I made it. I survived my first year of motherhood, with my head still (mostly) intact.
There were joyous tears, occasional breakdowns, and plenty of smiles and giggles in between. Of course, it wasn’t always pretty, but it was the most transformative stage of my life and I learned more than I could have ever imagined.
One subject I have accumulated a superfluous amount of knowledge on is baby products. They’re everywhere; splattered across the floor of my house, in the windows of nearly every shop I pass, and filling up 99% of my social media feed. After all, shopping is my 9:00 to 5:00 job, and mothering is my 5:00 to 9:00 job, so it seems natural that I’ve become well-acquainted with the world of baby shopping.
We make many shopping lists in our lives, but few carry the significance of the baby registry. Being a parent comes with tremendous responsibility; from planning your baby shower to building your dream nursery to feeding, clothing, and playing with your little one. Hours go into researching, vetting, and testing products built for baby rearing. While there are plenty of products that you should expect to order frequently — like diapers, bottles, and baby shampoo, there’s also a hefty list of essentials that will stick with you as your little one grows — such as strollers, cribs, diaper bags, and more.
Since bigger-ticket items can be more expensive, a registry may be offered to help guide friends and family looking to pick out a meaningful baby shower gift. Registries can also be used by expecting parents to keep track of what they need to get ready for their little one’s arrival.
To help soon-to-be-parents who are about to be in my position prepare for this momentous transition, I’ve stitched together this list of “baby registry essentials” that helped me survive and conquer my first year of motherhood. Read on to shop my top picks below.
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Cribs and Bassinets
The Wave Crib
If there is a single piece of advice I can give to new parents decorating their nursery, it’s to find the most functional crib possible. Good looks are great. But, durability, safety, and adaptability are arguably more important. This Wave Crib from Nestig hits all the marks. The design allows you to convert this sleeper from a mini crib to a full crib, and then to a toddler bed, so it grows with your child. But, the selling point for me is the fact that it’s been put on wheels. As a new parent, having the ability to move your baby and crib around the house with you is essential. This crib seriously takes the weight off your shoulders.
Head to our roundup of the best cribs for more recommendations.
VaVaSoo Rocking Bassinet
Before entering the world of babies, I had little understanding of what type of bassinet to invest in. Most modern designs offer vibrating movements in addition to white noise or sound machines to help soothe newborns, but this version from Amazon goes a step further. The remote control allows caregivers to adjust the cribs’ motion and music from a distance, reducing the amount of time you spend getting out of bed. The large storage basket on the bottom is ideal for diapers, and the adjustable base allows you to find the most comfortable height for you and your baby.
Newton Baby Bedside Sleeper
Every parent has their own opinion on where their bassinet should be located, but for those looking to keep their babies closer, an option like the Newton Baby Bedise Sleeper is the way to go. This simple bassinet is built with durable mesh netting to allow consistent airflow, as well as a convenient infant-access opening, so you can take your baby in and out with little exertion. The build is durable, yet lightweight, so you can easily move it around the house. As a sleep-deprived new parent, this bedside sleeper is a true game-changer.
Play and entertainment
Baby Delight Alpine Deluxe Portable Bouncer
Here’s a question I’ve been asked a few times: what do you do all day with an essentially immobile baby? Throw (gently place) them in the bouncer, I’d say. This portable bouncer is going to be your baby’s first, main form of entertainment. The model from Alpine Baby allows little ones to sit, play, or relax in three adjustable positions — from reclined to upright. The three-point harness fits securely over their lap, while still allowing them to stretch out and reach for two toys hanging from the bar above. It’s also foldable, so you can pack it up and bring it with you anywhere.
Qizhi-Bear Baby Walker with Wheels
When my daughter hit the seven-month market, this wheeled baby walker quickly became her favorite vehicle. The 360-degree swivel wheels allow for easy gliding, so your little one can rock and roll across new terrain safely and smoothly. And, it’s not just an enjoyable form of exercise. The design of this walker supports proper leg alignment for babies between seven and ten months, so they can get in the right shape for taking their own steps solo.
Mallify Washable Tummy Time Mat
Don’t skimp out on tummy time – this was the advice I received from my daughter’s pediatricians and almost every parent I’ve ever interacted with. Tummy time is essential for newborn development, and finding a play time mat will make those exhausting sessions a little easier. I love this padded baby gym from Mallify, which is built with six removable toys so you can rearrange them any way you please to keep your baby interested and attentive.
