations around your house. That or a swing, and a bouncer, and a lounger, oh my! You are going to need a place to safely put your baby down at some point. That might seem obvious to most people, but if you’re stubborn and addicted to holding your baby like me, just take my advice and add a bouncer to your registry.

My Pick: Babybjorn bouncer

3. Baby Carrier

After having Lily, babywearing quickly became an obsession of mine. It was the perfect solution for me to be able to continue holding Lily but also have the use of both of my hands. There are basically three different kinds of baby carriers and I highly recommend having one of each. Trust me, it’s not excessive, it’s just practical. Each type of carrier is great for different things. Wraps are great for newborns, carriers are great for long wear, and slings are great for older babies with better head and body control. But honestly, you can use slings from newborns to two-year-olds! They are my favorite because they can easily be squished into a diaper bag and once you get the hang of it, are the simplest to get your baby in and out of as well. Basically, babywearing is the best, and having the different babywearing mediums is a must (in my opinion!)

My Pick: Solly Baby Wrap, Wildbird Ring Sling, Nuna CUDl carrier

4. Car Mirror

I am just going to assume all new mothers are as crazy and paranoid as I am and say a car mirror is an absolute essential. From the moment Lily popped out I have been staring at her. Is she okay? Is she breathing? Is she happy? One of the places that give me the most anxiety is in the car. Especially, when I’m driving alone with Lily. Having a car mirror is a must! That way I can keep staring at her. It gives me so much peace of mind while I drive. You are definitely going to want one.

My Pick: Shynerk Baby Car Mirror

5. Muslin Swaddles

Muslin swaddles are one of those items I love for so many reasons. What’s funny is that I never swaddled Lily. She hated it. However, I used my swaddles as a nursing cover, spit-up cloth, light blanket, decor, etc. There are so many uses for muslin swaddling blankets than actually swaddling. But they work great for that too! You’ll just have to wait until your baby arrives to see how you’ll use your swaddles, but just trust me when I say you’re going to want them.

My Pick: aden + anais Muslin Swaddle Blankets

6. Receiving Blankets

Receiving blankets are probably my most used baby item. I remember getting so many receiving blankets for gifts and thinking how I would never use that many. I was so very wrong. To this day I still go through 3 to 5 receiving blankets per week. I keep one draped over my headboard for easy access and switch it out as the week goes on. When Lily was a newborn I used probably 2 every day. They are great for diaper changing mats, spit-up cleaner, etc. Basically, I use them like I would use a paper towel, but they’re reusable. Just stock up on these suckers. You’ll thank me later. 

My Pick: simple joys receiving blankets

7. Pacifiers

Pacifiers are a bit controversial, but they were a lifesaver for me. My advice is to have them around just in case and then take your baby’s cues when deciding whether or not you need them. I love Natursutten pacifiers because they are made out of chemical-free rubber, but really your baby will decide which kind they like best.

My Pick: Natursutten Pacifiers

8. Teethers

It won’t take long before your baby starts chewing on everything. So it would be nice to have some designated teether’s around so when the time comes you can give your baby something safe and made for chewing. There are so many options for teethers out there and really anything works. Sophie the Giraffe seems to be the most popular choice, so it would be a great one to add to your registry.

My Pick: Sophie la Girafe

9. Bandana Bibs

One thing I did not anticipate or prepare for was the onset of nonstop drool! I don’t remember exactly when I started, but I want to say around 3 to 4 months old Lily started to drool around the clock. Within a couple of hours after getting her dressed her onesie would be soaking wet. I didn’t want to put her in a normal bib because it seemed uncomfortable. So I bought a ton of those bandana bibs and it was the best thing I ever did. They were not only more comfortable for Lily but way more stylish! They are thinner and just more practical for wearing for long periods of time.

