First Time Mom Registry Must Haves. Pregnant Mom to be.

First Time Mom Registry Must Haves: Baby Essentials

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Congratulations, future mama! You’re embarking on the incredible journey of motherhood! One of the most exciting (and slightly overwhelming) tasks you have coming up is creating your baby registry. I remember being sooooo overwhelmed when I was making my baby registry. There are so many options of EVERYTHING and it’s hard to really know what you’re going to need. This first time mom registry must haves checklist will provide you with the essential items you need to navigate those early newborn months and beyond.  These are the items I used all the time, with my brand reccommendations and things I love. I’ve also created a first time mom registry printable checklist for you to make things even easier; so don’t forget to get yours at the end of this post! 

[*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small comission for items purchased at no additional cost to you. You can read the full disclosure here.]

First Time Mom Registry Must Haves:

TO SEE MY ENTIRE LIST OF FIRST TIME MOM REGISTRY MUST HAVES CLICK HERE.

Baby nursing on boppy nursing pillow, mom sleeping on her bed next to her baby asleep in their bassinet, mom changing her baby on a blanket. Baby registry items.

FEEDING ESSENTIALS -Breastfeeding, Bottle feeding, starting solids: First Time Mom Registry Must Haves

  • Bottles: Choose a few different types to find the perfect fit for your little one. These are great for breastfeeding because their unique shape preserves the nutrients in your breastmilk. My exclusively breast fed baby only took to these bottles here; so I highly recommend them! Glass baby bottles are also a great option if you’re concerned about microplastics. Look for slow flow nipples and anti-colic designs.
  • Don’t forget a bottle sterilizer if you’re planning to use one! We have a small space with no dishwasher so this sterilizer was a must have for us! It’s so easy to use and we sterilize so much more than bottles in it. Over a year later and we still use it. 
  • Breastfeeding Essentials: Nursing pillows, nipple cream, and breast pumps (manual or electric) can be lifesavers and are must haves if you plan on breastfeeding! Here’s what you’ll need:
  • Nipple Shields: Breastfeeding was very hard for me in the beginning but having the right tools made it much easier. If your nipples are flat or inverted (like me) you’ll need a pair of nipple shields. I love these contact ones. They were such a game changer when it came to my baby’s latch!
  • Nursing Pillows:  If you have a c-section, this nursing pillow is great for the football position and doesn’t go across your lap. It was a life saver for me! I also loved my Boppy Nursing Pillow. It’s definitely a good idea to invest in a few covers for the pillow for those inevitable spitup mishaps. You’ll for sure want nursing pillows on your list of first time mom registry must haves!
  •  Nipple Cream: Don’t forget to utilize  the lactation consultant your hospital provides for extra support (and they send you home with supplies!). You will have sore nipples in the beginning so this nipple cream will be your friend. It’s so soothing and didn’t irritate my sensitive skin. 
  • Breast Pumps: Your insurance provider covers breaast pumps. I recommend getting a cordless, rechargable, electric one. You’ll also want a manual one like this for just in case moments. I also highly recommend this silicone breast pump! I wish I put this on my baby registry! I didn’t, and I ended up buying it later on. It works so well so you’ll definitely want it from the beginning.
  • Hands Free, Wearable Breast Pump: This is something I wish I out on my baby registry! This Mom Cozy hands free breast pump is the one I will get when I have another baby. It is raved about by breastfeeding and pumping mamas!
  • Burp Cloths: You can never have too many Burp Cloths! These muslin Cloths were our favorite ones! They are super soft, absorbent, and the perfect size. 
  • High Chair: You’ll be singing its praises as your little one starts exploring the world of solid foods. Choose a high chair with adjustable features and easy-to-clean surfaces. We love this grow with me one. It’s so comfortable for my little one and has wheels which I love! It also easily converts for travel and a booster seat as your little one gets older.
  • Plates, Cups, Utensils: You won’t need these until your baby is around 6 months old and there are so many options out there. Here’s what I recommend to get started:

