Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist: Must-Have Items on Amazon

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In this ultimate baby registry checklist, I’m thrilled to share my insights and must-have items for new parents, drawing from my personal experiences. 

As a mother of three, I’ve embarked on this exciting journey of parenthood multiple times, each experience bringing unique joys and challenges. 

Through it all, I’ve learned a thing or two about what truly matters when it comes to preparing for the arrival of a new family member.

But there’s a twist—my focus is on something often overlooked amidst the baby shower excitement: mom’s healing during postpartum.

We often find baby registries overflowing with adorable onesies, cute toys, and all the essentials for the little bundle of joy and don’t get me wrong, those are important! 

But what about the incredible woman who has just brought a new life into this world? She needs support, care, and the right tools to help her recover and transition into motherhood smoothly.

So, join me as I walk you through this comprehensive checklist, covering everything from newborn essentials to items that will make mama’s postpartum journey more comfortable and nurturing. Let’s ensure that every aspect of this incredible chapter is celebrated and supported. 

Creating a Baby Registry: Embracing Convenience and Tradition

In our Habesha – Ethiopian and Eritrean culture, the concept of a baby registry is not yet as prevalent as in other parts of the world. Traditionally, our families and communities come together to support new parents with baby essentials, celebrating the arrival of a little one. 

While this tradition is beautiful and meaningful, there’s no denying the convenience and benefits that a well-structured baby registry can bring to modern parenting.

The Importance of Creating a Baby Registry

1. Efficiency and Organization

A baby registry streamlines the process of preparing for your baby’s arrival. It allows you to list the specific items you need, helping you avoid duplicate gifts and ensuring you have all the essentials.

2. Personalized Choices

With a baby registry, you can select products that align with your parenting preferences. Whether you prioritize organic and eco-friendly items or have specific brand preferences, a registry lets you curate your baby’s essentials.

3. Ease for Loved Ones

Friends and family who want to celebrate your new addition will appreciate a registry’s guidance. They can choose gifts they genuinely need and want, making the gift-giving experience more enjoyable.

4. Special Discounts and Benefits

Many retailers, including Amazon, offer special perks to baby registry users. These benefits can include welcome boxes filled with baby products, extended return periods, and exclusive discounts on registry items.

Amazon Baby Registry: A Convenient Choice

Amazon is a convenient platform for creating your baby registry. Not only does it offer a vast selection of baby products, but it also provides several advantages to registry users:

Universal Registry

Amazon allows you to add items from any website to your Amazon Baby Registry, providing a one-stop shop for all your baby’s needs.

Extended Return Period

Enjoy a comprehensive 365-day return policy for most items on your registry.

Welcome Box

As a thank-you for creating a registry, Amazon offers a Welcome Box filled with samples and products for you and your baby.

Completion Discount:

Receive a discount on select items remaining on your registry, making purchasing any items you still need more cost-effective.

While our cultural traditions are essential and meaningful, embracing the convenience and benefits of a baby registry can enhance your parenting journey. 

It allows you to blend the best of both worlds, ensuring you have the essentials you need while celebrating the arrival of your little one in a way that’s meaningful to you and your community. 

Category 1: Mama Essentials for Postpartum

As a mom of three, I can’t emphasize the importance of prioritizing postpartum care. 

This period is a transformative journey not just for your little one but for you, the incredible mom who brought them into the world. 

Remember, self-care isn’t selfish; it’s self-preservation. Ensuring your well-being is essential to providing the best care for your new baby. Let’s list the important items you need: 

1. Perineal Care Products:

These little heroes can make a big difference. Perineal sprays, padsicles, and peri bottles are heaven-sent for soothing discomfort in those sensitive areas. Trust me; you’ll thank yourself for having these on hand.

Frida mama postpartum kit has almost everything you need for postpartum if you don’t like to buy things separately (The set includes 11 piece set – Disposable Underwear, Ice Maxi Absorbency Pads, Cooling Witch Hazel Medicated Pad Liners, Perineal Medicated Healing Foam)

2. Comfortable Postpartum Underwear:

Leave those restrictive undies behind. Invest in comfortable, breathable postpartum underwear. Your body will thank you for the gentle support. I like these underwear.

3. Nursing Bras and Breast Pads

A good nursing bra and breast pads are essential for comfort and convenience if you plan to breastfeed.

4. Postpartum Recovery Garments (Supportive Belly Bands):

A supportive belly band can work wonders in providing extra support to your post-baby belly and lower back.

