The amount of baby items available to new parents can be a bit overwhelming. It is easy to get caught up in commercials and social media posts telling you you need a million different toys and gadgets for your new little one. Unfortunately, many of these things end up collecting dust or in a donation pile within months and can create a lot of unnecessary stress. A minimalist baby registry allows you to only register for the essentials that will truly enhance your life and help your newborn thrive.
The best way to determine if an item is a necessity is to ask yourself how long you will be able to use it before your child outgrows it. For example, a swaddle wrap may seem like a useful baby accessory but if your newborn only sleeps while being rocked then it might not be worth the investment. Also, a changing table may be useful for diapering but there are several portable options such as changing pads that can be used over an old mattress.
If you are going to register for an item, try to choose high-quality products that will last a long time. This is especially important for larger items such as car seats, strollers and cribs. If possible, opt for convertible models that will fit infants through toddler years or even into a booster seat.
Lastly, be sure to check with friends and family who already have babies or are expecting to see what they may be willing to pass down or give you pre-loved. You can also shop on Rakuten to earn cash back when you buy any of these items!