The Ultimate “Don’t Buy” List for Your Baby Registry

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Creating a baby registry is an exciting but overwhelming experience. With endless product recommendations and “must-have” lists, it’s easy to feel like you need to buy every baby item out there. But the truth is, many baby products are unnecessary, and some can even add unnecessary clutter to your home. If you’re looking to simplify and save money, here’s a list of baby items you can confidently skip from your registry (with a few recommendations I swear by).

1. Unnecessary Nursery Items

Your baby’s nursery should be a cozy and functional space, but that doesn’t mean it needs to be packed with extras. Here are some nursery items you can do without:

Crib Bumpers, Pillows, and Loose Blankets – These are unsafe and increase the risk of SIDS. Stick to a firm mattress and fitted sheets.
Changing Table – A simple changing pad on a dresser or bed works just as well.
Wipe Warmer – Most babies don’t mind room-temperature wipes, and a wipe warmer can dry them out.
Diaper Pail – A regular trash can with disposable diaper baggies works fine and saves money on expensive refill bags. (This is the brand of baggies we use)
Expensive Nursery Furniture Sets – A basic crib and dresser are all you really need.
Nightlight Projector with Music – A simple nightlight or white noise machine is usually enough.

2. Over-the-Top Feeding Gear

While feeding your baby is obviously essential, you don’t need every gadget marketed for meal time.

Bottle Sterilizer – Boiling water or a dishwasher works just as well.
Baby Food Maker – A regular blender or food processor does the same job.
Tons of Bottles in One Brand – Your baby might prefer a different brand, so start with a couple first.

3. Too Many Clothing & Accessories

Baby clothes are adorable, but they grow out of them fast. Avoid stockpiling these unnecessary items:

Newborn Shoes – Cute, but totally impractical since babies don’t walk.
Too Many Newborn-Sized Clothes – Babies grow quickly, and you may not use them all.
Specialized Baby Detergent – Most fragrance-free, gentle detergents work just as well.
Multiple Winter Coats for Infants – Babies should not wear bulky coats in car seats; a warm blanket or car seat cover is safer.

4. Bulky and Unnecessary Gear

Baby gear takes up a lot of space, so stick to the essentials and skip these bulky extras:

Baby Walker – These can be dangerous and don’t actually help babies learn to walk.
Excessive Swings and Seats – One is usually enough, and some babies don’t like them at all. (This is the swing/bouncer combo we have)
Bassinet for Every Room – A portable one or just using a crib from the start can work better.
Multiple Baby Carriers – One good-quality carrier is enough; different styles aren’t always necessary.
Extra Strollers (Jogging + Umbrella + Full-Size) – Consider what fits your lifestyle before buying multiple strollers.

5. Extra or Overhyped Gadgets

Not all baby tech is necessary, and some items are just overkill:

Tons of Pacifiers – Some babies don’t even take them, so don’t overstock before knowing if your baby will use them.
Baby Movement Monitor – Not always necessary unless recommended for medical reasons.
Bluetooth-Enabled Rockers & Bouncers – Some babies don’t like them, and a basic rocker is often enough.

6. Overly Specialized Baby Bath Items

Bath time is simple—stick to the basics and skip these extras:

Baby Robes – Cute, but not practical. Hooded towels are more useful.
Tons of Baby Lotions and Shampoos – A single gentle, fragrance-free option is all you need.
Elaborate Bath Toys – One set of mold free bath toys will entertain babies just the same as the elaborate ones. (This is the set we have)
Bath Kneeling Pads – A folded towel works just as well if you need something.

When it comes to preparing for a baby, it’s easy to feel like you need everything. But in reality, babies don’t require much beyond love, nourishment, and a few well-chosen essentials. By skipping these unnecessary items, you’ll save space, money, and stress—allowing you to focus on what truly matters: enjoying your time with your new baby.

Here is my list of must have baby items!