The Ultimate 2025 Crunchy Baby Registry: What You Really Need (and What to Skip)

Putting together your baby registry should feel exciting—not overwhelming. But if you’ve ever started searching, you already know: most stores push a ton of plastic gadgets, chemical-laden products, and “must-haves” you don’t actually need. And before you know it, you’ve spent weeks (or even months) researching baby gear instead of enjoying your pregnancy.

That’s exactly why I created this ultimate non-toxic baby registry checklist. My goal is to help you cut through the noise and confidently choose safe, practical products that actually support your baby’s health—and your peace of mind. (And don’t forget to grab the free planning spreadsheet to make the process even simpler!)

Now, some people will tell you all you really need is a bed, a car seat, a baby carrier, baby clothes, and breastmilk. While I love a minimalist mindset, I also know that you and your baby will thrive with a few more thoughtfully chosen essentials. That’s why this list includes the must-haves and the nice-to-haves—covering everything from those early newborn days to the moment you suddenly realize it’s already time for a high chair.

Here’s my advice:

• If you’re having a small shower, focus on the essentials.
• If you’re having a larger shower or have especially generous friends and family, build out the full registry.

Either way, this guide will help you avoid the toxic products, simplify your choices, and focus on what really matters: welcoming your baby with confidence.

Where Should You Register?

When it comes to building your non-toxic baby registry, the where matters almost as much as the what. My top recommendation is Amazon, and for good reason. You just can’t beat the convenience, the endless variety (especially for finding safer, less mainstream brands), and their amazing customer service. The perks don’t hurt either: a free welcome box, a 15% completion discount, fast shipping, and extra freebies if you’re a Prime member (use that link for a free 30-day trial if you aren’t!).

That said, it’s often helpful to register at more than one place. Many parents (myself included) like pairing Amazon with another option such as Babylist, Target, MyRegistry, or Pottery Barn Kids. This way, your friends and family have choices depending on what’s easiest for them, and you’ll still have access to the more unique, non-toxic products you really want.

If you’re torn between stores, don’t stress… I put together a full breakdown of the best baby registry sites (with all their perks and pros/cons) to help you decide.

How To Use The Non-Toxic Baby Registry Checklist

Before you dive in, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• This checklist is a starting point. Think of it as your at-a-glance guide. I’ve included some product recommendations here, but the linked articles go much deeper, explaining why I recommend certain items, what to look for in a safer option, and what you can skip.
• Not every item is 100% non-toxic. I always do my best to guide you toward safer products, but sometimes a true non-toxic version doesn’t exist yet. When that’s the case, I’ll point it out and share the best low-tox alternatives.
• You don’t need everything on this list. Seriously, please don’t feel like you need to buy every single item on this list. It’s meant to be comprehensive so you can pick and choose what works for your family, lifestyle, and budget. I’ll help you sort through what’s essential versus nice-to-have. If you want more guidance on what products you need for your home and lifestyle, check out the Crunchy Baby Registry Bundle.

Use code SAVE50 to save an extra 50%!

The Non-Toxic Baby Registry Checklist

1 | Car Seats

Let’s start with one of the most important items on your registry: the car seat. This is a good place to start because it’s an important purchase, and it also usually determines which stroller you buy. So you can kind of knock out two big decisions in one!

While you can choose to start with a convertible car seat or an all-in-one, they are not portable like infant seats are. I personally like to use an infant car seat for the first six months and then switch to a convertible car seat. Some families start with a convertible car seat from the very beginning. Choose what works for you, but be sure your car seat is on my list of non-toxic car seats.

Infant Car Seat: I recommend investing in a non-toxic car seat with side-impact protection. Choose any infant car seat from my list of non-toxic car seats. My current favorites are the Chicco KeyFit Cleartex and the Nuna Pipa RX.

Extra Car Seat Base: This will be handy if your baby will travel in more than one car. A car seat base can only be used with an infant car seat, and they are not interchangeable between brands. For example, if you choose an UPPAbaby carseat, you must buy the seat model’s corresponding UPPAbaby carseat base if you need an extra base for a second car; please note that infant car seats will come with one base.

