📝 The Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist: Everything You Actually Need

Creating your baby registry is exciting, but with so many products available, it can quickly become overwhelming. The truth? You don’t need everything—but you do need the right things.

This ultimate baby registry checklist will help you focus on the must-haves, while also leaving room for those nice-to-have items that fit your lifestyle. We’re also covering:

• How many registries you really need
• Where to register (Amazon, Poppylist, or Babylist?)
• Why a Baby Page is a game-changer

Let’s build a registry that works for YOU.

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Baby Registry Must-Haves

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This list was built thinking of a first-time family in mind. Let's get to it!

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Sleep Essentials

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Newborns sleep a lot, but that doesn’t always mean parents do! Setting up a safe, cozy, and practical sleep space can make all the difference in helping your little one (and you!) get the rest you need.

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• Bedside sleeper and/or bassinet (consider space and personal preference)
• Crib
• Crib Mattress
• 2-3 fitted crib or bassinet sheets
• Swaddles (3-4)
• Sleep sacks (2-3)
• White noise machine
• Night light or dimmable light
• Baby monitor (Habor Baby Monitor is our favorite)

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Feeding Essentials

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Whether you're breastfeeding, pumping, formula feeding, or planning for solids later on, having the right tools can make mealtime smoother for both you and your baby. A comfortable setup can help with early feeds, while practical gear for solids will set you up for success when the time comes.

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• Breast pump (insurance should cover one—check if you qualify with Mommy Care Kit)
• Nursing pillow
• Baby blanket to keep cozy
• Burp clothes (5)
• Reusable breast pads
• Nipple cream or balm
• Bottle warmer
• Drying rack
• 4-6 bottles with different nipple sizes (0 and 1, for example are how some companies tell you how fast the flow is)
• Bibs, cups, bowls, for feeding solids at 6 months
• High chair

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Bath Time & Health Essentials

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Bath time isn’t just about keeping baby clean—it’s also a great opportunity for bonding and relaxation. A few key bath essentials will help make the process smooth and enjoyable. And because little ones can be extra sensitive to colds and congestion, having basic health essentials on hand ensures you're prepared for sniffles, fevers, and teething discomfort when they come.

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• Baby bathtub
• Baby wash and lotion (gentle, fragrance-free options are best)
• Soft washcloths (4-6)
• Hooded towels (2-3)
• Cup to help wash baby's head
• Baby Thermometer
• Nasal Aspirator
• Saline solution
• Pacifier
• Teether
• Brush & Comb
• Humidifier
• Saline nasal spray for babies
• Eucalyptus essential oil (to diffuse if baby is stuffy)

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Diapering Essentials

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Diapering is something you’ll do a lot in the first year—so having the right setup makes all the difference. Whether you choose disposable or cloth diapers, a well-stocked changing area and easy-to-grab essentials will make those frequent changes faster and smoother.

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• Diapers (newborn and size 1 to start)
• Baby Wipes
• Wipe Dispenser
• Diaper rash cream
• Changing pad and covers
• Diaper pail

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Baby Clothing Essentials

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Newborns grow fast, so it’s best to start with a few basics and build from there. Prioritize soft, comfy, and easy-to-change outfits over anything complicated (because who has time for fussy buttons at 2 AM?). And of course, don’t forget a special going-home outfit for those first photos!

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• 4-6 newborn onesies and pants (some babies skip this size)
• 6-8 0-3 month onesies
• 4-6 sleepers and footed pajamas
• 2-3 soft hats or headbands
• Mittens
• 4-6 pairs of socks or booties
• Cute outfit or gown to go home from the hospital

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Travel and On-the-Go Essentials

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Whether it’s a quick trip to the store or a long walk in the park, having the right travel gear makes leaving the house with a newborn much easier. A safe car seat, a stroller that fits your lifestyle, and a good diaper bag will set you up for success.

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• Infant car seat (must-have)
• Stroller (consider lifestyle: lightweight, jogger, or travel system)
• Attachments to connect car seat to stroller
• Newborn bassinet stroller addition that can double as place to nap at home
• Baby carrier or wrap
• Diaper bag
• Portable changing pad
• Car mirror

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Playing Essentials: Encouraging Baby’s Development Through Fun

Your newborn may start small, but they’ll be curious about the world around them sooner than you think! Having a few key playtime essentials can help stimulate their senses, encourage movement, and provide entertainment (so you can sip that coffee while it’s still hot!).

• Play gym or mat
• Soft books and high-contrast toys for early visual stimulation
• Board books
• Rattles and teething toys for grasping practice
• Baby swing or bouncer (optional but a lifesaver for many parents!)
• Activity center for when baby starts sitting up

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Must-Haves for Mom

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Bringing a baby into the world is a big deal, and taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your little one. The postpartum period is a time of healing, adjustment, and bonding, so having essentials that prioritize your comfort, hydration, and recovery can make all the difference. From cozy loungewear to postpartum care kits, here’s what to add to your registry to help you feel supported and cared for in those early weeks.

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• Comfy robe and pajamas with easy access to chest for nursing or skin-to-skin
• Nursing tank tops
• Nursing bras (3-5)
• Rose Maternity Co Postpartum Kit
• A giant water bottle
• Slippers or cozy socks
• Meal gift certificates
• Freezer meals
• Journal to track baby stuff and mom's mood
• Postpartum massage

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Do You Need More Than One Registry?

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Sometimes, one registry isn’t enough—especially if different stores carry what you need. Here’s what to consider:

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• Amazon – Best for universal selection, fast shipping, and group gifting
• Target - If you're in the red circle, you've gotta have one.
• Walmart - If this is where you do most of your shopping, it's worth setting up your registry.
• Babylist – Allows you to add items from any store, but items come from multiple retailers
• Poppylist – Curated lists and a no-marketing approach make it great for minimalists
• Crate & Barrel and Pottery Barn - if you're planning a major nursery this could be a good fit

Need help choosing the right one? Check out our Registry Reviews to to compare.

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Why You Need a FREE Baby Page

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A Villie Baby Page is not a registry—it’s a custom hub for everything baby-related.

• Add multiple registries in one place to keep everything streamlined for friends and family
• Set up a cash fund to let loved ones contribute to big-ticket items like a doula or nursery furniture
• Share baby updates and celebration details without constant group texts
• Control who gets to be in the village with a private and secure page.

Instead of receiving random gifts you don’t need, a baby page helps you get exactly what you want—without the stress.

Set Up Your Baby Page Now

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Build a Registry That Works for You

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Your baby registry should be a mix of essentials, practical must-haves, and things that bring you joy. Take your time, plan wisely, and don’t be afraid to ask for things that actually make life easier.

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