Baby Registry Must-Haves: What to Put on a Baby Registry

What Is a Baby Registry and Why Do You Need One?

Making a baby registry is one of the most exciting—and occasionally overwhelming—tasks when you're expecting a new arrival. But it’s more than just a wishlist. A baby registry is a practical tool that helps you organize what you’ll need, avoid duplicates, and guide friends and family toward items you’ll actually use. From everyday essentials like diapers and bottles to big-ticket items like strollers and cribs, a well-planned registry can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

Still, figuring out what to put on a baby registry, how many items to include, or even when to start can leave new parents with more questions than answers. And if you're trying to get your partner involved or wondering what’s truly necessary versus what sounds good in theory, you're not alone.

This guide covers everything you need to know about making a baby registry, including the must-haves, the don’t-bothers, etiquette tips, and even how to turn it into a team effort with your partner. Whether you're prepping for a traditional baby shower or just trying to stay organized, consider this your roadmap to building a registry that works for your family.

When Should I Start a Baby Registry?

A common question for first-time parents is: when should I start a baby registry? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, most parents begin creating theirs between 12 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. This window gives you enough time to research products, make thoughtful decisions, and take advantage of any sales or registry completion discounts offered by major retailers.

Starting early also means you’ll have plenty of time to adjust your list as your needs and preferences evolve. You don’t have to finish everything at once—consider it a living document you can build gradually. If you’re planning to have a baby shower, aim to have your registry mostly finalized by week 28, so guests have time to shop before the invitations go out.

And don’t worry if you’re starting later than that—many registries can be created and shared digitally in just a few hours. The key is to focus on the baby registry must-haves first, then fill in the nice-to-haves as you go.

Pro Tip: Some retailers let you keep your registry private until you’re ready to share it, so you can start early without feeling pressure to make it public right away.

How Many Items Should Be on a Baby Registry?

If you’re staring at a blank baby registry wondering how long the list should be, you’re not alone. So, how many items should be on a baby registry? A good rule of thumb is to aim for 80 to 120 items, depending on your lifestyle, budget, and whether this is your first baby.

This number includes everyday essentials like diapers and wipes, plus larger items like a crib or car seat, and helpful tools like bottle sterilizers or nursing gear. You’ll want a mix of affordable gifts, group-gifting options for big-ticket items, and a range of price points so that friends and family can contribute in ways that work for them.

Break your list into categories—feeding, diapering, sleep, travel, health & safety, clothes, and play—and then add a few “nice-to-have” extras like baby books or keepsakes. Just remember: more isn’t always better. A focused list helps ensure you get what you’ll actually use, rather than being overwhelmed with duplicates or items you’ll never take out of the box.

Pro Tip: Use a checklist (many registry platforms offer built-in ones) to guide your selections, but don’t feel pressured to add items you don’t really want. Less clutter now means less stress later.

What to Put on a Baby Registry: Must-Have Categories

Wondering what to put on a baby registry without going overboard? Start by focusing on the essentials: items you’ll use daily in the first 6 to 12 months. A well-balanced baby registry covers all the key areas of newborn care, from sleep and feeding to diapering and travel. Here’s a breakdown of baby registry must-haves by category:

1. Nursery Essentials

• Crib or bassinet

• Waterproof mattress + 2–3 fitted sheets

• Swaddles and sleep sacks

• Baby monitor

• Nightlight or sound machine
  

2. Feeding Supplies

Whether you're breastfeeding, formula-feeding, or combo feeding, you'll need:

• Bottles (4–8 to start) + nipples in various flow rates

• Bottle brush and drying rack

• Nursing pillow and breast pads

• Bottle sterilizer or Baby Brezza Bottle Washer Pro for convenience

• Baby Brezza Formula Pro if using formula

• Bibs, burp cloths, and high chair (for later months)

3. Diapering Gear

• Diapers in newborn and size 1

• Unscented wipes

• Diaper rash cream

• Portable changing pad or mat

• Diaper pail + refill bags

4. Bath & Baby Health

• Infant tub or sink insert

• Baby shampoo, body wash, and lotion

• Soft hooded towels and washcloths

• Nail clippers or baby grooming kit

• Digital thermometer

5. Travel & On-the-Go

• Infant car seat (must-have from day one)

