Minimalist Baby Registry

Are you trying to put together your minimalist baby registry, so you don’t end up with a ton of unnecessary baby items?

Then let us help you put together your minimalist baby list with our minimalist baby registry checklist!

Putting together a baby registry is a fun task during your pregnancy, but as you look through the checklist for registries, you may notice a lot of unnecessary items. As a result, more parents opt to create a minimalist baby registry with necessities rather than things you may never need.

Talk to any experienced parent, and most will tell you the items on many registries will never be used. This is because having a baby feels like your infant is taking over every part of your home, and you will never use many of those things as regularly as you expect.

Sometimes, minimalist is best, especially when it comes to infants. We put together a list of items we feel are necessary and deserve a spot on your minimalist baby registry list.

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Minimalist Baby Registry Essentials

Below you’ll find our list of minimalist baby registry must haves! But before we dive in, if you haven’t already we highly recommend signing up for your free Amazon Baby Registry account! Not only does it make keeping track of your minimal baby registry a breeze but there a bunch of other great perks like a free welcome box and 365 extended returns!

1. Cosleeper or Bassinet

You need somewhere for your baby to sleep when you come home from the hospital. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests parents co-sleep with their infant for six months to one year to reduce the risk of SIDS.

If your master bedroom is large enough to use a crib for cosleeping, that is a budget-friendly option, but many parents opt for a cosleeper or a bassinet. Not only does a cosleeper slide right next to your bed, but many connect with your bed, giving your baby a safe place to sleep at night while still next to you.

Mothers who have a c-section significantly benefit from cosleepers because getting in and out of bed hurts your incision.

A popular choice is the Halo BassiNest, on a swiveling base. One side folds down for easy access and has various heights to match your bed.

You may also want to check out these bassinet guides:

• Bassinet Vs Crib
• Best Portable Bassinet
• Best Bassinets For Breastfeeding
• Best Bassinet For Small Spaces
• Best Bassinet For C Section
• Best Bassinets For Twins
• Best Rocking Bassinets
• Halo Vs SNOO
• Best Bassinet Alternatives

2. Crib with a Mattress

After your baby phases out of their cosleeper, it’s time to move to a crib, and some parents start with a crib immediately. The only parents who typically don’t need a crib are those who use Montessori from the start.

Don’t feel the need for a fancy crib. Your child won’t use it for too long, and they love to chew on the railing. Instead, look for a sturdy model that fits the look you want in your nursery. A converter to a toddler bed gives you more bang for your buck such as the DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib.

Another great option is a mini crib. They are smaller than a regular size crib making them great for smaller spaces as well as more affordable! The Dream On Me Addison 4 in 1 convertible mini crib is an excellent affordable option and looks great in most nurseries!

All cribs require a crib mattress. Therefore, it’s essential that you select a safe mattress for your baby; it’s an area you might not want to skimp on the money. However, the Graco Premium Foam Crib Mattress is budget-friendly and top-rated.

3. Crib Mattress Protector

Babies are a mess, and a crib mattress is an investment that should last until your child ages into a twin or full-sized bed in several years.

Grab a crib mattress protector. Whenever your baby has a crib explosion or vomits in his crib – these things happen – the protector saves the day. It’s worth preserving the mattress.

4. 2-3 Sets of Crib Sheets

You also want to have two to three sets of crib sheets on your minimalist baby registry. Like regular sheets, crib sheets need to be changed regularly, and babies make their beds messy. So it’s not uncommon to wash sheets more than once a week.

5. Car Seat

A car seat is a must-have item if you want to leave the hospital with your baby. It’s illegal to drive with your infant anywhere without one, so it belongs on your minimalist baby registry.

You have two options.

Many parents start with an infant car seat, such as the Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat and Base, because parents bring it inside the house. Since newborn babies often sleep, especially in the car, an infant car seat lets you go in and out without disturbing your child.

However, infant car seats have a limited span of use. Most parents only use these for six to eight months before switching to a convertible car seat. A convertible car seat is usable from birth up to 60 pounds, rear-facing, and forward-facing. This is a smart, budget-friendly option from the start, but you will have to carry your infant in and out of stores or homes.

An excellent option for a convertible car seat is Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat that allows you to rear face up to 50 pounds. Then, turn your child around and forward face until 65 pounds.

