Bringing a baby into the world is one of the most exciting experiences, and yet, it can also be incredibly overwhelming, especially for first-time parents. There are so many things to consider and prepare for before the baby’s arrival – 9 months just doesn’t seem like enough time to prepare! I remember I relied SO heavily on other blogs and websites to learn what I needed as I built my baby registry. In an effort to pay it forward, I’ve created this resource to help the next new mom prepare for the exciting journey into motherhood by compiling a list of my recommendations for newborn baby essentials to add to your registry and hopefully make the early days as smooth as possible.

(Please note that this post contains affiliate links, and I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through those links, which helps support the blog.)

Diapers and Wipes

Let’s start here. There will be no item you use more than this one right here! Diapers are undoubtedly at the top of the list for baby registry essentials. Be prepared to go through a lot of them in those early weeks. Newborns can use up to 10 diapers a day, so stock up! Alongside diapers, make sure you have plenty of baby wipes on hand for diaper changes and quick cleanups.

There are lots of great brands out there to choose from, but here’s a few tips to consider when deciding which one to go with:

• Materials / Ingredients
  • Opt for diapers made from soft, breathable materials to prevent irritation and promote air circulation, reducing the risk of diaper rash.
  • Check if the diapers are hypoallergenic, especially if your baby has sensitive skin.
• Performance / Comfort
  • Consider the diaper’s ability to absorb and lock away moisture. Newborns may need diapers that can handle frequent wetting.
  • Look for indicators that change color when the diaper is wet to make it easier to know when a change is needed.
  • Ensure the diaper comes in sizes suitable for newborns and that it provides a snug and comfortable fit to prevent leaks.
• Brand Reputation and Reviews
  • Research the reputation of the diaper brand. Look for reviews from other parents to get an idea of the overall satisfaction with the product.
  • Check if the brand has been endorsed by pediatricians or dermatologists.

After hours upon hours of research, I discovered Coterie. Their diapers and wipes are superior to all brands because they excel in literally EVERY area that matters when it comes to a diaper. Their diapers are not only incredibly soft, comfortable, and effective, but they are also environmentally responsible and made with sustainable materials. I created a little video here explaining why I love this brand so much… I could not recommend their products more! For 20% off your first order, use CHLOE here.

Baby Clothes

Your baby will need a variety of clothing options, including onesies, sleepers, and cute outfits for special occasions. Since newborns grow quickly, it’s a good idea to have a range of sizes on hand, from newborn to 3 months. Look for soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or modal to keep your baby comfortable. One thing I learned quickly is people LOVE to buy baby clothes. So if you are creating a baby registry, be sure to add a few outfits that you need!

I loved Magnetic Me onesies for my daughter because of their ingenious magnetic closures, which make dressing and changing her sooo easy, especially during those late-night diaper changes. The soft, high-quality fabric and adorable designs beat any other brand I found… so much so that I ended up only reaching for these when it came time to dress Ruby and all the other onesies just sat there unused until she grew out of them. Their signature modal fabric is sooo stretchy too which allows her to wear each size longer before she phases up into the next size. ALSO – they have now started a line for parents so you can match your little one which is the cutest thing ever. Check out my Magnetic Me favorites here and score 10% off your order too!

Swaddles

Swaddles are a lifesaver when it comes to helping your baby sleep soundly. Swaddling can help your little one feel secure and prevent them from startling themselves awake with their own reflexes.

There are so many options when it comes to swaddling. There are normal muslin swaddle blankets, velcro swaddles, zipper swaddles, the list goes on. Here are my suggestions… buy a few options to have on hand. When you get home from the hospital and you have a new baby and you are both learning each other’s preferences, you’ll be so happy to have a few options readily available. Plus, every baby is different… so although your friend might tell you how her baby LOVED a certain kind, yours might prefer something a little different.

The velcro and zipper swaddles were a game-changer for me and my husband as new parents. Let me tell you, navigating the world of swaddling with traditional blankets was a bit of a challenge, especially for my husband. I remember being in the hospital and watching him struggle with getting the folds just right. Our daughter Ruby had a knack for breaking free faster than Houdini (bless his heart). And then for me, the constant worry about the blanket coming undone and potentially obstructing Ruby’s breathing was a real stressor for me (thanks postpartum anxiety!). Enter velcro and zipper swaddles – a total lifesaver. The ease of wrapping Ruby up securely without the fuss of intricate folding brought us peace of mind and more restful nights.

I also loved having a drawer full of soft Muslim cloth blankets because in the early days when you are home and pretty much bouncing between skin-to-skin time, feeding, and diaper changes in what feels like every few minutes, it’s sometimes nice to just wrap your baby in a soft blanket instead of putting on a whole outfit you just have to put on and take off. I tried a lot of blankets and these were by FAR my favorite for their softness, colors, and washing endurance. These make a great gift for a baby registry, too!

