Tiny Apartment Baby Registry Items to Skip
Bringing home a newborn is one of the most exciting (and TBH overwhelming) times in your life. Between the cute baby clothes, “must-have” gear, and well-meaning advice from everyone and their grandma, it’s easy to overbuy. But I promise you babies don’t need nearly as much as social media makes you think. (Trust me, I’m a postpartum doula and night nurse who has seen it all!)
If you’re living in a small house or apartment, extra space is hard to come by. Closets fill up with baby gear, and hallways end up doing double duty as stroller parking. In tight quarters, you’re pretty much forced to take a hard look at what you need for baby versus what you can skip.
Having helped new families in and around Hoboken, Jersey City and New York City, I am a pro now at what works and what doesn’t when space is limited. And that’s why I love to help new parents create intentional, clutter-free registries that fit their lifestyle.
👉You can explore my full registry on Babylist or book a Baby Registry Coaching Session to get a personalized list tailored to your family’s needs.
Baby Items You Can Skip (and What to Do Instead)
1. Bottle Sterilizer
Unless your baby has unique health needs, skip the bulky sterilizer. A quick boil in a pot or the sanitize cycle on your dishwasher does the trick! No extra appliance required.
2. Oversized Crib
A full-size crib can swallow a small room. A mini crib or pack-and-play is a must if you have limited space. They’re cozy, totally safe, and often fold or roll away when not in use.
3. Bottle Warmer
Counter space is prime real estate. Warm bottles by setting them in a bowl of hot water, or skip warming altogether. Seriously, most babies adjust just fine to room-temperature or cold milk. I always encourage parents who are open to it to try a cold bottle to see if their baby will go for it. If they do you save time and counter space.
4. Baby Brezza
A formula-mixing machine sounds convenient, but it’s bulky and expensive. Even if you’re formula-feeding full-time, you can skip it. Instead, try the Dr. Brown’s Formula Mixing Pitcher. It lets you prep a day’s worth of formula in advance without the cost of pre-made bottles. Just mix, pour, and refrigerate for easy feedings all day.
5. Lots of Newborn-Only Clothes
The tiny outfits are irresistible, I know! But they’re also short-lived. Newborns outgrow them fast or they are born already too big for them! Plus, in the first few weeks, you’re going to be stuck in the house for the most part anyway. Stick with a few basics (like these easy zip onesies / footies from my all time favorite brand) in the newborn size and focus on 0–3 month sizes and beyond.
Small Space Nursery Setup Tips
Designing a nursery in a small apartment or shared space can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Try these space saving hacks to make even the tiniest room feel calm, cozy, and functional.
Go vertical: Use floating shelves or wall hooks for diapers, swaddles, and other daily-use items.
Think foldable: Choose baby gear that folds flat or has wheels, so it can tuck away easily when not in use.
Use under-crib storage: Baskets or rolling bins are perfect for extra blankets, wipes, and onesies.
Keep decor minimal: A few soft touches (like a small rug or framed print) go a long way toward creating a peaceful feel without adding clutter.
Choose Gear That Multitasks
When you’re short on space, every item has to pull its weight!
Look for pieces that serve more than one purpose, like:
A bouncer that doubles as a seat or lounger
A bassinet that converts to a play yard
A dresser with a changing pad on top (instead of a separate changing table)
A diaper bag that can pass as your everyday tote
Not only does this keep your space functional and uncluttered, but it also saves money and time when you’re juggling all things newborn.
If you’re not sure what multi-use items are actually worth it (and which ones are just all hype), my Baby Registry Coaching Session can help you create a registry full of practical, space-saving essentials that truly fit your lifestyle.
Why Minimalism is Important for New Parents
A simplified space helps you stay calm and focused in the whirlwind of newborn life. Less clutter means:
Easier feeding and diaper changes (you can actually find things)
Safer spaces to move around when you’re sleep-deprived
Fewer items to clean, fold, or trip over at 3 a.m.
When you live in an apartment or small home, minimalism doesn’t mean missing out! It’s about making room for what truly matters: bonding with your baby, and not having to battle the clutter and chaos of too much crap (that you won’t use half of anyway)!
Ready to Build Your Own Streamlined Registry?
If you want a registry that actually fits your life, your space, your budget, and your parenting style — I can help!
Browse my hand-picked registry on Babylist for my top recommendations in every category.
Or book a Baby Registry Coaching Session with me to get a customized plan based on your home, feeding plans, and lifestyle.
Because when you bring home less stuff, you make room for more bliss!
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