My Pick: KeaBabies Organic Bandana Bibs

10. Diaper Bag

I almost didn’t add a diaper bag to the list because I honestly don’t think you need a designated diaper bag. At first, I used a cheap tote bag from Target as a diaper bag and it worked just fine. Later on, I bought a backpack on Amazon that I use as a diaper bag. I have yet to own an actual diaper bag. However, there is one diaper bag that I want so bad, but because of the price, I haven’t purchased it. If I had known about it before Lily was born, I would’ve registered for it and hoped that someone was generous enough to get it for me. So I am hoping you learn from my mistakes and add a diaper bag to your registry!

My Pick: Fawn Design Diaper Bag

11. High Chair

There is not much to say about this one because obviously, you’re going to need a high chair at some point. The only recommendation I have for this one is to register for a high chair that does not have fabric on it. I think the reason I love Lily’s simple IKEA high chair is that it’s so easy to wipe down. I’m sure those high chairs with cushions have removable fabric on them that can be washed, but why do that when you can just wipe it down right away? Just throwing in my two cents here, register for a non-fabric high chair!

My Pick: Stokke High Chair

12. Nursing Pillow

Luckily, I did happen to register for a nursing pillow and got it. Funny enough, I never used it for nursing. However, I did use it every day to prop Lily up when she couldn’t sit up on her own yet. It’s great for tummy time, too. Whether you use it for nursing or one of its many other uses, you’re gonna use it a lot. So, register for it.

My Pick: Frida Mom Nursing Pillow

13. Diaper Pail

I am kind of embarrassed to admit how long it took me to get a diaper pail. I never registered for it because I didn’t think it was a necessity and I was trying to be simple and easy. HA! Now having actually had a baby, if there is any baby gear item that I would say is a necessity it’s a diaper pail! Or nose plugs. One or the other. Because Lily was exclusively breastfed or maybe by some miracle, her poop did not smell bad at all. So throwing her diapers in a trash bin was no big deal. However, as soon as she started eating the tiniest bit of solids that was no longer the case. I got a diaper pail real quick and everyone in the house was thankful for it. Just register for one right away and call it day.

My Pick: Ubbi Diaper Pail

14. Bassinet

A bassinet is definitely an item you want to register for if you are planning on co-sleeping but not bed-sharing. You can also use a bassinet if you work from home and want somewhere to lay your baby down near you while you work. A bassinet is small so it would be perfect for an office. That’s a very specific example, but that just shows that your lifestyle really comes into play when deciding what baby gear you need and therefore what you need to register for.

My Pick: Maxi-Cosi Iona Bassinet

15. Baby Lounger

There are so many reasons to register for a baby lounger and had I known they even existed when I was pregnant I would have registered for one in a second. You can basically put your baby anywhere to safely sleep when you need to, like on a bed, on the floor, in a crib, etc. I have heard so many amazing things about them and their ability to help babies and toddlers sleep. They curl around your baby and not only keep them safe but comfort them as well. You don’t absolutely need one of these, but it would definitely make your life a little easier.

My Pick: Snuggle Me Organic Baby Lounger

16. Moses Basket

This is one of those things you don’t necessarily need but might want. If you have a crib, bouncer, swing, and bassinet then why would you need a Moses basket!? Well, let me tell you why I wish I had one…they are so stinking cute! There is literally nothing cuter than a tiny baby in a Moses basket. There is just something precious about it. I wish so much that I had one for Lily. I had to add it to the list because it’s too late for me but it might not be for you! You better bet that if I have any more children I am getting on of these!

My Pick: Dockatot Dream Weaver Moses Basket

17. Pack n’ Play

This is another item I so wish I would’ve registered for in the beginning. I can think of dozens of instances where I wish I had a pack and play. The reason I didn’t get one in the first place was I always kind of thought of them as a baby jail. It felt weird to me to put my baby in something that so closely resembled a cage. After actually having a baby, my thoughts have completely changed. I think they are great for allowing your baby to have a safe place to play indoors and outdoors. They are also so great if you are traveling and are in a hotel or someone else’s home that is not babyproofed.

