Essential Baby Registry Checklist

If you have a little one on the way, your home may already be filled with supplies. Sure, everyone knows newborns need the basic items like diapers and a crib to sleep in, but there are plenty of other things that you might have not even considered. To help, we’ve compiled your essential baby registry checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything:

For the nursery

Both you and the baby will be spending a great deal of time in this room, so you need to make sure it’s stacked with supplies. As we mentioned before, the perfect crib is your No. 1 priority. Even if you plan to cosleep or bedshare with the baby, your little one still needs a place to rest. Throughout your newborn’s first month, he or she will go through about 320 diapers! That means the nursery will also need a changing table to make this process easier on both the parents and the infant. You’re also going to need a place for all those dirty diapers to go. Add a diaper genie to your list: This bin allows you to dispose of the diapers without any lingering smell in the room.

For your baby

Your little one is going to need plenty of practical and entertaining items through his or her early years. Be sure to register for clothing to cover all of your local seasons and climates. Don’t forget about accessories, either. Your little one is going to need a hat for summer and winter. Here is what kind of baby clothing you will need:

• One-piece outfits.
• Shirts.
• Pants.
• Pajamas.
• Socks and booties.
• Hats and outerwear.

This is also where hand-me-downs come into play. Encourage your baby shower friends and guests to gift any old baby attire they might have. Believe us, you’ll be doing them a favor!

Just because your little one has a cute pair of pajamas doesn’t mean she or he will sleep soundly. Be sure to include sleeping aids on your registry such as a swaddling blanket, noise machine, nightlight and rocking chair that you both could use.

For mom

Not all of your baby registry has to be solely for your little one. There are plenty of things mom needs, as well. If you plan on breastfeeding, you’re going to need all the products and accessories to make the process easier, such as a breast pump and nursing bra.

Plus, you might need to change up your everyday accessories. Do some research, and find yourself a good diaper bag. You’re going to need something that holds everything from diapers to wipes to bottles to your own personal items.

For both

There are some gifts that will benefit both the parents and the baby. If you don’t have a car seat or stroller, add this to your registry. Be sure the car seat you choose fits in your vehicle. Another helpful device? A baby monitor. This technology allows the parents to keep an eye (and an ear) on their little one when he or she is sleeping.