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Home » Baby Registry Checklist: Everything You Need to Add

Hooray, you have a baby on the way! Whether your at-home pregnancy test revealed the news or you received the call about your adoption going through, you’ll want to start preparing to welcome your little one into the world. And this is where your baby registry swoops in to help you prepare.

A baby registry is a curated wishlist of baby products that parents-to-be share with friends and family, similar to a wedding registry. It will give your community some specific gift ideas to celebrate you and your growing family. 

To make this process a breeze, we’ve crafted a comprehensive checklist that covers everything from nursery must-haves to those little comforts that can make a world of difference during those early days.

Partial view of Joy's printable baby registry checklist, with baby shoes, blanket, rattle, and tiny teddy bear alongside it

Download a FREE Baby Registry Checklist from Joy

Strollers and Car Seats

A reliable stroller and safe car seat are must-have essentials for hassle-free outings and getting around town with your little one. They both make wonderful group gifts for your guests to chip in on, while the related accessories may appeal to those with a smaller budget. 

CategoryItems to include
StrollersLightweight stroller
Travel system (car seat and stroller combo)
Jogging stroller
Double stroller (for twins or siblings)
Stroller wagon (for multiples or siblings)
Stroller organizer
Baby bunting bag
Stroller fan
Car SeatsInfant car seat
Convertible car seat
Car seat base (if not included with the car seat)
Car window shades
Car seat mirror
Car seat cover

On-the-Go Gear

Life doesn’t stop when the baby arrives, so being prepared to stay on the move is essential for a new parent. These useful on-the-go items will help keep your baby content while you conquer errands or explore the world together.

CategoryItems to include
For babies on-the-goDiaper bag
Pacifiers
Portable changing pad
Baby carrier (sling, wrap, or structured)
Baby travel blanket
Portable crib
Playard
Portable high chair
Baby sunscreen

Nursery and Diapering

Man laughing while playing with the legs and feet of a happy baby

Furnishing a nursery often requires specialized furniture to suit a baby’s daily life, such as a crib and changing table for diapering. Allow your friends and family to help you create a cozy haven for your little one with a variety of nursery items and diaper needs. 

CategoryItems to include
Nursery furnitureCrib
Mattress for crib
Bassinet
Changing table
Dresser
Glider or rocking chair
Toy storage
Bookshelf
Diaper timeDiapers
Wipes
Diaper caddy
Diaper pail
Diaper rash cream

Nursery accessories
Swaddle blankets
Crib mobile
Crib bedding set
Baby monitor
Night light
Changing table pad
Baby clothing hangers
Baby clothes hamper
Humidifier
Air purifier

Bath time

Baby’s bath time creates wonderful opportunities for parents to bond with their baby. Having the right tools to make bath time a stress-free experience for all of you is a must.

CategoryItems to include
During bath timeBaby bathtub
Baby washcloths
Baby-friendly soap and shampoo
Bath toys
Faucet cover
Bath kneeler and elbow rest
Bathtub thermometer
After bath timeHooded towels
Baby brush and comb set
Baby lotion
Baby bathrobe

Feeding and Nursing

Whether you breastfeed or go with formula, ensure your baby is well-fed and happy with these mealtime essentials. They’re a must for every parent, supporting your baby’s nourishment, growth, and development.

CategoryItems to include
Feeding timeBaby bottles
Bottle sterilizer
High chair
Burp cloths
Bibs
Baby utensils
Sippy cups
Baby food maker
Baby food storage containers
Bottle warmer
Baby formula (if not breastfeeding)
Nursing needsBreast pump
Nursing bras and pads
Nursing pillow
Nursing cover
Breast milk storage bags
Lactation massager

Toys and Clothing

Woman and baby play with toys while sitting on the floor

Guests may go rogue when selecting unique outfits and toys for your new baby since there are so many options available. But it’s a good idea to register for a few essentials to clarify your preferences.

CategoryItems to include
ClothesOnesies/Bodysuits
Sleepsuits
Baby socks and booties
Baby beanies
Baby sunhat
Baby mittens
ToysSoft toys
Teething toys
Activity gym
Baby rattles
Musical toys
Board books
Stacking playset
Rocking horse

Health and Safety

Prioritize your baby’s well-being by including health and safety items in your registry. These essentials will offer peace of mind and a secure environment for your little one.

CategoryItems to include
Health needsDigital baby thermometer
Baby first aid kit
Baby nail clippers
Nasal aspirator
Steam inhaler
Safety measuresOutlet covers
Cabinet locks
Baby gates
Safety locks for drawers
Baby-proofing kit
Baby-safe laundry detergent

Fun Extras

There are always some extras that may not qualify as more of an “oh, I love that” than as an “essential.” Here are some active enjoyment options for babies and memory-building must-haves for parents.   

CategoryItems to include
Fun times Baby swing or rocker
Activity jumper
Playmat
Baby carrier backpack
Building memoriesBaby hand and footprint kit
Baby’s first-year memory book
Baby milestone cards

What Are Some Must-Have Registry Items?

If you’re looking to prioritize, must-have items for a baby registry often include daily essentials like bottles, blankets, diapers, a crib, and a car seat. Additionally, consider adding useful baby gear like a stroller, baby monitor, and diaper bag for convenience. Nursery items like a crib mattress, changing table, and baby-safe bedding are also helpful. Your well-rounded registry should cover both the baby’s immediate needs and things that will be useful as your baby gets older. 

When Should I Create My Baby Registry?

Ideally, you should aim to start your baby registry during the second trimester of pregnancy, around the 20-week mark. This allows you enough time to research, choose items you’ll need, and ensure they’re available for your baby shower, sprinkle, or whenever friends and family ask for gift suggestions. 

Although starting early lets you make thoughtful decisions without feeling rushed, it’s never too late to start your registry before your little one arrives. Remember that you can update and adjust your registry throughout your pregnancy to keep up with your changing preferences and needs.

How to Set Up a Baby Registry

Getting your Joy baby registry set up is a breeze! You’ll find thousands of baby essentials to pick from in the Joy Shop. And navigating the Joy Shop is as simple as shopping at any other store.

Joy’s All-In-One Registry makes the process even more convenient by allowing you to sync and consolidate any external registries you also put together. Track everything in one place effortlessly. Plus, with Joy’s handy one-click “Quick Add” browser button, you can include items from any online source in your Joy baby registry.

There’s no right or wrong way to make your registry best suit you and your family. Use this baby registry checklist as inspiration to help you find all the products your baby might need. Remember to enjoy this exciting step toward embracing the support and love from family and friends eager to share this special time with you.

Additional Baby Registry FAQ

How many items should be on my registry?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the number of items on your baby registry. Prioritize essentials like baby gear, clothing, and nursery items, but also consider adding sentimental gifts that reflect your personal style. Ultimately, it’s important to choose items that meet your family’s unique needs.

Should I register for more than one size of diaper?

When creating your baby registry, requesting a range of diaper sizes is a smart move that will help accommodate your baby’s growth. Register for newborn and size 1 diapers initially, as babies often start in these sizes. As your little one grows, have size 2 and larger diapers on hand to ensure they’re comfortable at every stage.

What should I not put on a baby registry?

Skip registering for items like dressy baby clothes and lots of toys, as people tend to gift these anyway. You can also leave baby shoes off your registry because they’re more of a fashion accessory than a necessity in the early months. 

Don’t bother registering for crib bumpers, as they’ve been banned in the U.S. for being a safety hazard. Also, remember that insurance typically covers breast pumps, so check your coverage before registering for one. If it’s not covered, you can add it later.