Expecting parents often find themselves overwhelmed with the many items needed for the arrival of their newest addition. From diapers to clothing and everything in between, it’s hard to know where to start when putting together a newborn registry checklist. Our comprehensive guide includes 37 must-have baby items as recommended by healthcare professionals, broken down into four sections: newborn, 3M-6M, 6M-1Y, and nice-to-haves. We cover everything from car seats and toys to blankets and swaddling gear so that new parents have less to worry about and more time to bond with their bundle of joy. Make sure you don’t miss a single thing with our expert advice on what newborn essentials should be added to your Amazon baby registry!
What Are Some Must Haves for a Baby Registry?
Must-Haves or not, having a newborn baby is like a new adventure. Stay with me... items such as diapers, formula, and clothing are the foundation of this journey. And items like toys, music, or books can be added to enhance their experiences. Together, these items create the perfect balance of comfort, security, and joy in your little one's life. Ultimately, it's exciting to bring home and care for a bundle of joy!
Before you start stocking up on baby supplies, let us go through the essential items you'll need in your first year as a new parent.
But, if you're in a hurry, download a PDF here or print it out for a later read (or share this link with yourself).
Without wasting any more of your valuable time, we present our first list of must-haves for newborns from Amazon. With this article, we provide a variety of general and in-depth choices to make your life simpler.
Classic Newborn Must Haves:
Bottle brush
Bottles and bottle brushes are essential for any newborn baby's transition to independent feeding. A bottle set not only gives caregivers the ability to store their baby's precious milk safely but also facilitates a sanitary cleaning process for a healthy start to his or her life. Bottle brushes come in various sizes and shapes, depending on the size of the bottle and nipple. The bristles on the brush are gentle on baby's bottles and nipples, but firm enough to thoroughly clean, ensuring a safe and healthy reuse of each bottle. For these reasons and more, having bottles and bottle brushes on a newborn's Amazon registry is a must.
Newborn clothes
Newborn baby clothes are a must-have item on a newborn gift registry because of the practicality and convenience they provide. Baby clothes are a necessity for any new parent, but buying for a newborn can be tricky, as babies grow so quickly and sizes can vary from brand to brand. With a registry, friends, and family can easily see what size baby clothes to buy, such as onesies, sleepers, and accessories. Newborn baby clothes can also be personalized to make them an extra special and meaningful gift. They often feature unique designs and colors, making them an ideal addition to any newborn’s wardrobe.
Diapers and wipes as well as a Diaper pail and refills
Diapers and wipes are a must-have when it comes to creating a newborn registry as they are essential items for any caregiver to have around. Not only are diapers important for keeping a newborn baby clean and comfortable, but wipes are an effective and easy way to clean a baby’s skin after the diaper has been changed. Additionally, diaper pails and refills provide an efficient and sanitary way to dispose of used diapers and wipes. Diaper pails keep bad odors at bay, reducing environmental impact and keeping the baby’s nursery smelling fresh and clean. Therefore, registering for diapers, wipes, diaper pails, and refills is a great idea for any parents-to-be, as having these items ready and available can help make taking care of a newborn easier.
Burp cloths
Burp clothes are an essential item that every parent will need to have on hand when taking care of a newborn. Not only are they perfect for catching any spit-up, but they can also help protect your clothing while you’re busy burping your little one. They come in a variety of sizes, materials, and styles, making them ideal for all kinds of occasions, such as outdoor trips and playdates. Plus, since burp clothes are easily washable and reusable, they make for an excellent addition to any newborn baby gift registry.
Baby thermometer
Baby thermometers can be a great addition to any newborn baby gift registry because they provide parents with the necessary tools to easily monitor their child's health and well-being. Baby thermometers come in a variety of styles and forms, from digital models to ear thermometers to forehead thermometers. With a baby thermometer, parents can accurately measure the temperature of their baby quickly, conveniently, and safely. Whether checking for a fever or simply taking a general temperature reading, a baby thermometer can give peace of mind and prevent any unnecessary stress from uncertainty.