Feeding Supplies

Whether you plan to breastfeed or use formula, you’ll need some essential feeding supplies. For breastfeeding, consider investing in a comfortable nursing pillow, nipple cream, and the magical silverette cups (oh man, they are a true lifesaver those first few weeks! Trust me!). I also tried out sooo many nursing bras until I found my favorites which were a super affordable set I found at Target.

If you’re using formula, make sure to have bottles, formula, and sterilizing equipment on hand.

When I was pregnant everyone was raving about the Baby Brezza bottle sterilizer but I found the Dr Browns Sterilizer for half the cost and it had great reviews. I decided to get that instead and honestly, it’s been perfect for us! I don’t think it’s worth paying more for the Baby Brezza if you are looking to cut costs somewhere.

In regards to bottles, Babylist offered a “bottle box” that provided several different bottles in a box for us to try out with Ruby to see which one she preferred before buying multiples. It’s no surprise that out of all the bottles we had, Ruby liked the ugliest one with the MOST parts to wash (Haha!). She loved the Dr. Browns bottle more than any of the others and what I loved is that they offered a glass bottle option instead of the plastic.

Baby Car Seat

This goes without saying considering hospitals won’t even allow you to leave without one! Choose a car seat that is suitable for infants and meets safety standards. I probably spent a whole trimester researching car seat options (if I’m being honest) and landed on the Nuna PIPA™ RX Infant Car Seat & Base.

This was hands down the best choice for our little one. On top of it being incredibly safe with a steel-reinforced base and a five-point harness, it also has a feature called a Skydrape. It’s this clever, dreamy canopy that pulls down effortlessly, providing an instant shade oasis. Perfect for shielding those tiny eyes from the sun or creating a cozy but breathable cocoon for naptime on the go without trapping in the heat like a blanket would. And here’s the real mom win that was the selling point for me – it’s so lightweight at only 7 pounds. It’s actually the lightest infant car seat on the market!

Oh, also one little tip for you in regards to the car seat… Don’t forget to watch a YouTube video or go to a local car seat inspection location near you to ensure you know how to properly install it into your car (and of course secure your baby in it too!).

Baby Bathtub

You’re going to want an infant bath and let me save you the trouble of searching because the Lalo infant bath is where it’s at. I used it with my little Ruby, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. First off, it’s the only infant bath that didn’t make my eyes sore – stylish and functional, what a win! It’s like the Goldilocks of baths because it also fits perfectly into our kitchen sink for easy and stress-free bath sessions. Lalo wasn’t playing around when they designed this gem – it’s got the looks and the smarts. Another awesome baby registry addition because it makes a wonderful gift!

Crib or Bassinet

Your baby will need a safe place to sleep. A crib or bassinet with a firm mattress and fitted sheets is essential. Make sure the crib meets current safety standards to provide a secure sleep environment.

We used the Snoo bassinet and loved it. I know there are lots of conflicting opinions on it, but it worked great for us! I say do your research here. If we were to get any other bassinet I would have gotten the Newton bassinet because I love that their mattress is 100% breathable (which is exactly what I needed during my postpartum anxiety!)

Baby Monitor

A baby monitor can provide peace of mind, allowing you to keep an ear on your baby while they sleep. There are various types available, from simple audio monitors to more advanced video options. Choose the one that suits your needs and budget.

We used the Hello Baby monitor for my daughter Ruby during her time in the Snoo which was located in our room beside us. It was more for when she was taking naps during the day since at night I was right next to her and didn’t need to rely on the camera as much. Its compact design and clear audio allowed us to keep a close watch on her without disturbing her sleep.

Changing Table or Pad

Changing diapers is a frequent task when you have a newborn, so having a dedicated changing station can make life easier. Invest in a changing table or simply use a changing pad on top of a dresser. I ended up using a dresser because I loved having drawers right below to store all the diapering essentials as well as clean onesies.

The Keekaroo Peanut changing pad quickly became a parenting essential for me due to its exceptional durability and hygiene. Its impermeable surface was a breeze to clean, making diaper changes stress-free even during messy moments. Additionally, the contoured shape and comfortable padding kept my baby secure and comfortable, ensuring a convenient and comfortable experience.

Baby Toiletries

I’ve always been pretty particular with what product I put on my skin, so I knew it was going to be mission impossible to find a product that fit the high expectations I had for my newborn baby and her sensitive newborn skin. There is SUCH a market out there for baby hygiene products, but I wanted to find something clean that wasn’t filled with bad ingredients and fragrances.

I tried a few brands, but when Ruby developed eczema I knew I needed to find something that was actually going to make a difference. That’s when I stumbled across an ad for Ella Ola, a science-backed baby skincare line developed by Harvard dermatologists. I ordered a few of their products, specifically the organic bath soak, and holy smokes, this stuff is gold. Ruby’s eczema flare-up was gone within a matter of days and her skin was back to feeling so soft and moisturized. So now we use the whole product suite and love it which is why this is definitely on my baby registry essentials list!

