Creating Your Baby Shower Registry
Preparing for a baby is exciting and overwhelming. Between researching safe sleep practices and comparing stroller brands, creating a baby registry can feel like another full-time job. This guide breaks down exactly what you need, what you can skip, and how to build a registry that works for your family.
Why Use WishGiven for Your Baby Registry
Unlike store-specific registries, WishGiven lets you add items from any retailer—Amazon, Target, Babylist, Buy Buy Baby, Etsy, and more. This flexibility lets you choose the best products at the best prices, all in one convenient wishlist.
Essential Items for Your Baby Registry
Nursery and Sleep
- Crib or bassinet - Research safe sleep guidelines before choosing
- Crib mattress and waterproof cover - Babies have accidents; protection is essential
- Fitted crib sheets - Get at least 3-4 sets
- Sleep sacks or swaddles - Blankets aren't safe for infants
- White noise machine - Helps baby sleep and drowns out household sounds
- Blackout curtains - For better naps and bedtime
- Baby monitor - Video monitors provide peace of mind
- Changing table or changing pad - You'll change thousands of diapers
- Dresser for baby clothes - Babies have surprising amounts of clothing
Diapering Essentials
- Diapers in various sizes - Newborns grow fast; register for sizes 1-3
- Wipes and wipe warmer - You'll use thousands of wipes
- Diaper pail with odor control - Trust us on this one
- Changing pad and covers - Get extras for washing
- Diaper cream - Prevents and treats diaper rash
- Diaper bag - Multiple pockets make outings easier
Feeding Supplies
For Breastfeeding Parents:
- Breast pump (electric and/or manual)
- Nursing bras and tanks (size up from current size)
- Nursing pillow
- Nipple cream
- Milk storage bags
- Breast milk storage containers
For Formula Feeding (or Combination):
- Bottles in various sizes (try different brands to see what baby likes)
- Bottle brush and drying rack
- Bottle warmer
- Formula dispenser for on-the-go
For Solid Foods (around 6 months):
- High chair
- Baby spoons and bowls
- Sippy cups
- Silicone bibs
- Splat mat for under high chair
Clothing and Accessories
- Onesies and bodysuits - Get sizes newborn through 12 months
- Sleepers and pajamas - Zippered ones make nighttime changes easier
- Socks and mittens - Babies scratch themselves
- Seasonal outerwear - Jackets, hats, buntings based on your climate
- Receiving blankets - Useful for everything from swaddling to burp cloths
Bath Time
- Baby bathtub or bath seat
- Soft washcloths and hooded towels
- Gentle baby soap and shampoo
- Baby lotion
- Nail clippers or file
- Soft brush and comb
- Bath toys (for older babies)
On-the-Go Gear
- Car seat - Research safety ratings; this is non-negotiable
- Stroller - Consider your lifestyle (jogging, city walking, car trunk size)
- Baby carrier or wrap - Keeps baby close while freeing your hands
- Portable changing pad - For public diaper changes
- Stroller organizer - Holds your phone, keys, snacks
Health and Safety
- Digital thermometer
- Nasal aspirator
- Baby medicine dispenser
- First aid kit
- Baby-safe detergent
- Outlet covers and cabinet locks
- Baby gates (if you have stairs)
Entertainment and Development
- Play mat or activity gym
- Soft books and toys
- Teething toys
- Bouncer or swing
- Exersaucer or jumper (for older babies)
- Board books
Nice-to-Have Items
These aren't essential but can make life easier:
- Sound machine with nightlight
- Baby swing
- Playpen or pack-and-play
- Rocking chair or glider for nursery
- Baby memory book
- Milestone blankets and cards for photos
- Baby food maker (if you plan to make your own)
What to Skip (At Least Initially)
- Too many newborn clothes - Babies grow out of them in weeks
- Bottle warmers - Room temp or running under warm water works fine
- Wipe warmer - Not essential despite marketing claims
- Tons of toys - Newborns can't use them yet
- Shoes - Babies don't need shoes until they're walking outside
Registry Tips for New Parents
Register for Multiple Price Points
Include small items like pacifiers and washcloths alongside bigger items like cribs and strollers. This gives all guests options within their budget.
Register for Diapers in Various Sizes
Don't just register for newborn diapers. Babies grow quickly, and you'll need sizes 1-3 within the first year.
Include Gift Cards
You won't know baby's preferences or your actual needs until they arrive. Gift cards let you fill gaps later.
Research Safety Standards
For items like car seats, cribs, and bassinets, only register for products that meet current safety standards. Don't accept hand-me-downs for these critical items unless you verify their safety history.
Consider Your Space
Living in a small apartment? Skip the massive stroller and giant swing. Focus on compact, multi-functional items.
Ask Parent Friends
Reach out to friends with babies and ask what they actually used versus what collected dust. Real-world experience is invaluable.
Don't Forget Items for You!
Your baby shower is about celebrating your growing family, which includes you. Add items like:
- Comfortable postpartum clothing
- Self-care products (bath items, skincare)
- Meal delivery gift cards
- House cleaning service
- Books about parenting
- Coffee (lots of coffee)
Update Your Registry Regularly
As you receive gifts at any pre-baby celebrations, remove those items and add new ones. Keep your registry fresh so late shoppers have plenty of options.
Start Your Baby Registry Today
Ready to prepare for your little one? Create your free baby registry on WishGiven and add items from every store you love. Share one link with all your friends and family.
Congratulations on your pregnancy, and happy nesting!