Baby Registry Must-Haves for First Time Mom Checklist

Becoming a mom for the first time is magical, terrifying, thrilling, and overwhelming—all at once. I remember sitting on my couch, five months pregnant, surrounded by baby registry guides, Pinterest boards, and half-opened Amazon tabs. It felt like I needed to buy the entire baby store to be prepared. Sound familiar?

If you’re a first time mom, chances are you’ve asked yourself, "What do I really need on my baby registry?" Trust me, I’ve been there—lost in a sea of baby gadgets, unsure of what was essential and what would end up collecting dust in the closet. So I created this baby registry must-haves for first time mom checklist based on my own experience (and a few "why-did-no-one-tell-me-this" moments).

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Let’s walk through it together, mama. I’ve broken everything down into categories to make your baby registry checklist simple, clear, and helpful. Whether you're using Amazon, Target, Babylist, or anywhere else, this list will keep you focused on the essentials.

Baby Registry Essentials: Nursery Must-Haves

1. Crib or Bassinet

Your little one needs a safe place to sleep. We started with a bassinet in our bedroom and later transitioned to a crib. Look for one that meets current safety standards.

Must-haves:

• Crib or bassinet

• Waterproof mattress cover

• 2-3 fitted crib sheets

2. Baby Monitor

Even with the bassinet beside me, I needed peace of mind during naps or when I’d sneak away to shower. A video baby monitor helped me feel connected.

Pro tip: Choose one with clear night vision and a long battery life.

3. Dresser or Changing Table

You’ll need somewhere to organize all those tiny clothes and diapers. We opted for a dresser with a changing pad on top to save space.

Don’t forget:

• Changing pad + cover

• Drawer organizers

Baby Registry Checklist First Time Mom: Diapering Essentials

4. Diapers, Diapers, Diapers

Can I be real with you? I underestimated just how many diapers we’d go through. Newborns can use 10-12 a day!

Stock up on:

• Newborn and size 1 diapers

• Sensitive baby wipes

• Diaper cream

5. Diaper Pail

I didn’t think we needed one until our nursery started smelling like a farm. A good diaper pail makes a huge difference.

6. Portable Changing Pad

We kept one in the diaper bag and another in the living room. It made diaper changes on-the-go so much easier.

Feeding Must-Haves (Whether You’re Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeding)

7. Bottles and Nipples

Even if you're planning to breastfeed, having bottles on hand is a good idea. Babies can be unpredictable!

Consider:

• 4-6 bottles (try different brands to see what baby likes)

• Bottle brush

• Sterilizer or dishwasher basket

8. Breastfeeding Essentials

Breastfeeding isn’t as "natural" as it sounds. It’s a learning curve, and having the right tools helps.

Lifesavers for me:

• Nursing pillow (huge back-saver!)

• Nipple cream

• Breast pads

• Haakaa or manual pump

9. Formula Feeding Supplies

If you’re formula feeding (or combo feeding like I did), be prepared with:

• Formula (check with your pediatrician)

• Formula dispenser for travel

• Bottle warmer

10. High Chair (for later)

You won’t need it right away, but adding it to your registry is smart—especially if someone wants to gift a big-ticket item.

Clothing Essentials for Newborns

11. Onesies Galore

Babies go through several outfit changes a day. Spit-up, blowouts, drool… it’s a messy life!

Aim for:

• 7-10 short-sleeve onesies

• 5-7 footed sleepers

• A couple of cute outfits for photos

12. Mittens, Hats, and Socks

Newborns have sharp little nails and get cold easily.

You’ll need:

• 2-3 hats

• Baby mittens (to prevent face scratches)

• 5-7 pairs of socks

13. Swaddles and Sleep Sacks

We tried several before finding what worked. Some babies love swaddles; others break free like baby Houdinis.

Registry tip: Get a few types to test out.

Bath Time Must-Haves

14. Infant Bathtub

I was terrified of bathing my baby in the beginning. A tub with a sling made it much easier.

15. Gentle Baby Wash and Shampoo

Opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products to protect sensitive skin.

16. Soft Towels and Washcloths

Yes, hooded towels are as adorable as they are useful.

Checklist:

• 2-3 hooded towels

• 4-6 baby washcloths

Health and Safety Must-Haves

17. Baby First Aid Kit

This one is easy to overlook but incredibly important.

Should include:

• Digital thermometer

• Nail file or baby clippers

• Nasal aspirator

• Baby-safe medicine (check with your doctor)

18. Pacifiers

You might have to try a few brands, but pacifiers can be a lifesaver during fussy moments.

19. Humidifier

Helps with dry air, especially during winter. Our pediatrician recommended one to ease stuffy noses.

Travel and On-the-Go Essentials

20. Car Seat

This one’s a no-brainer—you can’t leave the hospital without it. We picked an infant car seat with a base for easy installation.

21. Stroller

There are so many types! We chose a travel system that clicked the car seat into the stroller. Game changer.

22. Diaper Bag

Get one with lots of compartments. You’ll be amazed at how much stuff a tiny human needs when you leave the house.

Pro tip: Look for a backpack-style bag for hands-free convenience.

23. Baby Carrier or Wrap

Baby-wearing helped me get things done (and saved my arms!). Try a few styles to see what feels best.

Bonus: Nice-to-Haves (Not Essentials, But So Helpful)

White Noise Machine

My baby slept so much better with white noise. It muffled household sounds and soothed him to sleep.

Glider or Rocking Chair

Middle-of-the-night feedings are easier when you have a comfy place to sit.

Nursing Cart or Station

I set up a little rolling cart with all my essentials: water bottle, snacks, burp cloths, nipple cream. Total lifesaver.

What to Put on Baby Registry: Tips From a First Time Mom

1. Think ahead. Don’t just plan for the newborn stage. Add items your baby will need at 6 or 9 months too.

2. Add a variety of price points. Give friends and family options—big and small.

3. Test and return. Don’t be afraid to try different brands and return what doesn’t work.

4. Ask other moms. I learned so much from other moms’ experiences. (Hopefully this guide is doing the same for you!)

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This, Mama

Creating your baby registry doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I know how it feels to want everything to be perfect. But here’s the truth: your baby doesn’t need perfection. They need you. The snuggles, the love, the midnight cuddles—that’s what matters most.

This baby registry must-haves for first time mom checklist is here to guide you, not stress you out. Take what works, skip what doesn’t, and give yourself tons of grace. Because you're doing great.

And if you're ever unsure, just ask yourself: "Will this help me and my baby feel more safe, supported, or soothed?" If the answer is yes, it deserves a spot on your list.

You've got this, mama. Truly.