LoveEvery Play Kit
Toys are ticky. At least, in my experience, they are wonderful for about fifteen minutes until they lose their novelty. I suggest that any parent strongly consider investing in a LoveEvery subscription. This brand offers unique play kits that are tailored to your child’s sensory and developmental needs at different ages. Having all your toys delivered frequently streamlines the process, so you have one less thing on the to-do list. Parents can also take a peek at each box before it ships, to get an idea of what toys they will be receiving. Each box arrives with a play guide with tips and tricks for keeping your baby entertained, engaged, and learning.
Mushie Flower Toddler Training Toothbrush
The toothbrush may be among the most underrated baby products. But, you will be thankful you ordered this. A training toothbrush seems non-sensical for a baby, but the shape and texture of this brush have been exceptionally soothing for my teething baby (at times, the only thing that can appease her). The soft bristles gently stimulate the gums and teeth, which relieves some pressure and itch, while also getting them accustomed to brushing and building healthy habits.
Nursery essentials
Snuggle Me Infant Lounger
Babies desire closeness 100% of the time, and this Snuggle Me Lounger delivers that and more. The tight, supportive fit provides a constant hugging sensation, keeping little ones calm and in place. Uber-soft cotton is gentle on their fragile skin, and the lightweight construction makes it easy to travel with. There’s nothing I don’t love about this lounger — it even comes in seven gorgeous colorways so you can find one that suits your style. As one reviewer pointed out: “I can hardly think of a day we haven’t used our Snuggle Me!”
Owlet Dream Sock Smart Baby Monitor
The transition to parenthood is intense. So intense at times, that it can be nerve-wracking to leave your little one alone for more than five minutes. Like many new parents, I found myself constantly waking up (even while sleep-deprived) to check on her through the night. This ankle monitor helped ease my worries tremendously. The Owlet sock connects with an app to deliver real-time health readings, including live pulse rate and oxygen. Parents can also use the sock to monitor their baby’s sleep trends and patterns, which is especially useful when working on getting your baby on a regular schedule.
Hatch Rest Sound Machine
I’m not sure who has benefited from this device more — myself or my daughter. The Hatch is a night light and sound machine combined. The assortment of natural, calming, and hushing sounds helps put your baby at ease, wind them down for the night, or gently wake them up in the morning. Hatch pairs with an app so parents can control the sounds and lights to build sleep routines. While pricier, most parents agree it’s the best sound machine you’ll find.
Phoenix Manual and Power Swivel Glider Recliner
A good chair is a must-have in your nursery. I prefer something simple, sleek, modern, and adjustable, and this best-selling option from Pottery Barn manages to check everything off the list. The combined swivel and reclining mechanisms allow you to find the right shape to sit back comfortably. Supportive cushions and long armchairs are designed to follow your body’s natural shape. Plus, you can customize it to your liking — with fabrics and features tailored to your desires.
Lily Miles Baby Diaper Caddy Organizer
Don’t write off a diaper caddy — these things will come in handy when you’re moving between rooms and need to address an emergency blowout situation. This ultra-versatile open-top organizer by Lily Miles has multiple internal and external compartments, so you can keep everything within a hand’s reach. The soft, wide handles make transport easy, and the water-resistant material makes cleanup much easier. Practicality, at its finest.
Frida Baby 4-in-1 Grow-with-Me Baby Bathtub
Babies grow quickly, and sometimes so quickly, that you’ll find yourself ordering a near-identical product in a larger size every few months. With this Grow-With-Me bathtub, that isn’t something you’ll need to worry about. The Friday Baby tub can be reconfigured into four different positions to keep your newborn situated safely in the water through their toddler years. The tub also features an easy-release drain and drying hook — which makes tub time that much easier. I recommend this to anyone with a new baby, it’s well worth the price.
Strollers and travel
Peg Perego Veloce
I’ve tested a handful of strollers, but none have compared to the Peg Prego Veloce. This nimble Stoller turns on a dime, glides over any terrain, and collapses and folds away with just one hand. I love the fact that the eco-leather handlebar can be adjusted to meet your needs, and the seat easily pops in and out to be rear-facing or front-facing, so your baby can have a change of scenery. The seat is roomy, but the stroller is still slim and lightweight, which makes it ideal for city living. It’s hard to beat the Peg Perego design.
