Introduction
A baby registry is one of the most practical things you can do before your baby arrives — but it is easy to get it wrong. The market is full of products that look essential but rarely get used, and it's easy to miss the things that genuinely make a difference in the early weeks. This guide focuses on what actually matters: the items that earn their place in your home, organised by category.
How to Approach Your Registry
- Start early: Build your registry at least 8 to 10 weeks before your due date to give guests time to shop and allow for shipping
- Include a range of price points: Not everyone can spend $100 on a single gift. Include items from $15 to $150+ so every guest has an option that works for them
- Prioritise the first 3 months: Focus on what you need for the newborn period first. You can always add items for later stages as your baby grows
- Do not over-register: A focused registry of 40 to 60 items is more useful than an overwhelming list of 150. Curate ruthlessly
- Register for consumables: Nappies, wipes, nursing pads, and formula are always needed and make excellent gifts that guests often overlook
Feeding
Feeding is the centre of newborn life. Whether you plan to breastfeed, bottle feed, or combination feed, having the right equipment ready before your baby arrives reduces stress significantly.
- Emulait Starter Kit: Designed for the transition between breast and bottle, the Emulait Starter Kit includes bottles with a breast-shaped nipple that supports a natural latch. An essential registry item for breastfeeding parents who want the flexibility to introduce a bottle
- Emulait Pacifier 3-Pack and Clip Gift Set: A practical, beautifully packaged gift set that includes three breast-shaped pacifiers and a clip. A perfect mid-range registry item that guests love to buy
- Emulait Pacifier 2-Pack: An accessible entry-level registry item at a price point that works for any guest
- Nursing pillow
- Breast pump (check insurance coverage — many plans cover this)
- Milk storage bags
- Bottle brush and teat brush
- Electric steam steriliser
- Bottle drying rack
- Muslin cloths (register for at least 10 to 12)
- Burp cloths
Sleep
- Bedside bassinet or cot (check safety certifications)
- Fitted cot sheets (register for at least 4 — you will go through them)
- Baby sleeping bags in multiple tog ratings (0.5, 1.0, 2.5)
- Swaddle wraps (muslin or stretchy fabric)
- White noise machine
- Baby monitor (audio or video depending on preference)
- Room thermometer for the nursery
Clothing and Nappy Changing
- Sleepsuits and bodysuits in 0 to 3 months and 3 to 6 months (skip newborn size — babies outgrow it in weeks)
- Nappy changing mat
- Nappies (register for multiple sizes — you will move through sizes quickly)
- Fragrance-free, alcohol-free baby wipes
- Zinc oxide barrier cream
- Nappy bin with odour control
Bathing and Skincare
- Baby bath tub or bath support
- Hooded towels (register for 3 to 4)
- Fragrance-free baby wash and shampoo
- Fragrance-free baby moisturiser
- Soft-bristle baby hairbrush
- Baby nail file or electric nail trimmer
Getting Around
- Pram or travel system (one of the biggest purchases — research thoroughly before registering)
- Infant car seat (essential before leaving the hospital — do not leave this off the registry)
- Baby carrier or wrap (invaluable for hands-free carrying in the early weeks)
- Changing bag with multiple compartments
Play and Development
- Play mat with activity arch
- High-contrast black and white toys and books (ideal for newborns whose colour vision is still developing)
- Soft board books
- Baby bouncer or rocker
For the Parents
The most overlooked registry category — and often the most appreciated. New parents need support too.
- Meal delivery gift cards
- Comfortable nursing or loungewear
- Large insulated water bottle
- Snack hamper
- Postpartum recovery essentials (often available as curated sets)
What to Leave Off Your Registry
- Newborn-sized clothing: Babies outgrow it in weeks and many never fit it at all
- Wipe warmer: Rarely used after the first few weeks
- Nappy stacker: A drawer works just as well
- Baby shoes for newborns: Newborns do not need shoes — soft socks are sufficient
- Novelty gadgets: If you cannot immediately articulate when and how you would use it, leave it off
Key Takeaway
The best baby registry is focused, practical, and covers the first 3 months in detail. Prioritise feeding, sleep, and nappy changing — the three things that will dominate your days and nights. Include a range of price points, register for consumables, and do not forget items for yourself. The newborn period is intense — the right equipment makes it meaningfully easier.
Parents Also Ask
The Ultimate Newborn Gift Guide for New Parents
What Baby Bottle Accessories Do You Actually Need?
When Should I Introduce a Pacifier to My Breastfed Baby?
This article contains links to Emulait products. All other product recommendations are general in nature and are not sponsored or affiliated.