Understanding baby registries: what are they and how do they work?

Baby on the way? Whether this is your first or third pregnancy, your life is likely filled with what may seem like two million to-dos.

But if there’s one task that’s way easier than landing on the right name, it’s curating a well-thought-out baby registry. Designed to help ensure that caregivers have precisely what they need when their little one arrives, baby registries are a useful tool for parents-to-be—and their loved ones. 

But especially if this is your first baby, you might be wondering: What is a baby registry, exactly? And how does it work?

You’ve come to the right place. Here are the basics on baby registries, the perks they provide, and how to get started on making your own.

What is a baby registry?

A baby registry functions in the same way as a wedding registry: It operates as a hub with a list of items you may want and need to take care of your new little one. 

Selections on a baby registry often run the gamut from big-ticket picks like an ergonomic jogging stroller to those adorable outfits you’ve been eyeing at Target. The point is to provide friends, family, and colleagues with a range of choices that will ultimately make a caregiver’s life that much easier. But how many items should you put on a baby registry? It will vary depending on how much you need and/or already have. But your baby registry could feature up to 100 items or more. Just make sure it includes must-haves such as:

• Bathing essentials including a baby bathtub and simple baby toys
• Bedding needs like a crib and fitted sheets
• Feeding basics like a breast pump (if you or your partner plan on breastfeeding), a high chair, and baby bottles
• Nursery gear like a Sound + Light Machine, children’s books, and nursery furniture such as a rocking chair or glider
• Baby Clothes like socks, rompers, and pajamas

How does a baby registry work?

Creating a baby registry online is a convenient way to keep track of the items you need for your little one. You can set up your registry on various platforms and add items from a range of retailers, ensuring you get everything you need without the hassle of managing multiple lists.

When setting up your baby registry, you can easily include Nanit products on the list, as Nanit is available at a wide range of retailers, including:

• Amazon
• Target
• Babylist
• Bloomingdale’s
• Crate & Kids
• Zola Baby
• Pottery Barn Kids

Whether you’re creating your list on Babylist for its versatility or choosing a more specialized retailer, integrating Nanit products will enhance your registry and help you stay organized.

Benefits of baby registries 

Diapers. Baby Clothes. Nursing pillows. Toys. Let’s face it: Taking care of a baby requires a lot of stuff!

Figuring out all the items you need may seem overwhelming at first, but rest assured that registries are fashioned to simplify your life. In fact, a baby registry can be an excellent instrument for keeping track of what you need before and after you bring your little bundle home. 

Plus, with extras like completion discounts, complimentary samples, and welcome kits, you’re bound to feel well-prepared for the early days of parenthood. 

Elevate your baby registry with Nanit 

Registries can be a great way to keep yourself organized and reduce stress and anxiety that comes with making sure you have the gear you’ll need. 

To elevate your registry, add Nanit’s smart baby monitor to your list. Our Nanit Pro Camera helps babies and caregivers sleep confidently and cozily, while the Nanit Sound + Light Machine adds soothing white noise and a friendly nightlight to the mix. As your baby gets bigger, both tools work together to help your family build a healthy sleep routine. 

Discover the peace of mind only solid sleep can bring with Nanit.

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Key takeaways

• Baby registries are helpful for caregivers. Baby registries have become a key part of modern parenthood. Whether you’re greeting your first child or your third, they allow loved ones a way to participate in your planning and to show their care, excitement, and affection.
• Choose a retailer that suits your unique needs. Some parents-to-be may need everything from a stroller to a car seat. Others may need more day-to-day support, like meals and babysitting. As such, go with the retailer or service that best serves your family.
• Focus on the basics, but leave room for fun. It might be tempting to register for artwork that will jazz up your nursery or a pair of baby Chuck T’s, but you may want to concentrate on the basics first, then add in the whimsy items in reasonable—and reasonably priced—amounts. 

Sources: 

What to Expect. Baby registry checklist: exactly what to put on a baby registry. 

https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/baby-registry-guides/baby-registry-checklist/

USA Today. The ultimate baby registry checklist—you’re welcome. https://reviewed.usatoday.com/parenting/features/best-baby-registry-checklist

Lily + Llama. Finding the best baby registry: 9 registries moms love.

https://lilyandllama.com/blogs/news/finding-the-best-baby-registry-9-registries-moms-love

The Bump. The bump baby registry. 

https://www.thebump.com/registry

What to Expect. 5 reasons to create a baby registry (even if  you think you don’t need one). 

https://www.whattoexpect.com/baby-products/registry/should-i-make-a-baby-registry