Registry To-do's and Must Haves
Updated: May 6, 2020
One of the most requested blog posts has been about what my MUST HAVE/MOST USED baby items are now that Blakely has been here for two months. Being honest, when it came time to register I was COMPLETELY LOST and had no idea where to start (especially being a first time mom).
TIP #1
Track down any moms you may know. Whether they are a close friend, aunt or coworker..... enlisting the help and recommendations from any mom you know. The motherhood community is one of strong bonds even if you may not personally know each other. Everyone is willing to give advice and help you through your journey. I turned to several coworkers/friends of mine who were eager to tell me what they absolutely looooooved and what was not worth spending your money on. One M A J O R resource I received was a beautifully organized word document emailed to me from a friend who's sister and sister-in-law composed together. Both had recently babies (within a couple years) so they were familiar with a lot of the current popular baby items and brands. When I first opened this document I was overwhelmed when I saw how loooooong it was, but then I realized they took the time to not only list out what items they loved but also added a detailed reason why and other comparable products. Needless to say this was a life savor and how I got a majority of my registry finalized.
TIP #2
If you don't want a lot of pink and blue clothing items (going along with gender categories) specify no clothes or that gender neutral tones are appreciated. This will give you lots of hand me downs for future children you may have that are different genders from your first. Or you may simply not be a fan of everything pink and glittery....unlike me ;)
TIP #3 :
When you have your registry put togther, something to consider is releasing it in waves. If you publish your registry with items you MUST HAVE first then you can almost guarantee that those items will be purchased. Then you can add on the rest such as toys, clothes and non-essential items. Not necessary but will definitely ensure you will have the necessities from the start.
Below I will list and link my MUST HAVE items
Breast feeding
Boppy: probably overall the best and most used item I received (thanks to the GENIUS that invented this!)
Extra Storage Pouches: less expensive than the kiinde pouches
Hakka: amazing product to collect the little bit of milk fro the opposite breast when feeding off one side
Burp Cloths: STOCK UP! and when you are at the hospital take all that they give you in your room
Sleep
Noise maker: looooove that this is portable and can clip on to a car seat, stroller or carrier
Swaddles
Ollie Swaddle: (link gives you 10% OFF!)
Onesies with cuffs: perfect so baby doesn't scratch his or her face
Onesies with double zippers: SUPER convenient for nighttime changes
Night Gowns/Sleep Sack: another easy change access with feet exposed
Monitor: we considered the owlet and other higher priced monitors but are very happy with this one
SnuggleMe: not recommended for sleeping in without supervision but Blakley absolutely loves laying in this
Bath Time
Wash Cloths: THE SOFTEST wash cloths
Bath Kit: super helpful for parents - - saves the knees and elbows!
Toy Bin: not immediately necessary but for future use to keep toys organized
Health
Diapers
Wipes
Cleaning
Diaper Pail: many moms had varying opinions but we are very happy we received this - - seals in all the smells
Transportation
Car Seat: easy one-click transition from car to stroller
Car Seat Cover: doubles as a nursing cover
Baby carrier: more heavy duty than the wrap and is what I use on long family walks - love that it has a sun shield
Baby wrap: struggled on which one to buy and went back and forth for weeks until I pulled the trigger on this one and it has been the second best/most used product behind the Boppy
Activity & Toys
Pack N Play: since her nursery is upstairs we use this downstairs on the main level for an extra changing station
Glider: her favorite place to be when she's not being held by Josh or I, gives us extra time in the morning to make breakfast and get small chores done
Baby Dome: my favorite outdoor item now that we are having warmer weather
Activity Gym Mat
Noisy Toys
Ball: great for distraction and prolonging time on back in glider
Tip #4 Diapers (or diaper party)
Registering for all sizes of diapers is a GREAT idea! That way you can have it spread out and not just 12 packs of size 3. Even if you do decide to register for diapers, the hubby can always throw a “diaper party” for him and his closest friends. If you‘ve never heard of a diaper party before it’s simply another excuse for the hubs to get the boys together and toss back some brews - - as long as each party guest brings a pack of diapers and/or wipes while the host supplies the brews of course ;)
A lot of information here but I hope this helps eliminate some of the unknown for new moms (or those who haven't had a baby in awhile). I am very grateful for the help and suggestions given to me when I began this process and I hope this blog will serve as a resource you can look back on or share with other mom.