DIAPERING ESSENTIALS: First Time Mom Registry Must Haves

  • Diapers: Diapers are absolutely first time mom registry must haves! Stock up in various sizes, choosing brands with good absorbency and comfort. Remember, newborns go through a LOT of diapers! I recommend putting one box of newborn size and then size 1 and 2 diapers on your registry. Put a few different brands on there because you don’t know what you’ll like. We tried one brand first and it broke out our baby’s skin. The Pampers Swaddlers brand of diapers is my favorite and what i still use! Bonus, you can use the Pampers rewards app with your purchases! Check out Pampers Swaddlers Newborn size, size 1, size 2.
  • Wipes: Opt for gentle and hypoallergenic water wipes like these to avoid irritating your baby’s delicate skin. You will need a LOT of wipes for a long time so you can really never have too much. 
  • Diaper Cream: A soothing diaper rash cream is a must-have, especially in those early days. I recommend putting it on your little one with each change to prevent diaper rash. You also want something fragrance free like this diaper cream that I highly recommend. So many products have hidden fragrances so make sure to read ingredients carefully. 

SLEEP ESSENTIALS: First Time Mom Registry Must Haves

  • Bassinet: You need somewhere safe for your newborn to sleep, and youll want them close in those early months. Now I’m not going to go into baby sleep in this post because it can be very controversial; I will say however, I tried multiple bassinets to try and get my baby to sleep. This is the bassinet we ended up liking the best (whether or not my baby slept in it is a tale for a different day). 
  • Crib and Crib Mattress: Invest in a sturdy crib and a comfortable, safe mattress that meets all safety standards. This mattress, while a little on the pricey side, is the one we have and love because it’s breathability gave me so much peace of mind! Don’t forget crib sheets!
  • Swaddles: These can help calm fussy babies and promote better sleep. Opt for breathable, adjustable varieties (I don’t recommend weighted ones but some moms like them). Swaddles didn’t work for my little one BUT I know so many moms that swear by them. You can use velcro ones like this one, or breathable receiving blankets like these. 
  • White Noise Machine: Many babies find the soothing whirring of a white noise machine comforting and helpful for falling asleep. We love our Hatch Sound Machine and Night Light! It has a lot of different sound options and colors to choose from. We use this for bedtime and every nap even 15 months later! 

BATH TIME BASICS: First Time Mom Registry Must Haves

  • Baby Bathtub: Choose a tub that supports your baby comfortably and features safety features like a non-slip surface. We love this one because it was adjustable and grew with our little munchkin! 
  • Another item you may want to consider is a cradle cap system or treatment. This cradle cap system worked great on my baby’s cradle cap!

BABY TRAVEL GEAR: First Time Mom Registry Must Haves

  • Car seat: You absolutely need a carseat (or 2)! A car seat has to be part of your first time mom registry must haves! They will not let you leave the hospital without a car seat so definitely put one on your registry! I put two different carseats on my registry so we would have one for my car and 1 for my husband’s. This is the car seat in my car and it is amazing! It swivels to make putting your baby in easier (great for if you have a bad back like me). It is super high quality and transitions from newborn to toddler. This is the Graco car seat we have in my husband’s car. It’s actually part of a travel system and clicks right into the stroller. You’ll definitely want one of these to easily carry your sleeping newborn in from the car. 
  • Stroller: Strollers are also first time mom registry must haves! Look for one that will grow with your child and can transition from newborn to toddler. We actually have 3 different ones. We have this travel system which is just so convenient, and this stroller which is a really beautiful option and very lightweight. If you want to splurge (your baby registry is the PERFECT place to put high ticket items) then this baby jeep stroller is amazing! We absolutely love it! It’s so spacious and is my baby’s preferred stroller. It fits more than 1 child, has zip up sides, a canopy, safety belts, storage pockets, a cooler, and even has off roading beach wheels you can add on!
  • Baby Carrier or Wrap: These hands-free carriers are invaluable for keeping your baby close while getting chores done or enjoying outings. My velcro baby loves being held! This is the wrap we used as an infant. I absolutely love it! It can be used right away from newborn up, and is so easy to use. This all position carrier is a little more structured and may offer more support. It can also be used from newborn up.
    • TushBaby: This one is my holy grail baby product! While not a necessity, I highly recommend getting the TushBaby even if you don’t receive it as a gift; earning its place on the first time mom registry must haves list. It is the best baby carrier and can be used until 3 years old. My husband calls it my mommy utility belt because it has built in cupholders and storage. This is a must have in my eyes! I literally use it everyday. Check it out here using my link for 15% off! You can also use code LIANA at checkout!
  • Diaper Bag: You definitely need a diaper bag! There are so many options out there so it really is whatever your preference is. Choose a diaper bag that is spacious, has pockets, and has an insulated section for bottles. This one is a backpack to keep your hands free. It also comes with a built in diaper changing station.
  • Skip Hop Car Seat Cover: This car seat cover is wonderful! Just pop it on over the carseat and no need for bulky coats that your baby can’t wear in the car anyway. 

