If there’s anything I’ve learned as an “experienced” mom, it’s this–babies don’t need a lot. However, even though they don’t need most of the products that are being flung in your face as an expecting mom, there are some things they do need. And that’s true whether it’s your first baby or not. So, it’s true that with four kiddos at home we have a lot of the “big ticket items” in place already. Especially since all my little ones are relatively close in age. However, there are essentials that every baby needs, which is why it’s always a good idea to open a baby registry, no matter how many times you’ve done it. This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are completely my own.

do you really NEED a baby registry though?

“But Justine,” you say, “I’m not having a baby shower for my (insert number here) kid! Why would I open a registry?“

Well, there are a few reasons why it’s always a good idea to open one, whether you’re having a baby shower or not!

The hubby and I recently headed to our local Target to open up our baby registry. I wanted to share with you some of the essentials that I made sure to include. Whether you’re expecting another bundle of joy yourself, or trying to think of what to get a friend of yours that will actually be helpful, here are some ideas from an “experienced” not-so-first time mom.

essentials you need on your baby registry

diapers & wipes

No matter what, every baby is going to need tons of diapers and wipes. So whether you’re a fan of cloth diapering or just like to use disposable, be sure to register and stock up. And make sure it’s the brand you love! After all, if you have lots of little ones already then you know what brand works the best for you. We have one brand that our household loves and I don’t buy anything else. Now, by looking at the registry, if anyone wants to generously purchase some diapers or wipes for us they’ll know what kind we like!

| Read: Baby Basics with Huggies |

bath products

Other consumable baby items are bath products so go ahead and register for those. You probably have a pretty good idea about which ones you prefer so register for the brands you love! My children have all had fairly sensitive skin for the first couple years. So, we’re big fans of Aveeno® baby wash and moisturizer. It’s lightly scented and gentle on my little ones’ skin.

medicine/first aid items

It’s also a good idea to register for the things you hope you don’t have to use, but know that you probably will. Check the expiration dates on your medications and register for any that you might need. TYLENOL® for infants is a pain and fever reliever that our family trusts. Plus, the simple measure dosage syringe makes it easy to dispense the right amount every time!

| Read: How to Help Kids Take Their Medicine |

baby clothing

When I found out I was pregnant with our third child and that it was another girl my first thought was, “well, I already have all the clothing I’ll need”. Then I quickly realized that a May baby and a February baby would be wearing different season-appropriate clothing. Whomp, whomp. Think about what season your babies have been born in, and also consider which clothing items might be too well used to pass down to the next kid.

“big ticket” items

Are you having your second child and in need of a double stroller? Is your car seat past its expiration date? Are there some “splurge” items you would have liked to get the first time around but never got around to purchasing? How is your diaper bag holding up after its daily wear and tear? These are great questions to ask yourself when you’re adding to your registry.

| Read: How to Create a Space for Baby |

other reasons why you should open a baby registry

people are going to want to buy you gifts anyway

Come on, you know that there are some people that are going to want to give you gifts anyway. Even if it is your third bouncing, baby boy and there’s no baby shower in sight. Although some people are really good at gifting thoughtful, spontaneous gifts, there are definitely some well-meaning individuals that you really don’t want to go rogue. These individuals need as much helpful guidance as necessary. You know who I’m talking about.

you get a completion discount coupon

Target generously offers anyone that opens a baby registry a 15% off discount coupon. You get this emailed to you 8 weeks before your delivery date. That way you can buy anything that’s left on your registry and be ready when it’s baby time. The last few weeks leading up to delivery usually find me stocking up on freezer meals and furiously making sure every spot of the house is clean. So, I really appreciate that this is one last thing I have to worry about!

| Read: DIY Rainbow Baby Mobile |

you get a free swag bag when you register

Target might call it a Welcome Kit, but with $50 worth of coupons and samples I choose to call it a swag bag. I was so surprised at all of the quality samples that were included in my Welcome Kit–aka. swag bag. They have definitely come a long way since I registered for my first baby nearly eight years ago!

it makes life so much easier

From the app to the group gifting feature, the Target registry does everything it can to make your life simpler. I also love that you have the ability to make hassle-free returns and exchanges of items from your registry up to a year after your delivery date. That is so helpful!

Have you opened up a Target baby registry? What were some of your must-have items?

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