So many people tell you what you should register for, but today I’m here to tell you what to leave OFF of your baby registry. I got all of these things the first time around, and they either went unused, or my son simply ended up preferring something else.
Whether it is something you don’t need or something you should wait to see if baby has a preference for, here are the things to leave off your registry:
More Baby Registry Advice from Real Moms:
- Baby Registry 101: Baby Registry Must Haves
- Thinking About Going Green for Baby? Here’s How.
- Top 10 Baby Shower Gifts
9 Things You Shouldn't Put on Your Baby Registry
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Wipes Warmer
Here's the thing about wipes warmers---they are totally unnecessary. And you know what else? You're going to get your baby used to having warm wipes, and then when you're out and about and can't use warm wipes baby isn't going to be happy. I feel the same way about bottle warmers---except they can be convenient when warming refrigerated breast milk. Otherwise, keep your wipes and bottles room temp and baby will be more flexible and easier to please.
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Pacifiers
Not only will the hospital send you home with lots of pacifiers, but also you don't know what type your baby will prefer, or whether he or she will use one at all. So pacifiers are one of those things that are really unnecessary to register for.
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Bottles
I learned this one the hard way: by registering for a $50 bottle set that totally didn't work for my baby. The flow was way too fast, and he choked when using them. We then tried and went through about five other kinds of bottles until we found the right fit for us (Dr. Brown's Newborn Bottles---LOVED them!). So I would either not register for bottles, or keep the set in the box so you can return it if necessary once you see what kind of bottle might work for your baby.
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Baby Toys
People will give you toys for the baby whether you register for them or not (and you'll get way more stuffed animals than you'll ever need or want), so registering for them is a waste. Keep your registry filled with things you really need and aren't sure people will buy you.
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Baby Clothes
Much like toys, people will get you baby clothes whether you register for them or not. You could put some basics like packs of onesies or footed PJs on your registry, but otherwise I'd skip clothes. People like to pick out clothes for baby themselves anyway and you will likely receive more than you think you will.
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Bottle Sterilizer
A bulky bottle sterilizer is totally unnecessary, especially when these sterilizing bags exist, are reusable, and take up way less space. You just need a microwave to use them (which most people already have).
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A Thermometer
Your pediatrician will tell you that you should use a rectal thermometer rather than one that goes in baby's ear or on her head because they are much more accurate. So don't waste your money or registry space getting a fancy thermometer. The hospital will send you home with a rectal one, and that is all you need.
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Bulb Syringe
Another item to keep off your registry is one of these nasal bulb syringes. The hospital will send you home with one, and they really don't work great anyway. Instead, put a Nose Frieda on your registry. You can thank me later!
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Sleep Sacks with Swaddle
While these swaddle sleep sacks are great, some babies simply don't like having their arms swaddled. Mine hated it. So all of those sleep sack swaddles I registered for, washed, and had ready were wasted. Instead, register for some great swaddle blankets and basic sleep sacks, and if it turns out your baby likes her arms swaddled you can pick these up later.
