How to Create a Baby Registry: The Ultimate Guide

baby registry basics

An online baby registry is an easy-to-share list of baby items that you wish to receive either at your baby shower or before your baby’s arrival. It helps to guide friends and family when they are looking for something to gift you and the baby, and helps others see what baby registry items have already been purchased so that baby gear is not duplicated. “When you make a registry, you want to make sure you have all the baby registry essentials covered, like a stroller and crib, but also some items that feel personal to you, like a blanket you just really love,” says Lizzy Frost, a mom of two and senior brand director for Crate&kids registry. Our Crate & Kids Baby Registry Checklist will be super helpful.

So when should you start registering? You can start creating a baby registry at any point, but most parents-to-be start theirs at 12 weeks. While that may seem early, it gives you time to be thoughtful about what you select. If you’re having a baby shower, you want to make sure your registry is completed before the invitations are sent out. And if you are opting to not have a shower, it’s a good idea to have it completed by the end of the second trimester so that friends and family have time to shop and ship gifts—and you have time to unwrap and set things up.

before you register

Don’t start adding to your cart just yet. There are few things you want to keep in mind when you create a baby registry. First, how much space is in your home – and how much of it can you dedicate to baby gear? A parent-to-be’s registry who lives in an apartment (not a lot of space) may look different than a parent-to-be’s registry in a house (lots of room). Also, where your home is located could play a part in what kinds of gear you need most. In a city? You may want to focus on a stroller that you’ll use every day to get around. In the suburbs? You’ll be in a car more, so a car seat and car accessories like a mirror and sun shade may be top of mind.

And probably the most tricky of all is being mindful of keeping a balance between your wants and baby’s needs. A few tips from the moms who have been there: “Focus on what you will need for the first few months but don’t forget those items you’ll want a bit later (like a high chair),” says Sandy. “Also, don’t register for too many clothes, diapers or anything else in one size – babies grow fast!”

“You’ll also want to have a good amount of options on your online baby registry with a wide price range,” says Lizzy. “You want to be sure there is a gift that everyone can feel comfortable giving.”

Plus, remember that although you are creating a baby registry, there may be friends and family that will want to go off the registry and select something else to shower you with—typically clothes and toys—and that is totally fine. So you’ll end up with a few things that you didn’t necessarily ask for, but that are still useful or cute.

baby registry rundown

You don’t want to miss anything when you make up your registry, so we’re helping you organize it all. Let’s start with the bigger items for their nursery or sleep space.

A Crib or Bassinet

They’ll need a safe place to slumber so make sure you pick out a crib for their nursery. Need some help? Check out how to choose a crib. If you want them to start off sleeping in your room or need a smaller sleep spot, add a bassinet to your list. You’ll also want a cozy chair, glider, or rocker for their room. It’s such a versatile but essential piece of furniture for feedings, reading books, snuggling together, and so much more. And don’t forget the baby monitor so you can keep an eye out on him or her!

Feeding Essentials

Next, think about those baby feeding essentials. When they are smaller, you’ll need bottles, bibs, and maybe a nursing cover and pump if you plan to breastfeed. Once they start to explore foods, you’ll need more baby gear like a high chair (here are some of our faves), plates, cups, a baby food maker, and even more bibs.

Stroller and Carseat

Ready to take the baby out and about? You’ll want to add a car seat (find their new seat here), a stroller (find your new fave here), and baby carrier or wrap to your online baby registry. Plus, a few soft toys and books to keep them happy when you’re on the go. And don’t forget a diaper bag for you! It’s where you’ll stash everything you need for him or her while you’re out of the house. Check out how to choose a diaper bag to help you narrow it down.

Developmentally Appropriate Toys

Finally, don’t forget the fun stuff to keep the baby busy and learning. You’ll want a baby bouncer for when they’re almost standing and full of energy, a swing to soothe them, a play mat for tummy time and beyond and an activity chair to keep them entertained. Plus, all the smaller baby registry essentials like teethers, rattles, books and blocks.

Remember, your registry should ultimately reflect what your baby needs and what you would like—so no two baby registries are the same. Check off your baby registry essentials and then add some fun items.

starting your crate & kids registry

Creating your baby registry on Crate & kids is quick and simple. We’ve organized it that way. Simply add your name, event type, and email address and you’re ready to go!

However, if you want more suggestions or support when creating your baby registry, we’ve got you too. Our Baby Registry Checklist is a one-page sheet that can be downloaded, printed, and checked off to guide you through picking out items for your baby from furniture to toys. You can also check our Top-Rated Registry Gifts to see what others love to give and get. Reading the reviews can help you figure out if you’d like to add that to your registry too.

If you're feeling a little overwhelmed with it all, our One-Click Baby Registries might be the best place to start. These curated registry bundles will add everything pictured to your cart–so simple!

Plus, the perks of creating a baby registry on Crate & Kids can’t be beat. We give you a 15% registry discount that you can use three months prior and six months after your event date. We also offer a group gifting option which allows friends and family to go in on purchasing larger gifts together. We want to give you peace of mind so our crafted-to-last collections and brand partnerships give you the best selection of times. Finally, we offer free registry consultations, design help and style tips from our Design Pros.