A baby registry lets you choose items for your impending arrival. The people closest to you will be very excited about the baby that's coming, and will want to shower you with gifts, says Eva Marie Stasiak, author of "Your New Baby: Insider Secrets to Save Thousands on All Your Baby's Needs." Having a baby is expensive, and creating a baby registry lets your loved ones know what you want and need so you can be prepared for the big day.
Diapers and Diapering Supplies
Diapers are pricey, and your newborn will go through several diapers each day. Parents Magazine recommends registering for diapers so you have plenty on hand before you bring the baby home from the hospital. You can register for disposable or cloth diapers. Stasiak recommends adding diaper rash cream, diaper wipes, a diaper bag and a diaper disposal system to your wish list.
Clothing
Your baby will need several outfits each day because of diaper leaks and spit-up. Register for a variety of different articles of clothing to build your baby's wardrobe. Stasiak recommends onesies, socks, sleepers, shorts or pants, and shirts. Parents Magazine adds that you will want to register for a snowsuit, mittens and hats if you are having a winter baby.
Blankets and Bedroom Items
Your newborn will spend a great deal of her time sleeping, and you will need to create safe sleeping spots for her. Receiving blankets will help keep her warm and snug. Parents Magazine recommends at least one swaddling blanket to help make your baby feel safe and secure while she sleeps. Stasiak says to include two or three sets of crib sheets and one or two waterproof mattress pads as well. Add a baby monitor so you can hear your baby while she sleeps in a different room. Many mothers choose to add cribs or cradles to the registry as well.
Feeding Supplies
You may choose to nurse your baby, feed him formula or a combination of both. Whatever your choice, you will need feeding supplies. Parents Magazine recommends nipple cream, nursing pads, a nursing pillow and breast milk storage supplies if you are planning to nurse your newborn. If you plan to return to work, you may want to register for an electric breast pump as well. If you plan to feed your baby formula, register for bottles, nipples and a bottle brush. Stasiak adds that you can register for canisters of formula as well. Pacifiers can be useful between feedings, so add a few to your wish list.
On the Go Items
One of the most important things you will need for your new baby is a car seat. Stasiak recommends registering for a stroller, and many stroller systems include a car seat and a car seat base to install in your vehicle. A packable playpen can be used when your baby needs to sleep away from home. Add a baby sling to your list so you can carry your baby hands-free when you are out and about. Register for a diaper bag so you can pack the baby's things when you go out.
Grooming Supplies
Stasiak recommends registering for bathing items such as an infant bathtub, shampoo, soap, lotion, washcloths and bath toys. Parents Magazine recommends hooded towels so you can wrap your baby and dry her at the same time. Infant nail clippers, a thermometer and a nasal bulb syringe will also be useful items when grooming your newborn.
Toys and Entertainment
An activity mat, a swing or bouncer, and infant toys should be added to your baby registry, says Stasiak. These items will help you keep your baby entertained when he is awake. You may also want to register for baby music CDs.
References
- "Your New Baby: Insider Secrets to Save Thousands on All Your Baby's Needs"; Eva Marie Stasiak; 2008
- Parents Magazine: Checklist: Registry 101
