When I was pregnant and putting together our baby registry, I felt overwhelmed by all the advice out there. Everyone talked about the big things—cribs, car seats, diapers, and wipes—but I found that it was the smaller, practical items that made the biggest impact during those first few weeks. Whether you’re creating your registry or prepping postpartum, this list will help you feel more prepared. These are the newborn baby registry must-haves that helped me navigate the early days with my son.
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1. Two-Way Zipper Pajamas
Whoever invented the two-way zipper pajamas deserves a mom medal. These make middle-of-the-night diaper changes so much easier—no more wrestling with snaps or exposing baby’s entire body in the cold. You just unzip from the bottom, do your thing, and zip back up. We preferred soft, stretchy ones made with organic cotton.
2. Red Light for Night Time Feeds
A soft red light lamp is a must during nighttime feedings. It gives you just enough light to see what you’re doing without disrupting your or baby’s circadian rhythms. It creates a calm environment that makes falling back asleep easier—for both of you. I kept mine taped to the top of our headboard and still use it nightly during pump and feed sessions.
3. Tiered Roller Cart
I set up a simple 3-tier metal roller cart stocked with everything I might need during a feed or while soothing Oliver: snacks, a water bottle, burp cloths, snacks, baby nail file, lip balm, did I say snacks? It’s incredibly helpful and mobile so you can bring it room to room. We still use this too!
4. Diaper Caddy
Even though we do all changes on the changing table, I love our diaper caddy. It keeps our changing table organized with diapers, wipes, and coconut oil. It’s also ready to go from room to room if you need. We also use a second diaper caddy as Oliver’s laundry basket (just take out the velcro middle divider).
5. Electric Nail File
Forget the baby nail clippers—this electric nail file is so much easier and way less scary to use, especially when their nails are teeny tiny. It’s quiet, quick, and gentle (and saved me from accidentally nicking baby fingers). We still use it, too!
6. Muslin Swaddle Blankets
These are endlessly useful. Though we didn’t use these for swaddling, I used these muslin blankets to roll up as little bolsters to gently support under Oliver’s head during feedings (a nursing tip from a lactation consultant!). They’re lightweight, breathable, and easy to wash.
7. Nursing Pillow
Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle feeding, a nursing pillow (we have this Boppy) helps support your arms and your baby. I still use mine for every feeding session. Guests can also use it for more support while holding your baby.
8. Haakaa Ladybugs
The Haakaa Ladybugs are smaller and less bulky than the original Haakaa pump, so baby doesn’t knock it off your boob during a feed. They sit in your bra (or just suction on without a bra) and catch letdown milk on the opposite side while feeding. You can start building a freezer stash with almost no effort.
9. Nipple Cream and Silverettes
The breastfeeding learning curve is real, and having nipple cream and Silverettes on hand from day one made a huge difference. I alternated between the two, especially during those first two weeks when everything felt raw and new.
10. Coconut Oil
This one’s a little secret from our midwife! Before those first meconium poops (which are sticky, tar-like, and hard to wipe off), gently apply coconut oil to your baby’s bottom. It creates a barrier so cleanup is much easier. You’ll thank me later for this one! We still use coconut oil every now and then to moisturize and help prevent diaper rash. I also use it on my nipples before pumping to make it more comfortable.
If You’re Pumping…
This list is focused on general newborn life, but if you’re planning to pump, I’ve got you covered! I’ll be sharing another post soon all about what you need to make pumping easier—from gear to storage tips to staying comfortable while doing it. Stay tuned!
Wrap Up
These newborn baby registry must haves made such a difference in those first few blurry weeks. They helped simplify daily tasks, brought comfort, and supported me as I transitioned into motherhood. Creating a baby registry can be overwhelming, but I hope this list brings you some clarity and confidence. You’ve got this, mama!
