Baby registry recommendations for new parents, from parents: Video

Rattles and bibs and bottles, oh my! Creating a registry when you’re expecting your first baby can be daunting.

Of course, there are the essentials, such as a stroller, crib and car seat. But what are the items other parents recommend for first time parents? 

Keep reading for some of the top must-have items for parents, recommended by parents. 

Watch this to see which baby products the parents we spoke to consider must-haves. 

Baby bottle washer

Bottle sanitizer: When possible, opt for bottle sanitizer with a drying feature. Even if you don’t plan to give your baby a bottle, some sanitizers can be used to clean pacifiers, parts of a breast pump, some toys, sippy cups and other items. 

Best baby tech items

Video monitor: Go for a video baby monitor with night vision. Look for one that comes with a monitor screen but also pairs with your smartphone. If the monitor has Wi-Fi, ensure that you change the password and check the security settings when you set it up.

Night lights: They’re not just to keep your young kids protected from the darkness of night. Night lights make it easier to navigate in the dark without using your phone flashlight. Some options even have remote controls, so you can turn them on and off easily, or turn it off without entering the room. 

Sound machine: Opt for a portable white noise or sound machine that can be used at home, on-the-go or when they spend the night at grandma’s house. 

Baby toiletry gifts

Baby bath: Our parent friends recommend the portable baby baths that work in your sink and tub. Don’t forget to get an elbow rest or kneeling cushion to keep you comfortable during bath time. 

Thermometer: Fevers and illness are bound to happen as your kid grows up. Investing in a good thermometer now will make it detecting it later easier. You can find no or low contact ones that can get a read from their forehead or ear.  

Snot sucker: Let’s face it, little kids get snotty, so you'll need a snot sucker. Parents don’t recommend opting for the cheapest option, as some of the more advanced versions yield better results. 

Shop top-rated related products: 

• For better sleep: Love to Dream Swaddle UP 
• A top-rated baby monitor: HelloBaby No WiFi Baby Monitor  
• A must-have for busy moms: Momcozy 3 Layers Large Bottle Dryer and Sterilizer 
• Great for late-night feedings: Momcozy Portable Bottle Warmer for Travel 
• Perfect for any nursery: MediAcous Night Light  
• A popular noise machine: Dreamegg Portable Noise Machine  
• Check your kiddo’s temperature: Frida Baby Thermometer 
• The ultimate travel crib: Guava Family Travel Crib 
• An ergonomic infant carrier: Ergobaby Embrace Newborn Baby Carrier 

Baby gift ideas 

Swaddle sack: Keep your baby snug as a bug. Opt for the easier to secure ones with zippers or magnets so those late night diaper changes can go a little faster. 

Burp cloths: Babies are going to spit up and make a mess, so the more burp cloths, the merrier. 

Baby items for on-the-go parents

Portable bottle warmer: A portable bottle warmer is a great option for on-the-go parents. Bonus points for convenience if it's USB-C rechargeable so you can power it with the same cables you use to charge your phone.

A portable crib or Pack-n-Play: These provide your baby a secure place to nap and play, even when you’re not at home. The compact size makes it easier to pack in your car and take wherever you go. 

A portable fan: Keep baby cool with a portable fan. You can find some that attach to the stroller or car seat for a hands-free way to keep baby cool. You may want to consider buying one for you, too!

Baby carrier: The best way to be hands-free when you're out and about is a baby carrier. There are hundreds of options, but opt for one that's soft on baby's skin and simple to get on and off.

Baby gifts for the parents

Sometimes helping the parents is also helping the baby. 

Consider treating the parents-to-be or new parents with: 

• An e-reader that can be used with low light on late nights. 
• A robot vacuum. 
• Gift cards for food or grocery delivery.
• A heated mug to keep their drink warm.  
• Long charging cables.
• An offer to walk their pet.
• Coffee.