Becoming a parent is one of the most exciting and overwhelming transitions in life. And as a first-time parent, it’s nearly impossible to know what you’ll actually need until you’re in the thick of it. If I could go back and re-do my baby registry, I’d think beyond the first three months and focus on products and services that support parents well into the fourth trimester and beyond.

When I had my first daugher in 2019, I was completely ill-prepared. I didn't have any clothes that fit her— had no clue that Newborn was a size and I only had size 0-3 month clothing, I didn't have postpartum products like pads or perineal spray, and I wasn't edcated on the baby blues or postpartum depression. So, please, take my advice and consider focusing on these categroies as you build your baby registry. 

And as a seasoned mom of two, Amelia (5) and Zoey (2), here's how I'd re-do my baby registry. 

Prioritize Postpartum Care

The fourth trimester is real, and so is postpartum recovery. While the baby gets all the attention, it’s crucial to prioritize the parent's healing process. Some top items I’d add to my registry:

  • Mama Meals: Postpartum nutrition is vital. Mama Meals provides pre-made, nourishing meals designed specifically for new moms, ensuring that you can stay fueled without the hassle of meal prep. 

    • Get $20 off an order of $200+ with code POPPYLIST

  • Oma’s Natural Seaweed: This superfood is not only delicious but incredibly nutrient-rich, perfect for moms recovering postpartum. Seaweed is packed with vitamins and minerals that can boost energy and aid in recovery during the fourth trimester.

  • Skincare by Nēmah: It’s nice to have a line of defense for your skin since it will definitely change. This powerful trio of Belly Oil, Scar Treatment, & Nipple Balm will help heal you during the weeks & months ahead.

  • Deodorant Duo by Curie: I know, I know. But trust me on this one. You will have night sweats like no other, and as your hormones balance out the first year postpartum, you’re going to stink! But not with this deodorant by Curie.

  • Services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or your favorite local coffee shop. Trust me, when you're too tired to cook, and when your Mama Meals have run out, food delivered to your door is an absolute gift. You can add any gift-card to your Poppylist baby registry.

  • And if you think you have the time, I highly recommend the First Forty Days Book. This truly set me up for success in my postpartum journey the second time around.

Think Long-Term with Baby Gear

Baby gear goes fast, and while newborn essentials are key, think ahead to gear that will grow with your child:

  • Convertible Car Seat: Instead of just an infant car seat, I’d add a convertible one like the Nuna RAVA, which can take your baby from the newborn stage through toddlerhood. One and done.
  • Ergonomic Baby Carrier: A carrier like the Ergobaby Omni 360 allows you to carry your little one comfortably from newborn through toddler years, with multiple carry positions for ease and flexibility.
  • Kibou Travel Diaper Bag: At some point, you will feel confident leaving the house with less. This is what I grab when I’m in a hurry, need to be hands-free, and don’t require much. I love its compact, built-in changing pad, the waterproof pocket for wipes, and the perfect amount of space to hold my stuff. Don’t let its small design fool you. This diaper bag is a must.
  • Huhu Diaper Bag Backpack: I wish I had considered a gender-neutral option because my husband carries the diaper bag more than I do! Also, a shoulder diaper bag isn’t nearly as efficient and comfortable as a backpack, and The Huhu is the bag my husband and I grab 100% of the time. We have two kids, and it’s big enough to carry everything we need, plus items for the parents. If you’re looking for a diaper bag of the highest quality that can stand up to the toughest adventures, this one is it.

Sleep Solutions for the First 6-12 Months

Sleep, or lack thereof, is a universal topic for parents. Making sure you have a plan (and the right products) to help baby sleep better is essential:

  • Happiest Baby’s SNOO Smart Sleeper: This responsive bassinet is a game-changer for helping babies (and parents) get more sleep. The SNOO automatically responds to your baby's cries with gentle rocking and white noise, making those sleepless nights more manageable. It’s an investment, but its resale value is extremely high. And can you really put a price on good sleep?
  • Swaddelini Swaddle: This is a hands-free, escape-proof swaddle designed to mimic the womb's comfort, helping babies sleep soundly while keeping them securely wrapped.
  • YogaSleep Sound Machine: The YogaSleep Dohm is a tried-and-true sound machine that creates soothing white noise, ideal for drowning out household sounds and helping your baby fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Also, check out this portable one!
  • Reliable Baby Monitor: If you’re going to invest in a monitor, consider checking out Nanit. It's the preferred baby monitor oh hundreds of Poppylist parents, including our co-founder, Tamiz, who swears by Nanit's reliablity and quality. 

Baby Feeding Essentials That Work for You

Whether you’re breastfeeding, pumping, or formula feeding, having the right tools in your arsenal makes all the difference:

  • Silverette Cups for Breastfeeding: These small, silver cups are designed to soothe and protect sore nipples. They’re a must-have for breastfeeding moms who want to heal naturally between nursing or pumping sessions.
  • Muu Breast Pump: An innovative and quiet hands-free breast pump that fits seamlessly into your routine. The Muu makes pumping more convenient, offering efficiency without sacrificing comfort. My favorite part, besides the simplicity? It's dishwasher safe!
  • Boobcube: This innovative breast milk storage solution allows you to store breast milk in perfectly portioned cubes, making it easier to defrost exactly what you need and avoid waste during late-night feedings.
  • Kindred Bravely Nursing Bras: You’re going to want something that’s high quality, because you’re going to wash your nursing bra hundreds of times! Kindred offers exceptional comfort and support, with easy-access clips and soft, stretchy fabric. They make breastfeeding or pumping more convenient and comfortable throughout the day.
  • Bobbie Organic Infant Formula: Bobbie Formula is an organic, European-style infant formula that provides clean and simple nutrition, designed to closely mimic breast milk for parents who need a reliable and high-quality feeding alternative. Even if you don’t know what your feeding journey will be, having formula on-hand is a great option for peace of mind.

Prepare for 6-12 Month Milestones

I promise, things like introducing solids, developmental milestones and other exciting “firsts” will be here before you know it. You’ll be thankful you thought ahead on your baby registry.

  • Mushie Products: Known for their sleek, minimalistic designs, Mushie offers a range of baby essentials from pacifiers to bibs and teethers. A lot of their toys double as bath toys, and who doesn't love a product that has multiple uses!
  • Baby Go! Books by Gloo: I love these hardback books because they’re easy to grip and almost impossible to destroy. Plus, it’s the perfect way to introduce your baby to the world!
  • Feeding Tools by EZPZ: Their feeding sets are perfect for introducing solids to your baby. They’re designed to promote self-feeding, with divided plates and utensils that support motor development while being easy to clean and safe for little ones. I personally love the First Foods Set.

Support Your Mental Health and Well-Being

Mental health should be a priority for new parents, and services that support emotional and mental well-being are just as valuable as physical items:

  • Counseling or Therapy Gift Cards: Many new parents experience postpartum mood disorders, and having access to a therapist or counselor can be a lifesaver. Including a gift card to an online therapy service like BetterHelp could be a game changer.

  • Lactation Consultant: Professional help can make all the difference when it comes to breastfeeding. Services like Nest Collaborative offer virtual consultations to guide you through those challenging early days.

Final Thoughts: Think Beyond the Basics

The key takeaway? Don’t limit your registry to just baby clothes and onesies. You’ll be thanking yourself later for including products and services that support your physical, emotional, and mental health as a new parent. And don’t be afraid to think beyond baby gear—gift cards for meal delivery, therapy, and coffee runs might just be the most cherished gifts of all.

Ready to start your Poppylist baby registry?