You may also like our guides on Chicco Keyfit 30 infant car seat review, strollers compatible with Chicco KeyFit 30, best lightweight car seat, and best narrow car seat.

6. Baby Carrier

Many parents pick a baby carrier over a stroller. And whilst, you probably can get away we not having a baby carrier, especially if you opt for a stroller, we think it is definitely worth the relatively low cost!

A baby carrier allows you to be hands-free wherever you go, whether you need to stop at the store or get laundry done at home. In addition, it’s the best convenience item; if you breastfeed, it’s easy to nurse in many carriers.

Wrap carriers are great for newborns but have a limited usage period. They are ideal for small infants; once your baby is older, it’s easier to use a soft structured carrier.

Instead, pick a baby carrier for your minimalist baby registry that will last from birth to toddlerhood. Lillebaby Complete 6-in-1 Baby Carrier is an excellent option for parents who want the best bang for their buck.

7. Swaddling Blankets / Sleep Sack

Swaddling is a great way to get your baby to sleep better, but having blankets is a must-have for your minimalist baby registry. Newborn babies cannot regulate their body temperature as well as older babies, so you need to keep them in blankets regularly.

Aden & Anais create cozy, muslin swaddling blankets that are large and square-shaped. They work for swaddling, and the muslin ensures proper air circulation. Fold them to make them thicker just to cover your baby, or use them as a nursing cover!

You can also get swaddle blankets / sleep sacks that have Velcro, push studs, or a zipper to help keep the blanket secure. These are often much easier to use, especially for night time diaper changes.

8. Burp Cloths

All parents need burp cloths; the hospital provides parents with several, but you need a small stash of these no matter how you feed your baby.

Burp cloths don’t have to be fancy. The best-rated choice is muslin burp cloths; these look like cloth diapers, but they work great. The multiple layers of cotton absorb any spit-up from your infant, and since these are affordable, you won’t feel bad if they get ruined.

9. High Chair

You will need a high chair several months after your baby arrives, so you may decide to leave it off your registry. However, it is a needed item.

Parents don’t need a fancy high chair; you only need a place to sit your child while eating. It’s not a budget-busting item, so don’t go for the ones with all the bells and whistles. Consider including the Baby Trend Sit-Right High Chair; it’s affordable.

10. Baby Clothing

Everyone loves to buy baby clothes, so include some items you want on your registry. If you need to get more beyond what your family and friends buy, buy secondhand! Babies grow rapidly in the first few months. Save your money and shop consignment sales or ask your friends for hand-me-downs.

Here are some things to include on your registry for baby clothing.

• Baby sleepers with zippers
• 2-3 baby gowns
• Onesies – short and long sleeve
• Pants
• Shorts (if in the summertime)
• Socks
• Mittens (great for preventing your baby from scratching themself)

11. Diapers & Wipes

Including a diaper raffle as part of your baby shower is common. First, decide if you want to use disposable or cloth diapers. Cloth diapers continue to grow in popularity, saving families money.

If you decide you want to use cloth diapers, spend time researching the types of cloth diapers and brands you may want to use. Then, include those on your registry.

Otherwise, be sure to let everyone know you appreciate packages of diapers and wipes. Parents use more wipes than diapers; every pack you receive is one less you have to purchase! However, you never know if your baby will have sensitive skin, so consider registering for Water Wipes, which are less likely to cause reactions due to the lack of chemicals in the wipes.

You may also like our guide on what to stock up on before baby arrives!

12. Diaper Cream

Newborn babies are more likely to experience rashes; they continuously urinate and poop for the first few months. Plus, their skin is more sensitive than an older infant’s skin.

Put a tube or two of baby cream on your registry. Boudreaux’s Butt Paste is a strong option that knocks rashes away quickly, but if you prefer to stay with fewer chemicals, consider Weleda Baby Rash Cream. It’s natural and contains fantastic, baby-safe ingredients.

13. Bathing Supplies

Put a set of baby bath time essentials for your baby on your registry. Your baby may have sensitive skin and react to different brands, so avoid including more than one set. You have plenty of time after your baby arrives to find the perfect soap for your infant.

14. Forehead Thermometer

Every parent needs to have a forehead thermometer available to use. Newborn and fevers don’t pair well together, so you need to know when to head to the doctor at the right time.

