Real Moms Open Up About What They Look for in a Baby Registry

Expecting parents have so much to do before baby arrives — from doctor’s appointments to setting up the nursery and having a baby shower, moms- and dads-to-be have a lot on their plates. Of course, one of the things parents need to do is set up a baby registry to prepare for their little bundle of joy. With so many baby registry options available, it can feel overwhelming, especially because parents have different wants and needs when it comes to a registry. From ease of use to coupons and discounts, free returns, freebies and perks, and in-store & online purchasing options, expecting parents are looking for a variety of baby registry features. Target has all these features and more!

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Here's what real moms look for when selecting a baby registry:

“A baby registry that offers a lot of extras and perks was a big draw for me. I especially loved the free samples and completion discounts because money was tight and those things made me feel like I was getting a lot of value out of the registry experience.” — Shayne

Parents who create a Target baby registry receive a full year of exclusive deals through Target Circle. Plus, eight weeks before baby’s due date, they will receive a coupon to receive 15% off everything left on their registry!

“For me, as a clueless first time parent, I needed the in-store option. Being able to touch, compare, and make those first decisions weirdly gave me a boost of confidence that (looking back) I really needed. That, plus having the safety net of free registry returns, made it very easy if I changed my mind or received duplicates of items.” — Kristina

Target’s baby registry allows parents to select items both in-store and online, which means they can see the items in person and access the wider array of products available on the website. When parents sign up for a Target baby registry, they also have the option to return items for up to one year (including diapers)!

“I wanted to simplify the process and pick items in person AND online, all from one store that had everything, so we signed up for a Target registry. Plus, the customizable URL to distribute to family and friends made it so special. I knew my tías would want to see and feel items from the registry in person, and that was an easy option for them, but for other family members and friends who found it easier to get things online, the Target registry was it.” — Yuliana

Target allows parents to create a personalized registry with a custom URL and photos, making it a one-of-a-kind experience for shoppers.

“I wanted a registry with a variety of products and brands so it's a one-stop shop for people.” — Esther

With a universal baby registry, parents who use Target can add products from third-party websites to their registry, so nobody has to worry about tracking down products from other stores and websites.

“This may sound silly, but part of the reason I chose Target over Amazon when I built my registry was that I preferred going in store for the experience. It seemed more special to look at the products in person, receive the welcome gift bag, and enjoy Starbucks while I shopped. Also, easy returns … resulting to more trips back to Target!” — Brit

Parents who create a Target baby registry receive a free welcome kit valued at more than $100. The welcome kit comes with samples for parents and baby and Target Circle offers.

“As a new mom-to-be, I wasn’t sure which items, like a baby monitor or stroller, I wanted until I saw them live. My in-store registry experience at Target allowed me to assess the quality and charm of items. Based on past experience, I knew the selection process for loved ones would be incredibly easy in-store and online, which was ideal for both young and seasoned kin. Additionally, walking the aisles and making selections with my husband was a ridiculously fun and endearing bonding experience I’ll never forget!” — Jessica

First-time parents don’t have to worry about forgetting any baby essentials; Target has an interactive checklist that crosses items off as parents add them to their registry.

“I loved being able to register for things in-store and online. Group gifting was also important to me as I was registering for big-ticket items. And of course a completion discount is always a huge perk.” — Bethany

One of the features Target offers is group gifting, which allows multiple people to contribute to more expensive items on the registry.

Learn more details about Target Baby Registry here.

Take a look at Target’s pre-made registry checklists here.

Dive deeper with the Registry FAQ page here.