When your baby arrives, you don't necessarily need all the baby gear, but some basic essentials come in handy right away. Your friends and family may also have a lot of, let’s say, creative gift ideas. That's why baby registries are so useful: You get to create a wish list that helps guide your loved ones to buy what you have so carefully researched and chosen for your baby. And if you haven’t done much research yet, the best baby registry sites can also help you with that. (By the way, we know a thing or two about baby gear too.)
Before you start curating products, you need to pick a retailer (or a few!) with a registry. For some, this might be a no-brainer—we're looking at you, Amazon devotees and Target fanatics! For others, it's a good idea to browse different sites to make sure you find the best baby registry for your needs that’s easy for you (and your gift-givers) and has the products you want. In addition to product selection, keep return policies, free gifts, discounts, brand variety, and group gifting in mind.
Each online baby registry on our list is worth looking into, whether you're searching for specific features, baby essentials, the perfect nursery, affordable prices, or brands.
Best Overall
Babylist
Why We Like It
We love Babylist for the huge selection, free gifts, and money-saving coupons for expectant parents. Babylist is a universal baby registry, which means you have the freedom to add items from any retailer. It's super easy to create your wish list, thanks to the brand's bookmark button. Simply drag it to the bookmarks bar of your browser and start shopping on whatever baby websites you like. When you see a product you want on your registry, click the "Add to Babylist" button, and you're good to go.
There are also plenty of great products available on Babylist's website, and you can compare prices across stores. One of the cutest items is a series of thoughtful favor cards, which lets friends and family volunteer to walk the dog, babysit, make a home-cooked meal, and more.
What Parents Say
“I especially appreciated the fact that I could link products from anywhere I wanted (Amazon, direct websites, and the actual Babylist site) and gave those who purchased from my registry multiple options for where they would like to buy. It was also easy to share the registry with loved ones and keep track of who purchased what.” —Nathaly
“It is so easy to add almost any item from any retailer. Being able to track gifts received was so convenient.” —Nicole
But Take Note
For the gift box, you or your gift-givers need to make a minimum purchase of $30 from the Babylist Shop; plus, you’ll need to pay $9 plus tax for shipping the box. Note that boxes can't be shipped to P.O. boxes, U.S. territories, or international addresses.
The Details:
- Sign-up gift: Yes, with a minimum purchase of $10 from the Babylist Shop
- Return policy: Nine months for items from Babylist Shop; varies for gifts from other retailers
- Completion discount: 15% discount on items sold by Babylist, valid 60 days before your baby’s due date or six months after
- Shipping: Free standard shipping on orders over $45; $8 for orders under $45
Best for Essentials
Target Baby Registry
Why We Like It
Target is one of our favorite places to find every baby (and life?) essential, from diapers to formula to furniture and clothes. With 1,900 locations across the country, Target is a second home for many parents. The one-stop shop carries best-selling baby gear—like stylish gliders, cribs, clothing, nursery decor, and toys. For new parents-to-be, we like the retailer's checklist page, which helps you pick from the most popular baby items and make sure you’re covering all your bases.
You can personalize your registry with photos and a unique URL to make it special and easy to share with loved ones. New parents who sign up for a Target baby registry also receive a free kit after completing their registry that includes coupons and samples with a $100 value. Target offers free two-day shipping to Target Circle Card holders. Otherwise, orders of $35 or more ship free.
What Parents Say
“I liked that they sent you a ‘completion’ coupon where you could buy remaining items (and anything else, honestly) for a discounted price. They also sent me ‘exclusive’ Target Circle offers via the app throughout the following year for discounts on clothing, diapers, feeding supplies, etc., which was really nice.” —Laura
But Take Note
Anyone shopping in-store will need to ship registry gifts separately. Sometimes items from the store’s vast catalog are discontinued without warning, so you’ll have to search for new replacements.
The Details:
- Sign-up gift: Yes
- Return policy: Return items to any Target location within 365 days after your event date
- Completion discount: 15% completion discount
- Shipping: Free two-day shipping on orders over $35 or for Target Circle Card users
Why We Like It
Amazon's baby registry offers ease of use in addition to the nearly endless variety of baby items available. Amazon is also a hub for many top-rated baby brands, including Huggies, Chicco, Graco, Carter's, and more. Not only does the mega-retailer offer practically every baby registry must-have, but it also rewards gift-givers with low prices and free shipping. If friends and family are Prime members, they get free shipping. For non-Prime members, shipping is free for purchases of $25 or more.
Here’s a pleasant surprise: Amazon lets you add items from other websites to your registry, which means you can include products from Target, Pottery Barn, and other popular stores. Plus, it helps manage your thank-yous and returns. A diaper fund is another nice feature of this registry as it allows others to give toward an Amazon gift card that can be used to purchase diapers—often so much more necessary than fancy nursery furniture!