Convertible Car Seat: Some families prefer to skip the infant car seat and use a convertible car seat from day one; as I mentioned above, I prefer to use an infant car seat for a few months. It really helps to be able to transfer the car seat to the stroller when your baby has fallen asleep in the car. If you do go this route, I still recommend that you add a convertible car seat to your registry since it’s a pricey item, and you’ll be needing one sooner than you realize. There are so many great ones to choose from! We had a Britax ClickTight Convertible Car Seat and I really loved the ClickTight technology (it’s so easy to install correctly, and that’s really the most important thing!). I also previously had a Clek Foonf (only buy the “Ziip” fabrics). I also love the Chicco ClearTex seats and the Nuna Rava is also really popular with my readers.

Car Seat Mirror: I have been using this car seat mirror and have been happy with it. It attaches pretty securely, so I don’t worry about it coming off.

Car Seat Toys: While it isn’t necessary at all, you might want to consider having some car seat toys that can attach to the car seat.

Portable Noise Machine: Babies tend to cry in the car seat. Nothing helped to calm my baby down more than this travel white noise machine; it also helps with getting him to sleep while we are out. It is a must-have! I keep it in my purse at all times.

Car Seat Bunting: If you live in a colder climate, you may want to use car seat bunting to keep your baby warm. (Note: It isn’t safe to leave jackets or outerwear on your baby while they are strapped in the car seat, so this is a safe alternative.)

2 | Strollers

A stroller is one of those big-ticket baby items you’ll use almost every day. The right one should fit your lifestyle, whether that means city sidewalks, suburban walks, or travel-friendly adventures, while keeping your little one safe and comfortable. I recommend choosing at least one stroller for your registry, if not two. I mostly use a full-size stroller for the first year or so, and then switch to the umbrella stroller because it is lighter and more convenient to use.

Full-Size Stroller: If you are getting an infant car seat, you’ll want to buy a stroller that is compatible with your car seat to make it a “travel system”. That means you can attach the car seat to the stroller (and that is the main reason to start with an infant car seat!).

Otherwise, if you aren’t getting an infant car seat, you can choose any stroller from my non-toxic strollers list. I used the UPPAbaby Cruz and the Mesa car seat (and was very happy with both), but there are so many options including Chicco, Mockingbird, and Nuna that you should also consider.

Stroller Frame (optional): If you don’t think you need a full-size stroller, you can use a stroller frame instead. It’s lightweight and attaches to your car seat. Some car seat manufacturers make their own stroller frames; if yours doesn’t, you can get the Baby Trend. I honestly don’t see these very much anymore and I never used one myself, so if you are investing in a quality stroller, you can probably skip this item.

Umbrella Stroller: Once your baby begins to sit up unassisted, you can start using an umbrella stroller! I love umbrella strollers because they are so lightweight. My favorite is the UPPAbaby G-LUXE stroller but I would also recommend the Chicco Liteway or the Britax Juniper.

Jogging Stroller: For active mamas, a jogging stroller might be a good item to register for. The best low-tox options I have found are the BOB, the UPPAbaby Ridge, and the Bumbleride. They can be a little bulky, but they are a good replacement for a full-size stroller if you don’t mind the bulkiness.

Stroller Organizer: Some strollers come with their own; if not, you can buy any brand. Find one that has a lot of ratings and will contain your phone, a drink, and a couple other items. I like the Britax, Momcozy, and Ethan & Emma stroller organizers.

Stroller Hooks: These are helpful for hanging shopping bags. I recommend having at least one stroller hook for your stroller. (These are also a good choice.) Mom tip: Just be careful when hanging bags from the stroller because it’s very easy for strollers to tip backwards when you overload them.

Stroller Toys: Have a few toys and accessories that can attach to or be used in your stroller like these link rings, this sound machine, or an organic blanket.

3 | Baby Gear

From baby carriers to bouncers, these are the items that make life with a newborn more manageable. Think of this category as your “helper gear” — aka things that give you hands-free moments and keep baby cozy. These items are perfect for baby shower gifts, so you’ll definitely want to add these to your registry!

Baby Bouncer: I can’t live without a bouncer during baby’s first few months! They’re so useful during that stage where your baby is still unable to sit up unassisted. Even though there are many copycats out there, I still love and would choose the BabyBjorn Bouncer. There are times I wished I had the Nuna Leaf. But be sure to check out my full list of non-toxic baby bouncers and read up on why jumpers are not recommended for babies.

Travel Crib/Play Yard: An absolute must-have! Pick a good, non-toxic baby play yard like the Nuna Sena Aire. What I love about the Nuna is that you can buy it with a changing pad, so I used this for changing diapers downstairs while I had my full nursery and changing table upstairs.

