The Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist from Parents Who Wish They Could Redo Theirs

As excited new parents, you probably didn’t think you were going to need a baby shower guide. But planning a baby registry can feel a bit overwhelming, especially for first-time parents — surely, you’re going to need a lot of things, but which ones should you include? To help you avoid common pitfalls and create a practical and useful registry, here are some tips and the top baby registry must-haves vetted by parents who’ve already lived to tell the tale.

Things to consider for your checklist as first-time parents

Here are some tips to help you decide what to add to your baby registry:

Remember that the baby’s going to grow … and they’re going to grow quickly

As with any sort of planning, you have to think long-term. Choose items that will be useful beyond the first few months. Consider items that can adapt to different stages of your baby’s development, such as convertible cribs or high chairs.

Consider secondhand and borrowed items

Because babies quickly outgrow their things, consider asking friends or family for gently used baby gear. Items like swings, bouncers, and bassinets are often only used for a short time, so borrowing or buying pre-loved items can save money and reduce waste.

Choose a variety of price points

Include items at different price ranges to accommodate guests with various budgets. Some guests may prefer to pool their resources and purchase a more substantial gift together.

It doesn’t all have to be stuff; you can also register for experiences and services

When you think of baby showers, you immediately think diapers, swaddling blankets, and nipple creams — but there are also other essentials in the form of experiences and services. These include prenatal classes, photography sessions, pre- and postpartum support services, and professional cleaning right in time for the baby’s arrival.

Gift cards and cash funds will also be really helpful

If there are specific items you need but couldn’t find on your registry, consider adding gift cards or cash funds. This gives you the flexibility to purchase what you need later on.

You can direct all future cash gifts into an interest-earning savings account, and use it for the baby’s needs in the near future. If you want to build something more long-term, like a college fund, you can invest the cash in UITFs and grow the money as your child grows.

Baby registry essentials

Naturally, you want to give your guests options for what to bring to your baby shower. Here are things you’ll surely need once your baby arrives, and which you should include in your registry:

• Diaper essentials — you don’t know which type of diaper your baby will need, but you can register for newborn diapers, a diaper pail, diaper bag, diaper cream, and baby wipes.
• Baby clothes — include a range of sizes, as babies grow fast.
• Blankets and Cloths — include swaddling blankets and burp cloths, which you’ll need a lot of.
• Bottles and formula — if you plan to bottle-feed, register for different types of bottles and nipples.
• Breastfeeding supplies — nursing bras, breast pads, a breast pump, and milk storage containers.
• Baby bathtub — look for one with a newborn sling and adjustable features.
• Baby monitor — choose a reliable monitor with good range and video/audio capabilities.
• Car seat — make sure it meets safety standards and is suitable for your vehicle.
• Stroller — consider your lifestyle and terrain when selecting a stroller.
• High chair — look for one that is easy to clean and adjust as your baby grows.
• Medical supplies — thermometer, suction bulb, baby-safe nail trimmer.

Ready to start planning your baby registry?

Make organizing your baby shower easier by using our baby registry checklist. Remember that this occasion is meant to make your life as new parents much easier, but the best gifts are the ones that grow with your baby — so make sure you think long-term! Check out Earnest to learn more about how investing in UITFs can help secure your baby’s future.