Burp cloths, onesies, washcloths; check. Registering for your baby shower is fun, perhaps a bit overwhelming. But finding out what you might need for your baby’s arrival isn’t hard: just ask another mother or search online, there’s certainly no shortage of information out there.
But as parents ourselves, we'd like to mention some often-overlooked items you might want to consider adding to your registry.
Nightlights
You might be up a lot a night, and you won’t want to be turning the lights on and off. Tree by Kerri Lee offers some adorable hand-painted wooden nightlights in animal shapes with walnut veneer accents — perfect for nurseries.
Sippy Cups
When you want them, you just don’t have them. So it’s nice to have a few on hand, even if you don’t use them right away. OXO straw cups are a great option. A simple snap of the lid closes up the soft silicone straw and, truly, prevents leaking in your bag. Another favorite is the Lollacup (below), which features a weighted straw so a child can drink, even when the cup is tilted.
Swaddling Wraps
Everyone registers for and/or receives swaddling blankets. It's true, the more swaddles the merrier, as they can be used for swaddling, nursing, sun protection, and so on, but sometimes swaddling doesn’t come easy, particularly as your baby grows and gets stronger. Swaddling wraps, like the Miracle Blanket Swaddle are easier to use than traditional swaddling blankets.
A Table Chair
Tables chairs are a great alternative for small living spaces or dining out. In fact, many forgo the highchair option altogether thanks to the innovative design and ease of use of chairs like the Inglesina Fast Table Chair or Phil & Ted's Portable Lobster Chair. These chairs fit onto just about any table (yes, even tables with a lip), are light and easy to collapse, plus it fits children up to 3 years old.
Larger-Sized Clothes
These babes grow fast, and you never realize it until the night that suddenly none of your current baby pajamas fit anymore. So it’s nice to have a few larger-sized options for baby to grow into.
Play Pads
It sounds strange, but your baby will spend a lot of time on the floor—playing, tummy time, rolling over, and eventually learning to crawl. So a soft, comfortable play mat is a must-have. Check out machine washable Play Mats by Pehr.
Infant Toys
Lots of times people forget about baby toys altogether. And although your baby won’t be interested in these things right away, it won’t be long before they’re looking, grabbing, smiling, and laughing. Consider rattles, grabbers, stroller toys and activity balls.
Travel Diaper & Wipes Dispenser
Diaper blowouts happen, often at the worst times. So be prepared with OXO’s On-The-Go Wipes Dispenser or its the On-The-Go Wipes Dispenser with Diaper Pouch. And trust me, don’t leave home without it.
Sleep Sacks
Just about everyone we know adores this style of wearable blanket for their children. When your baby is no longer being swaddled, consider a wearable blanket, like the super-soft and breathable bamboo sleep bags by Kyte Baby for naps and at night to keep your little one warm.
Outdoor Blanket
So many people tell us that this was their No. 1 go-to shower gift. A blanket for outdoor use, meaning it’s water resistant, wipeable, and easy to fold up and carry, like the Outdoor Blanket from Little Unicorn that also features a convenient over-the-shoulder carrying handle, is perfect for beach trips, picnics, you name it.
Nursing & Car Seat Cover
Milksnob covers are something all mothers have a shared love for. These fitted infant car seat covers can also be used as a cover for nursing, shopping carts, high chairs, infant swings and more.
DockATot Deluxe
And finally, never, ever, overlook the Dockatot Deluxe. Its cocoon-like design creates a snug surrounding for babies to lie in. Great for traveling, co-sleeping, or just lounging in. The DockATot is available in two sizes (up to 36 m) and is fully compliant with both federal law and U.S. safety standards. Yup, this plush-like baby lounger is a go-to for all things baby right now. Read more about why we love the DockATot.
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Photo credit: iStock.com/NoSystem images