theCityMoms’ Baby Registry Must Haves of 2026
Our editor-approved baby registry checklist featuring the products we'd actually recommend to a friend.
Building your baby registry checklist is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for a new baby—but let's be honest, it also feels like, well, a lot. Every product claims to be must-have items, social media has opinions about (literally) everything, and somehow your registry ends up with 300 items...when you probably need a fraction of that.
Hiiii. That's where we come in.
Every year, theCityMoms rounds up the products our team - and the thousands of moms in our following - actually love. These are the baby registry must haves we've tested, recommended to friends, reached for on a regular basis during those middle-of-the-night moments, and would happily put on our baby registry list all over again.
Whether you're building your first baby registry or updating your list for baby number two (or three...), this checklist is packed with smart, practical finds that make everyday parenting easier - from travel systems and feeding essentials to nursery favorites, baby gear - and the little products you don't realize you need until baby is here. Plus we couldn't help but include a few of our favorite items to help round out the list of baby registry essentials.
We've organized everything by category (and linked in our online shop for ease!) so you can build your ultimate baby registry checklist with confidence. Happy registering!
Editor's Pick: The #1 Baby Registry Must Have
Safety 1st Foldtastic™ Auto-Fold Lightweight Travel System
Our top pick this year is the Safety 1st Foldtastic Auto-Fold Lightweight Travel System, and for good reason. Safety 1st has spent decades helping families confidently navigate parenthood with products designed around one priority: making everyday life safer and easier for children.
Its standout feature is the one-handed automatic fold, allowing parents to collapse the stroller with the simple push of a button—even while holding baby or juggling groceries. The lightweight frame makes loading it into the car refreshingly easy, while the included infant car seat creates a complete travel system that grows alongside your family from day one.
Why it's a registry must-have:
One-touch automatic folding
Lightweight travel-friendly design
Complete infant travel system
Excellent everyday maneuverability
Trusted Safety 1st safety engineering
Outstanding value compared to premium competitors
If you're wondering where to begin with your list of baby registry items, we'd start right here.
Featured Product
Grownsy Portable Bottle Warmer
Parents are spending more time on the go than ever before—and this is one product you'll quickly realize you can't live without during your own travels.
The Grownsy Portable Bottle Warmer makes warming bottles while traveling remarkably simple. Rechargeable, compact, and completely cordless, it heats breast milk or formula wherever your day takes you—whether that's running errands, boarding a flight, visiting grandparents, or surviving a long road trip.
What really sets it apart is that it was designed for the entire feeding journey, not just warming. Once the milk reaches the perfect temperature, simply swap the travel cap for the included feeding nipple and feed directly from the same container—no transferring milk, washing extra bottles, or juggling multiple pieces while holding a hungry baby. It warms refrigerated milk in as little as 3–5 minutes, offers dedicated warming modes for breast milk and formula, and the detachable bottle makes cleanup refreshingly simple.
Why we love it:
Rechargeable with up to 7 warming sessions on a single charge
Warms refrigerated milk in approximately 3-5 minutes
Feed directly from the same container-no transferring required
Dedicated breast milk and formula warming modes
Leak-proof design with detachable bottle for easier cleaning
Great for travel, restaurants, airports, and overnight outings
(In our own opinion, this might be the perfect baby gift for all new parents!)
Travel Systems & Everyday Strollers
Whether you're strolling the neighborhood, boarding a plane, or packing up for a weekend getaway, your stroller is one of the hardest-working pieces of baby gear you'll own. These are the models we'd confidently recommend based on different family lifestyles and travel needs. And while we know there are lots of options on the market, these are our favorites:
Photo credit: Babbleroo
Best travel stroller: BabbleRoo HopLite Travel Stroller
Lightweight, compact, the least size intrusive, and easy to maneuver, the HopLite was recently voted the #1 Travel Stroller by Parents Magazine. And we see why: It's TSA-compliant, weighs only 12.7 pounds, is overhead-bin-friendly, plus it includes a travel carry bag and shoulder strap.
Photo credit: Zoe Baby
Single, everyday use: ZOE Tour³ Single Stroller
Lightweight, easy to fold, and designed to grow with your family, the Zoe Tour³ is a versatile everyday stroller that combines travel-friendly convenience with all-day comfort. We love the colorways and how versatile it is to sneak thru small spaces on the go.
Photo credit: Zoe Baby
Must-have accessory: ZOE Ride-On Board
The Zoe Ride-On Board easily attaches to compatible Zoe strollers, giving older siblings a convenient place to ride when little legs need a break. This is perfect when you have a new baby and your OG baby in tow, out at a museum, zoo, or just navigating a busy city sidewalk.
Photo credit:Thule
Best jogging stroller: Thule Urban Glide 3
Whether you're jogging, walking trails, or simply enjoying daily neighborhood strolls, the Urban Glide 3 has exceptional suspension, premium handling, and durability. It isn't the most compact fold, but if you have the garage or trunk space, it's a tradeoff you'll hardly notice.