5. Nipple Cream

For breastfeeding mamas, nipple cream is a lifesaver in preventing and soothing soreness. You can also use coconut oil as nipple cream, body oil for yourself and your baby.

6. Postpartum Herbal Teas for Healing and Relaxation:

Take a moment for yourself with postpartum herbal teas designed to promote healing and relaxation. Your body deserves the extra care.

7. Pain Relief Essentials (Pain Relief Spray or Pads):

Pain relief sprays or pads can ease discomfort, especially if you’ve had an episiotomy or tear during childbirth. I use this sitz bath spray and this Witch Hazel pads.

8. Pain Killer for The Postpartum After Pain:

Painkillers and a postpartum tincture to manage after-pains is very important, as they can be quite intense after childbirth. Your well-being is a top priority, and you deserve all the care and support in the world during this postpartum period.

Additional Note: Don’t forget to nourish yourself! Stock up on nutrient-rich postpartum snacks to keep your energy levels up during those long nights. Also, capture your thoughts, feelings, and precious moments in a postpartum journal. It’s a wonderful way to reflect on this transformative time.

More over, knowledge is power. Arm yourself with books or resources on postpartum wellness to confidently navigate this incredible journey. Also we share information and resources here at EnatHood blog and podcast. I encourage to subscribe and follow on social media platforms to stay up to date.

Remember, new mamas, you are strong, resilient, and capable. 

Category 2: Nursery Essentials and Sleep

Creating a cozy and functional nursery is a beautiful way to welcome your little one into their new world. 

Also, quality sleep is vital for both your baby and your well-being. These essentials can help create a serene sleep environment together with nursery essentials:

1. Crib and Mattress:

A safe and comfortable crib is the centerpiece of any nursery. Ensure it meets current safety standards, and pair it with a quality mattress for a peaceful night’s sleep. I used this minimalistic cribs for my first two children.

For my third baby I am using this bed side bassinet because I wanted smaller size that fits the space we have in the bedroom. I like it so much.

The bassinet’s size is decent that you can use until baby turns two years old. Also, it is 4 in 1 meaning it can function as crib sleeper, playard, changing table, baby bassinet. Also it is lightweight and can be used for travels.

If you plan to co-sleep still want baby to have its own lounger, this is my favorite baby snuggle co-sleeper. I used it for all my three children!

3. Rocking Chair or Glider:

These are more than just chairs; they’re your ticket to soothing those late-night cries and creating sweet bonding moments during feedings and bedtime stories.

4. Baby Monitor:

I heard from many mothers that a reliable baby monitor gives them peace of mind. Even though I don’t personally use baby monitors, I can see why. 

With this baby monitor with video and audio options, you can keep an eye (and ear) on your little one, even from another room.

5. Blackout Curtains:

Blackout curtains keep your bedroom comfortably dark, promoting better sleep, especially during daytime naps. With these sleep essentials, you’re on your way to creating a peaceful sleep routine for you and your little one. 

6. White Noise Machine:

A white noise machine creates a soothing background sound that can help your baby sleep by masking other noises. I like this white noise machine with comes with night light.

7. Nightlight (for Nighttime Feeding):

For those late-night feedings and diaper changes, a gentle night light provides just the right amount of illumination without disturbing your baby’s sleep.

Category 3: Diapering and Baby Care

Regarding diapering and baby care, choosing natural, organic, and eco-friendly options is not just a choice; it’s a step toward providing the best for your little one and the planet. Here are your essentials:

1. Diapers (Cloth or Disposable):

Consider eco-friendly, biodegradable disposable diapers or soft, reusable cloth diapers. The choice is yours, and both options have their merits. I used both cloth and dispodable diapers for diffrent seasons. I like this clean disposable diaper brand. 

For cloth diapers, I like bamboo inserts (12 inserts) and these covers (5 pieces with adjustable sizes). Cloth diaper is a one time investment and has upfront cost but it is resuable and can be used for more than one child. 

2. Wipes:

Opt for gentle, eco-friendly baby wipes made from natural materials. They’re not only kind to your baby’s skin but to the environment, too. Here is my favorite wipes in a bundle package. 

3. Diaper Bag:

Look for a diaper bag with various compartments, it keeps your eco-conscious diapering essentials organized.

4. Diaper Rash Cream:

Choose a natural diaper rash cream with minimal ingredients. It provides the care your baby’s skin deserves without unnecessary additives.

