*We're parents too. By buying products via our affiliate links we may earn a commission to support our growing family at no cost to you!
How Much Should You Spend on baby registry Items?
Quick Answer
Creating a baby registry often comes with sticker shock, but you don’t need to spend $20k upfront. Focus on startup costs for the first few months, with typical registries ranging from $1,000-$3,000 in total value.
In This Guide
- Overall baby budget reality check
- Category-by-category spending breakdown
- Where to splurge vs. save
- Smart budgeting strategies
- Group gifting and completion discounts
- Long-term cost planning
All Products in This Guide
Essential baby items across different price points to help you budget wisely
Our Recommendations
(10 products)
Create Your Registry
Amazon Baby Registry
*Subject to availability and Retailer's terms.
We earn commissions from these links.
Creating a baby registry often comes with sticker shock - you add up the cost of all those items and wonder, “How much should we (or our friends and family) really spend?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone in asking this. Here’s a practical guide to budgeting for your baby registry, including real numbers, smart strategies, and tips on where to splurge versus save.
Overall Baby Budget Reality Check
First, it helps to know the big picture. Raising a baby can be expensive. In fact, one recent analysis found that American parents spend over $20,000 in the first year of a baby’s life on average. That includes everything from gear to diapers to childcare. But don’t panic! You absolutely do not need to spend $20k on your registry upfront. Registries are about getting help with initial essentials and nice-to-haves. Many of those first-year costs (like healthcare, formula, etc.) will be spread out over time. For your registry, focus on startup costs - the gear and supplies you’ll need in the first few months. Typical baby registries can range widely in total value, but let’s break down some major categories to see where your money should go and where you can economize:
Nursery Furniture: Expect to spend around $300-$700
A good crib and mattress set like the Newton Galileo 3-in-1 Convertible Crib (many cribs are ~$400 and a safe mattress ~$150). You can get a solid, safe crib for closer to $200 if you choose a simpler design or look for sales. A changing table is optional; many parents convert a dresser they already have by adding a $30 changing pad. A glider or rocking chair might run $200-$500, but this is a “nice to have” - not everyone gets one right away.
Travel Gear (stroller/Car Seat): $450-$900
A quality infant car seat like the Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat is usually $150-$300. travel system strollers (which include a car seat) often run $300-$600. But you can absolutely find safe, effective options on the lower end of these ranges. Pro Tip: Register for the car seat and stroller separately rather than an expensive bundled travel system, unless you’re sure you want that combo. Sometimes mixing brands (e.g., a mid-priced car seat that’s compatible with a simpler stroller frame) can save money. Also, remember a convertible car seat (used after 1 year) can wait - but adding it to your registry might let others chip in (group gifting) or let you use that completion discount on it later.
Diapers & Consumables: $70-$80 a month
Disposables will be an ongoing cost - roughly $70-$80 a month on diapers and wipes initially. You might get a few boxes of diapers at your shower. But rather than stockpile, consider registering for diaper fund contributions or gift cards. That way you can buy sizes as needed (babies outgrow newborn diapers fast). If you’re budgeting, know that cloth diapering can cost ~$300 upfront for supplies, which is cheaper in the long run, but has its own maintenance costs (laundry). Whichever route, plan for that few hundred in your first-year budget. Some friends may gift diapers (common at showers), so you might not pay out of pocket for a couple months.
Clothing: It’s easy to overspend on cute outfits
But realistically, babies outgrow clothes every few weeks in the beginning. Save money by not buying too many newborn-size clothes; they might only wear them for a month or not at all if you have a big baby. Also, anticipate that you’ll receive a lot of baby clothes as gifts (people can’t resist tiny onesies). Aim to have enough basics (onesies, sleepers, etc.) for a week or so between laundry. That might be ~$100 worth of clothes in each size for basics if you buy new. You can absolutely save by using hand-me-downs or thrift store finds - many baby clothes are barely worn. As one tip: register for clothing in bigger sizes too (like 6-12 months) so you don’t have to shop later; some guests will get those.
Feeding: $50-$100 to get set up
If you breastfeed, up-front costs are lower (you may invest in a breast pump like the Medela Symphony Breast Pump Kit, but insurance often covers it). Do budget for accessories: nursing pillow like the My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow ($30), nursing bras ($20-$40 each), and breast milk storage bags ($10 per box). If formula feeding, expect about $100+ per month on formula initially. That’s not a registry cost per se, but you could request a formula brand in your registry or ask for a “formula fund.” Bottles and accessories like the Dr. Brown’s Bottles might run ~$50-$100 to get set up (a few sets of bottles, sterilizer if desired, bottle brush, drying rack). You don’t need the fanciest sterilizer - boiling water works - so that’s a spot to save.
Health & Safety: Around $50-$200
A baby first aid kit like the Safety 1st Baby Healthcare Kit (thermometer, nasal aspirator, etc.) is around $50. A baby monitor like the Infant Optics DXR-8 PRO Video Baby Monitor ranges from $50 (audio only) to $200+ (video with all the bells and whistles). Decide what level you need; this is an area some splurge for peace of mind, others go minimal. Safety proofing (outlet covers, cabinet locks) is cheap, under $50 for a set. You won’t use those until a few months in, but they’re good to have.
Toys & Extras: $0 to $50
Newborns don’t need much in terms of toys - you might spend $0 to $50 on a few rattles or soft books. Babies often are more interested in looking at your face or contrasting patterns. You’ll likely get some as gifts anyway. Save bigger toy purchases for later when baby is more active. The same goes for gear like jumperoos or walkers (not needed until ~6+ months, and even then, consider if you have space or if you can borrow one).
Now, How much should you personally spend?
