With so many amazing products available these days, and all the infomercials telling Moms about the latest gadgets and baby gear that they need right away, it can be overwhelming to know what do you really need for your new baby? I'm breaking down the top 10 registry must-haves:
1. A Place to Sleep
Everyone automatically thinks of a crib, but that isn’t your only option. Newborns wake up every couple hours, so many parents choose to keep the baby nearby at first. There are co-sleepers that attach to your bed, bassinets, Moses baskets, and all kinds of options. One of the latest products available is the MamaRoo, which serves as a baby chair, activity chair and a glider all in one! (My kids LOVED this!)
2. Baby Carrier
Here’s my personal tip: You don’t need a stroller right away! Especially if you’re going to babywear. I wore my son and daughter everywhere (so much easier than a stroller once you get the hang of it) and it was so convenient. Bonus: baby carriers are often cheaper than strollers! There are many options – soft structured carriers, ring slings, wraps, and so much more. Check out a babywearing class near you to learn about all your options. (My favorite was the Ergobaby Newborn Carrier.)
3. Baby Clothes
Here’s the truth about newborns: they usually don’t wear those super cute outfits you see! Sleepers and onesies are so much easier so those become your go-to items. Register for ones with zippers not buttons, because when you’re changing a diaper at 2 am you really don’t want to be messing with buttons. And don’t bother registering for many clothes – people will buy them for you whether you register or not! Everyone loves cute baby clothes.
4. Diapers and Wipes
You knew this was coming, right? Babies go through A LOT of diapers and wipes. If you’re interested in saving money (and helping the environment) you could look into cloth diapers. Of course, there are tons of eco-friendly diapers on the market now, and there’s nothing wrong with staying with the traditional Pampers or Huggies. Just remember to not open all the diapers when you get them. Babies grow quickly, and most retailers are more than willing to exchange smaller diapers for larger ones. (I loved using these WaterWipes on my babies.)
5. Feeding Essentials
Whether you are planning on breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, you’ll need some basics to get started. Some babies are super picky about their bottles, so you don’t want to get a full collection of one kind. Register for 2 or 3 kinds of bottles so you can figure out what works for your baby. Then you can buy more once you know what works!
6. Car Seat
This is a non-negotiable! There are several options available, from convertible car seats that will grow with your baby to the basic infant car seats you typically think of. Do your research and choose a car seat with great reviews that complies with all safety regulations. If you don’t know how to choose, ask for help! And consider having a professional install the car seat for you or stop by your local fire department and have them make sure you installed it correctly yourself.
7. All the Swaddles
Most babies LOVE to be swaddled. Some moms prefer the traditional swaddle blankets like aden+anais, while some swear by the sleepsack swaddles or cocoon swaddles. You won’t know what you and your baby like, so pick up one of each to try out.
8. First Aid Essentials
It’s heartbreaking to think about, but your baby will get sick eventually. Instead of running out in the middle of the night for infant Tylenol or a thermometer, prepare now. Start with the basics (thermometer, nasal aspirator, gripe water, etc) and then you can add more as you need it.
9. Postpartum Care
Depending on where you live, you can probably register for postpartum care! So many women prepare for their birth and for baby, but they forget about caring for themselves after birth. You can hire a doula who will come to your home and help with breastfeeding and postpartum care, as well as light cleaning/dishes. (Palm Beach County friends, you can find a postpartum doula at Coastal Doulas!)
10. Newborn Photography
Another great non-traditional registry option is to register for newborn photography! Ok, I might be a bit biased, but this is definitely a must-have. A portrait of your newborn is so much more valuable then yet another newborn outfit they might wear once or twice. Click here to inquire about gift certificates for maternity & newborn photography to your registry.
And on that note, just a reminder that if you’re looking for a maternity or newborn photographer in the South Florida area, specifically Saint Lucie County, Martin County, Palm Beach County, or anywhere else along the South Florida region, contact me here! I’d love to talk to you about booking a session for you – or for a loved one that you want to purchase a session for.