My Pick: Chicco Travel Playard

18. Baby Bath

I hardly ever used the baby bath that I registered for because I just took Lily in the shower with me. The bath I had was huge and not great for newborns. If I could go back I would register for a different one. I would register for the soft, padded kind you put into the sink. I think those are the most practical and comfortable for newborns and infants. When your baby grows out of the sink insert it will be around the same time they can sit up in the bath on their own. So I might even suggest registering for the sink bath insert and also a bath seat for the tub. I really don’t think that full-size plastic baby baths are practical at all.

My Pick: Blooming bath Lotus

19. Booster Seat

These seats are so great for helping your baby learn how to use their core muscles and practice sitting up on their own. There is also a tray attachment that turns it into a portable high chair.

My Pick: Upseat Booster

20. Changing Pad

This is another thing I would’ve registered for if I could do it all over again. The best part about a portable changing pad is that it can turn any dresser into a changing table. You just slap one of these on top and you’re good to go. That way you can just take it off and the dresser can transition as your child gets older. It’s also great because you can move it from room to room if you need it.

My Pick: Naturepedic organic changing pad

21. Baby Monitor

I never registered for a baby monitor because I shared a room with my daughter and didn’t think I would ever need one. Then when I realized I could probably use one, I never wanted to spend the money when I would only need to use it when I showered and Lily was still asleep in our bed; which was rare. I ended up downloading a free baby monitor app for those rare occasions and it was a pain in the butt. If I could go back, I’d register for one for sure.

My Pick: Nanit Baby Monitor

22. Baby Bath Towels

This is one of those obvious and practical items, but still worth mentioning. Your baby is going to need some soft towels for after bath time, so why not register for them and stock up.

My Pick: BURT’S BEES ORGANIC BABY TOWEL

23. Baby Body Wash, Shampoo, and Lotion

This is another essential item you need for your baby, so you might as well register for it. My favorite baby care products are from Babo Botanicals. Every one of their products is all-natural and chemical-free. The Newborn Sensitive Skin Gift Set would be the perfect starter kit to register for!

My Pick: Babo Botanicals

24. Baby Onesies

I think clothing is very personal and everyone has their own taste. So my recommendation is to only register for the basics. One of those basics is onesies! You can never have too many onesies, especially in those newborn days when poop explosions and spit-up is oh so very common. I would register for a variety of styles (i.e tank, short and long sleeve) and sizes. Of course, if you want to register for a bunch of cute clothes then go ahead! Just don’t forget to add those onesies to the list!

My Pick: 5-Pack Organic Cotton Bodysuits

25. Baby Mittens

Baby skin is so sensitive and baby nails are so sharp. Little baby mittens are an absolute must-have. I only had a couple of pairs when Lily was little and I should’ve gotten more. She needed to have them on at all times or her face would look like Edward Scissor Hands gave her a facial. I would even put socks on her hands if all her mittens were dirty because it broke my heart to see her precious little face all cut up. Register for those baby mittens’ mamas!

My Pick: Burt’s Bees Organic Baby Mittens

26. Footed Pajamas

Footed pajamas are the perfect outfit for newborns, especially the ones with built-in mittens. They are no fuss, have easy diaper access, and are so cozy. I really thought I would love dressing Lily in cute little outfits right away but that was not the case. When you bring home your precious little baby you have so many things to worry about and figure out, outfits are the last thing on your mind. You just want your baby to be fed, clean, and comfy. You can have fun with outfits later on.

My Pick: L’OVED BABY Organic ONESIE

27. Baby Moccasins

Speaking of having fun with outfits! Honestly, your baby does not need shoes until they are walking. They end up being more of a nuisance than a necessity. Your baby will kick them off in half a second and you’ll spend your first mothers day breakfast walking around the restaurant trying to find your baby’s shoe because you spent too much money on a tiny pair of shoes to just let them get lost the first time they are worn. No? Just me? lol There is a very specific kind of shoe that I actually do love and they stay on your baby’s feet! Those shoes are Freshly Picked Moccs! If you want to put shoes on your not-yet-walking baby, these are the shoes for you. Add them to that registry!

