Ultimate Baby Registry Guide 2025
Amazon vs Target vs Walmart
January 12, 2025 | Baby Prep, Registry
A baby registry is one of the smartest moves you can make as an expecting parent. Free sample boxes, up to 15% discounts, and no more duplicate gifts! Here's everything you need to know about the big three registries.
What is a Baby Registry?
A baby registry is a wishlist of baby items you need. Family and friends can buy gifts directly from your list, and you get perks like discounts on remaining items.
- No duplicates: Items are marked as purchased
- Get what you need: Only useful items
- Completion discount: Save on unpurchased items
- Free samples: Welcome boxes with full-size products
Registry Comparison Chart
| Amazon | Target | Walmart | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Completion Discount | 15% (Prime) | 15% | None |
| Welcome Box | $35 value (Prime) | $100+ value | $40 value |
| Return Policy | 90 days | 1 year | 90 days |
| Selection | Largest | Premium brands | Budget-friendly |
| Best For | Fast shipping | In-store pickup | Lowest prices |
1. Amazon Baby Registry
The most popular baby registry with the widest product selection. Prime members get the best perks.
Key Benefits
- 15% completion discount: Available 60 days before due date (Prime)
- Welcome box: $35 value with samples (Prime, $10 purchase required)
- 180-day returns: Extended return window for registry items
- Universal registry: Add items from other websites
How to Get the Welcome Box
- Create an Amazon Baby Registry
- Complete your profile (100% checklist)
- Make a $10+ purchase from your registry
- Click "Claim Welcome Box" button
2. Target Baby Registry
Perfect if you love shopping in-store. The 1-year return policy is the most generous!
Key Benefits
- 15% completion discount: Usable 8 weeks before to 6 months after due date
- Welcome kit: $100+ value in samples (pick up in-store)
- 1-year returns: Longest return window of any registry
- Target Circle: Extra coupons and deals
How to Get the Welcome Kit
- Create a Target Baby Registry online
- Link it to your Target app
- Visit any Target store
- Go to Guest Services desk to claim
3. Walmart Baby Registry
Best for budget-conscious parents. Their Parent's Choice brand offers quality at low prices.
Key Benefits
- Welcome box: $40 value shipped free
- Price matching: They'll match competitor prices
- Free shipping: On $35+ orders
- Parent's Choice: Budget store brand
How to Get the Welcome Box
- Create a Walmart Baby Registry
- Add items to your registry
- Request the welcome box online
- Ships to your home (2-3 weeks)
Registry Pro Tips
1. Register at ALL THREE
There's no limit! Create registries at Amazon, Target, AND Walmart to:
- Get three welcome boxes (total $175+ in samples!)
- Price compare across stores
- Maximize discounts on different categories
2. Set Your Due Date 2 Weeks Later
Completion discounts are based on your due date. Setting it 2 weeks later extends your discount window!
3. Use the Checklists
Each registry offers curated checklists so you don't forget essentials like nail clippers, nasal aspirators, and outlet covers.
4. Enable Group Gifting
For expensive items like car seats and strollers, turn on group gifting so multiple people can chip in together.
Top 10 Registry Must-Haves
- Car Seat: Required to leave the hospital
- Stroller: Consider a travel system combo
- Crib: + mattress + waterproof cover
- Diapers: Newborn and Size 1
- Wipes: Fragrance-free, sensitive skin
- Bottles: Based on feeding plans
- Baby Carrier: Ergobaby, BabyBjorn popular
- Bouncer: Hands-free moments!
- Nursing Pillow: Boppy is a classic
- Baby Monitor: Audio or video
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