Mini Play Yard: For smaller spaces, you may want to use a mini play yard. For example, I used a regular-sized Nuna Sena downstairs, but had a mini playyard in my bathroom to keep the baby safe and contained while I am getting changed or taking a shower. Note: I used a wonderful baby bouncer during the newborn stage and didn’t use the mini playyard until he was mobile. (Don’t worry, he got plenty of floor time, too!)

Play Yard sheets: If your play yard doesn’t come with sheets, don’t forget to buy *at least* one extra.

Baby Carrier: Another essential item for all new moms, a baby carrier will be a life-saver. Finding the right carrier for you can be a process, but I like using a wrap like the Moby or K’tan while my babies are newborns. Then I switch to a soft-structured carrier.

High Chair: Your baby will be using a high chair faster than you know it, so I recommend registering for one. We have this high chair and love it, but there are some other great non-toxic high chairs to choose from. This version can also be used from birth, which is nice because that gives your baby a seat at the table with the family, even from the very early stages.

Floor Seat: Baby floor seats help keep your baby stay in a sitting position, but they should not be used before your baby can sit up unassisted. Make sure to use the kind linked here and not the regular Bumbo seats, which do not provide proper support.

Baby Swing: Optional in my book, a baby swing is one of those products that parents either use a ton or not at all. You can look at the Nuna Leaf, the Stokke swing, or the Finn & Emma, although these are totally different types of swings.

Shopping Cart Cover: Not essential at all, but I like to use a shopping cart cover until my baby is about 12-13 months old. If you don’t mind polyester, Boppy makes a great one. (Please avoid any that have a placeholder for a cell phone… that is so unnecessary!) Otherwise, try using a nursing cover that doubles as a shopping cart cover.

4 | Nursery

Your baby’s nursery doesn’t need to be elaborate, but having a few well-chosen essentials will make those early months smoother. Focus on safety, comfort, and creating a calming space for both you and your baby. When it comes to choosing the large items of furniture that will be in your baby’s nursery, it’s important to buy non-toxic and organic whenever possible. As you’ll see, on some of these smaller items, I have included options that aren’t totally perfect, but lower-tox than most mainstream options. Do what makes sense for your budget and your needs.

Crib: We love our Romina Furniture and I think this is the best of the best when it comes to nursery furniture. But if it’s not within your budget, there are other great brands of nursery furniture to consider. Check out the full guide to non-toxic baby furniture brands and my guide to non-toxic cribs. For example, here’s one from Babyletto that you could consider. (It’s your call as to whether you add the crib to your registry.)

Dresser: Optional. You can use the dresser to store your baby’s clothes and diapers, and also as a changing table. I use the top drawer as the diaper station (it holds diapers, wipes, washcloths, rash cream, and more).

Crib Mattress: This is the most important item that you will buy for your baby since your baby will spend thousands of hours sleeping on their mattress. It’s essential to avoid mainstream/traditional crib mattresses which can contain formaldehyde, vinyl, fiberglass, and flame retardants. Instead, I recommend investing in an organic crib mattress (click that link for a comparison of the top mattresses).

I love Naturepedic and the Emily Natural Crib Mattress. Definitely add the crib mattress to your registry (View these mattresses on Amazon)! And be sure to register for gift cards on your Amazon baby registry; in case you don’t receive the mattress as a gift, you can put your gift cards toward the cost of a non-toxic baby mattress.

Waterproof Mattress Pad (2-3): If you are buying a non-toxic crib mattress, you will need at least two waterproof mattress pads (since some non-toxic mattresses aren’t waterproof).

Crib Sheets (3): Organic crib sheets are a must, and the good news is they’re easy to find and affordable. I like Burt’s Bees Baby’s crib sheets, but you can also check out these other organic sheet recommendations or shop this list on my Amazon store.

Crib Skirt: Optional. A crib skirt is more about style than anything else. It’s completely up to you if you’d like to register for this.

Changing Table: Optional. If you don’t have room for a large dresser that can accommodate a changing pad, you could always hang your baby’s clothes in the closet and simply use a changing table instead.

Changing Table Pad: I recommend the Naturepedic changing pad but I know it can be out of budget for some. For other options, see my guide to the best changing table pads.

