We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.
Onesies and teethers look adorable tied with a bow; however, in the grand scheme of a kid’s life, they’re a flash in the pan (no disrespect to Sophie the giraffe, of course). But this alternative gifting option is more focused on the long term, and expecting parents are into it—the down payment for baby’s first home.
Opendoor, the residential real-estate platform, and Babylist, a baby registry site, have teamed up to offer Baby’s First Home Cash Fund—a way for new parents to ask friends and family for down payment support. According to Babylist, 1,200 parents have added a home fund to their registry in 2024—a 66% increase since the first month the fund launched. The brand also notes that they’re seeing faster growth for home fund registry adds in the first year than they saw for doula funds at launch in 2020, showing that parents are thinking beyond immediate care.
But is it taboo to put a white picket fence on your registry? Cash and honeymoon funds have long been included on wedding registries. Plus gift givers are already thinking beyond the nursery and giving presents—like food delivery gift cards and comfy pj’s—to help parents ease into their new role.
In the spirit of nontraditional gifts, here are five more registry items to help make baby’s first house a home.
Blackout Curtains
Cotton Velvet Blackout Curtain
WEST ELM
We’d argue that quality drapery is just as important as a diaper pail…maybe even more so when you consider that the best blackout curtains could get everyone an extra hour of sleep.
Handheld Vacuum
Shark Handheld Vacuum
AMAZON
Never underestimate the volume of crumbs a little one can generate—or what a pain it is to constantly drag out a full-size vacuum. That’s why a sleek handheld version you can keep on your kitchen counter is essential.
Coffee Maker
Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System
CRATE & BARREL
New parents need to stay caffeinated. They also need options. The Ninja Espresso & Coffee Barista System basically brings a full coffee bar to your kitchen.
White Noise Machine
White Noise Sound Machine
AMAZON
Amazon sells a three-pack of Dohm Uno white noise machines, and honestly, it’s not a bad idea to throw the full trio on your registry. Both parents and kiddos need all the peace and quiet they can get, and a third device comes in handy for travel.
Handheld Showerhead
Moen Handheld Showerhead
AMAZON
Blowouts, you have met your match with a quality detachable showerhead. Being able to hose down a toddler is a true parenting power move. Plus, the convenient magnetic docking system on this Moen model is clutch when you’re holding a squirmy kid.