Preparing for a new baby is exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also feel overwhelming. Today’s Millennial and Gen Z parents are doing their research, comparing safety ratings, reading reviews at 2 a.m., and looking for baby gear that fits both their lifestyle and their aesthetic.
That’s where a thoughtfully built baby registry comes in. It helps your family and friends support you in meaningful ways, while ensuring you’re set up with essentials you’ll actually use. Below, we’re breaking down the top baby registry must-haves parents search for most, with a focus on safety, longevity, and elevated design—all signature elements of everything Maxi-Cosi.
1. Car Seat: Your Absolute Have-to-Have Item
If you’re Googling “best infant car seat” or “convertible car seat safety ratings,” you’re not alone. A car seat is the first product you’ll use as a parent—and one hospitals require before you can take your baby home.
Modern parents want car seats that combine advanced safety features with intuitive design. Lightweight infant car seats simplify everyday transitions, while all-in-one convertible car seats are built to grow with your child from newborn to big kid.
Why a Maxi-Cosi car seat: Premium safety engineering, thoughtful details, and innovative design features that make daily life easier—without compromising style.
Registry Tip: Always choose a car seat that meets or exceeds U.S. safety standards and works seamlessly with your vehicle and stroller. All Maxi-Cosi car seats are rigorously tested to meet or exceed Federal safety standards.
Our Picks:
PeriTM 180° Rotating Infant Car Seat
Kani 4-in1 Convertible Car Seat
2. Stroller: Consider Your Lifestyle
From neighborhood walks to weekend travel, a stroller quickly becomes part of your everyday routine. Parents often search for travel systems, modular strollers, or “best stroller for city living.”
If flexibility is key, a travel system lets you move your baby from car to stroller with minimal disruption. Modular strollers offer adaptable seating, smooth maneuverability, and storage that actually keeps up with real life.
What modern parents look for: Effortless folding, elevated design, and comfort—for both baby and you.
Registry Tip: Choose a stroller or travel system with a generous under-storage basket. Parents will love the ease of having space to stow their diaper bag (or a few groceries when shopping!) while out and about.
Our Picks:
ZeliaTM Pro 5-in-1 Modular Travel System
3. Crib or Bassinet: Safe Sleep, Simplified
Safe sleep is top of mind for new parents, especially those researching “newborn sleep safety” or “crib vs bassinet.” Whatever sleep solution you choose, the priority is a firm, flat surface with only a tightly fitted sheet; avoid soft surfaces like adult beds, sofas, or inclined sleepers. Baby sleeps alone, without other people, toys, pillows, or blankets.
Many parents also value versatility—options that work from the newborn stage and transition smoothly as baby grows.
Peace of mind matters: When your baby is set up for safe-sleep success, everyone rests easier.
Our Picks:
Embraced Forms 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
4. Swing or Rocker: Because You’re Only One Person
Swings and rockers are a quiet hero of the newborn stage. Searched often as “baby soothing essentials,” they give your little one a secure, comfortable place to relax—while you grab a coffee, answer a text, or reset for a moment.
Portable and calming, they’re designed to support your baby’s natural movement while fitting seamlessly into your home.
Why parents love them: We all occasionally need a hands-free moment.
Our Picks:
5. High Chair: Yes, Add It Now
Even though mealtime feels far away, many parents add a convertible high chair to their registry early—and for good reason. Multi-stage designs support infants through toddlerhood, offering long-term value and fewer future purchases.
Our Maxi-Cosi high chairs are designed to blend beautifully with your home décor, offering both fashion and function.
Smart registry move: Choose products that evolve with your family, and are designed with quality, hand-me-down longevity in mind.
Our Picks:
6. Baby Monitor: Stay Connected, Even When You’re Apart
More than ever, today’s parents want to stay connected to their children. A video baby monitor lets you see and hear your baby in real time, whether they’re napping in the nursery or playing in another room. This peace of mind is priceless.
Portable monitors and app-based systems let you keep an eye on your baby at the grandparents’ house or during a night out. Some even allow secure sharing with caregivers, so you never miss a moment.
Designed for real life: A video baby monitor isn’t just a convenience—it’s a game-changer for modern parenting.
Our Pick:
7. Help & Support: The Most Underrated Essential
Beyond baby gear, one of the most valuable registry “additions” is help. Meal trains, chore support, or flexible gift cards allow parents to rest, recover, and focus on bonding—something today’s parents openly prioritize.
Modern parenting truth: Rest is essential, not optional.
Build a Baby Registry That Works as Hard as You Do
When parents search “what to put on a baby registry” or “baby registry essentials,” they’re looking for products they can trust—designed with intention, safety, and longevity in mind.
✨ Start your registry with confidence. Choose thoughtfully designed essentials from Maxi-Cosi that support every stage of your parenting journey.
Because preparing for a baby should feel fun and empowering, not overwhelming.
Baby Registry FAQs
What are the most important items to put on a baby registry?
The most important baby registry items are those you’ll use from day one and rely on daily. For most parents, that includes a car seat, stroller, safe sleep solution, diaper bag and feeding essentials. Prioritize products that meet current safety standards, grow with your child, and fit your lifestyle—whether that’s city living, frequent travel, or staying close to home.
Do I need a car seat on my registry before my baby is born?
Yes. In the U.S., hospitals require parents to have a properly installed, age-appropriate car seat before taking their baby home. Adding a car seat to your registry early ensures you’re prepared and gives loved ones the opportunity to contribute to one of your most important purchases.
When should I start building my baby registry?
Most parents begin building their baby registry between 12 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. Starting early gives you time to research products, compare options, and make thoughtful decisions—without feeling rushed later on.
Should I register for infant or convertible baby gear?
Many modern parents choose convertible baby gear—such as car seats and high chairs—because it offers long-term value and fewer future purchases. Convertible options are designed to adapt as your baby grows, making them a smart, sustainable choice.
How many items should be on a baby registry?
There’s no perfect number, but most registries include 50–100 items at a range of price points. This gives friends and family flexibility while ensuring you’re covered for everyday essentials.
What if I don’t get everything from my registry?
That’s completely normal. A registry is a planning tool as much as it is a wish list. Many parents use completion discounts or post-baby purchases to fill in the gaps once they know their baby’s needs better.
Helpful hint: When you sign up for Maxi-Cosi email, you’ll receive a special promotional savings of 15% on your first purchase. Plus, you’ll be among the first to learn about special offers, new products and more.
