The Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist and All Must-Have Baby Items

Preparing for your baby’s arrival is an exciting time, but it can also feel overwhelming with all the things you’ll need to check off your list. From clothes to nursery essentials and baby gear, organizing your baby registry may help remove the pressure. It’s a practical way to ensure you have everything ready before your little one arrives while also making it easier for family and friends to know what you need.

Whether you’re planning your baby shower or simply getting organized, this ultimate guide will help you create the perfect baby registry checklist of must-have baby items.

What Is a Baby Registry & Why You Need One

A baby registry is a list of items from a local store or online shop that you’d like to receive before or at your baby shower. It’s not only a great way to let friends and family know what you need for your baby, but it also serves as a helpful organizing tool to track what you still need after the shower. Once gifts start coming in, you can see what's been checked off and what remains.

When creating your baby registry checklist, there’s no need to hold back. Simply ask yourself, “What do I need for my baby?” From big-ticket items like strollers and cribs to smaller essentials like bibs and bottles, every item is important. Including a wide range of price points is also a smart move—this gives your loved ones more options, ensuring they can find something that fits their budget.

It’s a good idea to have your registry ready before your baby shower. This way, your baby registry details can be included on the baby shower invite, making it easier for guests to shop ahead of time.

Beyond just convenience, your baby registry checklist helps prevent duplicate gifts, making sure you get exactly what you need. It’s also not just baby shower guests who may ask for your registry details—coworkers, neighbors, and even acquaintances might want to surprise you with something thoughtful from your list.

Finally, as you prepare for your little one’s arrival, you may also find a hospital bag checklist useful. This list ensures you have all the necessities ready when it’s time to head to the hospital!

Downloadable & Printable Baby Registry Checklist for Easy Planning

Creating a baby registry checklist may feel like a big task, but having a simple, organized guide can make the process much easier. Whether you’re a first-time parent or you’ve done this before, a printable checklist is a great tool to keep track of all the essential items you'll need for your little one.

We’ve made this process even simpler by offering a downloadable baby essentials checklist that you can print out or save on your device for easy access. It’s perfect for planning, and you can share it with friends and family to give them a better idea of what you need. From everyday must-haves to bigger purchases, this checklist covers all the must-have baby items for your registry.

Join Pampers Club to get started and get access to your full Baby Registry Checklist now!

When to Start Your Baby Registry: The Perfect Timeline

You can start working on your baby registry whenever you have the time, but it’s helpful to give yourself plenty of room to research products and carefully consider what you’ll need. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list in the section below of all the essential items you can include in your baby registry.

It’s important to have your baby registry checklist ready before your baby shower invitations go out. Coordinate with your shower host to know when they plan to send the invites, so you may be fully prepared in advance.

Like many parents-to-be, you might find it convenient to start to prepare your registry toward the end of the first trimester, adding more items during the second trimester as you start making decisions about which products are best for you and your little one.

If you’re finding out the baby’s gender, you may want to update your registry after your mid-pregnancy ultrasound, which typically takes place around 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Once your baby shower registry is complete, the host of your baby shower can include your registry information in the shower invitations or share it via email or social media.

Watch the video below to learn all about setting up your baby registry.

8 Tips for Choosing the Best Stores and Sites for Your Baby Registry

Choosing the right place for your baby registry can make the process smoother for both you and your guests. Whether you prefer a physical store like Target or an online platform such as Amazon, there are several factors to consider.

Here are eight tips to help you pick the best store or site for your registry:

1. Convenience for your family and friends. It’s helpful to offer both an in-store and online option for your guests. Some people prefer browsing in person, while others love the convenience of shopping online. Many stores give you the best of both worlds by providing a single registry with both in-store and online shopping options, such as Target’s baby registry.

2. Easy to create and manage. Whether you choose an in-store or online registry, it should be easy to set up and update. An online registry, such as Amazon’s baby registry, allows you to make quick changes to your list as you research products, ensuring it remains current and easy for guests to navigate.

3. Good prices. Offering a range of price points is key, so guests can choose gifts that fit their budget. Compare prices across stores and include affordable as well as high-end items to accommodate all your baby shower guests.

4. Wide selection. Choose a registry that offers a broad selection of products and brands. This will allow you to add everything from nursery essentials to the best gifts for newborns, giving your guests plenty of choices.

5. Discounts and promotions. Find out whether the store offers special deals or price match guarantees. Others might give you freebies like samples and coupons for registering with them. Some offer a discount when you buy those remaining few items that weren’t purchased by your baby shower guests.