Changing Table Covers (3-4): I recommend having 3-4 changing pad covers, since they can get messy pretty easily. We seem to always have one in the wash, so I like having extras on hand.

Rocking Chair/Glider: It’s important to get a non-toxic glider or rocking chair that doesn’t contain toxic flame retardants. The good news is that they’re somewhat affordable. Check out my guide to the best gliders to find the one that best matches your nursery.

Bassinet: What your baby sleeps on during their first 4-6 months matters. Choose one of these non-toxic bassinets. We had the Halo Bassinest and were happy with it. Other options include Moses baskets and co-sleepers that allow the baby to sleep right next to your bed.

Bassinet sheets: Be sure to get organic bassinet sheets if possible.

Baby Loungers: Though they are very popular, baby loungers like the Dockatot are not safe for unsupervised sleep. We only used our Snuggle Me Organic as a lounger or for fully supervised naps. Please do not use this for sleep.

Baby Monitor: Avoid dangerously high levels of electromagnetic frequency by choosing one of these low-emission baby monitors. And use a monitor as little as possible.

White Noise Machine: My secret to better baby sleep, a white noise machine is a must-have! The best on the market is the Marpac Dohm (now called Yogasleep), but I do recommend a couple other machines in my guide to white noise machines.

Humidifier: This is a must-have. You’ll get a lot of use out of this when your baby isn’t feeling well, or if you live in a particularly dry area. We use this one, though I have my eye on this stainless steel humidifier that’s super easy to clean. Another popular one is the Canopy Humidifier, which has a tank (and other parts) that can be washed in the dishwasher. Choosing a humidifier usually comes down to convenience and cost! You can also check out my full guide to the best humidifiers for babies. Just be sure not to get one that uses an antibacterial filter, because it those are treated with unnecessary chemicals.

Laundry Hamper: You’ll be doing a lot of laundry, so make sure to have a hamper you’re happy with. You could go with a rope basket, one of these viral laundry baskets, or something cute and stylish to fit your nursery decor.

Mobile: Optional, but I think all babies should have one. I like this high-contrast mobile because it is visually stimulating for newborns.

Storage Baskets: Nursery organization is truly an art. Buy or register for storage baskets based on your nursery setup, and your personal sense of style. Here are some nursery organization items on Amazon to get you started! Also, these polypropylene baskets from Target are a great find, and a safe plastic to use.

Baby Clothing Hangers: Target sells baby clothing hangers at an affordable price. I don’t stress too much about the materials, but I do recommend plastic hangers to the flocked hangers (even though we both know they are cuter!).

5 | Diapering Essentials

Diapering will be a big part of your daily routine, so having the right setup makes all the difference. A good changing area, safe diapers, and a few handy accessories will keep things cleaner and less stressful. Be sure to stick with non-toxic in this category; anything that comes in direct contact with your baby should be gentle and safe for their skin and their health.

Diapers: Choose from eco-friendly, chlorine-free disposable diapers or organic cloth diapers. Or, a combination of the two! For disposables, my current favorites are Healthy Baby and Kudos diapers.

Wipes: For the most part, I have always used Water Wipes, but I also carry some Honest Wipes or these Soapberry wipes for wiping messes off my toddler’s hands when we are out. My honest advice for any new mama about baby wipes is this: use wet wipes when you need them, and be sure to choose a clean brand of baby wipes. Speaking from experience, we have had eczema reactions due to some of the ingredients in other brands of baby wipes. HOWEVER, when possible, I strongly recommend using homemade wipes with a clean wipes solution. Wet wipes are for convenience, and they aren’t a truly clean option. It comes down to choosing the cleanest that’s available.

Diaper Bag: Definitely register for a diaper bag or two! There are so many options out there, but I prefer something that helps make me feel put together as a new mom. So I want my diaper bag to be stylish, but still functional. I like Freshly Picked, Ayla & Co, Skip Hop Forma, and Fawn Design, but I rounded up several of my favorite diaper bags that you can register for on Amazon.

Diaper Pail and Liners: No matter what kind of diapers you’re using, you’ll need somewhere to toss your dirty diapers. I recommend the Ubbi stainless steel diaper pail. If you’re using disposable diapers, you can use regular trash bags; if you’re using cloth diapers, you’ll want a wet bag.

Diaper Rash Cream: There are lots of great choices! I like Earth Mama Organics and you can also check out our other diaper cream recommendations.

