Pediatrician-approved baby registry items
6 categories of things you'll want and need for your baby
Wondering what you're going to need to care for your new baby? Not surprisingly, our pediatricians have a few thoughts about that. Here's what they recommend:
- Diapering — Diapers, baby wipes, diaper rash ointment and a diaper bag or caddy
- Newborn essentials — Gentle detergent, a rectal thermometer, onesies and a baby carrier
- Bath — Baby bath tub, washcloths, hooded towels and baby lotion
- Nursery — Crib, firm flat mattress, swaddles and a floor mat for tummy time
- Feeding — Bottles with different size nipples, burp cloths, and a breast pump and nipple cream if you’re breastfeeding
- Car and outdoors — Car seat, car sun shades and/or a baby sun shade tent
What a baby registry is and why you need one
A baby registry is a wish list of items you'd like to get as gifts before your baby arrives. It's a way to make preparing for your baby easier, especially if this is your first child. You'll need everything from bottles and diapers to clothes, strollers and other gear.
When and where to create your baby registry
When to create a registry depends on you. Some parents-to-be create a registry soon after learning they're expecting. Others wait a while. If family and friends are having a baby shower for you, just make sure your list is done by the time invitations go out.
Many stores offer baby registries, from major retailers to small specialty stores. To create a registry, you can visit stores in person or set up your registry online.
What to put on your baby registry
Make sure your registry list includes items small to large and at all price points. This gives your friends and family more choices. It also helps make sure there's something for every budget.
- Diapers in size newborn and size 1
- Baby wipes
- A changing pad for home and a portable one for changing on the go
- Diaper rash ointment to protect your newborn from diaper rash
- Diaper caddy to store diapers, wipes, rash creams and more
- Diaper bag or backpack to hold diapering items when you're on the go
- Stroller
- Baby carrier, wrap or sling — Carrying your baby this way is a great way to bond.
- Onesies and sleepers in size newborn and 3 months
- Digital rectal thermometer — Use to check the temperature of babies less than 3 months old.
- Saline nose drops for infants and a nose aspirator — Use to loosen and remove the mucus in your baby's nose. Clean the aspirator after each use.
- Nail clippers or a soft nail file — Use to trim your baby's nails and keep accidental scratches from happening.
- Soft hairbrush — Even if your baby doesn’t have much hair, a soft brush can help if cradle cap is a concern.
- Gentle detergent — Use this to wash all of your newborn’s clothes and bedding for the first few months. If your baby’s skin gets irritated, try a product designed for sensitive skin or for babies.
You may be able to use your HSA-FSA card for some of these items. Check with your insurance plan to see what’s covered.
- Gentle baby wash
- Baby bathtub
- Washcloths and hooded towels
- Baby lotion or petroleum jelly
- Humidifier
- Sound machine
- Bassinette or crib
- Firm flat mattress and a fitted sheet — Pediatricians recommend that infants sleep in the parents' room on a surface designed for infants for at least the first 6 months.
- Swaddles — Swaddling means wrapping a baby in a thin blanket with only their head peeking out. This helps babies feel comforted and warm.
- Floor mat for tummy time when the baby is awake — This is a great way to support motor development and keep the baby's head from flattening.
- Lots of books — It's never too soon to start reading to your baby. Studies show that it builds listening and language skills.
- Toys — Playing helps babies learn about themselves, the world around them and how to think. It also helps with physical development.
- Infant swing, bouncer or vibrating chair — When used properly, these items can help soothe your baby for short periods of time when you need a break. Ask your pediatrician for guidance.
- Bottles with different size nipples
- Bottle-cleaning supplies, including bottle brushes, a bottle drying rack and related items
- Burp cloths
- If you plan to breastfeed, you'll want a breast pump, breast-milk storage bags, nursing pillow, nursing bras and nipple cream. Your doctor or lactation consultant (a breastfeeding specialist) can help you choose the best breast pump for you.
- Infant car seat — This helps make sure your baby is safe in your car. Many police stations offer a safe installation check. Try to have a car seat in all cars that the baby will be in.
- Car sun shade or a baby sun shade tent — Babies younger than 6 months can't wear sunscreen and should be kept out of the sun as much as possible. These items help protect them.
Other gift ideas
- Gift cards to drugstores, grocery stores or other retailers
- A night out on the town, babysitter included
- Infant CPR class — Do this before the baby arrives and include anyone who will care for your baby.
- A list of important phone numbers to keep on your refrigerator — This helps make sure that anyone caring for your baby knows who to call in case of emergency (pediatrician's office, etc.).
Pediatricians do not recommend
- Crib bumpers or other soft bedding can be dangerous for babies.
- Baby powder can cause breathing problems.
We're here for you now and in the future
Expecting a baby is both exciting and overwhelming. We're here to help you and your baby stay healthy before and after delivery. If you'd like to get to know us, please book a meet-and-greet visit with our pediatricians. There's no cost to you.