Bottle warmer
For busy parents on the go, there's nothing worse than wrestling with cold bottles and fumbling with lukewarm formula. With the right bottle warmer, you can save precious moments in your day so you can focus on more important things. These reliable and accurate baby bottle warmers preserve bottles’ precious nutrients while heating quickly, evenly, and efficiently – no more wasting time waiting for water to boil. Plus, the intuitive control sets your preferred temperature and even keeps your precious liquids at that temperature until ready to serve. Invest in a bottle warmer today and save yourself time!
Bottle sanitizer
Having a bottle of sanitizer is an important part of creating a safe and healthy environment for your baby. Without proper sterilization, your baby's bottles could become contaminated with bacteria, leading to illnesses and other health issues. A bottle sanitizer eliminates 99.9% of germs, providing your baby with the cleanest possible drinking experience. By including a bottle of sanitizer on your registry, you can give your baby the best start in life.
Bassinet
As a new parent, you may feel overwhelmed with all the advice about what’s a must-have for your nursery. But take a deep breath – you don’t have to put your newborn in a crib just yet. Believe it or not, your baby can even sleep in something as simple as a box. While that might sound odd, it speaks to the fact that not all must-haves are created equal.
When it comes to bassinets, however, there is a good reason why they’re such a popular registry item: they make those first weeks of parenting a little bit easier. A bassinet is a perfect place for your baby to sleep during the first few months, offering them a cozy environment that allows them to feel secure and comfortable. The low-profile design also makes it easy for you to take your baby out of the bassinet without having to bend or strain yourself – a lifesaver when your little one is up at all hours of the night. So yes – bassinets may not be the first item on your registry list, but they’re certainly one worth having!
Swaddles
As parents, we know there's nothing like a good night's sleep. But getting the baby to drift gently into dreamland can be a challenge. That's why swaddles are the perfect addition to any baby registry. Not only do they keep the baby snug and secure all night, but they create a safe, comforting environment that creates the perfect mood for peaceful sleeping. So when it comes to ensuring your little one has a good night's sleep, swaddles are a perfect choice.
Breast pump and Breastmilk storage bags (if breastfeeding)
If you are choosing to breastfeed your newborn, then having a breast pump and breastmilk storage bags on your baby registry is essential for any nursing mother. Breast pumps help new mothers express and store their valuable breastmilk, giving them more flexibility with their baby’s nutrition. Breastmilk storage bags are also light and portable, so mums can express and store their milk while on the go. These bags come with tamper-resistant lids and specially designed seals, so the contents stay fresh longer than traditional bottles and containers. Additionally, these storage bags are designed with a reinforced seam to prevent leakage, so you can feel safe storing your precious breastmilk!
Baby monitor
A baby monitor certainly provides peace of mind for any new parent. Whether you prefer audio or video, you'll be able to get a clear view of your baby's sleep and make sure all is well. You can also be alerted when your little one is stirring or if any unusual noises occur. Ultimately, it's up to each parent's discretion if they'd like to include a baby monitor on their newborn registry list.
Pacifiers (depends on the baby)
Even though a pacifier can be a great gift to give a newborn, it's not for everyone. Some babies may not take to them, and that’s totally normal. Pacifiers are thought to help soothe a baby and reduce the chances of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), but they aren't necessary or required. It's important to know that no matter what stage your baby is in, your baby will never love any product more than you do, and that should be celebrated. Ultimately, pacifiers can be a great newborn registry gift if your baby takes them – but even if they don't, that's OK too. You know your baby best.
Car seat and Stroller
New parents often forget that the first few months after their bundle of joy arrives will be filled with trips to the doctor, check-ups, and running errands that require a car seat or stroller. Car seats are essential for safely transporting your baby, and so important for their physical and emotional well-being. Proper car seat installation also includes straps that are snugly fastened, and always follow the guidelines provided by the car seat manufacturer. A car seat is vital for keeping your baby safe and secure while on the go. Don't forget to include a car seat on your new baby registry – it's a must-have for those first few months of parenthood.
