Do you have the list of baby must haves? There’s always the list. All the items you will need for your baby before they arrive. Well, this is not that list. This is the list of baby must have items that you will never use. As a mama of twins, I thought there was much I needed. The baby registry list made me think, I had to have all those things. I was first time parent so what did I know. Now, I know. I am sharing my knowledge so pay attention and save some money because you can use that money for something better – like a massage or at least one night of babysitting.
Here are the 7 items on your baby registry checklist that you shouldn’t buy-
The Changing Table
Don’t waste the space and purchase a changing table. Honestly, I am not sure why this is a baby must haves. You can use a change mat that comes with your diaper bag or have baby changing station using caddies. These are more portable than a stationary piece of furniture that taking room in the nursery just for diaper changes.
Diaper Genie
I understand the need to smell stinky diapers as a mom of twins. I had twice the dirty diapers. Your baby’s poop doesn’t smell that bad at first (wait until they start solid foods). However, keeping a poop diaper in a pail for days can cause it to be stinky. If you are using disposable diapers just throw them in the trash. If you are worried about the smell – I have seen parents conveniently put diaper in a plastic bag and hang it on the outside of the front/back door so it is taken out to the trash that day. And special refill bags to purchase either – more money saved.
The crib bedding set
You will always find this crib bedding set with all the things you do not need. Yes, they are pretty, but save your money. Your baby only needs the fitted sheet. That is for the safety. The other stuff in the crib bedding sets are too much. Also, the come with the crib bumper which is no longer recommended. The additional bedding can baby to suffocate. The baby industry has done a lot to make sure cribs are safer for babies. The cribs you buy is safe enough to prevent your baby from sliding through or get caught in between. Do yourself a favor and just get the fitted sheet by itself.
Wipe warmer
The comforts of a warm wipe sounds amazing. This idea is not lost on me. However, does your baby really need it? Not really. Babies have survived for many decades without a warm wipe to wipe their cute tushies. Also, is it a habit you can carry on when you are not home and out in public. Save yourself the stress and money by not buying this baby must have.
Bottle warmer
In the beginning you will use this baby must haves item. Then you will not. For some reason, it is easier (or maybe faster) to heat up water in a mug in the microwave or water on the stove and place the bottle in the warm water. Then you have the babies who don’t need warm bottles, room temperature is just fine. Out in public you don’t have the ability to just have your bottle warmer with you. Save your money and just the pot/the mug /the crockpot to heat up water.
Car mirror
Why wouldn’t you want to look at your baby? This is not necessity. This can be a deterrent while driving. If you were in an accident, this could hurt your baby. Just make sure that you have nothing extra in the car seat. No heavy coats or blankets over baby while in the car. Also, have a check system that when you leave your car to check the car seat every time. No baby left behind. If you are doing all the safety things first, your baby should be fine in the car. You can learn more about childproofing your car.
Socks and shoes
You can save being shoes for when your baby starts walking. Socks as a newborn are not really needed. Honestly, you will end it looking for where the one went missing on many occasions. Footies are a better options for babies to keep their toes warm. Get socks for a baby gift, you can use them as mittens for first couple weeks to prevent your bay from scratching their face.
The only baby must haves you are required and need to get is a car seat. Here are some of our favorite car seats.
I know that you don’t want to just put the car seat on baby registry. Here are some of the items that you should definitely have on your list for your little one :
Car Seat
Baby monitor
Diapers (not all newborn)
Stroller
Diaper cream
Baby carrier
Baby bottles
Burp cloths
Sleep sack
First aid kit
Breastfeeding/Pumping moms – Nursing pillow, nipple cream, storage bags, breastmilk cooler and bag for your breast pump
This is not an exhaustive of baby products to buy as there are tons of baby gear you can buy in the first year as parents. I just wanted to provide you with some basics. If you found this list helpful or think there is something I missed please comment below.
Wife and mother of twins. Founder of Pride & Joy Baby Planners and The Expecting Mamas Network.
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