When I was pregnant with my first child and started building my registry, I was focused on keeping it simple and modest—just the basics (at reasonable price points) that I thought I’d need. But here’s the thing I learned: people not only want to spoil you with gifts, but they love to chip in for those bigger-ticket items. And, as I quickly discovered, those splurges are absolutely worth it when you’re navigating early parenthood.

Now, going through this journey for a second time, I know a few higher-priced items that will make life so much easier. If I could give my first-time mom self one tip, it’d be to add those practical splurges to the list. Here are four I’d recommend to every new mom!

1. Coterie diapers

Forget the trial and error with trying to find the best diaper (I've tried all of the brands like Dyper, Pampers Pure, Millie Moon, and Honest)—I wish I had started with Coterie from day one.

They’re soft, safe, and leak-proof. Minimal diaper rashes. Minimal blowouts. Fewer changes. Longer stretches of sleep. They’re definitely pricier than some diapers on the market, but here’s why Coterie diapers are worth every cent:

• Absorbency: The most absorbent in my experience. These diapers don’t just soak up liquid, they also stay dry to the touch, inside and out.
• Gentle ingredients: Total Chlorine Free (few can actually claim this!), hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, free from lotions, parabens, and are independent lab tested.
• Sustainability: Thoughtfully made with responsibly sourced materials to reduce environmental impact, making them a better choice for your baby and the planet.

Get 10% off your subscription of Coterie Diapers: EXTRA10

Or gift the pregnant woman in your life the Coterie Giftable Subscription!

2. Night nurse or doula

If I could go back, hiring a night nurse or postpartum doula would be at the top of my list.

Why it’s something worth considering:

• Improved sleep: Someone to help handle those middle-of-the-night wake ups so you and your partner can recharge. 
• Answer questions: Guide you through the overwhelming early days, answering questions about breastfeeding or the thousands of “is this normal?” questions that pop up
• Mental health: You are recovering too from birth, and a big transition into a new season of life.

You can add contributions toward this service to your registry or request it as a group gift from friends and family.

3. Food delivery service

Meal delivery was one of the best gifts I received after having my baby.

Why it’s a registry must-have:

• Convenience: Skip the mental load of meal planning and grocery shopping.
• Healthy meals: There are so many options out there that are perfect for new parents.
• Flexibility: Gift cards for DoorDash or Instacart allow you to tap into the support when you need it.

Create a wishlist of your favorite meal services and share it with friends and family.

4. Post-baby trip fund

A trip after the newborn haze can feel like a dream come true. And traveling during parental leave when your baby is between 2 to 6 months is the best (coming from first hand experience!). 

Why it’s a great add to your registry:

• Connect: Time away can help your family connect on a deeper level.
• Celebrate: Use it to celebrate all that you’ve managed since your baby came into the world.
• There’s no better time: Take advantage of parental leave, and the fact that your baby can sleep anywhere, anytime to go on a memorable adventure.

Add specific goal funds (like flights, hotel, or activities) to make it more tangible for your gift-givers. It can be anything from a road trip to the coast, or a trip to Tuscany — this is what we did!

Coterie Diapers are worth the splurge!

Coterie is the most reliable option when it comes to diapers. They keep leaks and rashes to a minimum, feel incredibly soft, and make the whole diapering experience so much easier—something every mom can appreciate.

✅ Super absorbent so I don’t worry about leaks or blowouts

✅ Incredibly soft materials, seriously these feel like cashmere

✅ TCF, hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, free from lotions, and parabens

✅ Convenient subscription service means one less thing on your mental load as a new mom

Get 10% off your subscription purchase code EXTRA10

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