Can you smell the crisp scent of falling leaves and apple cider yet? Fall is just around the corner! I’m eagerly anticipating bundling up my kids, breaking out my favorite boots, and stomping through the leaves. With the changing seasons comes another exciting change: several of my friends are expecting new babies this fall! This inspired me to compile a list of my personal favorite baby registry items. Diapers.com offers a fantastic tool for building your baby registry with their Ultimate Checklist, which organizes baby products by category, suggests quantities for each item, and checks off important items as you add them to your baby shower wish list. This is a lifesaver for new moms, as it significantly reduces the stress of preparing for a baby!
Don’t miss the amazing giveaway below, featuring some of my favorite baby products! Ends 9/7/16.
Choosing Gifts for Your Baby Registry
When you’re expecting a baby, friends and family often shower you with all sorts of gifts. In my experience, this can quickly turn your home into “Babyland.” Four years later, I’m still navigating through Babyland, but I’ve learned to distinguish between essentials and nice-to-have items. Baby Essentials are items you’ll use every day, whereas Baby Extras are fun additions like cute shoes, dresses, and stuffed animals. Regardless of what you register for, you’re bound to receive a lot of stuff.
1. Pick Your Baby Essentials
When selecting essentials, it’s crucial to research which brands are best. Reading Amazon reviews and blog posts can help you make informed decisions. It’s also wise to include items at various price points on your baby registry to accommodate different budgets. Here are some newborn baby essentials you should consider:
- Car Seat: Ensure it meets safety standards and fits your car.
- Stroller: Choose one that’s versatile and suits your lifestyle.
- Baby Swing: Great for soothing your baby.
- Baby Carrier: Perfect for keeping your baby close while having your hands free.
- Car Seat Cover: Useful for protecting your baby from the elements.
- Diapers and Wipes: Stock up, as you’ll go through these quickly.
- Diaper Cream and Baby Powder: Essential for keeping your baby’s skin healthy.
- Nursing Pillow and Cover: Make feeding time more comfortable.
- Burp Cloths: You can never have too many.
- Bottles and Bottle Warmer: For feeding time convenience.
- Baby Bathtub and Shampoo: Bath time essentials.
- Baby Blankets, Sleepers, and Onesies: Keep your baby cozy.
- Socks, Pacifiers, and Teethers: Small but essential items.
The Baby Center offers a comprehensive baby registry checklist that can further guide you.
2. Pick Your Baby Extras
Once you’ve covered the essentials, it’s time to add some fun items to your registry. These extras can make everyday moments even more special:
- Cute Outfits: Onesies with clever phrases, tiny tutus, and baby bow ties.
- Accessories: Hair bows, headbands, and bandana bibs.
- Fluffy Baby Blankets and Leather Shoes: Perfect for keeping your baby stylish and comfortable.
- Sensory Toys: Great for stimulating your baby’s development.
Again, include items at various price points. Your friends and family will appreciate having a range of options to choose from when they want to spoil you and your baby.
3. Pamper Yourself
Don’t forget to include items that will pamper you as well. Parenthood can be demanding, so it’s important to take care of yourself too:
- Nursing Covers: Having more than one is always handy.
- Teething Jewelry: Stylish and functional.
- Comfortable Nursing Bras: Essential for your comfort.
- Babywearing Wrap: Keeps your baby close and your hands free.
- Mommy Body Products: Treat yourself to some luxurious products.
Final Thoughts
Planning a baby registry can be overwhelming, but with the right tools and a bit of planning, you can create a comprehensive and thoughtful list that covers all the bases. Diapers.com’s Ultimate Checklist is an excellent resource for organizing and simplifying this process, ensuring you’re prepared for your new arrival. By focusing on essentials, adding some fun extras, and remembering to pamper yourself, you’ll be well-equipped for the exciting journey of parenthood. Happy planning, and enjoy the special moments that come with welcoming a new baby this fall!