Cloth Diaper Spray: You’ll need these if you are going to use cloth diapers. Be sure to check out my cloth diapering 101 guide.

Wipes Warmer: Completely optional! We didn’t plan on getting one, but ended up with this one.

6 | Baby Bath Time Essentials

Bath time can be one of the sweetest bonding experiences with your baby. A few gentle, non-toxic essentials will make it safe, enjoyable, and tear-free for both of you.

Bath Tub: Make sure to register for a baby bathtub that doesn’t contain BPA or phthalates. This one is great, although a bit large.

Baby Shampoo/Body Wash: Babies don’t need much soap, but if you prefer to use some I like Carina Organic Unscented or one of the brands listed on our guide to baby shampoos.

Baby Hair Brush: These are so handy! Try this hairbrush made with natural bristles.

Towels: Organic cotton hooded towels are great for babies. Try these from Natemia or check out the full list on our bathtime essentials guide.

Wash Cloths: Similarly, organic cotton washcloths are the best for your baby.

Bath Toys: It’s a great idea to register for bath toys since your baby will be playing with them before you know it. Both my boys are currently playing with these rubber bath toys. Check out my complete guide to non-toxic bath toys for more suggestions.

Bath Toy Organizer: Keep your baby’s bath toys dry, clean, and put away with a bath toy organizer.

Bath Rinser: Believe it or not, I have a favorite bath rinser, and there are many that don’t even come close to it. Do yourself a favor and don’t spend money on any other bath rinsers… this is the best that’s out there! However, I think this product might be phasing out of production (sadly!), in which case, I would go with this bath rinser as an alternative. I was able to find it at Target, so try there too!

Bath Faucet Cover: This helps prevent bumps and bruises. We use this one from Skip Hop, but now there are so many cuter faucet covers out there like this one from Mushie.

Bath Kneeler: While these are optional and I personally never used one (that reads like a flex but it is not a flex… I’m just saying), you may find a bath kneeler useful.

Bath Mat: An all-natural rubber bath mat is perfect to prevent slips and falls once your baby starts using the regular bathtub. This product sells out often, so keep checking!

7 | Medicine & Baby Care

Every parent needs a small stash of baby-safe remedies and care items on hand. This category covers the basics that will help you handle fevers, stuffy noses, and those little surprises that come with babyhood. These items don’t need to be added to your baby registry, but definitely can be. It’s up to you! For a full list of options, and more info on each of these items, please check out my natural baby care list.

Nasal Aspirator: The Nose Frida is definitely the most popular, but if this makes you squirm, I have listed some other options on my guide to nasal aspirators. If you are looking for an electric option (why not?), try the Grownsy or the Dr. Nose Best (I’ve never used this one but it seems to have a cult following!).

Saline Nasal Spray: This isn’t a must-have, but if you do want some on hand I recommend these drops.

Gripe Water: I recommend the Wellements brand, but not all babies will need gripe water. In fact, you can probably skip this altogether.

Multi-Purpose Salve or Ointment: Instead of petroleum jelly, try Sky Organics Petroleum-Free Jelly, Wellements Healing Balm, or Babo Botanicals All Natural Healing Ointment.

Baby Thermometer: Rectal thermometers work best, and I have been happy with the Vicks Rectal Baby Thermometer.

Cotton Swabs: Sky Organics makes baby safety swabs that work well for cleaning little ears and hard to reach spots… while keeping them safe.

Nail Clippers or Scissors: The best one I have found (and I’ve used many) is the NailFrida. It comes with a nail file, too.

Pacifiers: There are so many great pacifiers that don’t contain any plastic parts. I only feel comfortable with one-piece pacis (two part pacis are a choking hazard). Some of my favorites are Natursutten, Ninni Co, and Tommee Tippee. Check out my full list here, and expect to try a couple of different pacifiers before you find the one your baby likes.

Pacifier Clips (2-3): If you are using pacifiers, be sure not to forget the pacifier clips! Mushie makes cute ones and so does Ryan & Rose.

Cold Compress: This isn’t an essential item to have at first, but it will come in handy. These baby ice packs works great and the cute design helps when your little one has an owwie.

Medicine Dispenser: Most medicine will come with a dispenser, but you may want to have one like the Munchkin Medicine Dispenser or the Frida Baby on hand.