Baby Nail Clippers

Babies’ nails can be surprisingly sharp, and their tiny nails grow quickly. If you’re anything like me, the thought of using nail clippers on a tiny fragile little finger freaks you out. So on top of getting nail clippers, I got this electric baby nail trimmer which made nail trimming way less stressful.

Baby Carrier or Wrap

When it comes to baby registry essentials, a reliable baby carrier is a game-changer for new parents. It’s more than just a mode of transport; it’s a hands-free lifesaver that fosters a close bond between parent and baby. During my daughter’s newborn phase, the Solly Baby Wrap emerged as my absolute favorite. This wrap is like a cozy second skin for your little one, offering comfort and security while allowing you to tackle daily tasks with ease. I loved the snugness it provided, creating a cocoon of warmth that kept my baby content and close to my heart. The Solly Baby Wrap, with its soft, breathable fabric, not only simplifies on-the-go parenting but also adds a touch of magic to those early days of bonding. It’s a baby registry essential that turns ordinary moments into magical newborn snuggles.

Breast Pump (if breastfeeding)

If you plan to breastfeed and pump milk, a breast pump can be a valuable tool. It allows you to store breast milk for times when you can’t be with your baby or if you want to share feeding duties with a partner. If you have health insurance, you should be able to get a breast pump for free through that so I’d definitely recommend looking into that first and foremost! I ended up getting the Spectra AND the Elvie because I had heard great things about both and wanted to give them a try.

The Spectra breast pump is a total game-changer for any breastfeeding mom. What I love about it is the combination of efficiency and comfort. With customizable settings, it lets you find the perfect rhythm that suits your body, ensuring a gentle yet effective pumping experience. The closed system design keeps things hygienic, a detail that definitely won me over. Plus, it’s surprisingly quiet – a big win for those late-night pumping sessions.

Enter the Elvie breast pump – the superhero of convenience for busy moms. This hands-free, wearable pump is a game-changer, allowing you to pump on the go without being tethered to a wall outlet or bulky equipment. What amazed me most was its discreet design, fitting seamlessly into my daily routine. Whether I’m tackling chores, driving, or simply taking a moment for myself, the Elvie pump lets me multitask without missing a beat. Its silent operation is a bonus, providing a discreet and comfortable pumping experience. For the modern mom juggling a million things, the Elvie breast pump is a sleek and tech-savvy solution that brings a touch of freedom to the breastfeeding journey.

Baby Entertainment

To keep your newborn engaged and stimulated, consider soft toys, rattles, and mobiles that can be attached to the crib or playpen. These items can help with your baby’s development and provide some entertainment during awake times.

We absolutely loved the Lovevery Play Gym and The Play Kits Toy Subscription. As a new mom navigating the maze of baby products, Lovevery swooped in with this magical subscription. The play mat is like a little wonderland for my daughter – full of colors, textures, and activities that keep her happily occupied. What I appreciate most is that it’s not just about distraction; these toys are crafted to help babies grow and learn. And the best part? They’re easy on the eyes and eco-friendly, so it’s a win-win. Each box feels like a curated surprise, and let me tell you, it’s made my life a whole lot easier when it came to figuring out what to do with Ruby during her wake windows. The play gym and toy subscription is top of the list for baby registry essentials, and one you’ll want in your arsenal.

Parenting Books and Resources

Last but not least, don’t forget to arm yourself with knowledge. Parenting books, online resources, and local support groups can be invaluable in helping you navigate the challenges and joys of parenthood.

A few of my favorite resources that I used included:

• Moms on Call Book: is an indispensable guide for navigating the early months, offering practical advice and schedules to make parenting during the 0-6 month stage a whole lot more manageable and enjoyable. Most of the book is written in bullet point form and as a new mom, I appreciated how concise it was.
• Taking Cara Babies Sleep Course: is a game-changing resource for new parents, providing expert guidance in navigating the challenges of the early months so that you and your little one can get better sleep (say no more, am I right?)
• Bringing Up Bébé Book: a delightful and insightful exploration of French parenting wisdom, offering an intriguing perspective on raising children with a balance of discipline, independence, and joie de vivre. A really good read!
• Expecting Better Book: offers a refreshingly data-driven approach to pregnancy, empowering expectant mothers with evidence-based insights and debunking myths to make informed decisions for a healthier and more relaxed journey to motherhood. I really enjoyed this book!

Whew! It’s a lot – I know! Preparing for a newborn baby can be a daunting task, but having the right items can make the journey more manageable. I remember when I sat down to create my baby registry I felt so overwhelmed on where to start. I hope this resource filled with baby registry essentials helps those just getting started on this journey. Remember that each baby is unique, so it might take some trial and error to find the best products for your little one.

If you have any questions or want to chat about any of the products I’ve suggested I am always happy to connect. Send me a DM on Instagram @chloerathje. Enjoy every moment of this special time with your little one – they aren’t kidding when they say it goes fast!

PS. If you are just getting started on this journey, check out some of my other blogs related to motherhood. Would be honored to go on the adventure with you!