Baby nail clippers
It's true that baby mittens can serve as a makeshift solution for keeping babies from scratching themselves, but it only lasts for so long. As baby nails continue to grow, they turn into sharp daggers that can make their little fingers vulnerable to injury. That's why a set of baby nail clippers is an essential item for newborns. With them, you can safely trim your baby's nails and give them the protection they need.
Baby bathtub
Having a baby bathtub can make bathing your newborn much easier, safer and more comfortable. It eliminates the need to contort your body to fit into a regular adult-sized tub and provides protection against slips and falls. The ergonomically designed shape of a baby bathtub offers enhanced comfort for your newborn, and its soft surface prevents bumps and scrapes. Additionally, many baby bathtubs come with features such as inclines and inclined head supports to keep your little one from slipping. By having the right size and shape for your baby, you can ensure an enjoyable and stress-free bathtime experience.
Nursing pillow
As a first-time parent, the task of feeding a newborn can be intimidating – but it doesn't have to be. With a nursing pillow, you can feed your baby comfortably and securely. It's lightweight, portable, and versatile, giving you the freedom to take it anywhere. Whether you're breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, the nursing pillow will help relieve the aches and pains associated with holding your baby for extended periods of time. Perfect for those late-night feedings and long no-sleep days. Make it part of your baby's registry today – it's a great way to show your bundle of joy that you care!
Baby carrier
Having a baby carrier is a must-have item when you're expecting a newborn. It's great to use when you need to take your baby out of the house, whether it's for a stroll around the park or a quick errand. Baby carriers provide protection for your newborn by keeping them close to you, giving you an up-close view of their whereabouts. With a baby carrier, you can keep your baby safe from potential hazards and free from distractions from onlookers. Baby carriers allow you to have both hands free to tend to other tasks and explore the world with your little one. Plus, they help develop a stronger bond between you and your newborn baby.
Changing pad and covers
Welcome to parenthood, where everything suddenly takes twice as much time and effort! Diapering is no exception. And if you want to make life easier during those precious few hours of sleep, you need the right tools. That's why Changing Pads and Covers are essential items for every new parent. Not only do they help keep the baby clean, but they'll also help save precious space in your home. So don't wait – get yourself a changing pad and cover today and make diapering that much easier tomorrow.
Must Haves for 3-6-month-olds:
This list includes a few key items that are commonly mistaken for necessities, as well as some items you may not be aware of yet.
Crib and mattress
We all want the best for our newborns, but expensive items like cribs may not be necessary for the first few weeks. And who knows what your baby will be like in the future; there's no way of telling whether a more permanent sleeping space like a crib will be needed or desired.
Instead, consider a bassinet or cradle for those early days – their light weight and portability make them much easier for caregivers to move around and provide on-the-go comfort for a baby's developing needs. Use the first few weeks to get to know your baby and determine what kind of sleeping space suits them best. After all, it's not just about giving them somewhere to sleep – it's about providing them with the security of a safe, comfortable place to rest.
Sleep Sack
A sleep sack is an important item to add to your baby registry because it helps keep your little one safe and snug. Unlike traditional blankets and swaddling that can come undone and become a potential safety risk, a sleep sack helps keep your baby tucked in, warm, and secure all night. Plus, it's designed especially with your baby in mind, with soft, breathable fabrics that won't irritate their delicate skin. Finally, sleep sacks give your baby the freedom to move around while still feeling cozy and secure. With a sleep sack, you can rest easy knowing your little one is getting a safe and comfortable sleep all night long.
Nightlight + Blackout blinds + Sound machine
As a new parent, you want to create the perfect environment for your little one. And while they may not be able to tell you yet, setting up the right sleeping environment is step one! Start with a nightlight – the soft, gentle glow will keep the room feeling safe, so your baby knows it's always time for rest. Then, grab some blackout blinds – perfect for keeping the brightest morning light out of your little one's eyes as they drift off after early-morning feedings. And finally, consider a sound machine – the steady white noise will help your baby transition from wakefulness to sleep with ease and comfort. With these three items around, no matter what time of day, your baby's room will feel just right for a peaceful night's sleep.