Teething Toys: Definitely add these to your baby registry, including Sophie the Giraffe or Comotomo Silicone Teether. (Plan on having more than one teether for your baby; 2-3 is a good idea.) I also have a full list of non-toxic teething toys.

8 | Baby Clothing

Babies grow fast, and it’s easy to go overboard with clothes. Aim for soft, comfortable, and easy-to-wash basics that keep your little one cozy without overwhelming your laundry pile. Stick with organic cotton or 100% cotton as much as possible to avoid exposing your baby’s skin to synthetic materials and pesticides; anything else can be too harsh on a baby’s sensitive and developing system.

As far as brands go, some of my personal favorites are Burt’s Bees Baby, Lamaze Organics, Colored Organics, and Hanna Andersson. But there are several more listed on my full guide to the best certified organic baby clothes. Note: people will usually buy baby clothes without looking at your baby registry, but if you’re having a large baby shower, you may also want to register for baby clothes in sizes 3 months, 6 months, and 9 months.

Side-Snap/Kimono Tops (4-6): These are best for your baby’s early days, before their umbilical cord stump falls off. Look into these organic side-snap tops.

Footed PJ’s (5 or more): These are very useful for sleep and play.

Sleeping Gowns (2-3): These are optional, but they do make middle of the night diaper changes easier.

Baby Bodysuits (5 or more): Your baby will wear a lot of these, so I prefer to stock up.

Pants/Leggings (5 or more): Be sure to have enough pants or leggings for your baby to wear with their bodysuits/onesies.

Socks (5 or more): Babies have cold feet, so baby socks are useful.

Hats (3 to 5): Recommended if you live in a colder climate or keep your home on the cool side.

Outerwear (1-2): If you live in a colder climate, please be sure to dress your baby accordingly, use bunting, or have enough blankets available for layering.

Shoes (optional): Baby shoes are just for fun, and not necessary at all.

Newborn Mittens (2-3): Baby mittens are great for preventing scratches (i.e. before you gain enough confidence to start clipping your baby’s nails). They do limit the use of their hands, so they aren’t ideal for 24/7 use, but I did use them with both kids on a short-term basis.

Laundry Detergent: Molly’s Suds is the way to go! But if you would like more info, or some other options, check out my guide to the best baby-safe laundry detergents.

9 | Sleepwear

Safe, comfortable sleepwear is key for those long nights (and baby naps). Look for breathable, natural fabrics that keep baby snug without overheating. You won’t need all of these items from the very beginning, but they make great baby shower gifts so I encourage you to register for them. And they’ll come in handy sooner than you realize! For more detail and other product recommendations, be sure to check out my full guide to baby sleepwear.

Baby Blankets (1-3): There are so many nice baby blankets out there! I encourage you to get one that is 100% organic cotton.

Muslin Swaddle Blankets (4-5): Even if you don’t end up using these for swaddling, you can still use them as receiving blankets. They are very handy, so I encourage you to have a few of these on hand at any time. I recommend these organic muslin swaddle blankets.

Velcro Swaddle Blankets (2): Velcro swaddles are the way to go (if you decide to swaddle… not everyone does)! They are very easy to use and make middle of the night changes so much easier. We used Swaddle Me’s organic swaddles and were very happy with them (they were a tiny big too big for my newborns, but we got a lot of use out of them after the first couple of weeks), but you can find more organic swaddles here.

Swaddle Transition Suits: There are two sleepsuits that are the most helpful for transitioning your baby out of the swaddle: the Merlin Sleepsuit and the Halo Sleepsack. I recommend getting at least one Halo Sleepsack early on because they make great swaddles (especially for taller babies), and also help with the transition out of the swaddle. Check out our full guide to transitioning out of the swaddle for more options.

Sleep Sacks for 6+ months (2): After you stop swaddling your baby, use a wearable blanket over your baby’s PJs. Some good options include Burt’s Bees Baby and the Woolino (start with the baby size before sizing up to the toddler version).

10 | Bottle-Feeding

Whether you’re exclusively bottle feeding, pumping, or combo feeding, the right bottles and accessories can make the process smoother. Prioritize non-toxic materials and a setup that simplifies your routine. For a full guide to non-toxic baby bottles and supplies, check out my guide to baby bottles and accessories. And for baby formula recommendations, check out my guides: best organic baby formula, goat milk formula, and hypoallergenic infant formula.

