Baby Registry Approved By Childcare Experts
Finding a baby registry online is one of the most time-consuming activities for new mothers. Different products can fit the unique needs of parents, but this overview helps new parents figure out exactly what to prepare for. After speaking with childcare experts daily and gathering guidance from lactation consultants, pediatric specialists, doulas, and occupational therapists, we created a curated list of product categories that new parents shouldn’t overlook for safety, preparation, and development.
For an easy baby shopping guide, feel free to visit the MissPoppins store where we provide recommendations for choosing items such as BPA-free pacifiers, BPA- and DEHP-free breast pumps, hypoallergenic and plant-based wipes, Montessori-aligned and silicone toys, and baby essentials made only from natural fibers like silk and cotton just to name a few.
Consider this new parent checklist so parents can shop confidently, simplify decisions, and focus on what truly matters for new parents during all stages from prenatal to toddlerhood.
1. Baby Essentials
Everyday basics designed for safety and comfort.
Examples include:
Organic cotton swaddles & sleep sacks
Ergonomic baby carrier for hands-free movement
Baby nail scissors (newborn nails grow shockingly fast)
Fragrance-free diaper cream safe for cloth & disposable diapers
Non-toxic pacifiers & bottles
Most new parents don’t realize baby nails need trimming every few days, or that certain diaper creams can clog cloth diapers.
2. Toddler Toys
Development-centered play essentials.
Examples include:
Wooden Montessori stacking blocks
Silicone and natural rubber teethers
Soft-edge sensory ball + texture toys
Black-and-white visual stimulation cards for newborn brain development
High-contrast cards are an early-development secret most people only learn from a pediatric OT.
3. Toddler Eating Essentials
Tools that support motor skills & reduce stress at meals.
Examples include:
Silicone suction plates and cutlery
Spill-proof stainless steel cups
Freezer-safe silicone snack molds (for batch-prepping finger foods)
Open-cup training cups recommended by feeding therapists
Experts know early open-cup practice reduces speech & feeding issues later.
4. Sleep Essentials
For safe, consistent sleep routines.
Examples include:
Natural-fiber pajamas & sleep sacks
White noise machine
Portable blackout shades for travel & naps away from home
Room thermometer/hygrometer
A baby’s room temperature & light level matter more than any gadget.
5. Baby Bath Products
Gentle, safe, and sensory-friendly essentials.
Examples include:
Hypoallergenic baby wash & lotion
Soft silicone bath scrub
Non-slip bath mat + rinsing cup
Soft-hooded towel that protects newborn skin barrier
Most babies dislike bath water on their face — a gentle rinse cup prevents panic.
6. Lactation Essentials
Breastfeeding & pumping support.
Examples include:
BPA- & DEHP-free electric breast pump
Silicone milk catchers
Hands-free pumping bra
Silver nipple cups / hydrogel pads for healing in early weeks
Silver nipple shields are a doula-favorite most first-time parents don’t know. Lactating can be complex, especially when breastfeeding multiples; consider more research for your options.
7. Mom Care Products
Support for postpartum healing & emotional wellness.
Examples include:
Recovery sprays & sitz bath herbs
Belly support bands
Postpartum vitamins & DHA (per OB guidance)
Perineal cooling pads & stool softeners
Most moms learn the hard way that stool softeners belong in every hospital bag.
8. Parenting Books
Rooted in neuroscience & evidence-based practice.
Examples include:
Gentle discipline books
Sleep education books
Postpartum identity & maternal mental-health reads
Parenthood is as much emotional transition as physical — preparing early helps.
9. Arts & Crafts
For sensory development & mindful downtime.
Examples include:
Non-toxic toddler paint & crayons
Reusable water-based coloring books for travel
Low-mess creativity tools are a sanity saver.
10. Baby Toys
Safe stimulation for early milestones.
Examples include:
High-contrast crinkle books
Soft rattles & sensory plush
Montessori mirror for tummy time motivation
Mirrors encourage babies to lift and turn, strengthening neck and core muscles.
