Baby registry checklist (free printable)
A free printable baby registry checklist with 72 items sorted into eight groups: sleep and nursery, feeding, diapering, bath and care, clothing, gear and travel, play, and things for the parents. Suggested quantities sit next to items where they help, such as 7 to 10 bodysuits or 6 to 8 burp cloths.
Baby registry must-haves
If you only add a few things at first, these are the items most families use from day one:
| Group | Must-haves | Suggested amount |
|---|---|---|
| Sleep | Crib or bassinet, firm flat mattress, fitted sheets, sleep sacks or swaddles | 2 to 3 sheets, 2 to 3 sleep sacks |
| Feeding | Bottles, burp cloths, bibs, breast pump if you plan to pump | 4 to 6 bottles, 6 to 8 burp cloths |
| Diapering | Newborn and size 1 diapers, wipes, diaper cream, changing pad | Mix both sizes |
| Clothing | Bodysuits, footed sleepers, socks, hats, a going-home outfit | 7 to 10 bodysuits, 5 to 7 sleepers |
| Travel | Rear-facing infant car seat, stroller or travel system | 1 each |
| Care | Infant bathtub, digital thermometer, nail clippers, nasal aspirator | 1 each |
What to put on a baby registry beyond the basics
- Larger clothes. Babies outgrow newborn sizes quickly, so ask for more 0 to 3 and 3 to 6 month clothes than newborn.
- Things for the parents. Postpartum pads, a peri bottle, nursing-friendly pajamas, a big water bottle and meal delivery gift cards.
- Group gifts. Most registries let several people put money toward one large item, like a travel system.
- A range of prices. Small items such as wipes and washcloths next to big ones, so every guest can find something.
Safety checks before you buy
- Keep the crib bare: a firm, flat mattress with only a fitted sheet, and no pillows, bumpers, blankets or soft toys. This follows the American Academy of Pediatrics safe sleep guidance, which also warns against inclined sleepers and weighted swaddles.
- Bouncers, swings and car seats are not for sleep. If your baby falls asleep in one, move them to a flat crib or bassinet.
- Register your car seat with the manufacturer so you hear about recalls. NHTSA explains how.
Questions
When should I start a baby registry?
There’s no set week. Starting in the second trimester gives you time to research big items before a baby shower, and you can keep adding after it.
Is the checklist the same in the A4 version?
Yes. Both files have the same items; only the page size changes.
Planning the weeks ahead? The pregnancy planner keeps your dates and appointments in one place.