Baby Bottles: Finding the best baby bottle for you isn’t as simple as choosing the most popular glass baby bottles. It usually takes a little trial and error, so I encourage you to register for two brands of baby bottles. If you plan to use baby formula, opt for a wide-mouth bottle. I have always loved the Philips Avent Bottles and these would be my first choice, but you can check out my other recommendations on this guide to the best glass baby bottles.

Bottle Drying Rack: To allow your bottles to fully dry after hand washing or removing them from the dishwasher, a drying rack is recommended. I still vote for the OXO Tot Rack but I have others listed here on my Amazon store.

Bottle Warmer: You can either use a bottle warmer or heat bottles under warm running water. If you prefer to use a warmer, consider the Philips Avent Bottle Warmer. For more options, check out my guide to bottle warmers or here on Amazon.

Bottle Brushes: This is something that new parents often forget to buy (and you might not realize you even need one until you go to wash your first bottle). Be sure to have one or two of these on hand in your kitchen. I like the Munchkin brushes but I have also used these from Dr. Brown’s.

Formula Mixer: If you will be using baby formula, you might want to get a Baby Brezza. However, I don’t fully recommend this product because the water chamber is made from plastic. If you would rather use something low-tech or made with glass, try this formula mixing pitcher instead.

11 | Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding can be beautiful, but also challenging. A few supportive essentials can make the experience more comfortable for you and help you feel prepared in those early weeks. To help set yourself up for breastfeeding success, check out my list of breastfeeding essentials for new moms as well as my guide to the best breast pumps. Not all moms feel comfortable registering for breastfeeding accessories; it’s completely up to you!

Nursing Bras (3-4+): I recommend having nursing bras for sleep as well as for daytime. I have used bras from Cake and Kindred Bravely and also would try this one from Momcozy. Have a few on hand! I also have several other options listed here on my Amazon store (including some that are made from 100% cotton or organic cotton).

Nursing Tanks (3-4): These are a must for those early days of nursing. Pact makes an organic nursing tank, and if you are ok with synthetic fabrics, this brand has great reviews.

Nursing Pillow: There are a few great organic nursing pillows available, but my favorite is the The Nesting Pillow.

Nursing Cover: I have tried many (including the infinity scarves and the ponchos) and I still believe the best brand is Bebe au Lait. There are some really chic ones made by Quince, SollyBaby, and MakeMake Organics, too!

Breast Pads: These are a must and will be very helpful, especially in the first couple of weeks of nursing. I ended up using these organic washable pads and they have been wonderful.

Hot/Cold Therapy Packs: These are a must! I used Bamboobies. Be sure to have these on hand in case of engorgement. They have bailed me out more times than I can even remember.

Nipple Butter: I am partial to the herbal nipple butters from Earth Mama Organics and Motherlove. (I wouldn’t use anything with lanolin in it…!) Nipple butter *saved* me when I was nursing my second baby the first couple of weeks. If you want to look at other options, check out my full guide to organic nipple creams.

Breast Pumps:

• For electric breast pumps, both Medela and Spectra are very popular and effective brands. You may be able to order this through insurance, too.
• As for a manual breast pump, I definitely say go for it. I would choose my manual breast pump over my electric pump any day! I love the Medela Harmony but there are some others available including Dr. Brown’s, Willow, and Philips.
• Wearable breast pumps are so convenient, too. You could look at the Willow, Medela Freestyle, or the Momcozy.
• What about a silicone breast pump? More a milk-catcher than an actual pump, silicone breast pumps are amazing little devices! I have the original Haakaa, but there are so many other styles of milk catchers on the market like the Boon Trove and the Haakaa Ladybug.

Hands-Free Pumping Bra: If you plan to pump, a hands-free pumping bra is a must (unless you go with milk catchers or wearable pumps). It allows you to pump both breasts completely hands-free. The Simple Wishes pumping bra has been a go-to for a long time, and it’s made from 83% cotton so yay!

Breastmilk storage:

• Breastmilk storage bags are the most convenient method for storing and freezing breastmilk, but I don’t love using them because they are made from plastic. To me, they’re a necessary evil, but you should consider how you feel about this and if you decide to get them, I like the ones from Medela or Lansinoh.
• There are some silicone breastmilk bags on the market, but they are bulkier and in my opinion, not as easy to use. Here’s another style that you could consider or you could go with silicone breastmilk storage bottles instead. I don’t mind silicone for breastmilk storage, but I would not recommend heating breastmilk in silicone because that can cause the silicone to break down.
• If you prefer to avoid plastic breastmilk storage altogether, you could store breastmilk in glass mason jars. I like the ones with plastic lids.

