45 Baby Registry Must Haves
If there's one thing you learn quickly about being a mom, it's that babies sure do need a lot of stuff!
And then you start to think to yourself: "Ok, but what are the real baby registry must-have items?"
Personally, I found that creating my registry was pretty damn stressful. I spent so much time researching each item and felt compelled to have every and any baby-related item!
I’d be a bad mom if I didn’t do that, right? (insert laugh here). Before I knew it, my registry was 10 pages long!
Yes, things got utterly out of control and my husband could barely pry me away from the computer because I was monitoring my list so often!
When you're registering for your shower, I highly recommend going with Amazon—they generally have the best selection, the best prices, and the easiest to use website!
And while I got pretty much everything I asked for after my shower rolled around, I found that some items just were not a “must have”.
Shocker, right?
So, allow me to take the guesswork and stress out of it all for you. No researching, no wondering—just the honest truth!
Here are the 45 registry must have items that you need to put on your list!
Nursery Gear
Baby Crib
babyletto Hudson 3-in-1
For your baby’s crib, I recommend Babyletto’s Hudson 3 in 1 crib (click here to check the price on Amazon). It’s beautiful, it converts from a crib to a toddler bed, so it’s the only crib you’ll need. And, it’s Greenguard Gold certified, so it’s made from safe materials. The New Zealand based company prides itself on the use of its self-sustainable pine wood, so you know it is sturdy as well!
Check out our full guide on the best baby cribs.
Crib Mattress
Moonlight Slumber Little Dreamer
Moonlight Slumber’s Little Dreamer Mattress (click here to check the price on Amazon) is my favorite. It is very firm and fits the Babyletto crib perfectly. Plus, it’s totally waterproof, so it’s ready to take on accidents. It is Greenguard Gold certified, so you can be sure it’s safe. You need this foam mattress because you want to ensure your little angel is sleeping on something firm to reduce the risk of SIDS.
Check out our full guide on the best crib mattresses.
Changing Pad
Summer Infant Contoured
You're going to need a changing pad to put on top of your changing table. A pad can also be moved from room to room with ease. So, your baby can always be supported and comfortable for every diaper change. Summer Infant’s changing pad (click here to check the price on Amazon) can be wiped clean with ease and has a non-skid pad so it stays firmly in place (when your little one doesn’t).
Check out our full guide on the best changing pads.
Changing Table
Delta Children Eclipse
Delta Children’s Elipse changing table (click here to check the price on Amazon) is a great option for a diaper changing station. It will accommodate a changing pad and also hold plenty of diapers, wipes, and other baby essentials like nail trimmers, blankets, and diaper rash cream. I like how it has a protective rail to keep your baby safe, and it’s streamlined design and neutral color make it perfect for any nursery.
Check out our full guide on the best changing tables.
Nursery Glider
Baby Relax Mikayla
You need a glider in your nursery to help make you comfortable during feeding times. It also is great to keep in a nursery for when your baby grows and is ready to listen to stories before bed. The Baby Relax glider (click here to check the price on Amazon) is ultra-comfortable and it can swivel and recline. It’s microfiber fabric is easy to clean as well!
Check out our full guide on the best nursery gliders.
Crib Sheets
Ely's & Co.
You need a few crib sheets to line your crib mattress with. Go for a Jersey cotton set like Ely and Co. (click here to check the price on Amazon) These sheets are soft and breathable. Jersey cotton also tends to get softer with every wash, so you can ensure your baby’s comfort at all time.
Swaddle Blanket
Ziggy Baby
Swaddle blankets are a definite must. They have multiple purposes. They can be used to wrap your baby up to keep them warm and cozy while in their swing or as you feed them. They can even sleep swaddled up in a blanket. These blankets also make great burp cloths and mats if you need to change your baby on the go. They are soft and washable. My favorite are the Ziggy Muslin blankets (click here to check the price on Amazon) because they get softer with every wash.
Check out our full guide on the best swaddle blankets.
Sleep Sack
HALO
A sleep sack is similar to a swaddle blanket. It also helps babies sleep right off the bat. My favorite is the Halo Sleepsack (click here to check the price on Amazon). It surrounds the baby and limits their movements so they don’t involuntarily wake up, and it also keeps them feeling snug and secure like the womb. This sleepsack is washable and super easy to use.
Humidifier
Pure Enrichment
A humidifier is also a smart registry item. Ultrasonic’s Cool Mist Humidifier (click here to check the price on Amazon) keeps your nursery’s air moist and fresh. It also has a built in night light, and omits safe, cool mist. It’s whisper quiet, and is easy to fill and maintain.
Check out our full guide on the best humidifiers.
