Creating a baby registry feels like prepping for the sweetest storm—you’re excited, overwhelmed, and completely unsure what’s truly essential. Between adorable gadgets and “must-have” influencer lists, it’s easy to over-register. The truth? Some baby items you’ll barely use once. Others, you’ll wish you had more of by day two.
If you’re staring at your registry and wondering which items deserve multiples (and which you can confidently skip extras of), this guide is here to save you some space, money, and postpartum sanity.
Baby Items You Only Need One Of
Let’s start with the things you’ll only need a single version of. These are often expensive, bulky, or simply unnecessary in multiples.
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Baby Bathtub
One is plenty. Babies grow fast, and they’ll graduate from their mini tub to the big bathtub before you know it. A simple, easy-to-clean design is best—bonus points if it dries quickly and doesn’t require extra inserts.
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Diaper Bag
It’s tempting to have one for every outing, but realistically, a single well-organized diaper bag will cover it all. Choose one that’s washable, durable, and stylish enough that you don’t mind carrying it daily.
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Infant Carrier or Sling
While it’s nice to have options, you’ll likely reach for your favorite one every time. Invest in an adjustable, ergonomic carrier that works for both parents, rather than splitting funds across several.
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Baby Monitor
Unless you live in a multilevel home or need a travel version, one good-quality monitor is more than enough. Look for a model with a solid range, clear night vision, and strong security features.
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Sound Machine
A single sound machine can soothe your baby just fine—especially if you choose one that can run on batteries or plug in for travel. Just one will do the trick in helping your baby sleep better and longer.
Baby Items You’ll Want Multiples Of
Here’s where new parents often underestimate their needs. Babies can blow through laundry, dishes, and diapers much faster than expected.
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Burp Cloths
Babies spit up multiple times a day, sometimes on you, sometimes on themselves, sometimes just because they feel like it. Stock up—ten to twelve burp cloths will keep your laundry pile manageable.
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Swaddles and Sleep Sacks
These become your sleep-time lifesaver. When one is in the wash, you’ll always want a clean backup. Having at least four to six swaddles ensures your baby stays cozy (and your routine stays smooth).
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Pacifiers
Pacifiers vanish like socks in the dryer. Keep a few in every room, in the car, and in your diaper bag. Buying in bulk will save you from midnight scavenger hunts.
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Baby Bottles
Even if you’re breastfeeding, it helps to have a few bottles on hand for pumped milk, babysitters, or emergencies. Aim for six to eight bottles in various sizes as your baby grows.
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Washcloths
You’ll reach for these constantly—during baths, feedings, diaper changes, and sticky snack times later on. A set of baby washcloths is one of those deceptively simple items you’ll thank yourself for stocking up on. Go for soft, easily washable fabrics that won’t irritate sensitive skin.
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Crib Sheets
Two crib sheets might sound enough until your baby has their first diaper blowout or spit-up accident at 2 a.m. Three to five crib sheets make life easier and save your evenings from frantic laundry sessions.
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Changing Pad Covers
Even with diaper diligence, messes happen. Having three or more covers rotates through your laundry cycle without slowing down diaper changes.
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Baby Socks and Mittens
Tiny socks somehow disappear at lightning speed. Keep several pairs on hand, so you’re never hunting for matches on your way out the door.
The Diaper Truth: Expect the Unexpected
It’s the question every new parent asks: how many diapers will I need for a newborn? The honest answer—more than you think. Newborns typically go through 8–12 diapers a day, or about 300+ in their first month. Registering for multiple sizes (newborn through size 2) ensures you’re ready for rapid growth spurts and diaper explosions alike.
If you’re short on space, divide your stock between home storage and a couple of smaller diaper caddies. Convenience is key—you’ll thank yourself later.
Baby Gear You’ll Want to Wait On
Some items don’t belong on your first registry at all. These products make life easier later, but take up too much space or cost too much early on.
- High Chair: Your baby won’t need one until around six months. Add it later or let family gift it down the road.
- Shoes: Adorable, yes. Practical, not yet. Bare feet or soft socks are best for the early months.
- Umbrella Stroller: It’s great for travel but not suitable for newborns. Your main stroller will cover all your early outings.
Registry Strategy for Real Parents
Start small, stay flexible, and remember that every baby’s needs differ. Instead of cluttering your home with multiples of pricey items, focus your budget on essentials that rotate through daily use.
A good rule of thumb: anything that gets messy fast (washcloths, burp cloths, sheets, and swaddles) is worth tripling. Everything else? Start with one and see what fits your lifestyle.
At the end of the day, your registry isn’t about perfection—it’s about preparation. You’ll adjust, learn, and laugh along the way. Because in parenthood, the most useful items often turn out to be the simplest ones.
