How to Create a Sustainable Baby Registry with Secondhand Gear

When I was expecting my first baby, I had been a thrift-savvy shopper who was excited about the deals I could score on secondhand baby gear. But I was torn: I was having a baby shower, and I couldn’t exactly send my grandmother on a Facebook Marketplace goose hunt. I wanted to be as eco-friendly as possible, especially knowing so much good gear is out there going unused. But… I also wanted my registry!

This journey quite literally led me to my current job at GoodBuy Gear, a secondhand and open box baby gear site. And I am so happy to announce that we have partnered with Babylist to make exactly the solution I was craving – an easy way to let your baby shower guests purchase pre-loved items directly from your baby registry. Thanks to GoodBuy Gear and Babylist, you can now register for secondhand items in just a few clicks.

If you’re wondering how to create a sustainable baby registry or dreaming of a home full of baby gear that’s better for your wallet and the planet, here’s your step-by-step guide.

Why Choose a Secondhand Baby Registry?

Registering for secondhand items isn’t just about saving money (though it definitely helps with the cost of parenthood). It’s also about sustainability, keeping good gear out of landfills, and choosing an eco-friendly path that benefits both your family and the planet. Since the inception of GoodBuy Gear in 2016, GoodBuy Gear customers have helped save over one million baby & kid items from landfills. Plus, an eco-friendly baby registry also makes it easy for loved ones to feel good about their gifts—knowing they’re supporting a more sustainable future. 

How to Register for Secondhand Baby Items

Here’s exactly how to set up your secondhand baby registry with GoodBuy Gear and Babylist:

1. Check the “Open to Secondhand” Box on Babylist

When creating your Babylist registry, be sure to check the box that says “Open to Secondhand.” This lets friends and family know that you’re not only comfortable with pre-loved items—you actually want them.

To toggle on the “open to secondhand” feature: 

• Once you add an item to your registry, select “Edit” 
• Then, scroll down and hit the “open to secondhand” button

2. Add a Note at the Top of Your Registry

Clarity is key. At the top of your Babylist registry, include a note that explains why you’re excited about secondhand gifts. For example:

“We are building a sustainable baby registry and would love pre-loved gifts! We believe secondhand is safe, sustainable, and the best choice for our family and the planet.”

This makes it clear to guests that you’re serious about your eco-friendly values and excited to receive secondhand gear.

3. Use the Babylist Button on GoodBuy Gear

Here’s where the magic happens: When browsing GoodBuy Gear’s product pages, simply click the “Add to Babylist” button to add secondhand strollers, bassinets, carriers, and more directly to your registry. This allows your shower guests to shop for secondhand items easily, with the same convenience as buying new.

4. Register for a GoodBuy Gear Gift Card

Not sure exactly what you’ll need yet? Register for a GoodBuy Gear gift card on Babylist. This gives you flexibility to shop for secondhand items later, once you know your baby’s preferences and needs. It also ensures that every gift supports your eco-friendly baby registry.

Building a Baby Registry That’s Affordable and Sustainable

Creating a secondhand baby registry through Babylist and GoodBuy Gear helps you save money, live your values, and invite your community into your sustainable parenting journey. Whether it’s a gently used stroller, a pre-loved high chair, or a gift card to shop later, your friends and family will love knowing their gift is both meaningful and eco-friendly.

So the next time you’re wondering how to create a sustainable baby registry, remember: secondhand is the new first choice.

About the Author

GoodBuy Gear Contributing Writer