When you start building a baby registry, the options can feel endless. It’s exciting to dream about all the adorable gear you might want, but it helps to think about what your family will actually use in those first few months. Every family is different, so consider this guide a starting point that helps you keep things practical. The goal is to focus on the essentials you will rely on in the newborn stage, while saving less urgent items for later. A streamlined registry makes it more likely that you’ll receive the things you’ll reach for again and again. 1. Items You Can Save for Later Some baby products shine once your little one is a bit older. You will use them eventually, but they often sit untouched in the newborn stage. Because of that, you may want to wait until later to purchase them. Toddler Tableware and Cups: Caregivers usually don’t use these until their baby starts exploring solids and self-feeding, so keeping them off your newborn registry can save cabinet space. They can be great first birthday gifts or future purchases. Focus on bottles and formula or breastfeeding supplies for now. High Chair: High chairs are typically used when it’s time to introduce solid foods. Most babies begin sitting up for meals around six months old, so this is a piece you can comfortably save for later. Baby Shoes: Although tiny baby shoes are adorable, newborns don’t actually need them because they aren’t walking yet. In fact, shoes with hard or inflexible soles may hinder foot development. Instead, register for soft socks or booties with flexible soles to keep little feet warm. Baby Food Makers or Blenders: Your baby won’t be ready for purees until about six months old, so you won’t use food makers right away. If you decide to make your own baby food later, a simple household blender works just as well. If you love the idea of a baby-specific appliance, consider waiting until your child is nearing the puree stage to save space and money early on. Umbrella Stroller: Lightweight umbrella strollers are designed for older babies and toddlers rather than newborns. Opt for an infant travel system or other stroller that accommodates a newborn, such as one that fully reclines or that accepts an infant car seat. 2. Optional and Convenience Items Some families appreciate these items, while others find they take up space or add extra steps to daily routines. Think of them as helpful in certain situations but not essential for everyone. Consider your home layout, storage, and how much use you expect to get from these items as you’re deciding what to include. Bath Thermometers: These can reassure caregivers that their baby’s bath water is at a comfortable temperature, but they aren’t necessary. Testing the water with your wrist or elbow works just as well. Bath thermometers can also add one more thing to wash and store. Baby Laundry Detergent: According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), most baby clothes can be washed with regular detergent unless a skin reaction occurs. Using a separate detergent often adds both expense and extra loads of laundry. Choose a gentle, dye-free, fragrance-free detergent that works for the whole family instead. Baby Bath Robes: Soft robes are cute, but they are only worn after a baby has been dried off. Most babies are dried with a towel, then immediately dressed, so robes add to the laundry pile without offering much benefit. Formula Dispensers: These machines can make formula feeding more convenient, but they tend to be expensive, take up counter space, and require routine cleaning and refilling. Consider how much time you’ll spend making bottles versus maintaining the machine as you decide if it belongs on your registry. Wipe Warmers: Some parents prefer warm wipes, especially in colder climates or winter months. Even so, wipe warmers require regular cleaning and refilling, and they take up space. The warm, moist environment inside the warmer may also allow germs or bacteria to grow if not maintained. The AAP says room-temperature wipes work just fine. Diaper Pails: These help contain odors and can be handy during frequent changes, but they take up floor space, cost more than a standard trash can, and often require special bags. A traditional lidded trash can works well, but keep in mind it may need more frequent emptying to keep odors under control. 3. Items No Longer Recommended for Infants Baby product recommendations change as new research becomes available. This means that some items are no longer advised or allowed for infant use in the United States and should be avoided altogether. Inclined Sleepers and Crib Bumpers: The AAP recommends putting babies to sleep on firm, flat surfaces free of soft objects, pillows, or loose bedding, meaning inclined sleepers and crib bumpers are a no-go. Inclined sleepers and crib bumpers are associated with increased risk and are banned in the US. Make sure you register for an appropriate sleep space instead, like a crib and mattress, bassinet, or playard. Infant Loungers for Sleep: These may look cozy, but the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warns that they pose risks, including falls and suffocation. Babies should always sleep in a dedicated sleep space that meets current standards. If you want a comfy spot to place your baby while awake, options like baby seats or bouncers work well. When your little one starts to get sleepy, move them to an appropriate sleep space. Teething Necklaces and Bracelets: The AAP and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) both advise against teething jewelry because of choking and strangulation risks. Instead, register for teething toys, age-appropriate chilled foods, gum massagers, or acetaminophen (use with pediatrician guidance). Baby Essentials to Prioritize While it can be smart to wait on certain items, a few things are must-haves from day one: A car seat for travel from the hospital (infant, convertible, or all-in-one car seat) An age-appropriate sleep space (crib, bassinet, or playard) Diapering essentials (diapers, wipes, changing pad) Feeding supplies (bottles, formula, or breastfeeding items) Clothing basics (onesies, sleepers, swaddles) Prep for Your Baby With Chicco Getting ready for your new arrival is exciting, and choosing the right gear helps you feel prepared for each new stage. Your baby’s needs will grow and change quickly, and Chicco is here to support you with products for every age. Visit the Chicco Baby Talk Blog for more parenting tips and advice.