Registering for the real basics

A friend recently asked me what to register for. Now, my list of recommended items is probably more bare-bones than most, so I am likely to neglect things other people would want. So I thought I’d review some baby registry lists I found online to see what I thought of them. My assessments of six lists from leading parenting websites and retailers are below.

Good lists

Parents.com: I was impressed by this list. Sure, the quantities are off (8 pairs of socks? We had two, and we had a winter baby, and that was enough) and some things are not truly necessary (like a crib bumper, which is not recommended because of small increase in SIDS risk) but really, it is a good list. [Link]

Babyfit.com: A nicely organized, non-overwhelming list. Some things were a little odd (belly casting kit?) but most things were practical and safe. [Link]

Decent lists

Giggle.com: A good list. Again, too many of some things (seriously, how is a stroller blanket different from a crib blanket?) but not overwhelming and not very materialistic. [Link]

Target: Target’s Newborn and 0-3 month lists are comprehensive - overspendy but a good start to whittle down from. For instance, you do not need a diaper stacker, diaper disposal system, or diaper disposal refills, in my opinion. But that is your decision. And according to roughly 95% of the internet community, you can skip the wipes warmer. I know I did. [Link]

Bad lists

Baby/Toys R Us: Totally insane and overwhelming, this page would have made me cry. Unless you love to shop (and thus spend money), avoid. [Link]

Walmart.com: Whoa. Do not follow this list. Far too long, lots of unnecessary things, and at least one thing that is unsafe (sleep positioners). Finally, they completely lost me at “elbow cushion” for the bath list. Are they serious? I did not know such a thing existed. I think the "elbow cushion" of choice for 99.9% of moms is called a "towel." [Link] - Leigh G.

When my babies wear their fruits and veggies it’s usually because they’re learning to self feed and applesauce has a really difficult time making it from bowl to mouth. We’ve learned that strawberries come out in the wash though carrots will be worn indefinitely.

MooMe’s Fruit Bib Set stylish and less messy alternative. This cute and very realistic set of bibs includes two bibs, one with freshly sliced oranges and the other with ripe, plump strawberries screened on 100% organic cotton bibs. As fun as the bibs are, I’m totally in love with the packaging. The bibs arrive in their own baby food jar package as a set just like you’d see on the grocery store shelf!

MooMe also has a great Veggie Bib Set complete with peas and carrots. Either one would make a wonderful and unique baby gift. You can purchase your own tasty serving of MooMe’s Fruit Bib Set or Veggie Bib Set for $16 from Amazon.com. - Emily H.

When my first child was born I purchased one of those hooded towels from the store. It was very thin, had no drying power and failed to keep my baby girl warm post bath time. Fortunately I had a friend with mad sewing skills who gave her the thickest, softest hooded towel, which we used until it was no longer big enough to cover her backside!

Since then we’ve been given a wonderful handmade hooded towel for each of our other children, but if we hadn’t been gifted such fabulous towels I would have steered clear of the typical store-bought kind and bought a Beeby Hooded Towel instead.

These stylish yet affordable hooded towels are made from thick, absorbent (yay), soft terry cloth and have soft, velvet fabric over the hood. The pattern atop the hood is complemented by matching fleece lining all four edges of the towel. Beeby hooded towels measure 24” by 42” so your baby and then toddler will be covered from head to at least knee.

The Beeby hooded towel is available in a wide variety of styles; my favorites are the Medallion Pink and Black & White Zebra. You can purchase a Beeby hooded towel for $30 from CuteiandPatootie.com. - Emily H.

I'm nearly certain that it is impossible for these knit and felted booties to be any more adorable. Fluffy bunnies plus baby feet? I defy you to find anything cuter than that. If you want some for a Christmas gift, you'll need to order before November 30, so get going. They're $32 from Pretty Little, and she has lots of other styles - including Santa boots!



Or how about these? Wonderful knit booties with personality and pizazz. Warm for winter, stylish, and so so sweet. They're $25 from Pleasantly Plump Knits in a couple of different styles and colors.

Baby booties make a great gift for friends who just had a new baby, and giving the gift of handmade is always in fashion. You get something wonderful for your recipient, plus the knowledge that you're supporting an independent artisan. A great deal all around. - Erika

Available in sizes from newborn to adult, this charming Elephant Baby Hat ($30) is made by hand from 100% cotton yarn.

There is nothing as fun as dressing up your tiny baby in funny outfits, and this elephant hat is perfect. You can also choose other animal hats such as pandas, owls, monkeys and pigs from Pink Alligator Designs if elephants aren't your thing. But seriously, the elephant hat is the funniest! And I should know - my last child's coming home outfit was essentially a dinosaur costume... - Erika