What Is a Baby Registry?
A calm, clutter-free guide to what a baby registry is, how it works, when to start, and what to include.
What is a baby registry?
What is a baby registry? A baby registry is a curated list of items you want (and actually need) for life with a newborn. Friends and family shop directly from your list so you receive useful, intentional gifts — not duplicates or random items you didn't ask for.
Think of it as a way to stay organized, avoid guesswork, and take control of what comes into your home during a very full season.
Why parents create a registry
- People genuinely want to help — but don't always know what to buy.
- You avoid duplicates and clutter.
- It keeps all gifts in one place and easy to track.
- You can delay delivery until you actually need items.
- It reduces decision fatigue during pregnancy.
- It prevents you from overspending on unnecessary gear.
At its core, a registry is about clarity and control — not pressure or perfection.
How a baby registry works
- You create a registry on a platform you trust.
- You add items you genuinely want and will use.
- You share the link with friends & family.
- They purchase directly from your list.
- The system tracks every gift so you don't have to.
- You choose when your items arrive.
On Poppylist, you can also exchange gifts for cash or delay shipping — two features parents tell us make the transition into parenthood feel calmer and easier.
Ready to try it?
You can start your Poppylist registry in under a minute and come back to this guide anytime.
Start your registryWhen to start a baby registry
Most parents start their baby registry between 12–20 weeks. But here's the only rule that matters: start when you're ready — not when the internet tells you to.
If you're a planner, you can begin earlier. If you're feeling overwhelmed, start later. Your registry can grow with you as you learn what you actually want and need.
What to put on your baby registry
Essential items for your baby registry
Here are the core categories most parents include:
- Sleep – bassinet, swaddles, sleep sacks, sound machine.
- Feeding – bottles, breastfeeding supplies (if needed), burp cloths.
- Gear – car seat, stroller, carrier.
- Diapering – diapers, wipes, changing pad.
- Clothing – onesies, sleepers, layers.
- Health & wellness – thermometer, nasal aspirator.
- Bathing – tub, towels, washcloths.
- Postpartum – recovery essentials for you.
If you want a simple, done-for-you list, download our free minimalist baby registry checklist.
Types of baby registries
Most registries fall into a few buckets:
- Store registries – like Amazon or Target. Convenient, but often overwhelming.
- Universal registries – combine products from multiple stores in one place.
- Cash fund registries – focused on experiences, diapers, or big-ticket items.
- Minimalist registries – like Poppylist, designed to keep things clear and clutter-free.
There's no one “right” choice — the best registry is the one that reflects your values, your space, and your actual life.
Tips for building a baby registry
- Start with essentials, not trends or viral products.
- Add a mix of price points so everyone can participate.
- Choose gender-neutral items if you plan to reuse them.
- Prioritize quality over quantity.
- Think about your lifestyle, not just "what everyone buys."
- Update your registry as you learn more during pregnancy.
Your registry should feel like a reflection of your family — not a checklist you have to “keep up” with.
Baby registry etiquette
Quick answers to the things parents quietly worry about:
- It's okay to include higher-priced items.
- It's okay to add gift cards or cash funds.
- It's okay to share your registry even without a shower.
- It's okay to keep your registry small and minimalist.
For more detailed guidance, take a look at our complete baby registry etiquette guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to get started?
Create your baby registry in just 60 seconds and start receiving the gifts you actually need.
