If you’ve stumbled upon this baby registry checklist, chances are you’re amid motherhood or expecting your little bundle of joy. Bringing new life into the world comes with many responsibilities, long to-do lists, and a never-ending baby shopping list. It can be an overwhelming few months with all there is on your mind to do. One way to lighten your load is to prepare a baby registry before you give birth, preferably as far in advance as possible. This will help you compile a variety of baby essentials, from bathing to transportation, feeding, and more. Here, we’ll discuss a the ultimate baby registry checklist you can use to ensure you don’t forget anything.
What is a baby registry?
A baby registry is a modern-day trend that has become more popular. It is a list of baby products from a retail store of your choice to help prepare for the baby’s arrival. Your baby registry can include anything you’d like, from smaller items like blankets, onesies, thermometers, and bottles to more significant items like a bassinet, travel stroller, etc. Once compiling your list of baby items, you can share the baby registry with family and friends. It’s up to you how many stores you build registries with—or you may use a universal baby registry that consolidates products from multiple stores into a single list.
When is the best time to begin a baby registry?
While this is optional, it is best to begin working on your registry about 12 weeks into the pregnancy. It can seem early to some, but building a registry is not simple. It takes time and work to choose all the relevant items and ensure you have all the essentials added to be sent out to your loved ones. Additionally, you may want to research specific items before adding them to the registry. Remember that if you’re waiting to find out the baby’s gender, hold off on adding items like blankets and onesies, as the gender could influence the designs you choose.
Once the registry is sent to your friends and family, it will take them some time to choose the perfect item for the baby. The earlier you get on top of the registry, the more time your guests will have to make the right decision.
Baby Registry Stores
There are many baby registry stores to choose from, but let’s discuss some of the most common ones.
Amazon
Amazon is an excellent choice for those with friends and family in several places around the world because it is universal.
Crate and Kids
Crate and Kids specializes in nursery design and stands out for its free services. Additionally, they offer a 10% registry completion discount, which makes it an easy choice for many parents.
Target
Target sells various baby-related items, such as cribs, strollers, clothes, diapers, and wipes. It also has nursery furniture and postpartum items.
Pottery Barn Kids
Pottery Barn Kids adds a stylish touch to nursery décor. They specialize in personalization, such as adding names or other special touches to specific items.
Baby Registry Category Checklist
Choosing items for your baby registry can be overwhelming, as the necessary items can seem endless. Breaking it down into big categories can help.
Nursery – Start from the nursery and jot down the more oversized essential items, such as a crib, a mattress, and everything necessary for the crib: sheets, blankets, a crib bumper, stuffed animals, etc. Think of a rocking chair, a cute carpet, a changing table, or anything else you’d like to include in your nursery.
On the Go – You can also add to your registry all the items related to baby transportation, such as a car seat, a stroller, a baby carrier/wrap, a diaper bag, etc.
Feeding – Bottles, pacifiers, and a breast pump are a must. Think further, like bibs, burp clothes, baby spoons, bowls and plates for when they start solids. Although solids are a little further down the road .. why not be prepared beforehand?
Diapering – Diapers, wipes, and diaper creams are something you’ll need tons of. Think of disposable changing pads, swim diapers, etc.
Bathing – Bath necessities include bathtubs, bath thermometers, baby soap, baby towel, hair brush, and lotion.
Clothing – Don’t go overboard with clothes. Newborns grow too quickly, and you’ll buy new clothes very often. Stick to the basics, such as bodysuits, hats, etc.
Playroom – Add some newborn-friendly toys, a mobile, a play mat and more.
Baby Gear – A bouncer or swing, a baby seat, a playpen, a highchair, etc.
Closing Thoughts – Baby Registry Checklist
Preparing your baby registry can be a daunting but exciting task. A baby registry is one of the main actions you will be taking before the arrival of your little one. Throughout this article, we reviewed some common stores with baby registry options. However, there are many options out there. Additionally, since it can be overwhelming to think of all the necessary items, we broke it down into main categories. When setting up your baby registry, refer to this article to choose the relevant items according to category to ensure you don’t miss any essential items.
Can postpartum items also be added to a registry?
Of course, friends and family would also love to spoil the baby mama. Don’t hesitate to add some postpartum items, such as postpartum diapers, comfy pyjamas, or nipple cream.
Should oversized items also be part of a registry?
Yes, large items are great for close family members interested in contributing to a larger gift. However, everyone has a different budget, so ensure you’re reaching various price points.
What is the total amount of items that should be on a registry?
The number of registry items recommended varies from 25 to 50 at various price points.
When should I send out my baby registry?
If you plan on having a baby shower, your baby registry should be sent out along with the invitations. However, if not, sending it out close to the third trimester is best but working on it way before, as it takes time.
