We Reached Out to 4 New Parents to Discover the Frequently Overlooked Registry Items They Rely on the Most.

      (Image credit: Kennedy Caldwell)

      When considering what newborn essentials you might need, what items come to your mind? Bottles? Diapers? A stroller? A couple of pacifiers? While those are certainly important, experienced parents recognize that the most beneficial products aren't always the traditional registry items. They're the ones that go above and beyond to simplify your life—such as a travel stand for your baby monitor, a stylish diaper bag, or a comfortable pair of slippers for your swollen feet. To ensure you feel completely ready, we consulted four of our editors about items that may not be on a registry but still deserve a place on your list. Check them out below.

      (Image credit: Kennedy Caldwell)

      Bugaboo

      Donkey High Performance Raincover

      Even if you have a stroller or car seat on your registry, it's wise to include the accessories as well. At the last minute, I added a rain cover, which is perfect to keep in the car just in case it starts to rain while you're out.

      Additionally, a snack tray is essential. Having a spot for a small snack and a bottle while I’m out with my daughter has made a huge difference.

      SanDisk

      Phone Drive with USB-C

      Believe me: You're going to want to take plenty of pictures of your new baby, so having ample storage is essential. This phone drive lets you easily transfer and store all your precious photos and videos in one place. Plus, with the SanDisk app, your content is backed up automatically, so you won't risk losing any valuable memories.

      Nanit

      Pro Baby Monitor + Flex Stand

      A travel stand for our baby monitor has been incredibly useful. We’re using the Nanit Pro, and it works wonderfully. (The camera quality is amazing too.)

      Once your baby is a bit older, having a transportation option beyond a stroller can be beneficial. This compact trike from Doona folds up easily.

      Old Navy

      2-Way-Zip Sleep & Play Footed One-Piece

      It’s helpful to add more 3–6 months onesies. We initially stocked up on newborn and 0–3 months onesies, but soon realized we needed more 3–6 months sizes because our baby grew so quickly!

      (Image credit: Kennedy Caldwell)

      Mushie

      Muslin Baby Swaddle Blanket

      Even though my children are no longer infants, I still use these Mushie Muslin Baby Swaddles. They're the ideal lightweight blanket for warm Los Angeles evenings, and they also work well as play mats.

      Tabitha Paige

      Our Big Book of First Words: A Collection of 100+ Foundational Words for Language Development

      Many of our friends gifted books to our kids—now, every time I read one with them, I’m reminded of who gave it to us. It's a beautiful way to show that gifts for children can be both practical and carry meaningful memories.

      Zara

      Striped Diaper Bag Pack

      Don’t overspend on a diaper bag. Instead, choose one that can be easily washed because, from experience, you’ll find yourself needing to clean it more than once.

      Pehr

      Pom Pom Cotton Canvas Storage Bin

      My daughter is 6 now, but I still use these storage bins to keep her things organized. They’re a practical and economical buy that will be useful throughout every stage of childhood.

      Augustinus Bader

      The Geranium Rose Body Oil

      A luxurious body oil with a delightful scent is a lovely way to feel indulged during the small moments between feedings and settling into being a parent.

      Santa Maria Novella

      Set-of-Two Lavender Scented Wax Tablets

      You can place these in your closet and nursery for a calming aroma every time you enter the room.

      (Image credit: Kennedy Caldwell)

      Nanit

      Pro Smart Baby Monitor & Wall Mount

      When I had my first son, I thought I could manage without an advanced baby monitor. However, after comparing my video footage to my friends', it took me only moments to purchase a Nanit—and I've been using it ever since. I even bought a second one when my second child arrived, allowing me to view both of them on one screen.

      Kissy Kissy, LLC

      White/silver New Kissy Dots Print Footie

      This brand makes the best pajamas, and you'll need plenty since newborns spend most of their time sleeping, eating, or spitting up.

      Pehr

      Water Resistant Coated Organic Cotton Pouch

      When leaving home with a baby, there's always so much to pack. I found that having several cute pouches helped me stay organized and masked some of the chaos.

      From the moment I became a mother, slippers were my new best friends.

      YSL

      Le 5 à 7 Bea in Grained Leather

      One thing I wish I had figured out sooner is that your diaper bag doesn't actually have to be a designated diaper bag. Any oversized tote works just as well.

      (Image credit: Kennedy Caldwell)

      Motherlove Herbal