Photo credit: Zoe Baby
Favorite for multiples: Zoe Tribe V³
Built for larger families, the Tribe comfortably accommodates multiple children while remaining surprisingly lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Photo credit: Bombi Gear
Favorite wagon option: Bombi Waggle Folding Stroller Wagon
Part stroller, part wagon, this versatile option is perfect for growing families needing extra seating and storage for everything from zoo trips to soccer games.
Other honorable stroller mentions worth checking out:
Jeep Wrangler Deluxe Stroller Wagon with Cooler Bag: Adventure-ready and family-friendly, this stroller wagon features generous cargo space plus a built-in cooler to keep snacks and drinks close at hand.
Inglesina Quid³ Stroller: Designed with premium craftsmanship, the Quid³ delivers a remarkably smooth ride in a compact frame that's easy to fold, carry, and store - especially for families who travel often.
Momcozy TuckGo Travel Stroller: A great option for parents constantly on the move, the TuckGo folds quickly, travels easily, and offers a comfortable ride without adding unnecessary bulk.
Travel & On-the-Go Essentials
Getting out of the house with a baby doesn't have to feel overwhelming. These products help keep outings organized, comfortable, and much less stressful.
BabbleRoo Puffer Tote Diaper Bag
Equal parts stylish and practical, this roomy tote keeps diapers, bottles, snacks, and everyday essentials organized without looking like a traditional diaper bag. This also comes with its own change mat for easy on-the-go diaper changes.
BabbleRoo Wide Top Diaper Backpack
A modern backpack with generous storage, wide openings, and hands-free convenience that works just as well for everyday errands as weekend travel. We’re obsessed with the attached pacifier pouch too!
Photo credit: Kindred Bravely
STORQ Baby Stroller Party Caddy Bag
Designed to attach directly to your stroller, this organizer keeps your phone, coffee, snacks, and baby essentials within easy reach.
Photo credit: Kindred Bravely
STORQ Baby Mini Cooler Bag
Perfect for bottles, breast milk, or snacks, this insulated cooler is compact enough to toss into any diaper bag.
Photo credit: Whimsi Clips
Whimsi Clips Silicone Stroller Clips
These flexible silicone clips securely hold blankets, toys, muslin swaddles, and shopping bags to your stroller—one of those simple products you'll use constantly, and are durable enough for everyday use. Trust: This is the next big thing.
Feeding Essentials
From newborn bottles to first foods, these products help simplify every stage of feeding.
Photo credit: Target
Grownsy 10-in-1 Smart Bottle Warmer
Warm bottles, thaw frozen milk, sterilize, and more with one countertop appliance designed to simplify feeding routines from day one.
Grownsy 4-in-1 EaseClean Bottle Washer Pro
Parents quickly discover how many bottles pile up each day. This all-in-one system washes, sterilizes, dries, and stores bottles with minimal effort.
Photo credit: Target
Evenflo Balance Wide-Neck Anti-Colic Glass Bottles
Designed to support natural feeding while reducing gas and colic, these durable glass bottles are a favorite among both breastfeeding and formula-feeding families.
Photo credit: Inglesina
Inglesina Fast Table Chair
Perfect for restaurants, vacations, or grandparents' houses, this portable clip-on chair transforms nearly any table into an instant high chair.
Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair
A true registry investment piece, the Tripp Trapp grows alongside your child from infancy through adulthood with timeless Scandinavian design.
Double Up Bottle Cleaning Brush Set
Thoughtfully designed brushes reach every corner of bottles, nipples, and pump parts while standing upright for quick drying.
Grownsy NutriChef Baby Food Maker
Steam, blend, and prepare homemade baby food all in one compact appliance, making the first journey into solid food easier than ever.
Breastfeeding & Pumping
Whether you're exclusively pumping, nursing, or doing a little of both, these products provide comfort and convenience during every feeding journey.
Momcozy M9 Hands-Free Wearable Breast Pump
Quiet, discreet, and truly wearable, the M9 gives parents the flexibility to pump while continuing with everyday life. Our testers love the handy carrying case, the sleek design and the “library quiet” noise.
Inglesina Elysia Nursing Pillow
Designed to support both baby and parent, this nursing pillow encourages more comfortable positioning during feedings. It's ergonomic design is a literal game changer.
Willow Breast Milk Bag Flatteners
A clever storage solution that freezes breast milk flat for easier organization, maximizing precious freezer space while keeping bags neatly stacked and undisturbed by the rest of your freezer’s contents.
Sleep & Nursery
Helping everyone get a little more sleep? That's something every new parent can appreciate.
Grownsy 5-in-1 Bedside Bassinet
Offering multiple sleep configurations - including bedside sleeper and portable crib - this versatile bassinet adapts to your family's changing needs. We love the breathable mesh and the light frame!
Our runner up selection:
Maxi-Cosi Iora Bedside Bassinet: Keep baby safely close during overnight feedings with this beautifully designed bedside bassinet featuring breathable mesh sides and adjustable height.
