The Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist for 2026

A complete baby registry is overwhelming to build from scratch. This checklist organizes everything by category and priority level — so you know what's essential, what's nice-to-have, and what you can skip entirely.

Nursery Essentials

Must-have:

• Crib or bassinet (AAP recommends firm, flat sleep surface)
• 2–3 fitted crib sheets
• Mattress protector
• Baby monitor (audio or video)
• Blackout curtains
• Night light (red light won't disrupt sleep)

Nice-to-have:

• Glider or rocker
• Dresser/changing table combo
• Sound machine (Hatch is the gold standard)
• Humidifier

Feeding

Breastfeeding:

• Breast pump (often free through insurance)
• Nursing pillow (Boppy or My Brest Friend)
• Nursing bras (3–4)
• Breast milk storage bags
• Nipple cream (Lansinoh or Earth Mama)
• Haakaa or manual pump for letdown

Bottle feeding:

• Bottles (start with a variety pack — babies are picky)
• Bottle brush
• Drying rack
• Formula (if using — don't stock up until you know which brand works)

Solids (6+ months):

• High chair
• Baby spoons
• Suction bowls/plates
• Bibs (silicone catch-all style)

Diapering

• Diapers — newborn and size 1 (don't over-buy newborn)
• Wipes (stock up — you'll use 80+ per week)
• Diaper cream (Desitin, Aquaphor, or A+D)
• Changing pad
• Diaper pail (Ubbi is the most recommended)
• Diaper bag/backpack

Clothing

• 7–10 onesies (newborn + 0–3 months)
• 5–7 sleepers/footie pajamas (zipper > snaps)
• 2–3 hats
• 4–6 pairs of socks
• 2 swaddles or sleep sacks
• 1 jacket or bunting (season-appropriate)

Gear & Travel

• Car seat (infant bucket or convertible — required to leave hospital)
• Stroller (compatible with car seat is ideal)
• Baby carrier or wrap
• Portable changing pad
• Car seat mirror
• Stroller organizer

Bath & Grooming

• Baby bathtub
• Hooded towels (2–3)
• Baby washcloths (6–8)
• Baby shampoo/body wash
• Baby lotion
• Nail clippers or file
• Soft brush

Health & Safety

• Thermometer (rectal for infants is most accurate)
• Nasal aspirator (NoseFrida)
• Infant Tylenol
• Baby first aid kit
• Outlet covers
• Cabinet locks
• Baby gates (for later)

Play & Development

• Play mat or activity gym
• Bouncer seat
• High-contrast books (for newborns)
• Rattles and teethers
• Tummy time mat