Sound Machine
Marpac
The womb is a noisy place. So, when you place a baby in a quiet nursery, the silence can be scary. A sound machine helps soothe your baby to sleep and brings them peace and comfort. I like Marpac Dohm’s all natural sound machine (click here to check the price on Amazon). It’s compact and it creates the sound of rushing air-similar to the womb.
Check out our full guide on the best sound machines.
Baby Monitor
Nest Cam
You need a baby monitor so you can ensure your baby’s safety at all times. Nest Cam (click here to check the price on Amazon) provides not just sound but a video image. You can also talk to your baby through it and it has an awesome night vision mode. It’s also quick and easy to set up, and it even has it’s own app.
Check out our full guide on the best baby monitors.
Bassinet
HALO
A bassinet is a must because you won’t put your baby in their crib at first. They will be next to you in your bedroom for not just ease of feeding, but to keep a close eye on them due to SIDS. The Halo Bassinest (click here to check the price on Amazon) is great because it swivels, so you can turn it without getting out of bed. It’s height can also be adjusted, and it has a mesh surround, so you ensure enough air flow gets through and you can easily see your baby.
Check out our full guide on the best bassinets.
Baby Lounger
Dock-A-Tot
The Dock-A-Tot (click here to check the price on Amazon) is basically a baby positioner. It keeps your baby nested into a little space, safely. It’s similar to a bassinet and crib, but more lightweight and portable. Plus, you can put it in bed with you if you wish to co-sleep for the first few weeks of your baby’s life.
Crib Mobile
Fisher-Price Precious Planet
All cribs need a mobile! It help soothe your little one and get them off to sleep. This Fisher Price Precious Planet Mobile (click here to check the price on Amazon) is awesome because it can be clipped on your crib anywhere, it plays soothing sounds, and it projects images!
Check out our full guide on the best crib mobiles.
Baby Night Light
Skip Hop Moonlight and Melodies
Babies feel more comfortable and confident when they have some subtle light in the nursery. So, a baby night light is just what you need. Skip Hop’s Moonlight and Medlodies (click here to check the price on Amazon) is in the adorable shape of an owl. It glows, or it can project starts on the the wall or ceiling while playing soft music in the background.
Check out our full guide on the best baby night lights.
Baby Travel
Infant Car Seat
Chicco Keyfit 30
Chicco Keyfit 30 infant car seat and base (click here to check the price on Amazon) is a fabulous item. It is designed to hold and carry a newborn and up to a 30 pound baby. It has high safety ratings and is easy to operate. All you have to do is snap the seat into the base when you come and go from the car to your destination.
Check out our full guide on the best infant car seats.
Convertible Car Seat
Graco Contender 65
A convertible car seat is designed for bigger babies (30 pounds and up). It can sit rear facing or front facing based on your baby’s age and measurements. Graco is a great brand that you can rely on and their Graco Contender 65 (click here to check the price on Amazon) has been impact tested and is latch accessible.
Lightweight Stroller
Summer Infant 3Dlite
A lightweight stroller is great to store in your car. It allows you to push your baby around virtually anywhere, and it’s so lightweight and compact; it’s easy to travel with and handle. Summer Infant’s 3DLite (click here to check the price on Amazon) has all the bells and whistles, from a sun visor to a padded seat.
Traditional Stroller
UPPAbaby Vista
You need a traditional stroller to take our baby on walks around your neighborhood and for more support when your baby is still in that infant stage. Uppababy’s Vista Stroller (click here to check the price on Amazon) adapts to your baby’s age and stage and even includes a bassinet when you’re away from home. It offers a smooth, comfortable ride with lots of storage space as well.
Stroller Organizer
Ethan & Emma
I love this stroller organizer from Ethan & Emma (click here to check the price on Amazon) because it just makes life easier. It fits a variety of strollers and instantly adds more storage space for your cellphone, cash, keys, and drinks. It also keeps your stuff snugly in place, instead of wobbling around as you walk or run.
Check out our full guide on the best stroller organizers.
Baby Carrier
Baby Tula Explore Baby Carrier
The Baby Tula Explore Baby Carrier (click here to check the price on Amazon) is a nice front facing body carrier. It goes on the front of your body, and your baby can face either you or away from you.
It’s made with an innovative design that allows you to adjust the width of it, so it can keep up with your baby is it grows.
This carrier is made with breathable and lightweight cotton, which makes it comfortable for parents to wear and comfy for babies to be in too. It even comes with some padding for extra comfort, both for you and the baby.
Check out our full guide on the best baby carriers.
Diaper Bag
Mommore Large Diaper Bag
The Mommore Large Diaper Bag is the perfect option to go with if you need a stylish and good looking diaper bag, one that not only looks the part, but is highly functional too. It comes complete with handles that are comfortable to hold. Moreover, it comes complete with a decent little changing pad too. In case you are wondering about capacity, it features 10 large pockets in the main compartment, as well as 2 side pockets for baby bottles and other such necessities.