6. Easy returns. Even with careful planning, there may be items you want to return or exchange. A flexible return policy may be a lifesaver, so check each store’s return process before deciding where to register.

7. Free shipping. Some registry lists offer free shipping, or free shipping over certain spending limits. Your baby shower guests will appreciate it.

8. Personalization. Some stores let you personalize your online baby registry with photos, while others let you track who bought which item so you can send thank-you notes more easily.

Essential Items to Include in Your Baby Registry

Now comes the fun part: deciding what to include in your baby registry!

Whether you’re a first-time parent or preparing for another little one, organizing a baby essentials checklist will help ensure you're fully prepared. From newborn essentials like diapers and clothing to helpful gadgets and nursery must-haves, your registry will give friends and family a clear idea of what you need.

You may navigate by category or browse the entire baby checklist and add the items that best fit your lifestyle. Don’t forget to include a mix of practical items and some of the best baby gifts of 2024—it’s all about creating a registry that reflects your family's needs and preferences.

Diapering

These may not be the most glamorous of gifts, but you'll appreciate having plenty of diapers on hand during those first few weeks and months with your new baby, along with other diapering essentials:

1. Diapers (in various sizes)

2. Diaper pail

3. Diaper bag

4. Changing pad

5. Baby wipes

6. Diaper rash cream.

Feeding

Whether you plan to breastfeed or formula feed or you're still undecided, you'll need a variety of supplies. You might also want to list some of the things you'll need for when your little one’s ready to transition to solid foods.

Feel free to combine both nursing supplies and feeding supplies on your registry list, including items such as these:

7. Nursing pads

8. Nursing pillow

9. Nursing bras

10. Burp cloths

11. Breast pump

12. Nipple cream

13. Formula

14. Baby bottles and nipples

15. Bottle warmer

16. Bottle sterilizer

17. Bottle and nipple brush

18. Breast milk storage containers for storing expressed breast milk

19. Baby food maker

20. Small bowls

21. Baby utensils

22. Sippy cups

23. Bibs.

Baby Gear

These are the big-ticket everyday items you’ll need. Oftentimes, friends or family members decide to get together to buy one of these for you. For some of the items, like a car seat and stroller, you may want to test in-store first before adding to your list:

24. Car seat

25. High chair

26. Stroller

27. Baby swing

28. Baby carrier

29. Portable crib or playpen/play yard

30. Baby bouncer.

Bathing

Bath time is a great opportunity to bond with your baby. You’ll need a bunch of items to get the job done and to have some fun, too:

31. Baby bathtub

32. Baby shampoo and body wash

33. Towels

34. Hooded towels

35. Washcloths or body sponges

36. Bath toys (like rubber duckies).

Clothing

It’s almost impossible to have too many baby clothes but the key is to have outfits and accessories in various sizes that will suit the weather for the first few months of your little one’s life. These baby essentials are a great starting point:

37. Receiving blankets

38. Bodysuits

39. Undershirts/T-shirts

40. Pajamas/sleepers

41. Nightgowns

42. Jackets

43. Sweaters

44. Rompers

45. Socks

46. Booties

47. No-scratch mittens

48. Hats

49. Bunting bags/sleeping sacks

50. Hamper.

Nursery Essentials

Consider if you want your nursery to have a specific theme or style before choosing these items. Then, think about what exactly you’d like to have in your nursery, including big items like the crib and rocking chair, and smaller décor items like wall decals and framed images:

51. Bassinet

52. Crib

53. Crib mattress

54. Fitted sheets

55. Changing table

56. Dresser

57. Rocking chair, glider, or armchair

58. Mobile

59. Night-light

60. Humidifier

61. Any nursery décor you’d like

62. Toy chest

63. Storage boxes and baskets.

Health and Safety

No baby registry list is complete without some health and safety items, many of which may need to be tested and/or installed before your baby arrives:

64. Babyproofing essentials, like outlet covers, cabinet locks, or corner guards

65. Baby gate

66. Baby thermometer

67. Baby first aid kit.

Electronics

Technology may help make keeping an eye on your little one easier. Some of these electronics may help you during those times when you need a second set of eyes:

68. Baby monitor

69. Baby sound machine

70. Baby activity and health tracker.

Personal Care

To help you feel more prepared for taking care of your growing baby, you might like to add some of these personal care items to your registry list:

71. Baby sunscreen

72. Lotion or cream

73. Baby oil

74. Baby nail clippers

75. Baby toothbrush and toothpaste

76. Baby hairbrush

77. Bulb syringe for nasal mucus

78. Gentle laundry detergent.

Comfort Accessories

You may consider registering for some practical items that will help soothe your baby when they get fussy, such as any of the following:

79. Pacifier

80. Teething ring.

Books and Playtime Accessories

In addition to all the practical necessities, your friends and relatives might also enjoy giving some books or some cute and playful gifts. You and your baby will enjoy these, and it will be fun for your baby shower guests to see your little one reading and playing in the years to come:

81. Children’s books

82. Toys

83. Rattles

84. Activity center

85. Play mat

86. Stuffed animals.

Keepsakes

Some guests might even like to add a more personal touch, so you can always suggest the following keepsakes:

87. Quilt

88. Photo frames or albums

89. Artwork

90. Baby’s first-year memory book

91. Personalized accessories, like a bodysuit

92. Hands-on help. Some sites let you register for gifts that do not come from a store, like home-cooked meals and babysitting services. These might be especially useful in those first few weeks at home with your newborn or after your return to work.

How to Build a Second Baby Registry: What’s Different This Time?

If this isn’t your first baby, you may be wondering what to put on a baby registry for your second child. While there are plenty of items you can likely reuse from your first baby, such as a baby gate or swing, there are certain things you’ll still need to add, especially if your older child is still using them.

For example, you might require a second set of bigger-ticket items, like a:

1. Stroller

2. High chair

3. Car seat

4. Crib

5. Nursery furniture item.

Additionally, you may find yourself in need of more certain essentials or different styles to suit your new little one’s needs. Consider adding items such as:

1. Diapers

2. Teething rings

3. Sheets

4. Clothes in different colors or patterns for your second baby

5. Stroller or double stroller (if you think it may be easier to take both of your children out in the one stroller)

6. Keepsakes.

As you build your second registry, think about what you need for a baby this time around. This may include updated items that weren’t necessary with your first child. You can even use the baby list registry search by name feature to quickly find and organize what you need, making the process smoother for both you and your friends and family.

Creating the Ultimate Baby Registry for Twins

If you’re expecting twins, planning your baby registry checklist will look a bit different, as you’ll need two of many important items. This means you’ll want to focus on baby essentials that make sure both babies are cared for comfortably. When thinking about newborn necessities for twins, there are some must-have items to include in your registry, such as:

1. Double stroller

2. High chairs

3. Car seats

4. Infant carriers

5. Cribs

6. Dressers.

24 Must-Have Baby Items for Your Registry

Creating a baby registry can seem overwhelming with so many must-have baby items to consider. It’s easy to feel unsure about what’s truly necessary for your little one.

To simplify the process, this list highlights the most essential items and explains why they’re the baby must-haves, making it easier to focus on what matters most.

1. Stroller to fit your needs. Strollers come in many styles and prices, so it’s important to consider your family’s needs. Whether it’s a double stroller for twins, a jogger stroller for an active lifestyle, or an umbrella stroller for easy storage, make sure to choose the best one for you.

2. Car seat for every ride. You'll need a car seat to take your little one home from the hospital and for every trip after that. Check that the car seat you’re planning to add to your registry meets current safety standards and that it’s easy to safely install in your car. You may want to check out the model you’re considering in-store first.

3. Hands-free baby carrier. A carrier is a must-need baby item for keeping your baby close while freeing up your hands. Start with a wrap for a newborn, then transition to a structured carrier as your baby grows.

4. Sturdy crib. A crib is a nursery essential, providing your little one with a safe place to sleep. Ensure the crib you choose meets modern safety standards.

5. Firm crib mattress. What’s a crib without a mattress? You’ll want a firm mattress for your little one because it’s the safest. Beyond that, you may choose between an innerspring and a foam mattress

6. Easy-to-clean changing pad. A changing pad is a must-have. Add one to your registry list that is comfortable for your baby and is easy to clean for you.

7. Essentials like diapers and wipes. Your baby will go through a lot of diapers and wipes! Stock up and earn rewards by scanning your Pampers purchases through the Pampers Club app.

8. Odor-proof diaper pail. Keep your nursery smelling fresh with a diaper pail that seals in unpleasant odors.

9. Practical diaper bag. A well-organized, sturdy diaper bag is a must-have for baby registry items when you’re on the go.

10. Comfy chair for snuggling. Whether you prefer a rocking chair, armchair, or glider, having a comfy chair in your baby’s nursery for feeding your baby, soothing them, or just snuggling is a gift you’ll appreciate. You might also like to specify the color so that it matches your nursery décor.

11. Baby monitor. Common advice given to new parents: Sleep when your baby sleeps. However, you might feel more comfortable when you put them down to sleep if you have a baby monitor. Monitors help you keep an eye and an ear on your little one even if you're in another room.