Forehead thermometers may cost a bit more, but they are more accurate and easier to use than other types of thermometers.

15. Basic Baby Medical Supplies

Hopefully, you won’t need medication soon after birth, but it’s always best to be prepared. Include this Little Remedies Baby Essentials Kit with gas drops, a fever reducer, gripe water, and more. It’s always best to be prepared.

Items To Consider Adding To Your Minimalist Baby List

This list contains all the minimalist newborn essentials you may want to consider, just remember that some are still optional.

1. White Noise Machine

Parents need to get every hour of sleep possible, and a white noise machine may be the answer to your quest for more sleep.

Consider adding the REACHER R2 White Noise Machine and Night Light with 31 Soothing Sounds. This white noise machine includes a dimmable, color change night light as well as 31 soothing lullabies.

2. Video Baby Monitor

Some parents debate whether you must put a baby monitor on your minimalist baby registry.

In fact, many parents never use a baby monitor. This may be due to a lack of money, not feeling the need, or having a small home and seeing no need to invest in one. Either way it’s not essential to use one.

However, we have added to our minimalist baby gear list as it can be a great tool for new parents to keep a close eye on their baby and provide a peace of mind. Especially if there is a history of medical issues or you suffer from anxiety.

So, if your comfort level says you need to have a baby monitor, you have several options. A video baby monitor is the most popular choice; it allows you to see and hear your baby while he is sleeping. In addition, some monitors will enable you to add more cameras to your monitor for future kids.

You may like our guides on:

• Best Split Screen Baby Monitor
• Best Baby Monitor Under $100
• Best Travel Baby Monitors
• Best Baby Monitors With WiFi
• Best Long Range Baby Monitors
• Best Non WiFi Baby Monitors

3. Diaper Bag

When you leave the house with your baby, you need a diaper bag to keep all of their needed items. A backpack diaper bag is an excellent option; it keeps your hands free but gives you plenty of space to store all of the diapers, wipes, and extra clothing you could need.

4. Breast Pump

You may or may not want to put a breast pump on your baby registry. Many health insurance companies offer breast pumps for free, so that should be your first choice.

However, if you want to include a pump on your registry, the Spectra S2 is a beloved double-electric pump that breastfeeding mothers love.

5. Baby Bottles

Baby bottles are a possibility for your baby registry. Breastfeeding parents typically wait to introduce the bottle until nursing is well-established, and breastfed babies are notoriously picky about which bottle they take. So, you may want to skip baby bottles on your registry entirely.

However, adding a few packs of baby bottles to your registry makes sense if you plan to use formula. Babies tend to take to whatever bottle you want to offer.

Comotomo Baby Bottles are popular picks for formula and breastfeeding parents. They are made with soft silicone and closely mimic the breast.

6. Nursing Pillow

Nursing pillows are a fantastic tool to use when feeding your baby. You can opt to use cushions to prop your arm up, but a nursing pillow makes it that much easier and often provides a better support for both you and your baby.

If you have a c-section, a nursing pillow also acts as a buffer zone between your incision and the rest of the world. Make sure you add a second pillow cover to your registry since the covers need to be washed regularly.

7. A Dresser

Every nursery needs a dresser, a useful piece of furniture that stores your baby’s clothing, blankets, and other items.

Pick a dresser with a height and wide top that lets you use it as a changing station. A solid dresser is an excellent investment since your child will use this for years to come.

8. Changing Pad with Covers

Put a changing pad on top of your baby’s dresser, and it’s an excellent place for you to change your baby’s diapers and clothing. A contoured changing pad gives you a clean area for changing your baby, and the curved design prevents your baby from rolling over the sides.

Be sure to include several covers for the changing pad. They get messy with diaper explosions and other incidents!

9. Stroller

A stroller is a convenient item, but it isn’t necessary. Some parents wait until their child is older to use a stroller, using a baby carrier in the earlier months.

Before deciding on a stroller we recommend checking our these guides so you can invest in a stroller that will suit your needs:

• Best All Terrain Strollers
• Best Stroller Car Seat Combos
• Best Bassinet Strollers
• Best Hiking Strollers
• Best 3 Wheeler Strollers
• Best Convertible Strollers
• Best All Terrain Double Strollers
• Best Sit And Stand Strollers
• Best Stroller For Tall Parents
• Best Luxury Strollers

14 Things You Don’t NEED on Your Minimalist Baby Registry

You might notice things that aren’t on the above list and wonder why we didn’t include them. While many other items are helpful or nice to have, we tried to put only necessities for a minimalist baby registry.

