When should I start a baby registry?

Many parents start around the mid-point of pregnancy, giving enough time to research big items like car seats and strollers before sharing the list.

Do I need to include every category on this checklist?

No, treat it as a starting point — include what's relevant to your circumstances and skip what isn't.

Why does the car seat model matter so much?

Car seats have specific safety ratings and compatibility requirements, so it's worth being precise about the exact model you want.

Is this tool free for building a baby registry?

Yes, it's free to use with no account required to build or share your list.

Baby Registry Checklist

Building a baby registry from scratch is easy to get wrong in one of two directions: leaving out something you'll need in the first weeks, or listing so much that guests aren't sure what actually matters. This checklist walks through the main categories new parents typically need to cover, so you can build a complete list without missing the basics.

Once you've gone through the categories below, add the specific items to a free wishlist in your browser — no account required — and share the link with anyone offering to buy something for the baby.

Feeding

Bottles and a bottle brush, if not exclusively breastfeeding
A breast pump, if planned, specified by model
Burp cloths and bibs, in higher quantities than you'd expect
A high chair, for when the baby starts solids
Storage containers or bags for expressed milk or purées

Sleep

A crib or bassinet, matched to your sleeping arrangement plans
Fitted sheets in multiples, since spares are needed often
A sleep sack or appropriately safe sleepwear for the age range
A baby monitor, audio or video depending on preference

Getting around

A car seat, specified by exact model — this is one item worth being precise about
A stroller compatible with the car seat, if travel-system compatibility matters to you
A carrier or sling for hands-free carrying
A nappy bag or changing bag suited to how you'll be getting around

Nappies, bathing, and everyday care

Nappies across a range of sizes, since babies grow through them quickly
Wipes and a changing pad or station
Bath essentials — a specific tub, towels, and wash
A basic healthcare kit — thermometer, nail clippers, and similar essentials

Clothing and extras

Clothing gets outgrown quickly, so it's worth requesting a spread of sizes beyond newborn, since those get the least use. It's also worth including a few extras that are easy to forget when focusing on the big-ticket items.

Clothing in 0–3, 3–6, and 6–12 month sizes, not just newborn
Swaddles or wraps
A play mat or a few early toys appropriate for newborns
A baby book or keepsake item, if that appeals to you

Baby registry FAQ

When should I start a baby registry?: Many parents start around the mid-point of pregnancy, giving enough time to research big items like car seats and strollers before sharing the list.
Do I need to include every category on this checklist?: No, treat it as a starting point — include what's relevant to your circumstances and skip what isn't.
Why does the car seat model matter so much?: Car seats have specific safety ratings and compatibility requirements, so it's worth being precise about the exact model you want.
Is this tool free for building a baby registry?: Yes, it's free to use with no account required to build or share your list.