Check out our full guide on the best diaper bags.
Play Time
Baby Swing
Fisher-Price My Little Snugabear
You need a baby swing because it can rock your little one to sleep and serve as a safe place to put them if you need to cook dinner or do laundry. Fisher Price’s My Little Snuggabear swing (click here to check the price on Amazon) plays soothing songs and has different speed settings. Plus, it’s little dangling creatures are awfully cute.
Check out our full guide on the best baby swings.
Bouncer
BabyBjörn Balance Soft
A bouncer is great because it's portable yet secure. So, it will safely contain your baby as they nap or watch you shower or prepare for the day. They travel well and are also great for outdoor use. My favorite is designed by Baby Bjorn (click here to check the price on Amazon). Plus, it’s super soft and it has a sleek, supportive design.
Check out our full guide on the best baby bouncers.
Playard
Summer Infant Pop N' Play
Moms need a play yard to contain their baby who is able to crawl or toddle around. Summer Infant has a great portable play yard (click here to check the price on Amazon) that can be stationed in your home, or moved outdoors. Either way, the play yard ensures safety and encourages independent play and quiet time.
Playmat
Fisher-Price Rainforest Melodies
You need an activity mat to help your baby explore their surroundings and to promote tummy time. An activity mat (also called gym) is loaded with textures, items, lights, and noises. I like Fisher Price’s Rainforest Melody Mat (click here to check the price on Amazon). It is machine washable and has 10 activities for babies. Plus, it’s a cinch to set up and move if needed.
Check out our full guide on the best baby play mats.
Jumper
Baby Einstein Activity Jumper
A jumper helps strengthen legs and allows babies to explore their surroundings in a unique way. The Baby Einstein Neighborhood jumper (click here to check the price on Amazon) keeps your baby in place but allows them to have fun in a safe way. It’s easy to store away and can be moved outdoors with ease. It’s legs are also adjustable, so it will grow when your baby does.
Check out our full guide on the best baby jumpers.
Floor Seat
Bumbo
I really like Bumbo’s baby floor seat (click here to check the price on Amazon). It props babies up and provides enough support to their bodies when they aren’t fully ready to support themselves. It can be used as a portable high chair. Add a lid to it for an instant activity center.
Check out our full guide on the best baby floor seats.
Feeding Time
Breast Pump
Medela Pump in Style Advanced
A breast pump is a must if you’re nursing. It allows you to stockpile your milk, and others can join in on feeding sessions. Medela's Pump in style Advanced (click here to check the price on Amazon) is a favorite among many moms. It’s designed for daily use and it’s electric, so you don’t have to be bothered with a lot of effort. It has a double design and it has built in bottle holders to prevent spills. It comes with a handy battery pack so you can pump anytime and anyplace. I also love it’s cooler bag that lets you tote your milk safely on the go.
Nursing Pillow
Boppy
You need a nursing pillow to help you and your baby into a comfortable position when feeding. The Boppy pillow (click here to check the price on Amazon) keeps a baby secure and in place, and allows you to position your little one perfectly, allowing you to be supremely comfortable as well. The Boppy also serves as a great pillow when your baby is on the couch or floor with you.
Check out our full guide on the best nursing pillows.
Bottles
Dr. Brown's
Bottles are a must because it allows you to formula feed, or place your pumped breast milk in it. Dr. Brown’s newborn feeding set (click here to check the price on Amazon) has all the bottles you need—from small to large, and an assortment of nipple flows to accommodate your baby as it grows. It also comes with a cleaning brush since Dr. Brown bottles have several parts. The bottles are great for reducing spit up and gas, which many babies suffer from.
Check out our full guide on the best baby bottles for gas.
Bottle Warmer
Dr. Brown's
Dr. Brown’s bottle warmer (click here to check the price on Amazon) helps warm up expressed milk or formula to the perfect temperature. Formula or breastmilk that has been kept in the fridge can be too cool for babies. The bottle warmer heats it just right. It has several settings and can even be used to warm jarred baby food once your little one begins to eat solids.
Check out our full guide on the best bottle warmers.
Bibs
Happy Healthy Parent
You’ll go through a lot of bibs with your baby! But, it is wise to invest in a silicone set. Happy Healthy Parent’s bibs (click here to check the price on Amazon) are reusable. So, simply wipe them down and let them dry. There’s no need to toss them in the wash or wait for them to dry. They have adjustable tabs and even a pocket to catch larger chunks of food!
Teether
Manhattan Toy Winkel Rattle
Your baby is going to cut teeth, so you want to make the process as pain-free as possible. Manhattan Toy’s teether and rattle (click here to check the price on Amazon) provides your baby with plenty of comfort and stimulation. With lots of sides to hold on to, your baby can bite, suck, and chew on the toy. They can shake it, toss it, and even roll it, making it a great tummy time item as well.