Another great perk of registering with Amazon is that Prime members receive a free "Welcome Box" filled with goodies for both you and your baby. Group gifting is also an option on big-ticket items on your wishlist, so multiple loved ones can pool their resources.
What Parents Say
“Amazon Baby Registry was simple to set up and manage. The registry and the product selection is huge.” —Ryan
“We used both Babylist and Amazon's registry. Both have a [completion] discount, so we took advantage of that discounting a lot to buy all sorts of things we ended up needing after my son was born.” —James
But Take Note
Returning items to the retailer may be a hassle for new parents. Another downside is that there is not an option to add services or experiences. Also, the registry does not automatically close, so remember to deactivate it.
The Details:
- Sign-up gift: Welcome Box
- Return policy: Free returns for up to 365 days
- Completion discount: 15% for Prime members and 10% for non-Prime members
- Shipping: Free for Prime members and on purchases of $25 or more
Best for Furniture and Gear
Pottery Barn Kids Registry
Why We Like It
If you're searching for stylish baby items, consider registering at Pottery Barn Kids. Pottery Barn has must-have items like high chairs, strollers, and diaper bags, and the brand's nursery furniture and decor selection is absolutely stunning. Family and friends can add the baby’s name to blankets, diaper bags, and more to add that extra special touch.
Although its inventory is on the pricier side, the quality and visual appeal are top-notch. You can expect your Pottery Barn items to last for many years to come, so spending the extra money will prove to be worth every penny. There’s also a 15% completion discount. But since you will be limited to baby gear and furniture, consider a second registry for baby essentials.
But Take Note
Pottery Barn Kids items are on the pricey end of the baby gear scale, which may be too high for some of your family and friends. Another downside of this registry is there is no free gift box offered when you sign up for a Pottery Barn Kids registry.
The Details:
- Sign-up gift: No
- Return policy: You can get a refund or exchange your gift within 90 days of your due date or purchase (whichever is later)
- Completion discount: 15% completion discount two months before your event date or six months after
- Shipping: Standard shipping rates
Best for Budget
Walmart Baby Registry
Why We Like It
When you think of budget shopping, chances are Walmart comes to mind. And for good reason—the price-match guarantee means you are always getting the best prices on must-have items. It's a win-win for both you and your loved ones: You find necessary items for your little one, and friends and family don't have to worry about overpriced picks.
Creating a baby registry at Walmart is easy. If you're not sure what to choose, go to Walmart's registry page to browse some of the top items. Walmart’s 90-day return policy is another plus for expectant parents who need additional time to decide what needs to be returned. Some items purchased off the registry can also be returned within one year. And because Walmart stores are almost everywhere these days, loved ones who prefer to shop in-store can do so seamlessly.
But Take Note
There is no group gifting option, and shoppers are limited to products sold by the retailer, which may be a flaw if you want a range of low-cost to premium items.
The Details:
- Sign-up gift: No
- Return policy: Some items can be returned within one year while others have a 90-day return window. You can get cash or a Walmart gift card for unwanted or duplicate gifts.
- Completion discount: No
- Shipping: Free shipping
Best for Those on the Go
Zola Baby
Why We Like It
If you prefer to do your shopping from your phone, Zola’s baby registry may be the right choice for you. This app-only registry lets you browse your favorite stores and add furniture, clothes, services, and basically anything! The good news is that even though the registry is only app-based, family members do not need the app to purchase from the registry. Simply share your registry with others, and they can browse your baby gear list and select their purchase.
Need help narrowing down what to buy? The platform provides a checklist to help you remember the essentials, like diapers and car seats, and helps to manage thank-you notes. Zola also provides a cash fund option for parents planning for their little one’s future.
Another perk: Parents who used Zola for their bridal registry can move those credits over to the Zola baby registry to use for essentials on their wish list. The credits never expire, which means you can apply them toward a purchase later.
But Take Note
Since it’s only available as an app, Zola may not be a good fit for those who are not comfortable using their phone to build their registry. If you prefer shopping online using a laptop or desktop computer, this is not the registry for you. A 2.5% transaction fee will be deducted from your cash fund if you want the money deposited directly into your bank account.
The Details:
- Sign-up gift: No
- Return policy: Free returns up to 90 days for most items, but some exceptions apply
- Completion discount: 15% off 60 days before baby’s arrival and 60 days after
- Shipping: $5.99 for standard shipping on most items
Best Universal Baby Registry
MyRegistry Baby Registry
Why We Like It
MyRegistry can sync multiple registries all in one place. Like Amazon and Babylist, MyRegistry is a universal baby registry website that lets you choose items from several different stores. The online baby registry service provides a user-friendly browser extension that simplifies adding products to your list while shopping online, even at local stores and online baby boutiques.
