How to Set Up a Baby Registry

June 11, 2019

As a first-time mom, you may be overwhelmed by the number of choices in products. There’s no need to stress and start panicking. With a little bit of planning, registering for your baby can be a simple task.

When to Register

While a baby registry can be created at any time, a majority of moms-to-be begin at the 12 week mark to give themselves plenty of time to research the gear they need and have it ready for friends and family. You may want to wait until finding out the sex of the baby, usually around 20 weeks, to decide which designs and color choices to go with.

Where to Register

Things to take into consideration are your personal style, price range, and the type of registry perks different stores offer. But it is important to ultimately select a store with nationwide locations, online access, and one whose return policy meets your needs. Some popular stores to set up your registry are the following: Amazon, Pottery Barn Kids, Ikea, Walmart, Target, Buy Buy Baby, Crate & Kids, and The Bump.

What to Register

Experts advise starting your registry with essentials that are crucial when caring for a newborn such as an infant car seat and somewhere safe for your baby to sleep. The following are top baby registry must-haves:

Stroller or baby carrier
A set of newborn clothing
Crib, mattress, mattress cover and crib sheets
Baby monitor
Bottles, a breast pump if breastfeeding, formula if not
Bibs and burp cloths
Newborn-size disposable or cloth diapers and wipes
Baby bathtub and toiletries
Baby first aid kit, rectal thermometer and nail clippers
Baby bouncer

On the other hand, don’t request items you “think” you might need. Among the skippable items often cited by experienced moms are bottle warmers, wipe warmers, fancy nursing capes, a changing table, a bassinet, a baby food processor and pacifier holders.

Remember that your registry is a constant work in progress and once complete, should be shared with whomever is hosting your baby shower and included on your shower invitations. Try shopping with someone who has planned a registry before for insights into products you may not have thought of before. But most importantly, have fun choosing gifts for your new bundle of joy!

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