Burp Rags: Both of my sons have had reflux, so our burp rags got plenty of use. I have used the burp cloths from Burt’s Bees Baby in the past and liked that they were thin, but these muslin burp cloths from Mushie look both absorbent and cute.

12 | Feeding Your Infant and Toddler

Once your baby is ready for solids, mealtimes become a whole new adventure. Having the right feeding gear will keep things less messy, more fun, and as non-toxic as possible. Do future you a favor and choose some of those products now, before your baby arrives. And if you’re having a big baby shower, why not add these items to your registry as well?

Bibs: Whether you plan to follow baby led weaning or start with purees, your baby is bound to get a little messy while eating. Silicone bibs are great and I love that they catch dropped food (my son used to eat out of his!), but I also like cotton bibs like these from green sprouts.

Baby Blender: If you plan to feed your baby purees, please try to make them at home as much as possible. It’s very easy and takes little time if you have an efficient blender like the VitaMix.

Steamer basket: A steamer basket also comes in handy when making your own baby food.

Baby Food Storage: These 4 oz. glass jars are the perfect size for storing purees.

Toddler Plates: I like using simple stainless steel toddler plates but these plates from Elk and Friends are also really popular. We usually have four plates and use heavy-duty stainless steel bowls from Caveman Cups. They are such high quality!

Sippy/Straw Cups: Read my full article on sippy cup alternatives to see why sippy cups are not good for your baby’s development. My personal favorite straw cups are the Pura Kiki single-walled bottles.

Toddler Cups: For toddler cups, we recommend either an open cup (or try this brand — it will last you forever!) or a straw bottle once your little one has learned how to use an open cup. We have lots of non-toxic sippy cup alternative recommendations for you to choose from, depending on your child’s needs.

Toddler Silverware: We went through a little trial and error with silverware. Finally, we ended up trying the OXO Tot fork and spoon set and absolutely love them! We will never go back to any other brand of toddler forks and spoons.

13 | Playtime and Learning

Books and baby toys make great baby shower gifts, so be sure to register for ones that you would actually want to receive.

Activity Gym: Lovevery’s play gym is really popular with my readers and I also really like this one from HABA. (See more play gym options.) You can place them on a blanket underneath the activity gym, or use a non-toxic play mat.

Play Mat: Choose from one of my top non-toxic play mats. I’m really partial to the cotton playmats and nursery rugs.

Baby Books: Start building your baby’s first library with my list of the top baby books. Some of my absolute favorites include When the World Was Waiting For You and I Love You Because You’re You. We also have a guide to the best bedtime story books, which are great for reading during your baby’s bedtime routine.

Baby Toys: Your baby won’t need much to play with as a newborn, but one day you will notice that they are just ready to play and can’t get their hands on enough toys. I definitely recommend registering for your favorite baby toys. Check out my list of the best non-toxic baby toys and register for some of the toys I’ve listed there.

Bath Toys: Check out my guide to the best non-toxic bath toys to find your favorites.

FREE Download

This spreadsheet is designed to help you plan and track your entire baby registry! It also helps you keep tabs on your baby product expenses. Enter your email below to download the file and then make your own notes as you review the product suggestions in the article.

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And, that concludes the non-toxic baby registry checklist!

I truly hope you aren’t feeling overwhelmed. Remember, this checklist includes every single thing you might possibly need in the first year or so, and not only what you actually need. If you’re a minimalist, for example, you might choose only half of these items. If you live in a small apartment in a big city, your checklist will look a lot different than a mom living in a suburb with tons of space in her home.

Find what works for you and don’t overwhelm yourself and your home with baby product clutter.

Keep Reading:

• 11 Must-Read Baby Registry Tips and Hacks for New Moms
• The Best Baby Registry Sites: Where to Register and How to Score the Best Perks
• 10 Household Chemicals to Avoid During Pregnancy
• Non-Toxic Car Seats: How to Avoid Toxic Flame Retardants in Infant Car Seats
• The 15 Best Certified Organic Crib Mattresses for Babies
• How to Share Your Baby Registry With Friends & Family