A few years ago I sent out a request on Facebook and Instagram for your favorite newborn essentials for your baby registry. There were so many great ideas! I decided it was time to re-share everyone’s favorites from that original post, plus a few more ideas I’ve heard about from my clients and other moms.

Whether you’re putting together your first newborn registry for yourself or looking for a baby shower gift for another mom that is sure to be used and appreciated, I hope this post provides some inspiration!

Sleep Swaddles/Sacks

While you can always use a regular baby swaddle to wrap your little one up for bedtime, sometimes a dedicated sleep sack is easier. You can keep it in the crib so it’s always in the same spot, and if you don’t feel like perfecting your hand-done swaddling technique (it takes practice!) a zip-up or Velcro sleep sack is super convenient. Popular brands with new mamas include Halo, Love to Dream, Nested Bean, and the Ollie Swaddle.

A Baby Carrier (or Two)!

Lots of moms recommend getting a couple of these: a simple cloth wrap for versatile baby wearing plus a sturdier carrier for longer or more active outings. For around the house and plenty of versatility, try Baby K’tan, the Solly baby wrap, the Wildbird Sling, or any other plain woven wrap. There are tons of options, so you’re sure to find one that’s comfy for both you and your baby.

If you need something a bit more substantial, carriers like a Baby Bjorn or Moby are also supportive options but are a little less portable.

Diapers and Wipes

Although they may not be the most exciting option, plenty of diapers and wipes are an essential for your baby registry. Gift cards to places you can purchase them (like Costco, Target, or Walmart) also make for much appreciated gifts. Everyone ends up finding preferred diaper brands through trial and error, but Pampers Sensitive Wipes are consistently popular with moms and babies.

Pacifiers

Ask any mom, and they’ll tell you to get plenty of these! You never want to be caught without a pacifier, whether that’s late at night, on the road, or out doing errands. Your little one will probably decide on a favorite, but the WubbaNub gets consistently high ratings. With the attached plush toy it’s designed to be easier to keep track of than traditional pacifiers, plus easier for your little one to grab independently.

Blankets and Stretchy Swaddles

are another essential, although chances are you will have lots of people buying and making cozy blankies for your little one. Most moms report that they end up with way more blankets than they need even without adding them to their registry. However, if there’s a particularly cute one you want, or even just some stretchy swaddles, these can also be a great addition to your registry.

I hope these 5 newborn essentials for your baby registry give you a good place to start. Thank you to all my sweet moms who chimed in with their favorites and ideas! It’s such a help to other new mamas and their families. I’ll be posting more ideas on the blog in a couple of weeks, so keep an eye out for Part 2!