In today’s world, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the baby products available. From bouncers to sound machines, our society has created everything a baby could ever wish for and then some. However, many new parents are starting to ask, “What the true essentials items are for my baby?” For those wanting to save on space or simply wanting to live a minimalist lifestyle, we’ve put together 20 “essentials” items for your minimalist baby registry (plus 10 items to skip!).
A List of the 20 Must-Have Items On Your Minimalist Baby Registry
Crib
Cribs are a must-have because your baby needs somewhere safe to sleep. You can check out all of our favorite cribs here!
However, we really love the Babyletto Gelato 4-in-1 Convertible Crib because it is the only bed your baby will ever need. Not only does it have a modern and sleek design, it goes from being a crib to a toddler bed, a day bed, and finally a full-size bed.
Diapers
If you are going to be using disposable diapers, Hello Bello and Sprouted Diapers are great options. Both offer a subscription service so that you can get the diapers you need monthly without having to stockpile.
If you are really looking to live a minimalist and sustainable lifestyle, cloth diapers are the best choice. Luckily, cloth diapers have come a long way since handkerchiefs and baby pins. Today, you can find all kinds of reusable or eco-friendly diapers.
Our favorite cloth diaper is the Mama Koala One Size Cloth Diaper. These diapers grow with the baby and have adjustable snap closures which last much longer than Velcro ones.
Car Seat
A car seat is an absolute must for your minimalist baby registry. In many cases, they won’t even let you leave the hospital without securing your baby into an infant car seat. If you also plan to buy a stroller, I recommend looking into a complete travel system.
The UPPAbaby Vista Stroller and Mesa Carseat is one of the best travel systems overall for safety, comfort, and quality.
Stroller
If you travel a lot or just enjoy getting out of the house, a stroller is a must. As mentioned above, planning ahead and buying a system together is more convenient and cost-effective.
10/10 would recommend the UPPAbaby Vista. If you plan on having multiple kids, it has a second seat attachment or kickboard to make it a fun ride for older siblings.
DIAPER BAG AND CHANGING PAD
A well-thought-out diaper bag adds so much convenience when you are on the go with a baby. The Skip Hop Forma has your back every step of the way. It’s lightweight with padded shoulder straps for added comfort and it comes with packing cubes to keep your bottles, snacks, change of clothes, etc. organized. It also has built-in stroller straps that definitely come in handy.
If you are looking for a bag that is a bit more trendy, we love the spacious Fawn Design Original Diaper Bag. It’s the “IT” bag for moms and comes in multiple colors to personalize your style. The built-in interior pockets are amazing for staying organized!
Diaper Rash Cream
Diaper rash cream is a must for most babies and you will want it around from the start (just in case)! We love The Honest Company Diaper Rash Cream because it’s gentle but effective and made without parabens or preservatives.
Baby Wipes
If you try going without wipes, you’ll soon discover getting your baby clean is a long process. This doesn’t mean you have to traditional baby wipes.
The OsoCrozy Flannel Baby Wipes are reusable and washable. They are gentle on baby and can be washed with your laundry, saving you money and helping the environment.
Breast Pump
A breast pump is essential for keeping up your supply and creating a freezer stash to have on hand, so I would say it is a must-have for your minimalist baby registry. Most insurances will pay for your pump, so make sure to look into that. I would also recommend using a hospital-grade pump if possible.
The Spectra S1 Pump has the best suction and works better than the new version of the Medela Pump in Style, in my experience.
If you are planning on going back into an office or if you are on the go a lot and need a hands free and cord-free pump, the Elvie Wearable Pump is a lifesaver.
Breastmilk Storage Bags
Getting the right breast milk storage bags is very important. You’ll want to make sure it can withstand the freezer and keep your milk supply fresh. The best bags are the Lanisnoh Breastmilk Storage Bags. Super-strong, pre-sterilized, and BPA/BPS free, these bags are the go-to for many moms.
For a more environmentally friendly option, Zip Top makes reusable breast milk storage bags that are plastic free and easy to clean.
Baby Bottles
Even if you plan on breastfeeding, having bottles on hand for other people to do feedings is a must. Philips Avent Natural Baby Bottle Newborn Starter Pack has everything you need; five bottles, two newborn nipples, and a bottle brush.
The great part of the Philips Avent system is that you won’t ever have to purchase bottles again, just upgrade the nipples as your baby grows.
Baby Bottle Brush
If you are going to be using baby bottles, then you’ll want to purchase a specialized baby bottle brush that comes with a larger brush and a smaller part for cleaning nipples. The Munchkin 2 Pack Bottle Brush is my go-to.
Baby Carrier or Ring Sling
A baby carrier has so many benefits for mom and baby and is a great option for traveling with baby.
The best overall carrier and the only one you’ll ever need to buy is the Lillebaby Complete Seasons 6-in-1 Baby Carrier, this carrier is ergonomic and provides the right amount of support without being too bulky.