• Stroller (travel system or compact)

• Baby carrier or wrap

• Diaper bag with multiple compartments

• Portable white noise or blackout shades (for travel sleep)

6. Clothing Basics

• 6-10 onesies

• 4-6 sleepers or footed pajamas

• 2-4 hats and pairs of mittens

• Socks and booties

• Seasonal layers (like a bunting suit or sun hat)

7. Soothing & Playtime

• Pacifiers (2-3 to test which your baby prefers)

• Play mat or baby gym

• Board books and soft toys

• Bouncer or swing
  

You don’t need to check off every item all at once, but covering these categories ensures you’re well-equipped without feeling overloaded. Start with the items you’ll use right away, then add others as needed. And remember: many baby registry platforms let you update your list as you go, so don’t worry if you’re not 100% sure what you’ll want on day one.

Pro Tip: Include a few postpartum care items for yourself—nursing bras, peri bottles, or sitz bath soaks can make your recovery smoother and more comfortable.

Baby Shower Gift Registry Ideas

Creating a baby registry isn’t just about stocking up on diapers and bottles; it’s also about giving your friends and family a chance to celebrate you with thoughtful, meaningful gifts. If you’re prepping for a shower, it’s helpful to include a range of baby shower gift registry ideas that are both practical and fun to give.

Mix Essentials with “Gifter-Friendly” Items

While you’ll definitely want to include must-haves for your baby registry, sprinkle in a few crowd-pleasers that guests will love picking out. Think:

• Adorable outfits in multiple sizes

• Personalized baby blankets or keepsakes

• First books or toy bundles

• Memory books or milestone photo props

These are the kinds of gifts people enjoy giving, and they make for great baby shower moments, too.

Include Group Gift Options

Larger items like a stroller, glider, crib, or Baby Brezza Formula Pro can be pricey, but many registry platforms allow group gifting, where multiple guests can chip in toward a big-ticket purchase. If you’re open to it, it’s a great way to get those essential investment pieces without putting pressure on any one person.

Don’t Forget Yourself

Postpartum comfort items like cozy robes, nipple cream, nursing bras, and even meal delivery gift cards make excellent additions to your registry and help people support you as well as the baby.

Offer Variety in Price Points

Make sure your registry includes plenty of lower-priced options like pacifiers, books, or burp cloths, as well as mid-range and higher-end items. This ensures that every guest can find something that suits their budget without feeling limited.

Pro Tip: Label items as “most needed” or “top priority” if your platform allows it—this helps guide guests toward the things you truly need most.

Unnecessary Baby Registry Items to Skip

When making a baby registry, it's easy to get swept up in the endless lists of "must-haves." But not everything marketed to new parents is actually useful. In fact, many items end up collecting dust or getting donated after just a few weeks. To keep your list focused (and your storage space sane), here are a few unnecessary baby registry items you can skip without regret.

1. Wipe Warmers

They sound luxurious, but most babies don’t mind a room-temp wipe,  and once they’re used to it, they’re just fine. Plus, these gadgets take up space and can dry out wipes if not used properly.

2. Fancy Outfits in Newborn Sizes

Tiny tuxedos and frilly dresses are adorable, but newborns spend most of their time sleeping, spitting up, or needing outfit changes. One or two cute outfits is plenty—go heavy on zippered sleepers and onesies instead.

3. Shoes for Infants

Until your baby is walking, shoes are mostly decorative and often get kicked off. Soft booties or socks are more practical (and comfortable).

4. Too Many Pacifiers or Bottles

Babies can be picky. Buying every brand in advance is risky. Start with a couple of different styles, and once you know what works, stock up.

5. Baby Towels and Washcloth Sets (in excess)

A few hooded towels are great, but you don’t need a dozen. Regular soft towels work just fine, too.

6. Crib Bumpers and Loose Bedding

Not only are these unnecessary, they’re unsafe. According to the AAP, bumpers, blankets, and pillows increase the risk of suffocation and should be avoided in cribs.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, leave it off the list. You can always buy certain items later if you discover a true need, but once the baby arrives, you’ll be grateful for a clutter-free, focused setup.

