A little baby has arrived in your womb, right? As your belly grows bigger day by day, you feel a little nervous along with the joy you feel, right? You need to prepare everything that the baby needs before it arrives. These days, many people in our country, including friends and relatives, get together and organize a ' baby shower ' for you. So, at this time, instead of receiving a lot of unnecessary gifts, how nice would it be if you could get things that are actually useful for you and the baby? Today, let's talk about how to create a 'Baby Registry', that is, a list of gifts that you want.
The best things to add to a gift registry
A well-planned list will ensure that you get exactly what you need. Otherwise, you'll have to go from store to store to exchange the gifts you received. Add items to this list at different price points. Things that are a little expensive, things that are average, and things that are a little cheaper. That way, it's easier for the gift giver to choose something that fits their budget.
| Item | Why is this useful? |
|---|---|
| Large items (Stroller, Swing, Baby Monitor, Playpen) | These are a bit expensive, so several people can get together and buy them. These are very helpful for taking the baby out, letting him play, and taking care of the baby while he sleeps. |
| A diaper bag | This is essential for carrying everything you need (diapers, wipes, clothes, bottles) in an organized manner when going out with your baby. |
| A carrier that can hold a baby on your shoulder (Baby Sling/Wrap Carrier) | This is very convenient as you can keep your hands free and still hold your baby. The baby also feels safe. |
| Baby bath tub and accessories | It's a great convenience to have a basin specifically designed for bathing your baby safely. You can also add things like baby soap and shampoo. |
| A pillow used when breastfeeding (Nursing Pillow) | This will help reduce the strain on your back and arms when breastfeeding your baby. There are even pillows specially designed for twins. |
| A bouncy seat | This is a good way to keep the baby calm and let them play a little while you work. |
| A white noise machine | Some babies need a little noise to fall asleep. The soothing sound from a device like this helps the baby sleep better. |
| Accessories | Small items like baby nail clippers, a digital thermometer, baby wipes, and burp cloths. |
Things you want to buy yourself, not expect from others
There are some things that are best chosen by you for their safety and privacy. Even if it's your best friend, it's hard to believe that they'll bring exactly what you have in mind when you choose these.
- Crib and nursery furniture: It's best to choose these yourself to suit your preferences and the space in your home.
- Car Seat: This is definitely something you should choose yourself . This is essential for your baby's safety. You'll need a car seat to take your baby home from the hospital. So, get one well in advance of your baby's arrival and learn how to install it in the car. If you're putting this on your gift list, be sure to specify the exact make and model you want.
- Breast Pump and Accessories: A breast pump is a very personal thing, so it's better to get one yourself than to have someone else give it to you as a gift. If you're expecting twins, talk to a lactation consultant about whether you should rent or buy a good hospital-grade pump.
Be patient and buy good things after the baby arrives.
There's no need to stock up on everything before the baby arrives. It's wise to buy some things later, depending on the baby's behavior and preferences.
Remember, not all babies are the same. So what works for one baby may not work for another.
Milk bottles
You'll need a few bottles of milk. A formula-feeding mother will need a lot. Even breastfeeding mothers sometimes use bottles to express milk.
But the question is, what kind of bottle is right for your baby? Some babies only like one type of bottle. So instead of buying a set of all the same type of bottles at once, try a few different types of bottles and nipples and let your baby suck on them, then choose the one he or she likes best. You can also get an idea by watching your baby suckle in the hospital.
Bottle warmer
Some babies like to drink warm milk, while others don't. If you start by giving them warm milk from the beginning, they will get used to it. However, babies who are used to drinking breast milk usually like it a little more warm. So this is something you can take after the baby is born if needed.
Things that are often not really necessary
If you ask new mothers what items they bought but didn't use, they will definitely mention these things.
- Wipe warmer: You don't want your baby's wipes to be too hot. Plus, these devices dry out the wipes, so this can be a waste of money.
- Sterilizer: Unless your doctor says your baby has a special immune problem and needs to sterilize everything, this item isn't necessary. Washing bottles in hot, soapy water, or in the dishwasher will get them clean enough.
Things that you definitely get as gifts, even if you didn't ask for them.
Don't put these things on your list, because no matter what you do, you're likely to get a lot of these as gifts.
- Blankets and Swaddle Blankets: There are lots of small blankets ( receipt blankets) available, especially for babies.
- Newborn or 0-3 month size: If you're a first-time mom or your friends don't have babies yet, they may not realize that babies are only in this size for a short time. If you're listing clothes, it's a good idea to ask for a size up, like 3-6 or 6-9 months .
- Toys: You'll likely find lots of soft toys like stuffed animals and books.
Gift ideas that might not have crossed your mind, but are very valuable
In addition to the items, think about gifts that you can give as a help. A friend of yours could put a little note on the baby shower invitation saying, "In addition to the items, if you would like to contribute something like this to help mom and baby, please do so."
- Postpartum doula: A trained doula is someone who helps a mother and baby after giving birth. Although it can be a bit expensive, it is a great help for new parents. It is worth it if you get a few friends together and get this service for a week or so.
- Diaper service or house cleaning service: This type of service is a great convenience during the busy early days with a baby.
- A contribution to a child's education fund: An investment in a child's future, even with a small amount.
- Postnatal massage: This is very good for the mother's physical well-being.
- Mother-and-baby classes: An opportunity to participate in classes like yoga.
Take-Home Message
- Before your baby shower, make a registry of the things you really want. Include items in each price range.
- Choose and buy things related to your baby's safety, such as a car seat, yourself. Don't expect them from others.
- Don't buy too many things at once, like milk bottles. Once the baby arrives, buy the things he needs based on his preferences .
- Since newborn-sized clothes and blankets are often given as gifts, avoid putting them on the list. Instead, ask for clothes in a slightly larger size .
- Don't limit yourself to just products, but also suggest services that will help you after giving birth as gift ideas.
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