Bringing a new baby into the world is an absolute joy! Your friends and family want to celebrate with you, so you need to make a registry as soon as possible. But if this is your first baby (or it’s been awhile since your last baby), you may be wondering what on earth you need. With everyone being marketed to, especially when it comes to little ones, you may be overwhelmed and unsure what to get. If you want the absolutely necessary items and skip the things you just don’t need, here are 20 must-haves for a minimalist baby registry.
1. Car Seat
An item that is essential is a car seat. You won’t be able to take your baby home from the hospital without one, so definitely add it to your list!
2. Stroller
The next product you should add to your registry is a stroller. When you leave the house, you need a comfy place for the baby to hang out while you’re walking around. Some parents may choose to opt for a travel system which includes both the car seat and stroller for added convenience.
3. Diapers
It doesn’t matter if you want to use disposable or cloth, you’ll need to add diapers to your minimalist baby registry!
4. Wipes
In addition to diapers, you should go ahead and click the “add to registry” button for some baby wipes.
5. Changing Pad
If you want to keep things sanitary, you should consider a changing pad. While some people may argue it’s not completely necessary, it is an awesome thing to have. If you do decide to add a pad to your registry, you may want to also add waterproof pads and covers too!
6. Crib and Accessories
When you bring the baby home, he or she will need a place to sleep! While many people get a bassinet, you don’t have to use one. You will need a crib though, so go ahead and find one you love and add it! To go with the crib, you’ll also need a crib mattress, waterproof mattress pad, and plenty of crib sheets!
7. Baby Monitor
If you have a multi-level living space, or you just really want to keep an eye on your baby, a baby monitor is a great investment. There are so many different kinds, so decide what kind you want, and add it to your minimalist baby registry!
8. Swaddles
Newborns love to be swaddled, so you’ll want to register for a few blankets made for wrapping up your baby. Swaddle blankets are great for replicating the sense of security that babies enjoy in the womb. There’s no better gift than a personalized name swaddle for your baby!
9. Footed Pajamas
Most parents choose to put their baby in footed pajamas at night, especially those with zippers for easy access. These will keep your baby nice and warm all night long!
10. Onesies
Since your little one will need some clothes, onesies are a great option. You’ll find short sleeve and long sleeve options, and some outfits even come in sets with tops and pants.
11. Fun Outfits
We know baby outfits are super cute, so don’t feel like you have to resist all of the cute clothes just to keep your minimal style! Have just a couple of fun outfits for your baby to wear for special occasions, outings, and pictures!
12. Socks
You want your baby to stay toasty warm, so be sure to add socks to your minimalist baby registry.
13. Hats
A good portion of our body heat is released through our heads, and since babies need help staying warm for the first few weeks of life, you should also add some baby hats to your registry.
14. Baby Bathtub
When it’s time to clean your baby, you’ll want to have a safe place to do it. You should add a baby bathtub to your list.
15. Baby Body Wash
Another bath time essential is baby body wash. Many people also register for towels and washcloths, but you can use what you have at home if you want!
16. Breast Pump
Any mom that wants to breastfeed should ask for a breast pump on their minimalist baby registry (or order one through your insurance company if it’s covered). This is a convenient item that can help you, especially if your baby is unable to latch or you have to be away from your baby.
17. Nursing Bra
All breastfeeding mamas will want to add nursing bras to their registry. It makes breastfeeding much easier and more comfortable!
18. Bottles
If you plan on formula feeding, you will definitely need bottles. Even if you plan on breastfeeding, you may find it beneficial to have bottles so someone else can feed the baby when necessary!
19. Bottle Cleaning Brush
While some people may not think of it as a necessity, a bottle cleaning brush makes it much easier to clean bottles.
20. Thermometer
A health item you will want to have on hand from the start is a thermometer. You never know when your baby is going to get sick, so a thermometer is an absolute essential from the get go.
More Items You May Want to Add to a Minimalist Baby Registry
These products are absolute essentials for most people who are bringing home a baby. Other people may say you need a few other items, and they might include:
- Rocking chair/glider
- Diaper bag
- Certain over-the-counter medications
- Books
- Baby carrier
- Toys
Just because you’re bringing home a beautiful bundle of joy doesn’t mean you have to be overwhelmed with baby stuff. Fill your home with the items you believe are necessary for your family, and you’ll be all set! If you do decide to splurge on a fun item, pick up one of our personalized swaddle blankets with your baby’s name!