Building The Perfect Baby Registry: Expert Tips & Tricks

As exciting as preparing for a new baby may be, building a baby registry can definitely seem daunting—especially for first-time parents. With countless options and no shortage of opinions, it's easy to get lost in the sea of baby products. But fear not—our ultimate baby registry guide is here to help you navigate the process with ease. In this comprehensive guide, I'll share valuable tips and insights to build the perfect baby registry that suits your needs and budget. And what qualifies me for this, you may wonder? Well, in addition to being the co-founder of Little Shadows (don't forget to add our Luxe Labor and Delivery Gown to your registry!), I also test and review baby and maternity gear for a living for a reputable publication. And, of course, I have two children of my own. So, from must-have essentials like strollers and car seats to nursery essentials like cribs and bedding, I've got you covered. In addition to must-have items, I'll also share the do's and don'ts of creating a baby registry, ensuring you avoid these common pitfalls and make the most of your registry and all the loved ones who want to help you celebrate. Whether you're a minimalist looking for essential items or a trendsetter seeking the latest innovations, this will help you make informed choices and save you the time of endless Googling so you can focus on resting and nesting.

A baby registry allows expecting parents to curate a list of items they want and need for their baby. It serves as a helpful guide for friends and family who want to contribute to the joyous occasion by gifting items that will actually be useful to the parents-to-be. 

By creating a baby registry, you not only ensure that you'll receive the items you truly need, but you'll also avoid duplicates and hopefully prevent well-meaning but impractical gifts. It's an opportunity to carefully select products that align with your values, lifestyle and budget, making the transition into parenthood smoother and more enjoyable. Plus, having everything you need on your baby registry ultimately helps shoulder the cost that preparing for a new baby inherently brings. 

Before diving into the baby registry world, it's important to take a step back and assess your needs. Consider your lifestyle, living arrangements and personal preferences. Are you planning to have the baby in a bassinet in your room for the first few months or will you start them in a crib right away? Do you want a traditional crib or a convertible crib? Do you hope to breastfeed or pump, or will you supplement  with formula? I also find it very helpful to select products that will help you in both the present and the future. So, when selecting a stroller, for instance, consider whether you plan to have more than one child and how far apart you plan to have them. This will help determine the best stroller option for you. Ultimately, these factors will help guide your decision-making process and ensure that your baby registry reflects your unique circumstances.

Once you have a clear understanding of your needs, it's time to choose a baby registry platform. There are several options available, both online and in-store, each with its own set of features and benefits. Take the time to explore different platforms and select the one that best suits your needs. Some popular options include Amazon, Target, Buy Buy Baby and Babylist. (PS: You can easily add our Luxe Labor & Delivery Gown to your Babylist registry with our "Add to Babylist" button.) It's also worth noting that some registry options give you freebies or credit toward your items. 

When building your baby registry, it's important to focus on the essentials. While the cute and trendy items may catch your eye, it's crucial to prioritize functionality and safety. And remember, people will likely go rogue, especially when it comes to baby clothes, so I found adding a special message at the top of your baby registry can help focus loved ones. (I made a TikTok video about it here, but essentially the idea is that you reinforce the idea that you're grateful for any gift someone chooses to give you and that these baby registry items were selected with your needs in mind.) Here are some baby registry must-have items to consider:

1. Stroller, Car Seat & Carrier

A reliable stroller and car seat combo is an absolute necessity. Look for a model that is easy to maneuver, lightweight and meets all safety standards. Consider your lifestyle and choose a stroller that suits your needs, whether it's a travel stroller for adventurous parents or a compact stroller for urban dwellers. Lindsay, my Little Shadows co-founder and I, are both partial to the Doona for infants. I also love the Nuna TRVL LX and Silver Cross Jet 4 for travel.

And you may find, especially with younger babies and infants, that a carrier is especially helpful. They not only allow you to be hands-free but they're a wonderful bonding opportunity. I absolutely love the Artipoppe and the Wildbird Aerial.

2. Nursery Furniture & Accessories

Investing in quality nursery furniture is essential for creating a safe and comfortable space for your little one. A crib, changing table/ dresser are the primary pieces to include in your registry, as well as a crib mattress. You may also consider a bassinet for the early months and rocking chair or glider/recliner to soothe and feed your baby in. And I've found having a sleeper couch, daybed or proper bed in the nursery for especially long nights is so helpful. Generally speaking, you should look for sturdy, well-built furniture that meets safety regulations. You may also want to consider Green Guard Gold or JPMA certified items specifically.

In terms of accessories, you'll want to add in a baby monitor and consider if you'll use a sound machine. I like the Nanit and the Hatch, respectively. And you'll likely want to add a couple different types of pacifiers to see which baby prefers.

3. Diapering Essentials

Stocking up on diapers and wipes is a practical and thoughtful addition to your registry. Consider including a variety of sizes and brands to accommodate your baby's changing needs.While your friend's baby may love Coterie, you may find Honest Co.or Huggies work better for your baby. Opt for eco-friendly options if that aligns with your values and don't forget a diaper rash ointment just in case (I love the spray one from The Honest Company). You'll also need a diaper pail (go for the Ubbi) and a diaper bag. I love the Mina Baie for a larger option or the City Mouse for something more compact.