The perfect newborn monitor: Owlet Dream Duo Gen 3
Combining a smart sock with HD video monitoring, the Dream Duo gives parents added peace of mind while tracking baby's sleep trends.
For the tech enthusiast: Maxi-Cosi See Pro 360 Baby Monitor
Featuring 360-degree viewing and crystal-clear video, this smart monitor helps parents keep an eye on baby from anywhere. Why this belongs on your list of items: This monitor also features CryAssist AI technology, which helps translate your baby's cries into likely needs—like hunger, sleepiness, gas, or fussiness—in just seconds.
Photo credit: Target
The stand-by sound machine: Yogasleep Dohm Elite White Noise Machine
The original fan-based white noise machine continues to be one of the most trusted ways to create consistent sleep environments.
Photo credit: Hatch
The on-the-go sound machine: Hatch Go Sound Machine
A portable sound machine that's perfect for naps at home, travel, stroller walks, and maintaining familiar sleep routines wherever you go.
Car Seats & Safety
Safety always comes first, and these registry picks help protect your little one through every stage.
Maxi-Cosi Pria All-in-One Convertible Car Seat
Designed to grow from infancy through childhood, the Pria baby car seat offers premium comfort, advanced safety features, and long-term value in one seat. We're obsessed with the soft cup holders that won't hurt baby's thighs or legs if they brush across, and the easy way this transforms from rear to front-facing when it's time.
Baby Carrier/Wearing
We love that baby carriers give parents the freedom to stay close while keeping both hands available for everyday life. And also: Alllll gift registries should include at least one!
BabbleRoo Grow+ Carrier
Comfortable, supportive, and adjustable, this carrier makes babywearing accessible for everyday errands and longer outings. We love the attached hip seat to help take pressure off the parent's back.
Our runner up selection:
Hope&Plum Nepeta Lark Carrier: Designed for growing babies and longer wear, this structured carrier evenly distributes weight for exceptional comfort.
Photo credit: Hope&Plum
Hope&Plum Anemone Ring Sling
Beautifully crafted with soft fabric and an adjustable fit, this ring sling offers a comfortable newborn carry while promoting close bonding.
Bath & Skincare
Gentle, effective products that care for baby's delicate skin while making bath time easier.
Pipette Baby Skincare Collection
From shampoo and wash to lotions and skincare essentials, Pipette's clean, dermatologist-tested products have become favorites among new parents. (Spoiler: We're big fans of their rash cream!)
Photo credit: Target
Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment
A nursery staple for generations, Aquaphor helps soothe diaper rash, dry skin, and countless everyday skin irritations.
Dabble & Dollop Bundle of Joy Gift Set
A beautifully packaged collection of clean, gentle bath products that's perfect for baby showers or first-time parents.
Our must grab: Grownsy SniffEase 3-in-1 Nasal Aspirator
Combining gentle suction, soothing mist, and saline spray functionality, this innovative device helps little ones breathe easier during cold season.
Diapering
These everyday essentials make diaper changes faster, cleaner, and far more convenient.
Momcozy Triple-Seal Diaper Pail
Triple-seal odor protection helps keep nurseries smelling fresh while offering generous capacity and one-handed operation.
DiaperBuddy Portable Changing Kit
A compact all-in-one organizer that keeps diapers, wipes, and changing essentials ready for quick diaper changes anywhere.
Lalo Wipeable Changing Pad
Minimalist, beautifully designed, and incredibly easy to clean, this changing pad eliminates the need for extra covers or laundry.
Playtime & Development
Products that encourage movement, learning, and meaningful interaction from the very beginning.
Lalo Play Gym II
Of all the activity centers, we fell in love with this one. It's designed to support sensory exploration and developmental milestones with thoughtfully curated toys and a modern aesthetic.
STORQ Baby Inside/Outside Play Mat
Soft, generously sized, and easy to clean, this versatile mat transitions seamlessly from tummy time indoors to picnics outside.
Nursery Furniture
These larger investments create a nursery that grows alongside your child.
Delta Children Jalen Grow With Me 9-in-1 Convertible Crib
Built for years of use, this innovative system transforms through multiple stages—from bassinet to full crib and beyond—making it one of the smartest long-term registry investments. Baby will spend a lot of time in this system over the years, and we give it an A+ for aethestic.
Inglesina Welcome Pod Lounger
A cozy, supportive space designed for supervised lounging, giving parents a convenient spot to place baby throughout the day.
Registry Extras
These are the products parents don't always think to register for - but end up reaching for constantly once baby arrives.
Photo credit: Kindred Bravely
Kindred Bravely Bamboo Baby Pajamas
Available in several adorable prints, these buttery-soft bamboo sleepers are breathable, stretchy, and designed to keep little ones comfortable through every stage of growth. These come in newborn sizes on up to 24 months.
Photo credit: Kindred Bravely
Kindred Bravely Organic Muslin Burp Cloths
Highly absorbent, generously sized, and soft enough for delicate skin, you'll never regret having extras of these everyday essentials.
