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The Top Baby Registry Must-Haves for 2024

The Top Baby Registry Must-Haves for 2024

Wed Mar 27 2024

Are you worried your baby registry is either missing essentials or packed with too much? It's a common concern. 

You don't want to miss out on the essentials, but you also don't want to come off as if you're asking for the moon and the stars in the baby shower. 

Let's discuss the baby registry must-haves that will make your life with your new bundle of joy much smoother in the upcoming months. 

X Baby Registry Must-Haves for New Parents

Nursery Furniture

Thinking about the nursery theme? Whether planning a new vibe or matching it to your current room setup, it's all about what feels suitable. 

Remember, the American Academy of Pediatrics experts suggest that your little one should share your room (but not your bed) for the first six months. 

For a safe sleeping spot until their first birthday, all your baby needs is:

  • a crib
  • a fitted sheet
  • a comfy onesie
  • a cozy sleep sack 

Skip the pillows, blankets, and bumpers—they're unsafe for little sleepers. 

You're aiming to create a snug and secure spot that's perfect for naps and nighttime, like mimicking the womb's comfort.

Things you will need as nursery essentials:

Baby Gear

It's easy to get swept up in the world of baby gear with all the cool gadgets out there. But let's be honest—not everything is a must-have (though some items really are game-changers). 

These are the kinds of things that not only look awesome but will also make your daily life with a baby a bit easier. 

Feeding Supplies

Whether you're leaning towards breastfeeding or formula feeding, or you're still on the fence, having the right supplies on hand is key for the tummy time. Let's break down what you'll need for each scenario and not forget the eventual move to solid foods.

Breastfeeding Essentials:

Formula Feeding Must-Haves:

For Both Breast and Formula Feeding:

  • Burp Cloths
  • High Chair (Ready for when solids start, around six months)

Transitioning to Solid Foods:

Diapering Essentials

Diapering is one of those not-so-glamorous parts of parenting, but it's more essential than you might think. 

While it's tempting to stockpile newborn diapers, remember that babies grow at lightning speed—some might even skip straight to size ones! 

It's a good idea to have a starter stash ready, so you're not dashing to the store just as you settle in at home with your newborn.

Here's a list of diapering essentials to get you prepped and ready:

Clothing and Swaddles

When it comes to dressing your little one, it's all about comfort and practicality, with a side of adorable. 

You'll want to gather a mix of clothing in various sizes to accommodate the first few months, keeping in mind the season your baby will be born. 

Here's a quick rundown of what you'll need:

  • Onesies (Short and long-sleeved, depending on the weather)
  • Sleepers
  • Swaddle Blankets
  • Hats.
  • Socks/Booties (While baby shoes look incredibly cute, they're not necessary. Babies aren't walking, and they're likely to kick shoes off. Opt for cozy socks, inexpensive booties, or baby moccasins instead)
  • Mittens
  • Seasonal Outfits

Bathing and Grooming

Bath time can be a special bonding moment between you and your baby, filled with gentle splashes and giggles. But to make it safe and enjoyable, you'll need the right supplies. 

Here's a list of bathing and grooming essentials to keep your little one clean and happy:

  • Baby Bathtub
  • Washcloths
  • Baby Soap and Shampoo (Tear-free formulas to keep bath time cheerful)
  • Hooded Towels
  • Baby Lotion
  • Bath Toys
  • Baby Nail Clippers or Scissors
  • Soft-Haired Brush

Remember, newborns don't need daily baths. Two to three times a week is usually enough, as long as you're keeping the diaper area clean and dry between baths. 

Health and Safety

When you're getting ready for your baby, don't forget about the health and safety stuff. It's super important to have these baby items ready and set up before your little one comes home. Here's a quick list of what you might need:

  • First Aid Kit (You can put one together with all the baby essentials, or if you're not up for that, grab a pre-made kit for kids)
  • Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
  • Outlet Covers
  • Cabinet Locks
  • Thermometer
  • Nasal Aspirator
  • Baby Gates

Essential Services

Think outside the box and freshen up your baby registry with something a bit different—services! Yes, alongside all the gear and gadgets, you can include services that can make a difference in your new life with a baby. 

Giftstart is an excellent option that lets friends and family chip in for services like childcare, housekeeping, and even babysitting. Here's a look at some of the services you might want to add:

Additional Things to Consider

When building your baby registry, it's easy to focus on the essentials and forget the fun stuff! Playtime and entertainment, along with nursery decor, can also make a big difference in your baby's development and the overall feel of their space. Here's a quick guide:

Playtime and Entertainment

Babies learn and grow through play, so including items stimulating their senses is a great move. Consider these:

  • Activity Mats
  • Soft Books and Toys
  • Sound Machines
  • Stuffed Animals
  • Rattles and Teething Toys

Nursery Decor

The right decor can transform your baby's room into a soothing and happy space. Think about adding:

Tips for Creating Your Baby Registry

Creating the perfect baby registry can feel like a big task, but with a few innovative strategies, you can make it much easier and more effective. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Balance Between Now and Later: It's tempting to focus only on newborn needs, but babies grow quickly. Include items you'll need as your baby grows, like larger clothes and age-appropriate toys.
  2. Check Safety Standards: Before adding any items, especially cribs, walkers, and car seats, make sure they meet safety standards in your area. For example, baby walkers are banned in Canada due to safety concerns.
  3. Consider Your Space: Think about where you'll store all the items on your registry. You'll want to make sure your home can comfortably fit everything without becoming cluttered.
  4. Personal Testing: Some items, like a breast pump or baby carrier, are so personal you might want to try them out first. In these cases, consider purchasing them yourself.
  5. Be Open to All Gifts: Not everyone will stick to your registry, and that's okay! Welcome all gifts with gratitude, even if they're not what you expected.
  6. Opt for Durable Clothing: Babies are messy, so choose clothes that can withstand frequent washing. Cute, simple basics are your best bet, especially in the early months.
  7. Reuse When Possible: If you have items from a previous child that are still in good shape, don't hesitate to reuse them. This can save you money and reduce waste. Just be sure to add any necessary new items to your registry, especially if your children were born in different seasons.

Conclusion

So, you've got your baby registry checklist all ready to go. 

If you're looking for a place that does a bit more, check out Giftstart. It's a Canadian baby registry that really gets what modern parents need. Not only can you add all the usual stuff, but they also let you add cash funds, services, and subscriptions. Pretty cool, right? 

Head over to Giftstart and see how simple preparing for your little one can be.
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