Teethers and rattles
Teethers and rattles are great items to add to your baby registry for newborns. Teethers can provide much-needed relief when baby's gums start getting sore from teething, usually starting at around 3-4 months. Rattles provide a sensory experience that helps stimulate baby's hearing and coordination, as well as helping to stimulate their visual development. Babies will often find soothing comfort when they can shake and interact with the rattle, while others may find it distracting. Including a range of teethers and rattles on your registry can allow you to better gauge what your newborn will enjoy.
Books and toys
Books and toys are a great addition to any newborn registry because they offer both educational and developmental benefits for baby. Books provide a great opportunity for bonding with baby and provide a way to introduce language and culture. Toys, on the other hand, are important for the development of cognitive, physical, and emotional abilities and give babies something to explore and engage with. Even though you won't need these items immediately, preparing in advance can ensure that you always have something fun and stimulating for baby to play with as they grow.
Humidifier
A humidifier is a great item to add to your registry for a newborn baby. During cold and flu season when air can be dry, it's important to keep your baby's environment healthy and free from infection-causing bacteria or viruses. Humidifiers help keep the air moisturized, creating a comfortable atmosphere for your baby and helping them breathe easier. Not only that, but babies with congested nasal passages or respiratory issues can especially benefit from adding moisture to the air. And since babies don't need a humidifier until a few months after birth, it's easy to add this item to your registry so you'll have it ready to go when you need it!
Bouncer seat
Bouncer seats are an ideal aid for parents of young children. Bouncers give parents a few moments of peace and freedom to tend to other responsibilities while providing their babies with a fun and safe place to play. Bouncers provide an ideal area for babies to engage in playtime and increase their motor skills, as the bouncer provides gentle bouncing action designed to help babies exercise their leg muscles and enhance their coordination. While bouncers can be helpful from the day a baby arrives, we usually recommend adding one to your registry for use when a child is about 3-6 months old.
Must-Haves for 6 months - 1-year-olds
In this inventory, we have identified the necessary items for a baby in the upcoming months and at one year of age.
High chair
High chairs are great items to add to your baby registry, but you won't need them until your baby is around 6 months to 1 year old. This is because your baby won't be ready to sit in the chair and stay upright until they have enough head, neck and core muscle control. High chairs provide an ideal spot to place your child during meals, allowing them to join family around the dinner table and encouraging them to interact. At this age, long high chair straps and buckles are recommended to keep your baby safely in place while preventing them from sliding or tipping out of the chair.
Baby Food Prep
Baby food prep items make great registry items because they'll come in handy when your newborn is ready to start eating solids. Having the right items ready to go will make transitioning to solids much easier, allowing you to spend more time enjoying this important milestone with your child. From baby food makers and blenders to silicone spoons and freezer trays, registering for these items now will guarantee you have them on hand when you and your baby are ready for them.
Nice to Haves (Not necessary)
We have identified the runner-ups and honorable mentions for this list. While these items could be ideal additions to your household, if you prioritize the higher-ranked options first, your chances of getting them may be reduced. Still, consider adding them to your registry, though!
Blankets
Every child is different, and not all of them love blankets! But for the ones who do, a blanket can be the perfect addition to any newborn registry. It's a baby shower gift that's sure to please, as it adds a dash of warmth and comfort to a nursery. However, even though a blanket can be a great item on a registry, you should wait before it's actually put to use. Until babies get older and can roll over on their own, a blanket should be left out of their bedtime routine out of safety concerns. But that doesn't mean it can't wait on the side for when they're ready!
Playpen
It's always wise to prioritize safety and security for a newborn, and Playpens can provide both. They provide a secure and comfortable environment for little ones to explore and play, allowing parents to rest assured that their baby is safe and in their sight. Plus, the colorful and fun activities that are included with the playpens can help stimulate their development. So while it might not absolutely necessary for a newborn gift registry, it could definitely be seen as an invaluable addition.