My Pick: Freshly Picked Baby Bootie

28. Activity Play Mat

Activity mats are so great for those daily tummy time sessions. Of course, you really only need to put a blanket down on the floor and that will suffice for tummy time. However, play mats are specifically designed to stimulate your baby’s senses and get their little brains working.

My Pick: Lovevery play gym

29. Soother Stuffed Animal

Lily’s favorite thing in the whole world is her “Bunny”. It’s the sweetest little pink half stuffed animal and half blanket. She can’t sleep without it and just hugs and kisses it all day. It’s beyond adorable. I received it as a gift before she was even born and it’s one of those things we will probably keep forever.

My Pick: Jellycat bunny soother

30. Blankets

I have a bin full of all the blankets I received as gifts at my baby shower. I originally thought having that many blankets were totally unnecessary, but we use them all the time. I feel like if you’re having your baby in the fall or winter you’re going to want a lot of cozy blankets. And even though Lily is 14 months old now, we still use them and she loves playing with them as well.

My Pick: Little Giraffe baby blanket

31. Thermometer

This is definitely a must-have item for your registry. My only suggestion here is to register for a combo set. At different ages and during different circumstances your going to need different types of thermometers. When taking a newborns temperature it’s most accurate to use a rectal thermometer. When they get older you can start using the ear thermometer. However, if you suspect an ear infection it’s best to use a temporal or under the tongue thermometer. Basically, you’re going to want to have all the options on hand. So you can either register for one of each or find a combo set.

My Pick: Fridababy 3-in-1 thermometer

32. Humidifier

I still don’t own a humidifier and each time Lily gets a little congested I regret not having one. Having a humidifier is a must-have if you are bringing home your baby in the fall or winter and planning on turning the heater on!

My Pick: Fridababy humidifier

33. Nasal Aspirator

Newborns and infants do a lot of breathing through their noses before they start using their mouths to breathe as well. So it’s our job as parents to make sure their little noses are all clear so they can breathe easily. I had a horrible experience with using a bulb syringe and I am so grateful I found the NoseFrida Snotsucker. That thing is a game-changer and the only nasal aspirator I would ever recommend.

My Pick: Nosefrida snotsucker

34. Diapers

What kind of baby registry list would this be if I didn’t include diapers? Arguably the most essential baby must have out there. My tip is to register for all diaper sizes because you’re going to need every size eventually, so why not start stocking up right away. If you plan on going the cloth diaper route, then you still need to register for the cloth diapers and all that goes with cloth diapering.

My Pick: Bambo Nature diapers

35. Wipes

Of course, you need wipes too! Another essential you should start stocking up on immediately. You will go through wipes like nobody’s business and you will be so grateful to have a large stash on hand. 

My Pick: Honest Baby Wipes

36. Car Seat

A car seat is another obvious item on this list, but I thought I would give you some specific suggestions considering there are so many brands to choose from. I love all the Nuna products. They are all GREENGUARD Gold Certified, so you can be sure they don’t contain any toxic chemicals that could harm your baby. They are on the higher end price-wise, but I think they are definitely worth it.

My Pick: Nuna Pipa rx infant car seat, Nuna Rava Convertible Car Seat

37. Stroller

The Nuna Stroller is so versatile and stylish. I wish I knew it existed when I was creating my registry because it is such a nice stroller. It is a travel system that is compatible with a bassinet and infant car seat.

My Pick: Nuna Mixx Next Stroller

Summery

Obviously, you won’t get everything you put on your baby registry. But hopefully, this list helped you figure out what you should definitely add to it! Also, if you sign up for an Amazon Baby Registry, you get 10-15% off the unpurchased items on your list!