Preparing for my first baby has been a rollercoaster ride full of excitement and terror. I have worked hard to get my home, my family, and my body ready for this new adventure. One of the unexpected challenges of baby preparation was creating my registry. When I started, I thought it would be fun to shop for my little guy, but I quickly realized that the endless options, various safety features, and unforeseen needs would make this shopping spree more of a struggle than a delight. To make your own journey a little bit easier, I have made a list of my favorite registry items as well as a few tips and tricks I learned along the way.
Getting Started
The first part of creating a registry is choosing a platform. I tried out a couple different sites, and ultimately went with Buy Buy Baby, a decision I very much regret. I chose this store because of its wide selection and easy to use app; however, the constantly changing inventory as well as the confusing way that things are marked, made this platform difficult to use and frustrating for me as well as everyone who shopped on my registry. I looked at using Target as a registry option, and I liked the way this platform was set up; however, the limited selection pushed me away from this site. If I had to do it again, I would use Amazon for my registry. This platform is easy to use for both creators and shoppers. It is familiar for most people, and it is convenient for sharing. Amazon also offers shoppers the ability to find similar items if something is sold out or unavailable, and it makes suggestions for shoppers to purchase extra items that are fitting for their choice. To set up your Amazon registry, simply create a new list. Name your list, and make sure you mark it as public, so that it can be shared. You can also add in any details you would like shoppers to know as they browse your list. Purchased items will automatically be marked off the list, and you can easily edit things as you need to.
Now that you have set up your registry, it’s time to pick out your items. I advise skipping the obvious things (baby clothes, diapers, wipes. Swaddle blankets, bottles, etc.) because these items will be gifted to you whether you add them to the list or not. If you have a specific brand you plan to use, or materials you wish to avoid, state that in your registry description and inform those you send the registry out to. Focus your registry on the things that are most important to ensure that you get what you really need. Diapers and wipes are essential for a new baby, but these purchases will be less of a burden on you than some of the larger items listed below. So, without further adieu, here are my top baby registry items!
My Ten Favorite Baby Registry Items
Dream On Me Skylar Bassinet and Bedside Sleeper – This bassinet is cute, lightweight, portable, and adjustable to suit your needs. I chose this bassinet for its convenient features such as the zip down side to convert the stand alone bassinet into a bedside stand for co-sleeping. It comes with a travel case, and is easy to fold up for family trips or overnight stays. It is also easy to move with a lightweight build and wheels to help you easily move it anywhere in the house. The bassinet meets all ASTM standards and has a 4.5 star rating. I am very happy with this purchase, and can’t wait to put it to use with my newborn.
Owlet Dream Sock – This baby monitor does it all! Monitoring heart rate and breathing, it will give you true peace of mind. As a former preschool teacher, I have been taught about the horror of SIDS many times, and there is nothing more frightening to me. With this amazing newfangled gadget, you can easily protect your baby and give yourself room to breathe. This FDA approved monitor has 4.2 stars and boasts the ability to notify you of your baby’s condition right to your phone. I highly recommend this amazing technology for every registry, and I know I’ll rest better with the dream sock perched on my baby’s tiny toes.
Boppy Nursing Pillow – Whether you plan on breast or bottle feeding, this modern comfort is a must have for any registry. Holding your baby is a magical activity that will inevitably wear out your arm strength. (Especially those late night feeding and rocking sessions when you’re already exhausted!) The Boppy pillow provides just the right support to give your weary arms a reprieve while keeping your baby secure. With a firm support, a variety of design options, and a 4.8 star rating, the Boppy pillow is, in my opinion, the best choice for your newborn needs.
Diaper Genie – There are many different kinds of diaper pails out there, but I chose to go with the classic Diaper Genie. With bag refills available at most common stores, the top odor eliminating technology, small easy to store design, and a 4.7 star rating, this diaper waste solution is sure to be a lifesaver for your home. You can find many different registry options for this brand, but the one linked here also includes 8 bag refills giving you the most bang for your buck and ensuring you get everything you need to be prepared for your household’s newest smelly bottom.
SUNVENO Baby Diaper Bag Backpack – When choosing a diaper bag, there are many things to consider. Comfort, style, carrying capacity, and function were my top priorities in making my choice. I love that this bag comes with multiple pockets each with its own special use. The front isolated pocket is perfect for bringing bottles with you on the go. The back waterproof pocket is great for storing dirty clothes, soiled diapers, and other messes. There is plenty of room for organized storage to cover all of your travel needs, and the simple backpack style is dapper for both mom and dad to use. With adjustable straps, expandable storage space, and a 4.3 star rating, I am incredibly happy with this bag!
Dr. Brown’s Customflow Double Electric Quiet Breast Pump – As someone with sensitive nipples who is very nervous about breastfeeding, I was extra choosy when picking out a breast pump. After researching a few different brands, I landed on Dr. Browns for a variety of reasons. First of all, this electric pump has adjustable settings allowing you to choose the most comfortable mode for you at the moment. It is also made with soft silicone shields designed with comfort in mind for mommies looking to avoid pain. I also like that the pump comes with storage space to contain the different pieces of the pump in an organized manner. This pump has a 4.4 star review, and many users have said that it is painless and convenient making it my top pick for any registry.
Dr. Brown’s Deluxe Baby Bottle Warmer & Sterilizer – This two in one bottle warmer and sterilizer is convenient for storage and use. I love the dual function and the customizable settings. Made for glass and plastic bottles of any size, this modern gadget can be used for formula or breast milk. The sterilizer boasts the ability to kill 99.9% of germs and bacteria, and the easy to use design makes bottle warming simple for any user. I love the small size of this item, and with a 4.2 star review rate, customers are pleased with the function of it. I recommend this item for moms like me prioritizing both convenience and safety in their feeding tools.
Ingenuity ConvertMe 2-in-1 Compact Portable Automatic Baby Swing – Every mommy needs a break, and this safe and sturdy baby swing can provide just that. I chose this swing because it is portable, fits into almost any space, easy to set up, and includes important safety features like the headrest for newborn security and five point harness. This adorable swing comes in a variety of patterns and has a 4.3 star rating. With soothing vibrations and a gentle rocking motion, it is exactly what I wanted, and I can’t wait to put it to use!
Tuck and Bundle Ezra Baby Wrap – This is one of my favorite registry items. The material is so soft, the design is so comfortable, and the colors are so beautiful! The wrap comes with an easy to follow how to guide and is machine washable. It is made to be easy on your hips and shoulders and is nursing friendly. With 4.6 stars, it is truly an amazing choice for any parent.
The Story of You Book of Memories – This adorable baby book is extensive and organized with space to document everything about your little one from conception through their fifth birthday. This guided scrapbook is cute and well made with a beautiful cover for any gender. I love this keepsake book, and highly recommend this option for anyone wanting to keep a record of their baby’s growth.
Drop a comment below to let me know which items you like and anything else you would add to the list. I can’t wait to hear about your baby registry adventure!
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