A good approach is to look at your own finances and see what fits. If you have a lot of family and friends likely to buy gifts, you might put a wider range of items (including pricey ones, because group gifting might cover them or a generous relative might splurge). If you expect to purchase most items yourselves, prioritize and budget out a total you’re comfortable with. Some thrifty parents set a budget (say $1500 total for all baby gear) and stick to it by getting items secondhand or on sale.
Smart Ways to Save and Get Value
Register for Expensive Items (and Sales): Don’t shy away from putting higher-priced needs on your registry (crib, car seat, etc.). Often, a few people might chip in together to get it for you. Even if not, most retailers offer a completion discount (around 15%) on items left on your registry after your shower. That means if you end up buying it yourself, you’ll save. Time your purchases with sales - for example, if your completion discount is valid, combine it with Black Friday or holiday sales for big-ticket gear.
Splurge vs Save: Generally, splurge on items that affect safety and long-term use - for example, a car seat like the Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat (buy new, and choose a reputable brand with high safety ratings) and a quality crib and mattress like the Newton Galileo 3-in-1 Convertible Crib (baby will sleep 12-16 hours a day, make it safe and comfy). Also consider splurging on a great breastfeeding pump like the Medela Symphony Breast Pump Kit (if not covered by insurance) or a good baby carrier like the Ergobaby Omni Breeze Carrier that doesn’t hurt your back. Save on items baby will outgrow quickly or are used for a short time - like newborn clothes, infant bath gadgets, or entertainment devices. You can get many of these secondhand or cheaper. An example: many parents splurge on a fancy swing only for baby to hate it. Maybe try a basic swing or borrow one at first to see if your baby likes that motion before investing.
Use Secondhand Wisely: Accept hand-me-downs and used items for almost everything except the car seat (and crib mattress) or anything that’s not safe when used (older cribs may not meet standards, etc.). Secondhand baby clothes, toys, and gear can save you hundreds. Facebook Marketplace, local parent groups, and consignment sales are gold mines for barely-used baby gear at half price or less. Just always check safety: make sure used gear hasn’t been recalled (you can search recalls online) and is clean and in good condition. For instance, a used high chair like the Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair or bouncer is usually fine after a good wash; a used breast pump can be okay if a closed system or with new tubing.
Plan for Ongoing Costs: Some items are one-time buys (stroller, crib), while others are ongoing (diapers, formula). It might help to divert some shower gifts or personal budget towards a “diaper fund” or savings for later costs. For example, if you get lots of newborn gifts, you might return a few duplicate cute outfits and get store credit - use that later when you truly need size 6-month onesies or more diapers. Don’t feel guilty doing this; it’s practical. As one mom said, “Our friends’ generosity saved us so much money on baby stuff that we were able to budget more for daycare down the line.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How much should I expect to spend on a baby registry?
A: Baby registries typically range from $1,500-$3,000 total value, but you don't need to spend this upfront. Focus on startup costs for the first few months, with items at various price points for gift-givers.
Q:What are the most expensive registry items?
A: The most expensive items are typically nursery furniture ($300-$700), travel gear like strollers and car seats ($450-$900), and baby monitors ($50-$200+). These are good candidates for group gifting.
Q:Where should I splurge vs save on baby items?
A: Splurge on safety items (car seats, cribs, mattresses) and long-term use items. Save on items baby will outgrow quickly like newborn clothes, infant bath gadgets, and entertainment devices.
Q:How much do ongoing costs like diapers cost?
A: Diapers and wipes cost approximately $70-$80 per month. Formula feeding adds $100+ per month. Consider registering for diaper fund contributions or gift cards for these ongoing expenses.
Q:What price range should I include on my registry?
A: Include items under $25 (books, accessories), $25-$100 range (monitors, carriers), and a few higher-ticket items ($150+) so gift-givers can choose what fits their budget.
Etiquette and Expectations
If part of your question is “How much will people spend on gifts for us?” - know that it varies. Close family might splurge on a big item (grandparents often love buying the crib or stroller). Friends might spend anywhere from $25 to $100 depending on their budget and closeness. It’s good etiquette to include items at all price points on your registry: plenty under $25 (think: books, accessories, crib sheets, bottle brushes), a solid selection in the $25-$100 range (monitor, diaper pail, baby carrier, etc.), and a few higher-ticket items ($150+). This way, gift-givers can choose what they’re comfortable with. Some may team up for pricier things.
As for you, as parents, don’t feel obligated to buy everything before baby arrives. Many new parents over-buy (we get it - nesting instinct is strong!). You’ll discover as you go what’s truly needed. Plenty of things can be bought later, or even used for only a short phase. One strategy: focus your spending on items needed in the first 3 months. You can budget for 3-6 month items later, or use gift cards from the baby shower to cover them.
Finally, remember: The “right” amount to spend is what keeps you financially comfortable while ensuring baby’s needs are met. It’s perfectly possible to raise a healthy, happy baby on a modest budget by prioritizing essentials and finding creative ways to save. As long as you have love, patience, and the basics (food, warmth, and safety), you’re doing a great job - regardless of the dollar amount on your registry.
Start Your Registry Today
Amazon Baby Registry
*Subject to availability and Retailer's terms.
We earn commissions from these links.
Related Guides
Budget Baby Registry: How to Save Money on Essentials
Smart strategies for creating a budget-friendly baby registry. Learn how to save money on baby essentials through secondhand gear, store brands, and strate...
Eco-Friendly Gifts - What You Need to Know
Going green with your baby registry is a wonderful choice - it's kinder to the planet and often healthier for your baby. Here's how to build an eco-friendl...
Common Baby Registry Mistakes
Creating a baby registry is exciting... and admittedly overwhelming. Here are the top mistakes new parents make on their registries and how to avoid them.