Whether this is your first baby or your third, the months leading up to your due date can feel equal parts magical and overwhelming. There are products to research, a nursery to set up, a registry to build, and a hundred decisions to make — often all at once. The good news? You don't have to figure it all out alone. This guide walks you through every step, in the right order, so you can focus on what matters most.
Start your registry at 12–16 weeks
Most parents-to-be start their baby registry in the second trimester — far enough along to feel confident, with plenty of time before the baby shower. Starting early means you have space to research, change your mind, and compare products without pressure.
With GiftList, you can add items from any store worldwide — from big-box retailers to small independent baby boutiques. Build it slowly, swap items as you learn more, and share it when you're ready. No rush, no rigid deadlines.
"The best thing you can do for new parents is make it easy for people to help."
— GiftList Baby Team
Cover every budget on your list
Your baby shower guest list spans grandparents, close friends, coworkers, and neighbours — each with different means and different relationships to you. A registry with items at every price point means everyone can give something meaningful.
Under $50
Swaddle sets, bath essentials, board books, feeding bibs
$50–$150
Baby monitor, bouncer seat, nursing pillow, playmat
$150+
Stroller, crib, car seat, diaper bag, cash fund contributions
Add a cash fund for what you really need
Maybe you've already received hand-me-downs from a sibling. Maybe you'd rather put money toward a postpartum doula, childcare savings, or a bigger stroller you've had your eye on. Cash funds give guests an easy, dignified way to contribute to what truly helps.
GiftList's cash fund feature feels seamless — guests check out the same way they would for a physical gift. You can set up multiple funds with custom names like "Nursery Upgrade," "First Year Childcare," or "College Savings Head Start."
Sync your registries from every store
You love the strollers at Buy Buy Baby. Your partner found the perfect crib on Amazon. Your midwife recommended a specific brand from a small shop. You shouldn't have to send five different links — and with GiftList, you don't.
Our Sync feature pulls in registries from major retailers including Amazon, Target, Buy Buy Baby, Pottery Barn Kids, and many more. Everything lives in one shareable link — while you keep your in-store perks and completion discounts exactly as they are.
Ready to build your baby registry?
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