Cleveland Baby Registry Guide:
The Essentials (and the Products Parents Actually Use)
First off, congrats! Building a baby registry is one of the first significant steps you'll take as an expecting parent. It's fun to look at all the cute little outfits and gadgets, but it can also be overwhelming. So, what do you really need? And what's just clever marketing?
As a newborn and postpartum care team right here in Cleveland, we've helped hundreds of local families get ready for their little ones. We've learned that babies don't need nearly as much as you think. But choosing the right items can make those first few months a lot smoother, calmer, and even more joyful.
Here's our Cleveland-friendly guide to building a baby registry. We'll cover the true must-haves, a few nice-to-have extras, and the products local parents swear by.
Baby Registry Must-Haves
1. Safe Sleep Essentials
Your baby will spend a ton of time sleeping, so having a safe setup is the most important thing.
What to include:
Crib or bassinet (make sure it meets current safety standards—no drop sides).
A firm, flat crib mattress.
2–3 fitted crib sheets.
Wearable blankets or sleep sacks.
Parent-loved product picks:
Crib: The IKEA Sniglar is a great budget-friendly option. For something more stylish and eco-conscious, try the Babyletto Hudson.
Bassinet: The Halo BassiNest Swivel Sleeper is perfect for keeping your baby close to your bed.
Mattress: The Newton Baby Crib Mattress is a popular choice because it's breathable and washable.
Sleep sacks: Halo SleepSack and Kyte Baby Sleep Bag are parent favorites.
2. Feeding Gear
Even if you plan on breastfeeding, it's smart to have a few tools on hand just in case.
What to include:
Bottles and nipples (start with just a few to see what your baby likes).
A breast pump (your insurance might cover one, so check before you buy!).
A nursing pillow.
Burp cloths and bibs.
Formula (as a backup or if you plan to use it).
Parent-loved product picks:
Bottles: Dr. Brown's Natural Flow is an anti-colic favorite, while the Comotomo bottle has a breast-like shape.
Pump: The Spectra S1/S2 is quiet and considered hospital-grade.
Nursing pillow: The Boppy or My Brest Friend are both excellent options.
Burp cloths: Plain old Gerber Cloth Diapers are not glamorous, but they are incredibly absorbent.
3. Diapering Essentials
Get ready for a lot of changes—sometimes more than 10 a day in the beginning!
What to include:
Newborn and size one diapers.
Unscented wipes.
Diaper cream.
A changing pad and covers.
A diaper bag.
Parent-loved product picks:
Diapers: Pampers Swaddlers are a hospital staple. Hello Bello is another favorite that's eco-conscious and affordable.
Wipes: WaterWipes or Pampers Aqua Pure.
Cream: Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment or Boudreaux's Butt Paste.
Changing pad: The Keekaroo Peanut Changer is a bit of a splurge, but it's a parent favorite because it's easy to wipe clean.
4. Clothing Basics
Babies grow so fast, so focus on comfort over quantity.
What to include:
6–8 onesies/bodysuits.
5–6 footed sleepers (zip-ups are a lifesaver at 2 a.m. compared to snaps!).
Socks and mittens.
Weather-appropriate outerwear.
Parent-loved product picks:
Onesies: Carter's are affordable and easy to find.
Sleepers: Burt's Bees Baby Organic Cotton are super soft and hold up well.
Seasonal wear: H&M Baby or Old Navy Baby have great basics.
5. Bath & Health Items
Bath time can be sweet and soothing with just a few essentials.
What to include:
An infant bathtub or a sink insert.
A gentle baby wash/shampoo.
Hooded towels and washcloths.
Baby nail clippers.
A digital thermometer.
An infant first aid kit.
Parent-loved product picks:
Tub: The Angelcare Bath Support fits in most tubs.
Frida Baby 4-in-1 Grow-With-Me Tub is another popular option.
Shampoo: Mustela Gentle Cleansing Gel or Aveeno Baby Wash & Shampoo.
Thermometer: Frida Baby Quick-Read Digital Thermometer.
6. Gear for On-the-Go
You'll need safe and comfortable ways to get around with your baby.
What to include:
An infant car seat.
A stroller.
A baby carrier or wrap.
Parent-loved product picks:
Car seat: The Chicco KeyFit 30 is easy to install and has top safety ratings.
The Nuna PIPA Lite is a great, lightweight, luxury option.
Stroller: The UPPAbaby
Vista V2 is a splurge but grows with your family.
The Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 is light and practical.
Carrier: The Ergobaby Omni Breeze is a structured carrier, while the Baby K'tan Wrap is a soft and simple wrap.
Nice-to-Have Extras
These aren't must-haves, but they can definitely make life a little easier.
Sound machine: Hatch Rest+ (doubles as a nightlight).
Baby monitor: The Infant Optics DXR-8 Pro is a reliable non-WiFi option. The Nanit Pro has innovative WiFi features.
High chair: The Stokke Tripp Trapp lasts for years. The IKEA Antilop is a budget hero.
Play mat/activity gym: The Lovevery Play Gym.
Swaddles: SwaddleMe Original (Velcro) or Ollie Swaddle (adjustable).
Books/toys: Indestructibles Baby Books and Sophie la Girafe teether.
Baby Registry Tips for Cleveland Families
Think beyond the newborn stage. Add items for when your baby is 3–6 months old, like a high chair or larger clothes.
Mix price points. Your friends and family will appreciate having both big-ticket and affordable gift options to choose from.
A local tip: Many Cleveland parents love registering at Target, Buy Buy Baby in Strongsville, or Amazon. But don't forget to check out local shops like Nikki's on Detroit in Lakewood or The Baby Sweet Pea Boutique in Rocky River!
Ask for services, not just stuff. Gift cards for meal delivery, postpartum doula support, or newborn photography are wonderful, practical additions to a registry.
Your Cleveland baby registry doesn't have to be long or complicated. Just focus on what your baby truly needs: a safe place to sleep, food, diapers, and a way to get around. Add a few extras that fit your family's lifestyle, and you'll be all set. At the end of the day, remember this: your little one needs you more than any product. The rest is just there to support you along the way.
Need some extra help building your registry? At Nurtured Foundation, we offer personalized baby registry services to help you choose items that truly fit your family’s needs and lifestyle. Every family is different, and we’ll make sure your registry is practical, thoughtful, and tailored just for you.
