Building Your Baby Registry: What You Really Need

As a maternity and newborn photographer running a fine art studio in the awesome Washington, D.C., and Baltimore/Annapolis, MD, areas, I totally get how daunting creating a baby registry can be for new parents.

Seriously, with a million options out there, it's tough to figure out what's crucial and what will just end up taking up space and collecting dust.

Every family has different needs and preferences, but I'm here to help make things a little easier. Check out my list below for some ideas on what to add to your gift registry!

Baby Gear:

Car Seat – Safety is paramount, and a car seat is an absolute necessity. It’s always nice to have some help with the cost of this essential item.
Pack n Play – This versatile item can serve as a travel bed, playpen, newborn station, or even a stair blocker. You are sure to get a lot of use out of it.
Stroller – This bigger ticket item can make a great group gift for your registry.
Baby Bouncer – It’s a great idea to have multiple places in the house where you can put the baby, and bouncers often come with toys for them to self-entertain.
Baby Wrap or Sling – Perfect for baby-wearing, especially when they’re tiny! There are lots of great options to choose from, such as Solly, Boba, Moby, and Baby Ktan.
Baby Carrier – These versatile carriers allow you to carry your baby on your front, back, or side, facing in or out, and can last from infancy to toddlerhood. Explore brands like Ergobaby, BabyBjorn, LILLE Baby, and Infantino.

Baby Sleep:

Crib – While some parents choose to use a pack n play or bassinet in lieu of a crib, the baby will outgrow those before the crib. Plus, cribs are adorable, and you can find great ones that grow with your child. Be sure to follow current safety guidelines.
Crib Mattress – A new crib mattress is recommended, so be sure to add it to your registry.
Crib Sheets – You’ll need these regardless, so have fun picking out your favorite pattern or something that will look cute with your nursery decor.
Mattress Protectors – From infant blowouts to bed-wetting toddlers, you’ll want to have a couple of these on hand.
Video Monitor – These provide peace of mind by allowing you to have eyes and ears on your little one at all times – an invaluable tool for a parent!
Swaddles – Swaddling can be challenging, but thankfully there are all kinds of different swaddles that are super easy to use, such as zip or velcro swaddles. It may be worth registering for a few different kinds in case your baby seems to prefer a certain style.
Swaddle Blankets – Muslin swaddle blankets are versatile and can be used as swaddles, burp cloths, nursing covers, changing pad covers, floor blankets, car seat blankets, public picnic table cloths, and more.
Sound Machine – White noise is a well-known soother for babies and can be very helpful in creating a calming sleep environment for your little one.

Diapering:

Changing table pad and covers – Even if you don't plan on using a changing table, a changing pad is a must-have for on-the-go diaper changes. Make sure to get a couple of covers too, since you'll be washing them frequently.
Diaper bag – There are plenty of functional and stylish diaper bags available. Opt for a backpack-style to keep your hands free.
Diaper pail – With around 10 diaper changes a day, a diaper pail can make your life a lot easier. It helps keep the smell contained and makes disposing of diapers a breeze.
Diapers and wipes – Whether you choose disposable or cloth diapers, you'll need plenty of them. Make sure to add wipes to your registry too.

Health and hygiene:

Baby bathtub – There are plenty of great options out there, so do your research and choose one that suits your needs.
Baby towels and washcloths – Make sure to stock up on these essentials.
Toiletries – Register for a shampoo/body wash combo, moisturizer, and diaper cream. Don't forget a thermometer, nail clippers, and a hairbrush too.
Cool mist humidifier – This can be a lifesaver for babies who are struggling to sleep due to coughs and congestion.

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Feeding:

Breast pads – Even if you don't plan on breastfeeding, it's a good idea to have breast pads on hand in case you leak.
Bibs – Opt for silicone bibs with a food-catching pouch and cloth bibs too.
Bottles – It may take some trial and error to find the right brand for your baby, so register for a few different kinds.
High chair – Look for an easy-to-clean high chair that suits your style and needs.

Other:

Car seat cover – This can be used to help your baby sleep in their car seat, keep germs at bay, and double as a nursing cover.
Pacifiers – Like bottles, it may take some experimentation to find the right brand.
Clothing and sleepwear – Don't go overboard with clothing since you'll likely receive plenty as gifts. A few essentials like sleepers and socks are a good idea though.
Baby books – It's nice to include some of your favorite baby books on your registry, but don't go overboard since you'll likely receive plenty as gifts.

There you have it!

Hopefully this will give you some guidance on what you need to register for! Lastly, don’t forget to schedule your maternity and newborn portrait sessions while you are preparing!

I’m Amanda, a luxury family photographer in the Washington, D.C., and Baltimore/Annapolis, MD, areas, and I’d love to chat with you about your unique maternity and newborn session ideas!

Set up your no-obligation consultation with me and let’s chat!

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