Build Your Baby Registry on a $500 Budget

A crib may seem like a must-have when you’re building your registry, but it’s not. Playards are portable cribs that come with a thin, firm mattress insert. They’re safe-sleep-approved and typically hundreds of dollars cheaper than a standard crib and mattress combo. This one comes with a bassinet attachment, which is essential when your baby is a newborn. While you can choose to use a playard instead of a crib until they are ready for a toddler bed, if you do decide to purchase a crib, the playard can be used for travel or a contained play space. I use this playard at least a few times a week for naps in the living room, travel or when I need a safe, contained place to put my daughter while I run to the bathroom.

If you’re opting for a playard as the only crib for your baby, you’ll need the proper bedding. This soft, comfortable sheet fits the Graco playard and comes in a neutral color that blends with any room. This set comes in a two-pack, which you’ll appreciate during a middle-of-the-night diaper leak.

If you’re being extra budget-conscious, a monitor isn’t an absolute must-have—but most parents appreciate the extra peace of mind that it provides, so we think it’s worth a spot on the list. To save a few dollars, skip the video monitor and opt for an audio model instead; it will save you some major cash and you’ll still be able to keep an ear on baby’s every move.

As a mom with over a decade of experience, I’ve changed both of my kids’ diapers on my bed, the couch, and the playroom floor more than I used the changing station in their room. Instead of a pricier changing pad, swap it out for a super useful and portable changing mat (changing mats are usually a little slippery, so they shouldn’t ever be used on top of a dresser or changing table). This basic mat is made of soft, yoga mat-like material that can be wiped clean, and when it’s not in use, it folds up compactly.

Muslin swaddles can be used to wrap up your baby, as a stroller cover, nursing cover or even a burp rag—the options are endless. This four-pack will ensure you always have a clean one on hand to grab when you need it.

While the traditional swaddle blanket will always have a place on baby registries, zip-up swaddles are easier, less complicated options that still do the trick. I’ve used both traditional swaddle blankets and the zip-up options, and the latter is a breeze to use and gives the baby the secure squeeze that they love. Free of extra straps and zips, you just place your baby in the SwaddleMe and zip them up—that’s it. The fit is snug enough to keep their Moro reflex in check without making the baby feel too restricted or uncomfortable.

Your travel system, or the car seat and stroller combo that you choose, will likely be one of the pricier items on your registry. When you opt for the combo versus buying each separately, you check both boxes for a more affordable bundled price. This all-in-one travel system includes an infant car seat that has a 35-pound rear-facing weight limit and a base that can be installed with LATCH or a seat belt. The stroller has a three-wheel design for easier maneuvering and a parent tray to hold your essentials like your travel coffee mug.

While a swing, bouncer or activity set is not necessary to take care of your newborn, having a safe place to put them down or soothe them is useful. This foot-powered compact bouncer gives your baby a place to sit, play and relax. And it’s super lightweight, so you can easily carry it from your bathroom to your kitchen without breaking a sweat.

Even if you plan to breastfeed, it’s always a good idea to add a few bottles to your registry to keep on hand. Dr. Brown’s bottles feature a vent system to keep air out of your baby’s milk, helping to prevent gassiness and colic. This pack has three bottles for less than $20, so you’ll usually have a clean one on hand.

This affordable set offers everything you’ll need to catch any mess when feeding your baby, from bottles to solids. The three bibs and three burp cloths are made from organic cotton and are soft, absorbent and come in two styles.

Some babies prefer a pacifier, and while the type of pacifier that they’ll actually like is up to them, Philips Avent Soothies are one of the most popular paci brands out there. This two-pack is under $5, so even if you have to pivot to a different type, it’s a small upfront investment.

Baby bath time is pretty cute, and it doesn’t have to be all that expensive, either. This basic tub more than gets the job done for its impressive price. There’s a sling for supporting extra squirmy newborns, which then pops out so you can use the two-position tub for your growing baby and toddler. It’s also compact enough to fit in a regular bathtub and in most kitchen sinks.

We love this dermatologist-tested baby wash and shampoo because of its calming ingredients, like organic calendula, that are gentle on your baby’s delicate skin. Plus, you can’t beat the price of this well-respected brand.

This affordable kit contains all the most important care products that you’ll need during the first year, like a nasal bulb syringe, a medication dispenser and nail clippers. It’s also stocked with conveniences like a hair brush, a cold compress and a wide-tooth comb.

Before leaving the hospital or birthing center, you’ll want to stock up on the free diapers and wipes they provide, but you’ll also want a stash at home. Register for one pack to minimize overstocking; babies tend to outgrow this size quickly.

Remember the wipes—they’re every new parent’s best friend. These are affordable, gentle, and fragrance-free. Our gear editor, Jen LaBracio, loved this brand when she conducted her ultimate best baby wipes test.

A layette is a great, affordable way to check a ton of baby clothing basics off your list at once. This one is packed with pieces—12 in all—and includes everything you’ll need for sleep, play and more. It’s all mix and match so you can make plenty of outfits out of just one set. Think of it like a baby capsule wardrobe.

Babies grow fast. They also tend to stain their cute new outfits with various bodily fluids. That’s why hand-me-down clothes are so great—families are happy to pass them along, and you won’t feel bad about all of the wear and tear on gently used clothes.

Babies don’t need much in terms of toys, especially over the first few months. The rattles in this set will grab your baby’s attention with their bright colors and clinking sound, helping them work on tracking. Plus, they all also doubles as a teethers.

It’s comforting to know that when your baby arrives, you’ll be stocked with all the essentials. But want to know what you’ll really want in those first few weeks? Food! Especially food that you don’t have to cook. Add meals to your Babylist registry that friends can drop off even before the baby comes.

When you want a break, whether it’s just an hour to take a nap or a few hours to run errands alone, a babysitter will come in handy during those early months. Consider adding babysitting to your registry so trusted friends and family can give you a sprinkle of free time when you need it.