For expectant parents who prefer to shop using their phones, the MyRegistry app allows you to scan barcodes and manage your wishlist as you go. You can set up a cash gift fund via PayPal for friends and family to contribute to (though it comes with a 2.5% fee). Completion discounts will depend on the retailers synced to your registry.
But Take Note
The transaction charge added on cash gift funds is the most glaring drawback of this universal app because it results in less money actually being deposited in your little one’s account. Group gifting is also not an option.
The Details:
- Sign-up gift: No
- Return policy: Return policies vary by stores where the item was purchased
- Completion discount: Yes, by some participating retailers included in the registry
- Shipping: Shipping policies and prices vary by stores where the item was purchased
Best for First-Time Parents
BuyBuy Baby Registry
Why We Like It
Despite going out of business for a year, BuyBuy Baby is still synonymous with baby gear—and we’re so glad it’s back! The popular baby store goes above and beyond with its baby registry benefits. The retailer offers a price match policy on eligible baby products, a free registry consultant service, a list of registry must-haves, blog posts, and baby registry guides to make building your baby wish list a breeze.
We appreciate how the retailer breaks down the list of must-haves by category such as nursery and diapering. A filter allows you to narrow down products by price, rating, color, and brand.
Another reason why BuyBuy Baby is the best for first-time parents is the range of products and prices to select from when creating a registry. This store ensures expectant parents can cater to all price points when pulling their list together. They also have an appealing return policy, accepting new and unopened gifts within 365 days of receipt for store credit. Plus, the retailer’s 15% completion discount on items $100 and over is a nice perk.
You'll also want to take advantage of the brand's helpful registry tools, like expert help online, thank-you note tracking, and a baby registry analyzer for price variation.
But Take Note
While this registry offers parents a large selection of products to choose from, it does not provide a universal option, meaning users cannot add baby products, services, or experiences from other stores. The store’s huge selection could also be overwhelming for new parents.
The Details:
- Sign-up gift: Not yet, but promised soon
- Return policy: New and unopened gifts can be returned within 365 days for store credit
- Completion discount: 15% off items $100 or more
- Shipping: Free standard shipping on orders over $49
Best for Experiences
Joy Baby
Why We Like It
Expectant parents who prefer services, cash funds, or even funds toward a baby moon, over actual products should check out Joy Baby, a site that lets you add all those services to the list and much more. This platform may also be convenient for those who used Joy Wedding for their wedding platform.
Unlike other options mentioned on our list, Joy does not charge any cash fund fees. The only fees incurred will be those charged by your cash apps, such as PayPal, Venmo, or CashApp, so you’ll want to look into those fees when deciding on the best app for you. At 20%, the completion discount is higher than all the other options on our list.
But Take Note
The 20% completion discount applies only to baby items on the Joy Shop and not all retailers. There’s no welcome gift, either.
The Details:
- Sign-up gift: No
- Return policy: Most items purchased on With Joy can be returned within 90 days
- Completion discount: 20% off items on the Joy Shop up to six months after your event
- Shipping: Free on orders over $45
Best for Budget Options
Babies R Us Baby Registry
Why We Like It
For anyone already hooked on Kohl’s deep discounts, the department store’s brand-new baby registry is a great way to get the gear and clothing you’ll need for your growing family. This single-retailer (not universal) registry has got a lot of the same features as the other registries we’ve featured here: Seamless signup, a clear checklist, and the ability to add items while shopping online or in-store. There’s a 15% completion discount, and most items can be returned within 365 days of purchase.
The price range of items on offer are what makes Kohl’s a very practical option for expecting parents and their loved ones. You’ll find brands we love and recommend (Graco, Delta Children, Chicco, Safety 1st, Baby Jogger), all at the most budget-friendly up to mid-range prices. And as is Kohl’s way, you’ll get many coupons and other rewards as you shop for yourself or others.
But Take Note
While the options are very practical, you won’t find much in the way of luxury or splurge-worthy products on offer.
The Details:
- Sign-up gift: Coming soon
- Return policy: Within 365 days after purchase
- Completion discount: 15% off qualifying items
- Shipping: $8.95 for orders under $49; free for orders $49 and over
Our Review Process
We reviewed over 20 different baby registries to find the best of the best, based on factors we as parents, gift-givers, and shopping editors know make registering the easy, rewarding experience it should be. We also considered the stores themselves and zeroed in on those that provide lots of essentials, low prices, and well-made high-quality products.
- Ease of Use: Because every expectant parent has varying levels of registry-building experience, we examined how intuitive each registry platform was to use. We also looked at how easy it was to remove and add items, and manage gifts already purchased.
- Guidance: We reviewed the baby gear checklist provided by registries (or not). We also took into account which registries had up-to-date blogs, articles, and trending baby essentials curation for expectant parents.