Wipe Warmer
There's no louder sound than a newborn's cries when their diaper is cold. Make sure you're never a part of that chorus – get a Wipe Warmer for your baby's registry and never worry about cold diapers again! The Wipe Warmer gently warms your baby's wipes for added comfort and convenience. Keep your baby warm and comfy with a Wipe Warmer, the perfect addition to any newborn gift registry!
Hooded towel
A hooded towel can be a fantastic gift for a newborn, as any parent will tell you. Not only is it cute and cozy, but it's also a practically essential item for bath time. It can easily fit in a diaper bag and looks great in any nursery. For some parents, a hooded towel is necessary and an integral part of bath time, making it a great item to include on a gift registry. For others, it may not be a priority and may just be a nice-to-have item. Ultimately, it's up to the parents' preference.
Bottle drying rack
For some parents, a bottle drying rack may be a must-have for their newborn baby registry. Bottle drying racks are designed to keep baby bottles upright, helping them air dry and preventing bacteria from collecting in any excess water. Bottle drying racks also provide a tidy way to store and organize bottles, making them easier to access and clean. Ultimately, the decision to include a bottle drying rack on your registry is up to the individual parents – some may find the extra storage space and convenience to be of great benefit.
Sippy cups
No matter what age your baby is, the need for a sippy cup isn't entirely necessary; it's just an extra step in the transition to regular cups. And while some kids will be ready for the move to sippy cups sooner than others, many are content sticking with regular cups. Even if your baby does make a smooth transition to sippy cups, you don't have to rush out and buy one. There are other options for teaching your baby to drink from a cup, such as using zero-gravity cups or flexible spouts. Teaching your child to use a regular cup offers its own benefits, such as wrist and hand development, motor skills, balance, posture, and speech development. So before you go all-in on sippy cups, take a step back and consider all the options.
Disposable bibs
Disposable bibs can make life easier for parents who want to keep their baby's clean and dry while they eat. With disposable bibs, you don't have to do the laundry or worry about the stains on traditional bibs. They are also more sanitary since you can always use a fresh one for each meal. Plus, they can help protect your furniture from messy spills. Disposable bibs are an affordable and convenient way to keep messes at bay. They are a nice-to-have item that can make mealtime easier and more enjoyable for parents and babies alike.
Activity mat
Amazon's Activity Mats are a wonderful addition to any newborn registry. With vibrant colors and themes, they provide countless hours of entertainment and exploration for growing minds. They offer stimulating activities such as musical toys, pull-out cards, and tactile patterns that challenge your baby and help them to develop their motor skills. Not to mention, they are portable so you can easily take them anywhere you go. With Amazon's activity mats, you can give your baby the support they need to build their foundational skills and to create an exciting learning environment throughout their first year.
Musical toys
For a newborn, musical toys are more than just fun and entertainment – they encourage brain development and interactive play. Musical toys stimulate auditory skills and promote motor development and cognitive skills while providing an opportunity to learn mathematics and music. Musical toys also help build language skills and encourage self-expression, creativity, and problem-solving. Developmental research shows that musical toys can help infants and children engage with their environment and interact with other people in a positive way. From early age musical toys can help to support sensory integration, language development, rhythm skills, and even basic skills in understanding music pitch, notes, and tempo. With musical toys from Amazon, you can create a safe and interactive learning environment for your newborn to explore, bond with, and grow with.
Potty seat
Having a potty seat on your newborn registry may seem unnecessary, but once your little one is ready to start potty training, it will become an invaluable tool! With a potty seat, you'll provide them with a comfortable seating area that's the just-the-right size for their small body. It will also make them feel secure and provide support when in a sitting position. The potty seat also has the advantage of being light, compact, and easy to carry around the house for nighttime emergency potty breaks. Lastly, a potty seat from Amazon provides the added convenience of easy setup, so you can start teaching your child how to properly use the restroom without delay!
Conclusion
Creating a gift registry for your new baby is an exciting and fun way to ensure they get the perfect gifts. With this list of 37+ items, you now have a great starting point for ensuring that your baby has all the essentials for a great start in life. We appreciate your support in helping us share this article and thank you for considering our affiliate links as we look forward to continuing to serve you.
Member discussion