12. Wearable blanket or sleeping sack. Your newborn will be sleeping a lot during those first few weeks and months, and you'll want to dress them so that they’re warm enough but don't become overheated, which can be a risk factor for SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). A wearable blanket or a sleeping sack is a good choice for a young baby.

13. Baby bathtub. Although your baby may not need tub baths for a while yet, having a baby bathtub is useful as it’s designed to be just the right size for young babies. Some tubs may even fit into a larger kitchen sink.

14. Soft bath towels. After bath time, you’ll want to wrap your little one in something soft and absorbent that's just the right size. Add good-quality baby towels (perhaps even the kind with a hood) to your registry list.

15. Safe playpen/play yard. Interested in giving your baby a bit of freedom while still keeping a watchful eye on her? Add a playpen to your list. It can easily be moved from room to room; some even fold up for transporting to Grandma’s house.

16. Floor mat for playtime. As your baby becomes more mobile and independent, you’ll want a floor mat or rug that they may play and crawl on comfortably and safely.

17. Baby wardrobe. The type of baby clothes you add to your registry will likely be determined by your taste, your budget, and even the season your baby is born in. Add various clothing sizes to your registry so your baby can grow into them, including bodysuits, hats, socks, and more. You might like to add some bodysuits, tees, leggings, rompers, bloomers, beanie hats, socks, and booties to your list.

18. Baby thermometer. A reliable baby thermometer is essential for monitoring your baby’s health, especially during fevers. The newer digital ones are much safer and easier to use.

19. Relaxing baby swing. You’ll appreciate having a baby swing, which you can use to soothe your baby when they're fussy, or so they can kick back and relax while you take care of things nearby.

20. Durable high chair. A good, sturdy highchair is a must-have when it comes time to feed your little one solid food. You might want to look for one that has a harness to keep your baby secured in their seat. Some are also easier to clean than others, so consider that, too.

21. Bottles, nipples, and pacifiers. Bottles are a traditional registry staple. Even if you plan to exclusively breastfeed, it’s a good idea to have a few bottles so that someone else can feed your baby pumped or expressed breast milk from storage or so that you can store some breast milk to give later.

22. Baby food blender. If you’re thinking of making your baby food at home instead of buying small jars from the supermarket, you might consider registering for a specialized baby food blender.

23. Burp cloths and bibs. Burp cloths and bibs are very much a necessity when it comes time to feed your baby. Whether you’re breastfeeding or formula feeding, you’ll want to have burp cloths, and once you’ve transitioned your baby over to solid foods, bibs to help keep things on the cleaner side—but we can’t promise that.

24. Help and favors from family and friends. In addition to all the baby gear you’ll need, you may appreciate getting some hands-on help in the form of home-cooked meals, babysitting of your older children, or pet sitting. Think about what kind of practical help you might like in the weeks (and months) after your baby is born.

What Every First-Time Parent Should Put on Their Baby Registry

As a first-time parent, knowing what to put on a baby registry may be a challenge. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To help you get started, here are a few baby must-haves for first-time parents that you’ll want to include in your registry.

Diapers and Wipes

One of the first questions new parents ask is, "how many diapers to register for?" A good starting point is two to three boxes of newborn diapers, then adding larger sizes as your baby grows. You’ll also need plenty of wipes to go with them too! You’ll be surprised how many newborn diapers you need!

For added convenience, using a rewards system, Pampers Club can help you earn discounts on future diaper purchases.

Car Seat and Stroller

A car seat is a newborn must-have from day one, as you’ll need it to safely bring your little one home from the hospital. Pairing it with a stroller in a travel system is a convenient choice for many parents Make sure both the car seat and stroller meet current safety standards.

Feeding Supplies

Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula-feeding, or doing both, you’ll need a range of feeding supplies. Essentials like a breast pump, bottles, and a bottle sterilizer ensure you’re well-prepared for your baby’s feeding needs.

Crib and Mattress

A crib is a key item for your baby’s nursery, providing a safe place for them to sleep. It’s important to choose a crib that meets modern safety standards, including sturdy construction, proper spacing between slats, and no drop sides. Pair it with a firm mattress to ensure your baby sleeps safely.

The Bottom Line

With these ideas, you’re ready to start creating your baby registry checklist. Good luck with planning for the arrival of your little one—this is such an exciting time! Don’t forget to take advantage of the Pampers Club app to earn rewards with every purchase of diapers and wipes. It’s an easy way to save on future essentials as you continue shopping for your baby. And of course, have fun at your baby shower!