5. Diaper Changing Mat & Small organizer box 

Efficiency is key during those frequent diaper changes. I can change diapers anywhere in the house if I have everything I need in a small diaper organizer bag I can move around with. 

The small organizer box is especially helpful when the baby grows and doesn’t want to be taken to a changing table or dresser area whenever a diaper change is needed. 

However, this one seems a good choice if you prefer a changing table or dresser with a changing pad that keeps everything you need at your fingertips. 

6. Baby Cream and Wash:

Natural and organic baby cream and wash products are free from harsh chemicals. They’re perfect for pampering your baby while keeping their skin healthy. 

While I like coconut oil and give baths with only water/wipe during the newborn stage, Tobby Todd is another favorite brand for body cream and wash. However, you can only order it from their website.

7. Baby Nail Clippers:

Ensure the baby nail clippers you select are made from safe materials. Keeping those tiny nails trim and tidy is essential for your baby’s comfort.

As a side note, items like diaper pails may not be necessary for everyone, like wipes and warmers. Evaluate your needs and preferences to create a baby care routine that aligns with your eco-friendly values. 

Category 4: Feeding

Feeding your little one is a beautiful bonding experience, and having the right tools for the job is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Bottles and Nipples (If Not Breastfeeding Exclusively):

If you’re not exclusively breastfeeding, having a set of bottles and nipples ensures your baby has nourishment ready when needed. Glass bottles or at least BPA-free bottles are the best choice. 

2. Breast Pump and Accessories (If Breastfeeding):

For breastfeeding moms, a breast pump and its accessories are invaluable. It allows you to express milk when necessary, providing flexibility in feeding.

Your insurance usually covers breast pumps. Therefore, it is good to check that first. 

3. Bottle Warmer:

A bottle warmer heats milk to the perfect temperature, making those midnight feedings easier. Also, if you pump and store breast milk, the warmer helps warm breast milk stored in the freezer at a perfect temperature. 

4. Burp Cloths:

Babies can be messy eaters, and burp cloths are there to catch any spills and keep your baby clean.

5. High Chair:

As your baby grows, a high chair becomes essential for mealtime. Look for one that’s safe, easy to clean, and adjustable. 

We used this high chair for the first two of our children, and it is going strong for the third baby. It is sturdy, easy to clean, durable, and very practical. 

6. Bibs:

Bibs are your first line of defense against food messes. They’re a must-have during mealtime.

So I’m a big breastfeeding advocate and have shared my experiences and tips in numerous blog posts. I breastfed my first two children for three years, even while pregnant, and tandem nursed. As I prepare to welcome my third child, I’m ready to embark on another beautiful breastfeeding journey. 

Remember, whether you choose breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, the most important thing is that your baby is well-fed and loved.

Category 5: Clothing

Keeping your baby comfortable and stylish is a joy. Opt for minimalistic and organic clothing options that are both affordable and practical. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Onesies and Bodysuits:

Onesies and bodysuits are the foundation of your baby’s wardrobe. They’re easy to put on and take off, making diaper changes a breeze. 

3-5 pieces of each size is enough since the baby grows fast. I like this inexpensive organic brand a lot. Touched by Nature is another brand I like, and Carter’s organic line, Little Planet, also has affordable prices in the market. 

2. Swaddle Blankets

Swaddle blankets provide comfort and security for your newborn. Lightweight cotton blankets are versatile and ideal for swaddling in different weather conditions.

3. Hats

A few soft hats keep your baby’s head warm and protected, especially during those first few months.

4. Socks and Booties:

Tiny socks and booties ensure your baby’s feet stay cozy and warm, completing their outfit.

5. Baby Laundry Detergent:

To care for your baby’s delicate skin, opt for a baby-specific laundry detergent that’s gentle yet effective.

Category 6: Safety

Ensuring your baby’s safety is paramount. Here are the safety essentials you’ll need:

1. First Aid Kit

A well-equipped first aid kit is a must. It’s essential for addressing minor cuts, bruises, and other common childhood injuries.

2. Car Seat:

A car seat is one of your baby’s most critical safety items. Ensure it meets all safety regulations and is installed correctly in your vehicle. We like this 4 in 1 infant to toddler car seat, with 10 years of use. But it is not portable like the other carseats nor it can be attached to stroller to use it in the first year.

