My friend is having a baby (yay!) and asked for my registry recommendations. Having a 2.5-year-old means I've spent the last few years field-testing baby gear, so I like to think I know a thing or two about exactly what key items are worth considering.
Truthfully, there are a lot of fantastic products, and it totally comes down to personal preference. The edit I sent is by no means an exhaustive list of everything you may need. It's a highlight reel, if you will, of standout pieces to mix in.
Keep scrolling to check out the best items to add to your baby registry if you, too, are looking for inspiration, including a life-changing stroller, everyday staples, and, of course, a few adorable clothing picks (because, hello, fashion editor talking).
Baby Registry Ideas
doona
Doona X Car Seat & Stroller
I have told every single person I know having a baby to consider the Doona. I couldn't imagine getting through the first year without it. The car seat/stroller is a game changer. Since I purchased mine, new iterations have come out, including the recently launched Doona X, which features a higher handle, larger UPF 50+ canopy, a soft opening mechanism when transitioning from car seat to stroller mode, and so much more.
Gerber
8-Pack Short Sleeve Onesies Bodysuits
I stocked up on these Gerber onesies throughout the first year. They're simple and great to throw in the diaper bag.
Bowroo
Signature Nursing Pillow
One of my other friends mentioned this nursing pillow to me, which helps to support your baby's head and neck while feeding.
Baby Brezza
Baby Bottle Washer Pro
If you're doing formula, the Baby Brezza is a must to make bottles easily. It's literally like an automatic coffee machine for formula. The bottle washer (pictured here) is also ideal for regularly cleaning bottles, and it can be used to clean and sterilize pump parts.
Frida
Snotsucker for Baby
You basically need all of the Frida products.
Magnetic Me
Wisteria Pointelle Magnetic Organic Cotton Footie
Magnetic Me makes getting dressed easy.
Stokke
Tripp Trapp Newborn Bundle
This is the best high chair that starts at the newborn stage and can be adjusted as your child grows. My child now uses the chair to sit at the table!
Nanit
Smart Baby Monitor System
To this day, I swear by my Nanit as a clear baby monitor that has features like two-way audio and room temperature checks.
Kissy Kissy
Garden Roses Ruffle Bubble Romper
My friend is having a baby girl, and Kissy Kissy is one of my favorite brands. This romper!
Little Fancy Books
Handbags A to Z
Lovevery is a great resource for educational and engaging toys—so many great features with this play gym.
Tiny Land
Montessori Toys for Newborns
Tiny Land also has great toy bundles for newborns.
My daughter loved this specific bouncer. We even traveled with it because she loved it so much.
happiest baby
Snoo Smart Sleeper Bassinet
Whether you rent it or buy it, the Snoo is what my husband and I used as our bassinet with the rocking and soothing features.
This carrier has a self-adapting stretch fabric to naturally wrap around your child's body.
(Image credit: Little Spoon)
I subscribed to Little Spoon once we introduced solids. The brand also has formula, FYI.
Dagne Dover
Indi Onyx Medium Diaper Bag Backpack
Bugaboo
Turtle Air Shield by Nuna Car Seat
If you're looking for a top-tier car seat, here you go.
Hatch
Portable Sound Machine
You don't want to leave the house without a portable sound machine.
Hatch
Grow Smart Changing Pad and Scale
We used this changing table that also acts as a scale.
Burberry
Check Coated Cotton Bib
I am fully aware that this bib is extra, but as a fashion person, I loved it. And I used it every single day! Plus, it's easy to wash.