Baby Registry Checklist

You're pregnant...congratulations! Along with the excitement of becoming a first, second, third (or beyond)- time parent, come many mixed emotions! For those parents planning on having a baby shower, creating a registry is a wonderful way to let friends and family members know your needs and wants for baby and nursery. Creating a registry can be a lot of fun, but it can also be very overwhelming, especially if your spouse or partner is less than thrilled to shop around for baby gear. On the other hand, you may be overwhelmed by your mother, sister, grandmother, aunts and in-laws, who all want to offer advice on what you may or may not need!

Take a breather, and if you haven't started or registry yet, start thinking about where you might like to begin one. Typical stores to register for baby items include Target, Wal-Mart, and Babies R Us. Of course, you can register wherever you like...just don't get too carried away, and be sure to keep track of what you've registered for and where.

As you begin looking at themes, colors, and product reviews, use this handy checklist to make sure you have registered for everything you may need for baby.

Must Have's for Baby's Bedroom:

Crib & mattress
2 Mattress pads
A Waterproof crib pad or protector
3-4 Fitted crib sheets (flat sheets won't be needed)
A Crib bedding set (or separates)
Bumper Pad (Optional)
3-4 Blankets
A Changing table w/pad slip covers (at least 2 covers)
Dresser or wardrobe
Diaper Disposal System and Refills
Baby Monitor
Clothes hamper
Crib mobile
Hangers
Low-light Lamp
Organizational baskets or tools
Nursing Pillow (such as Boppy brand)
Glider/Rocking chair
Wipe warmer (optional)
Night light

Must Have Baby Gear:

Car seat
Car window shade
Baby on board car window display (optional)
High chair or booster seat (infant to toddler)
Play yard (pack 'n play)
Diaper bag (1-2)
Swing or Bouncy Seat
Stroller or travel system
Infant carrier or sing

Must Have Baby Care Items:

6-8 Bottles
Bottle brushes
Bottle warmer
Extra nipples
4-5 Pacifiers (optional)
Dishwasher Baskets (1-2)
Breast pump kit
Nursing pads, creams and accessories
10-12 Burp cloths
5 Bibs
Diapers and wipes
Diaper rash creams
Infant bathing tub or station
Tub toys
2-4 Washcloths
2-3 Hooded towels or robes
Gentle shampoo/wash gift sets
Baby grooming kit
First Aid Kit
Baby thermometer (rectal, ear, under arm...)

Must Have Baby Toys:

Stuffed animals
Activity mat
Teething toys
Soft books
Travel toys
Activity gym or bouncer

Must Have Baby Clothing/Accessories:

Seasonal Outerwear
At least 8 onesies
6-7 Gowns
8-10 Outfits
5 pairs of socks or booties
3-4 Caps or hats
4-5 Receiving blankets
*Clothes in the next size up (ex: 0-3, 3-6, 6-9, 9-12...)

All other items are optional. Of course, when choosing items, read reviews and safety reports carefully. You'll know what's best for your baby! Have fun picking out these items, and just remember- you're sure to receive many gifts that you did not register for from friends and family (meaning...don't go overboard with the blankets and clothes because you'll get lot's of them!). Happy shopping and nesting. Here's to a happy, healthy pregnancy!