- Perks: Completion discounts, free welcome baby boxes, free samples, and consultations were all considered when making our registry selections.
- Return and Shipping Policies: The days and weeks—let's be honest even months—after having a baby is not the time to have to stress over returns. This is why we reviewed each registry's return policy to find the most convenient policies. Same with shipping and fees, because we know no one likes paying high shipping prices.
- Customer Reviews: We reviewed both online reviews and reviews from parents we know to find the best registries for both first-time and experienced parents.
Our Experts
We spoke with a pediatrician and a doula to better understand what products are good for newborns and toddlers, which essentials should be ordered in bulk, and how to distinguish between nice-to-haves and must-haves when making a baby registry.
- Lydia Villa, M.D., a pediatrician with Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), a pediatric healthcare system in Southern California.
- Lauren Foster, certified doula, certified sleep coach, and owner of National Baby Co.
Other Features to Look for in a Baby Registry
With so many baby registries available today, we suggest parents take a moment to decide what they need and from where. Consider each registry's intuitiveness, including how easy it is to add items to the registry, and whether or not you want a universal registry that lets you add items from multiple stores.
Additional things to consider are:
- Price Range: Who will be buying your gifts? Can they afford to buy items from high-end stores like Pottery Barn, or would a budget-friendly registry from Amazon, Walmart, or Target where you can add items under a dollar up to a few thousand dollars be a better fit?
- Group Gifting Options: If you are asking for higher-priced items, selecting a registry that allows people to go in on large purchases is a good choice.
- Personalized Sites: If you want to add special notes, messages, or pictures to your baby registry, ensure the platform you pick offers that option.
- In-Person Shopping: Some gift givers appreciate the option of going into a store to select a gift. The same goes for those expectant parents who enjoy scanning baby gear in-store.
- Cash Funds: If you'd like to receive money to spend as you need, make sure the registry offers a cash fund. Also, check on any added fees that may affect the final amount in the fund.
- Tracking: Gift tracking will let both you and the gift buyer know where the item is on its shipping route.
- Gift Wrapping: Various registries take away the pressure of wrapping gifts.
- Experiences or Services: You might want to go with a registry that has options outside of store-bought items, like favor cards for services such as dinner drop-off, dog walking, or babysitting.
When Should You Start Your Registry?
The answer to when is the best time to create a baby registry really depends on the parents, explains Dr. Villa. “Expectant parents can start their baby registry anytime they want. Some people, though, wait until after the first trimester, once the chance of miscarriage reduces significantly,” she says. “Others who are inclined to let the baby’s sex guide the colors and styles they choose for nursery décor or clothing might wait until after their first anatomy scan to begin curating their list.”
Starting in your second trimester may be ideal for some, as it gives you time to research baby products—like reading our guides on the best cribs, best infant car seat and stroller combos, best breast pumps, and more—to help figure out what you need or want, and which brands you prefer. It also gives your family and friends plenty of time to purchase items before your baby arrives, explains Foster.
What Should You Include in Your Baby Registry?
“All parents should register for the basics: diapers, wipes, clothing, bassinet, car seat, stroller, sleep sacks or swaddles, and burp cloths,” explains Foster.
Most importantly, parents need an infant car seat or convertible car seat to safely bring their baby home from the hospital after birth. “After my second baby was born, I realized the most useful items have been a dependable and light-weight infant car seat and stroller, as well as a crib,” says Dr. Villa.
Beyond the basics, Foster recommends a few other things to consider, such as bedding, towels and washcloths, age-appropriate toys, and toiletries, like diaper balm, lotion, and shampoo. “If mom plans to breastfeed, adding nipple cream, nursing bras/tanks to that list; if the family plans on bottle feeding, they'll obviously need supplies for that,” she adds.
Parents should also consider adding some self-care services to their registry to make post-pregnancy a tad easier. Services may include asking family and friends to give toward cleaning, a baby sleep advisor, or a postpartum doula who can support breastfeeding goals or provide education on bottle feeding and pumping, and provide other support for a family in those early days.
Thinking ahead to when your little one is in the 6- to 9-month age range, baby-proofing gates, developmental toys, and teething products are some possible items to place on the baby registry wishlist.
Registering for gift cards for delivery services is another nice to have during the newborn days when you are most likely sticking close to home and experiencing sleep deprivation.
Who We Are
Ambrosia V. Brody is a California-based Parents writer and mother of three. She has been a professional journalist for over 19 years and has been writing about parenting since 2021. As the mom of three kids, ages 3 to 11, she has tested out several baby registries, using Amazon, Target, and Pottery Barn Kids for her first two babies and Babylist for her last little one.
April McCormick is a former senior health editor at Parents. She has over a decade of experience covering health and wellness, parenting, lifestyle, DIY, tech, finance, gardening, and travel.