Baby Registry Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts

Creating a baby registry is incredibly helpful, but like anything involving gifts and expectations, it comes with some unspoken rules. Whether you're planning your first baby shower or sharing your list with friends and family, understanding baby registry etiquette can make the experience smoother for everyone involved.

DO: Share Your Registry Thoughtfully

It’s perfectly appropriate to include your registry on a baby shower invitation (or through your host), but it’s best not to blast it out on social media. Instead, share it directly with close friends and family, or link it on a baby website or shower event page.

DON’T: Pressure Anyone to Buy from It

A registry is a helpful guide, not a shopping requirement. Be gracious whether guests choose items from your list or pick something personal. Express appreciation either way.

DO: Offer a Variety of Price Points

Make sure your registry includes affordable options like pacifiers, bibs, and books, along with mid-range and larger items. This gives every guest a way to contribute without stress.

DON’T: Add Everything You See

Keep your list focused on what you actually need (see our “What to Put on a Baby Registry” and “What to Skip” sections). A well-curated list is easier for guests to navigate and more helpful for you.

DO: Update Your Registry Regularly

If items are purchased, out of stock, or discontinued, update your list to avoid confusion. Some platforms even allow you to hide purchased items automatically.

DON’T: Forget Thank-Yous

Send personalized thank-you notes within a few weeks of receiving gifts. Mention the item and how you plan to use it—your gratitude goes a long way, and it helps strengthen the relationships around you and your baby.

Pro Tip: Many registry sites offer completion discounts after your due date, so even if you don’t receive everything as a gift, you can buy the rest at a discount.

Tips to Get Your Partner Involved in the Baby Registry

Building a baby registry can feel like a solo project, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, getting your partner involved in the baby registry not only makes the process more collaborative, but it also sets the tone for shared parenting decisions down the line. Here are some practical ways to encourage their input without making it feel like a chore.

1. Divide and Conquer by Interest

Assign categories based on what each of you cares most about. Some partners might geek out over choosing the car seat or researching baby monitors, while others might enjoy selecting books, bottles, or clothing. Let them “own” a section, then compare notes together.

2. Make It a Joint Project (Not a To-Do List)

Frame it as something you’re doing together for your baby, not just another errand. Set aside time to browse baby items over coffee or make it part of a weekend nesting ritual. Bonus: in-store registry events can double as a fun date.

3. Use Real-Life Scenarios to Guide Choices

Walk through what a typical day might look like with your newborn and ask your partner: What would make this part easier? Whether it’s prepping a bottle at 3 a.m. (hello, Baby Brezza Formula Pro) or organizing diaper changes, this helps ground the registry in shared goals and expectations.

4. Get Their Opinion on the “Nice-to-Haves”

Once you’ve covered the essentials, bring your partner in to help vet the more optional items, like swings, bouncers, or diaper pails. Their perspective might challenge assumptions or catch things you missed.

5. Encourage Input on Budget and Priorities

If you're trying to stick to a baby budget, decide together which big-ticket items to prioritize or tag for group gifting. Involving your partner in financial decisions reinforces teamwork and avoids surprises later.

Pro Tip: Let your partner veto an item or suggest a “wild card” addition. Giving them agency makes the process more meaningful and might even lead to creative or thoughtful gift ideas you'd never considered.

Build a Baby Registry That Works for You

Making a baby registry is more than checking off a list—it’s about preparing your space, your routine, and your mindset for life with a newborn. By focusing on the essentials, skipping the extras you don’t need, and involving your partner along the way, you’ll create a registry that’s both practical and personal.

Remember: every family’s needs are different. What works for one parent may not work for another, and that’s okay. Use your registry as a flexible tool that evolves with your research, values, and your baby’s arrival timeline.

Need help deciding which time-saving tools belong on your list? From bottle prep to cleaning and feeding gear, Baby Brezza offers smart, parent-friendly solutions designed to lighten your load—so you can focus on what really matters.

Explore top-rated Baby Brezza registry must-haves and make your parenting journey a little easier, starting before baby even arrives.