Here are some items we cut out that you may feel are necessary for your baby.

1. Rocker, Bouncer & Swings

Having a place to put your baby other than their crib or bassinet is surely nice, but is it needed? No! If you want somewhere else to put your baby throughout the day, we recommend you pick ONE of these rather than all of them.

You don’t need to have a rocker, swing, and bouncer – that’s overkill, and you won’t use all of them.

2. Play Gym

A play gym entertains your baby, but you can also lay your baby on a blanket with toys around him. If you lay with your baby and talk to them, they will be just as interested as they would be in a play gym.

As they start to move you may want to look at buying toys to encourage their gross motor skills.

3. Pacifiers

Not all infants take pacifiers; if they take them, they are often picky about the brands they like. If you want to try a pacifier, the hospital offers them, and decide if your baby will use them. You also could grab a single pack after your baby arrives and explore their reaction.

If you breastfeed, using a pacifier has some possible negative side effects. Babies often hide their hunger by sucking more rigorously on the pacifier, and you may miss their hunger cues. Ideally, you want to nurse as much as possible to increase your milk supply.

Another possible side effect is nipple confusion. Going from breast to pacifier to breast confuses some infants, making it harder to latch to the breast.

4. Toys

Your infant will not need toys at birth. The first toy you will need is teething rings around four to six months. Grab toys you like later as your baby gets older.

5. Baby Books

Many people give baby books without adding them to their baby registry, and board books are affordable. Buy them as your baby gets older, and make sure to tap into your local library. Libraries have fantastic selections of books for infants.

6. Pack ‘n Play

If you have a cosleeper and a crib (or just a crib), then a pack ‘n play will only be used if you travel. There is no reason to have a pack ‘n play set up in your home when your baby already has a safe place to sleep.

If you travel with your baby, then consider getting a playard. Many people sell these secondhand for great prices.

7. Changing Table

Truth be told, most parents say they change their baby on the floor on a blanket. Walking back and forth to the nursery isn’t convenient when the couch or floor is right there.

If you want a dedicated changing area, it’s far more cost effective to use the top of a dresser. Buy a dresser with space on top for a changing pad; versatility works for parenthood.

8. Diaper Pail

Are diaper pails necessary? No way.

Check out our full list of best diaper pail alternatives!

9. Nursing Cover

A blanket doubles as a nursing cover; we love items that work as something else. Toss a muslin blanket over your shoulder if you feel like you need some breastfeeding privacy.

10. Breastfeeding Supplies

Many mothers add breastfeeding supplies to their baby registry, but if you are only registering for a few things, you may buy them yourself. You can only pick out nursing bras, tank tops, and other necessities.

11. Bottle Warmers

Having a bottle warmer in the middle of the night is excellent for convenience, but there are other ways to warm up baby bottles as we discuss in our guides on how to keep baby bottle warm at night and how to warm bottles on the go.

12. Wipe Warmers

Warm wipes on your baby’s bum might sound nice, but are they necessary? No way!

13. Rocking Chair or Glider

Many parents put nursery gliders in their infant’s bedroom, but if you plan to keep your baby in your bedroom, it’s not needed. Instead, use your living room furniture and hold your baby. Some living room recliners also glide and rock; those are worth your money more than a glider only for your baby’s nursery.

14. Baby Bathtub

Do you need a baby bathtub? No!

Many mothers take baths with their infants; it’s a great time for breastfeeding and skin-to-skin with your baby. You may also lay a towel in the bath and fill the tub with just a few inches of water. Then, lay your baby on the towel.

Baby bathtubs typically get in the way and become annoying in your bathroom.

Final Thoughts on minimalist baby essentials

Despite what you may think, babies require few items. They must be cleaned, given a safe place to sleep, and fed regularly. Everything else is extra besides your love, perhaps the most important thing of all!

We hope this guide has helped you decide what to put on your minimalist baby registry.

And if you’re looking for more great guides, then check out these guides on questions to ask your partner before having kids, pregnancy bucket list, and best places to have a baby shower.  Or even our guide on when should I start setting up the baby nursery!