If you want the portable and the one that can be attached to stroller, have this carseat and stroller combo set. You

3. Stroller

A reliable stroller provides a safe and convenient way to transport your baby, whether you’re going for a walk in the park or running errands. This lightweight travel stroller is the best and inexpensive for babies older than 6 months.

Again if you would like to use a stroller from day one, buy the car seat and stroller combo.

4. Baby Carrier

For times when you want to keep your baby close, a baby carrier allows for hands-free carrying while ensuring your baby’s safety.

Prioritizing safety gives you peace of mind, knowing that your little one is protected as you navigate the exciting journey of parenthood. 

Category 7: Playtime and Development

Nurturing your baby’s development through play is both fun and essential. Choose toys that are safe, engaging, and in line with your parenting values. 

Here are the playtime and development essentials that are Montessori-inspired. Read here if you’re not familiar with Montessori. It is your child’s best real-life way of learning and exploring. 

1. Playmat or Activity Gym

A playmat or activity gym provides a safe and stimulating space for your baby to explore and develop their motor skills. I like LOVEVERY’s playmat that is Montessori inspired.

If you want to learn more about Montessori learning approach, read this. Also here my honest review about LOVEVERY’s play subscription.

2. Baby Toys (Rattles, Soft Toys, Teething Toys)

Choose toys made from non-toxic materials, such as natural wood, to ensure your baby’s safety. Rattles, soft toys, and teething toys are fantastic options. This Montessori set of toys has rattles and teethers.

3. Books for Infants

Introduce your little one to the joy of reading from an early age with age-appropriate books designed for infants. Sensory, touch and feel, high contrast books are age appropriate for for 0-6 month babies.

4. Baby Bouncer or Swing

A baby bouncer or swing offers entertainment and relaxation for your baby, giving you some hands-free moments.

5. Baby Bathtub

Make bath time a breeze with a safe and comfortable baby bathtub.

6. Baby Towels and Washcloths:

Keep your baby cozy and clean with soft, baby-friendly towels and washcloths.

7. Baby Memory Year Book Journal:

Every moment with your little one is precious, and you’ll want to cherish and relive those memories as they grow. A Baby Memory Year Book Journal is a delightful addition to your baby registry. This journal is designed to capture and celebrate every milestone, from their first smile to those tiny handprints and footprints.

Category 8: Travel and On-the-Go

Being prepared for adventures with your baby is key to stress-free outings. These travel and on-the-go essentials will keep you well-equipped:

1. Diaper Bag:

Your trusty diaper bag is your constant companion when you’re on the move. Ensure it’s packed with all the essentials, from diapers to snacks, to keep your baby comfortable.

2. Changing Mat:

A portable changing mat is a lifesaver when changing your baby’s diaper while out and about. It provides a clean and comfortable surface.

3. Baby Carrier or Sling:

A baby carrier or sling lets you keep your baby close and your hands-free during excursions.

4. Stroller Accessories:

Enhance your stroller’s functionality with accessories like cup holders, organizers, and weather shields to adapt to various weather conditions.

With these travel and on-the-go essentials, you can explore the world with your little one, creating cherished memories. 

As we conclude this exploration of the baby registry journey, it’s essential to reflect on the importance of this modern parenting tool. A baby registry isn’t just a list of baby items; it’s a roadmap to convenience, organization, and thoughtful preparation for your baby’s arrival.

A baby registry streamlines preparing for your little one, offering efficiency and organization. It allows you to make personalized choices, ensures ease for your loved ones, and comes with special discounts and benefits, making it a valuable resource for expectant parents.

Prioritize Postpartum Healing in Your Baby Registry

In addition to baby items, remember that including essentials for your postpartum healing journey is equally crucial. Ensuring your well-being during this transformative time is an investment in your health and your baby’s.

Embrace Convenience

The convenience of modern-day baby registries is undeniable. With platforms like Amazon offering universal registries, extended return policies, welcome boxes, and completion discounts, you have every reason to embrace this tool.

Start Your Registry Journey on Amazon

For those seeking a user-friendly and comprehensive registry experience, we encourage you to start your baby registry journey on Amazon. Their extensive selection, added perks and ease of use make it a top choice for expectant parents.

As you embark on this exciting journey into parenthood, we extend our warmest well wishes to you. May your baby’s arrival be filled with joy, love, and all the essentials you’ve thoughtfully prepared for. Here’s to a beautiful and memorable parenting adventure!