Ring Slings are a great alternative to keep your little ones close. Wildbird makes the prettiest slings in the most beautiful fabrics that will become your new favorite accessory.
Swaddle Blanket or Sleep Sack
You’ll need around 5-10 swaddling blankets when your baby first comes home. Newborns like to be swaddled and safe while they sleep so these are essential. My favorite are the Solly Baby swaddles, they are buttery soft, and stretchy to make it easier to wrap the baby up snug as a bug.
After your baby starts to roll around, you will need to move on to the sleep sacks. These wearable blankets help keep your baby safe and cozy while they sleep. Dreamland Weighted Sleep Sack is made of breathable fabric with evenly distributed weighted beads that help reduce stress and increase relaxation.
Baby Monitor
There is a wide range of baby monitors out there from devices you can stream to your phone through an app to simple walkie-talkie audio-only monitors.
I love this V-Tech Smart Monitor with a 5-inch display screen. The night vision and sound are great quality, it has a room temperature display, and it also comes with a free app that you can stream remotely from multiple devices.
Then, there is the most detailed type of baby monitor which is a baby movement monitor that tells you the baby’s movements, oxygen levels, and heart rate. Our favorite is the Owlet Smart Sock and Baby Monitor Duo which can be bought with an HSA/FSA.
Baby Clothing
Obviously your baby will need clothes. The very basics you’ll need:
- 5–10 onesies
- 6-8 footie pajamas
- 6-8 pairs of pants
- 10 pairs of socks.
Pacifier
Newborns suck as a way to soothe themselves. I consider a pacifier essential for both the parent’s sanity and the baby’s happiness. The Bibs Pacifier is a favorite among many moms. They come in on-trend muted colors and a glow in the dark option! Those are my favorite because they are super easy to find in a blackout room.
Forehead Thermometer
If your baby starts to feel warm or acts lethargic, a forehead thermometer will save you time and effort. Plus, you will be able to use it without disturbing your baby.
Baby Soap or Shampoo
Your baby does not need to be bathed right away or very often in the beginning. Eventually, though, they will need to be bathed and your baby’s skin is very sensitive and can’t handle the same soap you use.
Buying baby soap and shampoo is a must to make sure their skin stays moisturized and healthy. We love Aveeno Baby Wash & Shampoo. You get both your body wash and shampoo in one and it’s tear-free!
Optional Baby Registry Items
The items below are what our Rookie Mom Squad mamas find to be great, but are not necessarily essentials.
- Baby Swing- A baby swing will give you a safe spot to put your baby down and keep them entertained. We even compiled a list of our favorite baby swings because we find them useful for busy mamas!
- Infant Bathtub- An infant bathtub is great to have around, especially when trying to give a bath to your little one on your own. That being said, you definitely can manage to give your baby a bath in the sink, it just takes a little more work.
- Glider Chair- A glider chair is wonderful, don’t get me wrong. You can sit back with your baby and nurse him or her while you rock them back to sleep. But, a standard chair or couch works fine as well. You definitely want to read our review of the best nursery gliders that are worth investing in before you choose one.
10 Baby Registry Items to Skip
- Baby Toys- You probably won’t be needing toys of any kind for a while! I would recommend sensory flashcards and a tummy time mat instead.
- Diaper Genie- Just put those dirty diapers in a bag and tie it off. Maybe get a trash can with a lid if the smell is really bad. You don’t need a specialty trash can (with moving parts liable to break and specialty supplies to be purchased at regular intervals).
- Changing Table- This huge piece of furniture sounds like a brilliant idea until you realize that it’s easier to change your baby on the bed or the floor. Also, there’s the risk of your baby falling while you’re are distracted getting a diaper or looking for extra wipes.
- Crib Accessories- Crib accessories can be dangerous in two ways. First, things like bumpers and blankets can increase the risk of SIDS. Second, whatever you put in the crib (lights, nursery rhymes, and mobiles) will become part of your baby’s nightly routine. This means if you travel, you might have to take it with you. Or worse, you forget it and they can’t fall asleep until exhaustion overtakes their tiny bodies.
- Baby Food Blender- Using your own blender will work just fine!
I hope this minimalist baby registry checklist has helped you narrow down what you really need to gather up before your little one arrives and has taken away the overwhelming feeling of looking through list after list of baby gear. When it all comes down to it, the one thing your baby needs the most is… you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should be on a minimal baby registry?
Some items to include on a minimal baby registry are:
Crib
Car Seat
Stroller
Diapers
Diaper Bag
What are some baby items you could not live without?
One baby item I could not live without would be my stroller! I love being able to easily get out of the house with my little one, whether that is simply going on a walk or heading out for a day trip. I also love the Owlet Sock and Monitor because they give me peace of mind that my baby is sleeping safe and sound.
How many baby onesies do you need?
5–10 onesies is a good amount to start building your baby’s wardrobe around.
Pin for Later- 20 of the Best Minimalist Baby Registry Items to Add to Your Checklist
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