MZ Wallace Metro Utility Backpack
Say goodbye to ugly, bulky diaper bags. This splurge from MZ Wallace has become my go-to for everything — from mothering to working, and traveling. You can wear it three ways — cross-body, as a carry tote, or across your shoulders as a backpack. Both the internal and external pockets come in a variety of sizes (ideal for storing diapers, bottles, toys, snacks, and more). Besides, you’re not skimping on style. The puff nylon and gunmetal hardware are trendy and highly wearable.
For more diaper bag recommendations, check out our roundup here.
Wearing your baby doesn’t just free up your hands — closeness encourages bonding and mimics the motion of the womb. When it comes to baby wraps, you’re looking for something soft, secure, and easy to put on (the latter is the most difficult to achieve in my experience). Between all the clips and straps, some can be tricky to put on. I’ve found this design to be the simplest, with the adjustable straps allowing you to find the perfect fit. The double-knit jersey is breathable in all weather conditions and comes in a variety of shades.
Baby clothing and swaddles
SwaddleMe by Ingenuity Original Swaddle
Make sure to have plenty of swaddles on deck for your baby’s first few months. I appreciate ones with a pocket-fold design like this simple patterned set from Target. There are no snaps or clasps to shuffle through for changing, and the heart-shaped wings fold over your baby easily to provide a snug fit and keep them secure. The durable, natural cotton is machine-washable for easy cleaning and offers enough stretch to grow with your baby.
Petite Maison Kids
Let me introduce you to the prettiest baby clothing brand you’ve ever laid your eyes on. Seriously, these pieces deserve a baby on Baby Vogue. For any special occasions or planned photoshoots, I suggest browsing Petite Maison. The collection offers a range of effervescent doll-like dresses, sophisticated trousers, puff-sleeve blouses, velour rompers, and handsome tweed pants. Your child will look like a million bucks. These are timeless, capsule pieces you’ll never want to part with. Let them be a reminder of the most imaginative, darling time of your baby’s life.
Hanna Andersson
Hanna Andersson stops at nothing. The powerhouse casual family clothing brand knows babies best, and its extensive line of comfort-first sleepwear is a reflection of that expertise. You’ll find all the essentials — including newborn bundles, loungewear, and matching family outfits. Styles are creative, playful, colorful, and well-made; designed with hypoallergenic material, and zippers and snap-closures for easy changing. beware: Once you start shopping at Hanna, it’s hard to stop.
Cat & Jack
The Cat & Jack brand is the ultimate hack for shopping for children’s clothing. Kids grow fast and you can easily drop hundreds on outfits that won’t last longer than a few months. Fortunately, the Cat & Jack brand accepts returns on any products (with a few conditions) within a year of purchase, which means you can essentially trade them in and get your money back to buy the next set. The inventory is impressive — you’ll find everything from everyday essentials to party dresses, jerseys, swimsuits, and everything in between.
Postpartum essentials
Barefoot Dreams Cozychic Adult Robe
Self-care can easily slip away during the frantic, hormonal postpartum period, which is why it’s so important to consider all the little things that can make your life and post-birth recovery easier. This plush robe from Barefoot Dreams was one of the gifts that simply made me melt (tears and everything). I dreaded tight clothing through pregnancy and postpartum, and this uber-soft chic robe became my daily wardrobe from the end of pregnancy through the first few weeks of motherhood.
Frida Mom Breastfeeding Survival Kit for Nursing Moms
Breastfeeding can be exceptionally challenging — it’s hard to know exactly what to expect and no woman has an identical experience. Between latching, engorgement, clogged ducts, leaking tracking milk supply, and timing feedings — there’s lots to learn and no shortage of discomfort. If I were to do it all over again, I’d certainly have prepared ahead of time with a kit from Frida Mom. This ‘survival’ kit comes with all the essentials: two hot and cold breast relief packs, nipple pads, nipple balm, saline spray, nursing pads, and a convenient carry-all case.
There’s no such thing as too many lounge sets, especially in the first few weeks of parenthood. This popular set from Skims is made with slinky ribbed fabric to regulate your temperature and soothe your skin. This set also offers an ample amount of stretch and comes in extended sizing, so you can find something that fits your changing postpartum body. Trust me — you’ll want this set in every color.
No nursing bra is alike and it may take trying on a few styles to find the right fit. For something that is crafted to adapt to your changing body, I suggest this piece from NEIWAI. This bra is flexible up to two cup sizes, which is ideal as you move through post-partum recovery and nursing. Strap buckles allow for easy access, and the fast-drying, leak-proof material reduces clothing stains. I’m not surprised that this bra has earned five stars from every reviewer.
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