Registry: Bedding, Linens, Sleepwear, Etc.

The Essentials

First, let's talk about what you need for the crib.  Our first line of defense will be these protective waterproof covers for the mattress (registered for 2).   Next we will have a fitted quilted pad (again, registered for 2) you will need fitted sheets for the crib.  Finally, there is just the regular fitted sheet.  We are registered for 4 of these - I don't want to have to do laundry just because baby had a blow-out in the middle of the night and we are out of sheets.

You do NOT need the whole cute bed set, no matter how tempted you are to buy it.  Everything else in the set is purely decorative.  The only other thing that you need for the crib is a bumper, but that adorable bumper that comes with your bedding set is considered to increase the risk of SIDS.  Instead, they now recommend a mesh bumper like this one.

Next, you will need a changing pad.  I prefer the contoured pad that helps to keep the baby in place.  And of course, you then need changing pad covers.  Most covers are soft and fluffy and decorated in all sorts of cute patterns.  However, I think that these wipeable covers are the way to go (we're registered for 2).  Most of the cover is a wipeable material, so depending on what accidents occur you don't necessary have to take the whole pad off and wash it.

The Extras

I didn't register for changing pad liners, but I picked up 2 packs of them because I found them for $2 a pack on clearance.   Their intended purpose is to place one on top of your changing pad cover to avoid having to wash the whole thing, but with the wipeable changing pad these won't really be necessary.  However, I like the idea of having these to throw down on the floor or the couch or on a diaper changing station for a quick diaper change.

We are not registering for burp clothes, I have heard from so many mothers that say these are a waste of money.  Instead, we are registered for these Gerber cloth diapers.  Many experienced mothers recommend at least two packages of these and say that they serve a variety of purposes:  burp clothes, cleaning up spills, cleaning babies face, etc.

Many moms also rave about the Aden and Anais swaddle blankets.  Again, they use them for a variety of purposes, but they are definitely a lot more expensive than the cloth diapers above.  I did register for one set just to try them out.

Finally, since blankets aren't allowed in cribs (because of the risk of SIDS) your little one will need something to keep them warm.  There are so many options here which I've researched thoroughly.  Unfortunately, it sounds like each baby has their own preference.  However, there were 2 top contenders:  the HALO SleepSack and the SwaddleMes.  Both options come in a variety of sizes and weights (for the various seasons).  I have registered for a small and medium in each and plan to go from there.