HEALTH AND SAFETY: First Time Mom Registry Must Haves

  • Cool Mist Humidifier: You will need a humidifier when your little one gets sick. No one wants there baby to be sick of course, but it’s for sure something you’ll want on hand. This is the one I use for my little one. 
  • Baby Grooming Set: You will need a grooming set for your little munchkin that has a hair brush, comb, nail clipper, and nail file like this set here. I recommend skipping the clippers though and using this electric file instead. It is so much easier and way less scary!
  • Infant Medicines: You’ll want to have a little collection of Infant medicine on hand, but of course ask your pediatrician first before giving any medication to your little one. Good things to have on hand are infant acetaminophen (Tyleonol), infant gas drops like these, and children’s Benadryl. Look for dye free versions of these as they are safest for your infant. We also use this brand of infant acetaminophen because it doesn’t have any artificial dyes, or artificial flavors. 
  • Baby Monitor: A baby monitor is something to definitely put on your first time mom baby registry. I recommend a non wifi one like this one. The reason being, wifi baby monitors are easily hacked, so non wifi monitors are just safer. 
  • Backseat Car Mirror: You will definitely want a car safety mirror like this one so you can see your little one while you’re driving.You can also use a car camera if that gives you more peace of mind, but a lighted mirror is definitely sufficient.
  • Teethers: Your baby will need teethers before you know it! This earns them a spot on the first time mom registry must haves list. This pacifier style teether was a life saver when my little one started teething at 3.5 months old! This Frida Baby teether is a favorite of my baby because he can easily hold it and it doesn’t get too cold. These mesh teethers are amazing and are are a great way to introduce solids.
  • Item To Consider: Owlet Dream Sock: This item is not a necessity BUT we used it with our little one every single night! I had postpartum anxiety that hit me like a ton of bricks so, this dream sock monitor help to ease my worrying mind! I consider this a first time mom registry must have! It monitors the baby’s heart rate, oxygen, movement, and alerts you when something isn’t right. If this is something you think you’ll want, definitely put it on your first time mom baby registry because it is a little pricey (but worth it). 

BABY CLOTHES: First Time Mom Registry Must Haves

  • White onesies: Onesies, or bodysuits, are definitely a first time mom registry must have! You need these in a variety of sizes and you will need so many! These Gerber ones were one of our favorite brands because they are soo soft, and this pack contains various sizes to grow with your child!
  • Pajamas and Sleep and Plays: Your baby will live in these! Do yourself a favor and only use zipper ones! The snap up ones are such a pain especially during nighttime changes. Definitely put this brand here on your registry! They are so buttery soft and grow with your baby. They also have a 2 way zipper, fold over mitten cuffs, and fold over feet. 
  • Fragrance Free Baby Laundry Detergent: You will definitely need a gentle, fragrance free laundry detergent to wash all of your little ones clothes in! Really read those labels though- many detergents say they’re for baby but have hidden fragrances in them. I love using this one. It has no hidden fragrances, is very gentle on the skin, and is also great at getting out stains. 

