When to start a baby registry, honestly.
The short answer: 20–24 weeks for most parents. The longer answer: start whenever you have a quiet evening — and don't worry about finishing it before you share.
20–24 weeks is the sweet spot.
By then you've usually had the anatomy scan, the second trimester has settled the worst of the early symptoms, and you have enough headspace to think about what you actually want. It also leaves time before most baby showers (which typically land between 28 and 34 weeks).
That said: there's no wrong week. Earlier is fine if you want to take your time. Later is fine if life got in the way. After baby arrives is fine too — that's often when you find out what you actually need.
When to do what (roughly)
A rough sketch — not a rule. Adjust freely.
- Weeks 12–18
Start a quiet draft
Jot down what you'll need. No pressure to finish or share.
- Weeks 20–24
Build the real list
Add the daily-use basics, the bigger items, and the real-life support.
- Weeks 26–30
Share it widely
Send the link with shower invites, family group chats, work — anywhere people are asking.
- After baby
Keep it open
Update what you actually need. The first month is when help matters most.
Don't wait until you have it all figured out.
A registry isn't a final answer — it's a living list. The biggest mistake parents make isn't starting too early or too late. It's waiting until everything feels "ready," which it never quite does. Open the draft, add five things, share it. Add more later.
And don't forget the real-life help: meals, a cleaner, recovery support. Those matter most in the first month, and they're the easiest thing to forget when you're staring at a gear list.
How to start, in three steps
- Step 1
Start a draft when it feels right
There's no perfect week. The right time is when you have a quiet evening.
- Step 2
Add the real-life help too
Meals, recovery, sleep support — not just gear.
- Step 3
Share one link
Contributions come directly to you. Friends know exactly how to show up.
Why an early, imperfect registry beats a late, perfect one
Start small, grow it
A registry doesn't have to be finished to be shared.
Room for real support
Meals and recovery count, not just plastic.
One link to share
Everything in one place — gear and help.
Free, no fees
Contributions come directly to you.
Common questions
When should I start my baby registry?
Most parents start between 20 and 24 weeks. That gives you time to research without feeling rushed, and leaves enough runway before a baby shower (typically 28–34 weeks). If you're past that, don't worry — starting later is completely fine.
Is it too early to start a registry at 12 weeks?
Not at all. Some parents like to start jotting ideas down as soon as they announce. Just know your priorities (and your home) might shift in the second trimester, so revisit the list before you share it.
Is it too late to start a registry at 36 weeks?
No. Even after birth, a registry is useful — especially when friends keep asking 'what can I do?' You can publish a KindList in an evening and share it the next morning.
What should I add first?
Start with the daily-use basics: a safe sleep space, a car seat, swaddles, diapers, a carrier, and feeding gear. Then add the bigger items, then add the real-life support — meals, a cleaner, a postpartum doula. You don't have to finish the list to publish it.
When should I share my registry?
Most parents share around the time invitations go out — typically 6–8 weeks before the baby shower. But you can share earlier if friends are asking, or later if you're skipping a shower.
Do I have to finish the registry before sharing it?
No. A registry is a living list. Start with what you know, share it, and keep adding as you go.
Can I add postpartum support, not just gear?
Yes — and this is where KindList shines. Meals, recovery care, sleep help, a cleaner, childcare for older kids. You can put any of it on your list so friends know exactly how to help.
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See the ideasThe best time to start? Tonight.
A quiet evening, five items, one link. That's enough.
Start your KindList