Top 10 Baby Registry Must Haves

I remember spending an unbelievable amount of time compiling my baby registry.  I would add something, read reviews, remove it, and then add a replacement.  It was something I literally worked on for months.  Honestly it's a good thing I started preparing it when I was still in my first trimester or I might have had a panic attack trying to get in done in time for the shower with all of the research I did.  I would like to save everyone that stress and list the TOP 10 MUST HAVES for your baby registry.  Sure, there are other things you'll need (nail clippers, outlet covers, pacifiers, but those you could always buy those yourself if necessary) and want (should I really spend $100 on the outfit I plan to take baby home from the hospital in?) but these are the few that you'll need sooner then later.  

10) Nursing Tops/Breast Pads/Lanolin Cream/Nursing Bras: you may only want to register for the breast pads (whether you plan to nurse or not) and the Lanolin Cream but you will definitely need Nursing Tops and Bras too if you plan to breastfeed your new bundle of joy (you could pick those up online).

9) Baby Tub/Towels/Soaps/Lotions: A baby bathtub is essential, as well as, towels.  You can also include the soaps and lotions but I find people will buy them for you even if not you haven't requested them so adding these to your registry is your decision.  I also was given extra towels I hadn't registered for just because they were cute, so I recommend only registering for two or three.  

8) Baby Monitor: This is something I couldn't live without.  There are different options of course but they one I would suggest should include a camera and viewing screen; similar to this one.  It gives you peace of mind that even when baby is quiet and you want to make sure he/she is still breathing (because you know exactly what I'm talking about) you can check to watch babies chest moving up and down.  This way, you don't need to take the chance of waking that sleepy baby by going in their room and watching them until they move or bringing a mirror in and putting it under their nose to make sure it fogs up. Keep in mind they can be expensive, anywhere from $149.99-$249.99 but without a doubt it is worth every penny!

7) Pack 'n Play: These are great to use as a bassinet in your room while they are still too small for the crib.  I like the models that include a changing table too so when you wake in the middle of the night you don't have to go to their room to change them, just do it there.  They also sell models that include a newborn napper which is actually what I have.  However, I never really felt comfortable leaving baby in their to nap so save the money and skip it.

6) Boppy/Cover: This is great for breastfeeding baby, bottle feeding baby, tummy time, and just for baby hanging out time.

5) Disposable Diapers/Wipes: Get as many as you can of these for free as you will go through countless amounts.  If you plan to use cloth diapers, you can add them to your registry too.  However, I found that if you tell people you plan to cloth diaper they either a) generally think you are out of your mind, b) think you won't stick to it, or c) think you just don't get how hard it is to have a baby.  Based on this, they will most likely buy you disposable diapers instead and think you'll thank them later (which may happen).  In any case, it would probably be best for you to invest in most of the cloth diapers and cloth wipes yourself.  

4) Fisher Price Newborn Rock 'n Play Sleeper: This is really a lifesaver.  I know many people invest in a swing or a bouncer and if you have the space register for those too if you want.  I on the other hand, have a smaller home so I went for the Rock 'n Play sleeper and have never looked back!  It folds up so it's easy to store, you can use it as a bassinet, a place for baby to hang out, to rock them, etc.  Oh, and did I mention it retails for only $49.99.

3) Swaddle Blankets: Sure they sell sleepsacks and wearable blankets but I found that a good swaddle blanket will do the trick.  My favorites are from Aden & Anais and once they don't want to be swaddled anymore you can still use them as traditional blankets while you'll be packing the wearable blankets away.

2) Stroller with Car Seat Adapter: You'll want to find a stroller that either includes a car seat adapter or has a car seat adapter accessory that you can purchase.  Again with the adage "never wake a sleeping baby", this will allow you to move easily from the car to the store, back to car, and to the park without waking that little angel.

1) Infant Car Seat with Extra Base: This will allow you to have just one infant car seat and the ability to switch it from Parent A to Parent B's vehicle without any trouble.

Are there any baby necessities you couldn't live without that I haven't mentioned?