4. Feeding Essentials

Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, there are essential items you'll need. For breastfeeding, include nursing bras, breast pumps, nursing pads, milk storage bags or jars and bottles for pumped milk. For bottle-feeding, include bottles, formula, a bottle brush, bottle soap and bottle sterilizers and/or warmers if you feel inclined. Many friends of mine also swear by the Baby Brezza, which makes formula prep a breeze. You'll also need bibs and burp cloths and, when baby starts solid foods around six months, you'll need a high chair and plates, bowls and utensils.

I also found that our Luxe Labor & Delivery Gown was so helpful postpartum, as it makes breastfeeding and skin-to-skin bonding more seamless in the early days. I also washed mine after delivery and utilized it as a postpartum nightgown, which was game-changing

5. Baby Clothes and Bedding

Don't forget to include a selection of baby clothes and bedding on your registry. Look for comfortable, easy-to-care-for materials and consider the climate you live in. Include essentials like onesies, sleepers, blankets, swaddles, crib sheets, socks, pants/shorts, outerwear and sleep sacks. And if you're having a girl, you may want to add some dresses or accessories. You'll potentially want to considered GOTS certified products or those made from organic cotton.

6. Bath Time & First Aid Essentials

Bathing your baby is a special bonding experience, and having the right essentials makes it even more enjoyable. Include items like a baby bathtub, hooded towels (I swear by The Fuzzy Sprout towels), washcloths, baby shampoo, body wash, lotion and any bathroom essentials like the FridaBaby Snot Sucker and Windi, nail clippers and first aid items like a thermometer, infant Tylenol and Vaseline.

7. Baby Proofing Items

I've always found it easier to baby proof the house while pregnant (even though you'll likely have to do another swoop when baby becomes mobile). Consider getting outlet covers, cabinet and drawer locks and baby gates.

8. Playtime Favorites

You'll want to add a play mat (a blanket is also just fine) for baby to explore tummy time on and some toys. I love Lovevery's subscription service because it takes the mental load out of selecting developmentally appropriate toys. You'll also want some books and some high-contrast images to help stimulate baby's early brain development.

Remember, these are just a few baby registry essential items to consider. Every family's needs are unique, so take the time to think about what will be most useful to you and your baby.

When it comes to selecting baby products for your baby registry, it's important to be informed and make choices that prioritize safety and quality. Here are some do's and don'ts to keep in mind before sending out your baby registry to loved ones:

Do: Research and Read Reviews

Before adding any products to your baby registry, take the time to research and read reviews. Look for products that have been tested for safety and durability. Pay attention to customer reviews and feedback to get a sense of real-life experiences with the products.

Don't: Overdo It

It can be tempting to add every cute and trendy baby product to your baby registry, but it's important to be practical and realistic. Avoid cluttering your registry with unnecessary items that you may never use (looking at you wipe warmers). Stick to the essentials and focus on quality rather than quantity.

Do: Consider Longevity

Babies grow quickly, and their needs change just as fast. When selecting items for your baby registry, consider their longevity. Look for products that can grow with your baby or have multiple uses. This will save you money in the long run and ensure that you get the most out of your baby registry.

Don't: Neglect Safety

Safety should always be a top priority when selecting baby products. Look for products that meet safety standards and have been tested for harmful substances. Avoid items with small parts that could pose a choking hazard and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use.

Do: Include a Range of Price Points

Your friends and family have different budgets, so it's important to include a range of price points on your baby registry. This allows everyone to find a gift that fits their budget while still contributing to your baby's needs. Some registries will even allow you to make larger-ticket items group gifts, so people can contribute what they can instead of having to buy pricey items in full.

Don't: Forget About Return Policies

Even with careful planning, you may receive duplicate items or realize that certain products don't meet your needs. Before finalizing your baby registry, familiarize yourself with the return policies of the stores or platforms you've chosen. This will make it easier to exchange or return items if necessary.

By following these do's and don'ts, you'll be well on your way to creating a baby registry that is practical, safe, and tailored to your needs.

Creating a checklist can help you stay organized and ensure that you don't miss any essential items. Here's a comprehensive baby registry checklist for first-time parents:

Remember to personalize this baby registry checklist based on your unique circumstances and preferences.

Once you've built your baby registry, it's time to share it with your friends and family. Here are some effective ways to spread the word:

As you receive gifts and your needs evolve, it's important to manage and update your baby registry. Here are some tips for doing so:

1. Regularly Check Inventory: Keep an eye on the items in your baby registry and remove any that have become unavailable or discontinued.

2. Add New Items: As you discover new needs or receive recommendations from other parents, don't hesitate to add new items to your baby registry.

3. Appreciate and Thank: Whenever someone purchases a gift from your baby registry, send them a heartfelt thank-you note expressing your gratitude.

4. Consider Future Updates: My eldest son is now four but I still use his baby registry as a place to add items that would make great gifts  or are essential items that I don't need just yet. That way, when my family asks what he needs, I can just send them my registry link. 

Building a baby registry is an exciting and important step in preparing for your little one's arrival. By following the expert tips and do's and don'ts outlined in this guide, you'll be well-equipped to create a baby registry that reflects your needs, values and personal style.

Remember to prioritize functionality, safety, and quality when selecting items for your baby registry. Be mindful of your budget, and don't be afraid to ask for help or recommendations from other parents. You can totally send me an email at Lex@shoplittleshadows.com with any questions or reach out to us on Instagram. Our TikTok is also a great resource on baby registry favorites and tips.

With a well-curated baby registry, you can look forward to receiving thoughtful gifts that will truly make your journey into parenthood a little bit easier. So, take a deep breath, enjoy the process, and happy registering!