ENTERTAINMENT AND PLAYTIME: First Time Mom Registry Must Haves

  • Play Mat and Gym: These provide babies with a stimulating environment for tummy time, play, and development. You’ll want something simple with high contrast to stimulate but not overwhelm your newborn. I loved our baby play gym so much and so did my baby! You can see the exact play gym I used here.  My baby also loved this FisherPrice play mat at around 2 months old. They are both very light and can be easily moved around the house. 
  • A Baby Swing and/or Rocker: You will definitely need a baby swing! Sometimes it will be the only way to soothe your little one. This swing rocker combo was my absolute favorite! We loved it because not only did it soothe our little one to sleep but it has 3 different positions, multiple speeds, and plays music and sounds. A true lifesaver in this household, and an absolute first time mom registry must have! This swing is also a great option.
  • Books and Board Books: Start early with simple, colorful books to foster your baby’s love for reading. It’s so important to read to your baby every day even as newborns! You ( or whoever is hosting your shower) can ask guests to bring a book to the shower instead of a card, or in lieu of a wishing well. This way you have a nice starter collection of books to read to your precious little one. See the entire list of baby books I love here!

NONESSENTIAL BABY ITEMS TO CONSIDER:

  • Diaper Pail: No, this is not a necessity but it sure does make my life easier. It’s nice to have a designated space to get rid of those stinky diapers. This is the one I love! It’s easy to use, keeps all odors out, and you can use Target brand refills so it keeps it cost effective. 
  • Baby Food Maker: A baby food maker is definitely convenient if you plan on making your own baby food. I thought I didn’t want to so I didn’t put one on my registry. Then I decided I did want to so I bought this baby food maker and couldn’t be happier with it! It’s so easy to use and even self sterilizes. 
  • Formula Maker: We have this one and it was awesome! We only used it during the first few weeks because after that I exclusively breastfed. It’s really great though of you plan on formula feeding. 

FIRST TIME MOM BABY REGISTRY : Choosing Where to Register:

Choosing where you want to register can also be a daunting task! There are so many places to choose from. You don’t have to choose just one place to register but, having more than one list can get confusing. Here are two places to register that I recommend for creating your first time mom registry must haves list.

  • Babylist: Babylist is where I registered and I was very happy with it! Here are some of the perks:
    • Curated Collections: Find pre-made lists for specific needs, budgets, or themes. There are so many helpful lists that compare different products for you so you can choose what works best for you.
    • Universal Registry: You can add items from any website, not just Babylist, creating a truly personalized registry. This is such an amazing feature! This lows you to register for anything from anywhere, but all on one list!
    • Gift Tracking: It even keeps track of who purchased what items for you, making your thank you cards a breeze!
    • Free Baby welcome box and 15% off coupon. Check out Babylist here and start making your registry!
  • Amazon: If I hadn’t discovered Babylist, I would’ve registered with Amazon and here’s why:
    • Large Selection: You’ll find everything from diapers to designer strollers, all in one convenient location. 
    • Prime Perks: If you’re a Prime member, you get free shipping on eligible items, a completion discount, and early access to baby deals.
    • Gift Tracking: Easily manage which gifts were purchased.
    • Welcome Box: Score a free box of baby essentials when you complete your registry. Check it out here and start building your Amazon Baby Registry!

FIRST TIME MOM REGISTRY MUST HAVES BONUS TIPS:

  • Consider your space and lifestyle. Don’t get carried away with a million gadgets! Choose items that will work for your living situation and preferences. We have a very small space so we had to choose items that would fit. I recommend measuring for your bigger items like cribs, changing tables, and swings
  • Talk to experienced moms. Get recommendations and insights from friends, family, and online communities. Also check Facebook Marketplace for people selling or giving away baby gear if you’re on a tight budget.
  • Prioritize safety and quality. Always choose safe, high-quality products that meet all safety standards. 
  • Register for various sizes. Make sure to register for various sizes in clothes and diapers because your little munchkin will grow so fast!
  • Take a break if you get overwhelmed. The most important thing is to gather the essentials you need to welcome your little one into the world.

Remember, the journey of motherhood is unique and ever-changing. Your first time mom registry is just a starting point, so don’t hesitate to adjust what your baby needs as your little one grows and their needs evolve. Embrace the adventure, and don’t forget to soak it all in. You’ve got this, mama to be!

Happy Mommying! 

Don’t forget to grab your FREE baby registry checklist printable!

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