Check out our full guide on the best baby teethers.
High Chair
4moms
A high chair is a must because it holds your baby securely in while they learn to eat. High chairs also serve as activity centers while you’re cooking or exposing your baby to different toys. 4Moms high chair (click here to check the price on Amazon) is awesome because it’s easy to clean, it has a magnetic tray attachment, and it can be adjusted to 3 height or tray positions.
Check out our full guide on the best baby high chairs.
Baby Food Maker
Baby Brezza
You’ll need a baby food maker if you’re planning on making organic meals for your baby. The Baby Brezza food maker (click here to check the price on Amazon) is ideal because it is compact but powerful. It allows you to add your ingredients and set the steam time. That’s it! It’s easy to transfer and clean as well.
Check out our full guide on the best baby food makers.
Sippy Cup
NUK Fashion Cup
You’ll need a sippy cup to help wean your baby off their bottle. Nuk’s cup (click here to check the price on Amazon) is great for drink training. It has wide, large handles that are easy to grip and that can be removed once your baby is older. It’s made of safe materials and can be tossed in the dishwasher for easy cleaning.
Check out our full guide on how to choose the best sippy cup.
Baby Health
Diapers
Pampers Swaddlers
Diapers, diapers, and more diapers are what you’ll need for the next 2-3 years of your life! I recommend Pamper’s Swaddlers (click here to check the price on Amazon). They are ultra-absorbent and they provide a comfortable fit around a newborn’s delicate belly. They also have a wetness indicator that shows when your baby needs a change.
Check out our full guide on how to get cheap diapers.
Baby Wipes
Seventh Generation
Seventh Generation’s Free and Clear baby wipes (click here to check the price on Amazon) are also a must. You need to clean up messes daily, so you should invest in wipes that do so effectively, gently, and safely. The wipes contain no chemicals and are perfect for babies with skin sensitivities or allergies.
Check out our full guide on the best baby wipes.
Diaper Pail
Ubbi
You need a diaper pail to contain wet and poop diapers! After all, you aren’t going to be running outside after every diaper change because you’ll be changing diapers very frequently. A good pail, like the Ubbi (click here to check the price on Amazon), helps eliminate odor and stockpiles dirty diapers so you can take them out in one trip.
Check out our full guide on the best diaper pails.
Wipe Warmer
Munchkin
A wipe warmer is nice to use at night, but can be used anytime to give your baby a pampered experience. The Munchkin Mist Warmer (click here to check the price on Amazon) heats cold wipes well without over drying. It automatically mists wipes each time its lid is opened. And, it can hold about 100 wipes at a time!
Check out our full guide on the best wipe warmers.
Baby Bathtub
The First Years Sure Comfort
You need a baby bathtub because you won’t be able to give your little one a regular bath until they can fully sit up and support themself. A baby tub like The First Years (click here to check the price on Amazon) has an adjustable net so you can do a sponge bath for your newborn, or fill it with a shallow amount of water so your baby can get used to the bathing process without being fully submerged and while supported.
Check out our full guide on the best baby bathtubs.
Baby Grooming Kit
Summer Infant Complete Nursery Care Kit
Much like shampoo, you can’t just use any nail clippers or brushes on your baby. You need something very small and very gentle to accommodate their delicate forms. Summer Infant’s grooming kit (click here to check the price on Amazon) is loaded with everything you need to promote proper health and hygiene of your baby.
Baby Thermometer
Amplim Hospital Medical Grade Digital Infrared Forehead & Ear Thermometer
One great registry gift that you can get for any mommy or daddy is a thermometer such as this Amplim Hospital Medical Grade Digital Infrared Forehead & Ear Thermometer (click here to check the price on Amazon).
This is a simple yet effective digital thermometer, one that provides very accurate readings. It can be used to read the temperature of your baby via its ears or forehead.
The Amplim Thermometer is small and compact, so it is easy to use with a single hand, while you hold your baby with the other hand. It even comes with a 30 day money back guarantee.
Check out our full guide on the best baby thermometers.
Nasal Aspirator
NoseFrida The Snotsucker
Babies can get some nasty colds. And, there’s not much you can do for them except let the cold run it’s course. However, having a nasal aspirator on hand can help. NoseFrida’s aspirator device (click here to check the price on Amazon) is highly effective and works on your own sucking power! All parts are hygienic and the device is dishwasher safe.
Check out our full guide on the best nasal aspirators.
Babies sure need a lot of stuff!
But, all items on this list are hands down baby registry must-haves.
All the products mentioned are favorites among parents and are safe, high quality items that have gotten years of use.
Outfits and toys are nice to put on registries, but these 45 items should definitely be there to help ensure your adventure into parenthood starts smoothly.