Going out in public with a baby or infant is not an easy task. Even if it can be a hassle, a confusing situation, or just plain messy, if you have a diaper bag that is properly organized, you will always come out on top. Allow us to assist you in developing the most comprehensive and comprehensive checklist possible for your diaper bag so that you are never caught unprepared regardless of the circumstances.
You don’t necessarily have to carry all that your child is familiar with or has grown used to, but there are some essential things that you must pack in your diaper bag. This is everything that you will need in order to put together the best possible baby bag necessities package for your cherished child.
Checklist: What To Pack In Your Diaper Bag?
A diaper bag isn’t just for carrying diapers when you’re out and about with a newborn. It has a solution for any problem that can crop up, making it the ideal companion for parents and the metaphorical “friend in need” we’ve all heard of.
Wipes
Just like diapers, wipes are a must-have in your diaper bag. Make sure you carry a big travel-size pack or stash three-four small travel packs in your bag. If possible, carry smaller packs in a resealable plastic pouch or ziplock bag, to keep them from drying. Wipes can be used to not only wipe and clean messy baby bottoms but to also wipe dirty surfaces and sticky hands.
Changing Pad
A foldable and portable changing pad is extremely handy when you are out with your child. There are disposable ones, ones that come along with a diaper bag, and ones that can be reused – all kinds available in the market. There are also ones made of water-resistant material to help you clean and dry quickly. You can also use a hand towel as a changing pad.
Hand Sanitize
Each time you change the diaper or clean your child, ensure that you use a hand sanitizer. This is especially true in case of places where there is no provision to wash your hands.
Bibs Or Burp Cloth
Children tend to spill food and soil their clothes. When you pack your diaper bag, put a bib in it to save the hassle of changing clothes after every meal outside. Burp cloths are essential for wearing over your shoulder while you burp your child. They are non-space-consuming little pieces of rags that can fit into the nook of your diaper bag quite easily.
Extra Set/Sets Of Clothes
An extra pair of clothes is a must. If possible, throw in two or three extra pairs of soft or warm clothes, as per the weather, and add a pair or two of socks as well. Babies tend to need a change of clothes more often than toddlers and preschoolers.
Diapers
Carry one diaper for every hour that you will be out. Add a few extra ones, just to be at peace. If you are planning an overnight excursion or trip, carry a full pack of 24 diapers. You can always buy a top-up later if required.
Carry Bags To Discard Used Diapers
Carry bags made of paper or biodegradable material are the best to use for disposing of used and soiled diapers. They can also be used to store soiled clothes, bibs, and towels.
Sunscreen or Hat
You don’t want to expose your child to the sun. Babies have sensitive skin and you don’t want your child to suffer tans and burns. Cover your child up in layers and keep them away from direct sunlight. Use a sunscreen lotion on children above the age of 6 months. A hat that also covers the back of your baby’s neck is good. Make sure you carry them both in your diaper bag.
Baby Blanket
Many children are fond of their very own blankets as it provides them with warmth and comfort. If your child is one of them, carrying their favorite blanket is a must.
Baby’s Feed In A Bottle
If you are breastfeeding the baby, then you may not quite need to worry about your child’s milk requirements. But if you are bottle-feeding your child, please ensure that you carry a bottle of formula or expressed breast milk with you in a cooler. Keep a small nursing cover in your diaper bag as well. For older kids, carry their snacks in a container with a spoon.
Diaper Rash Cream
As your child grows up and is under potty training, they may not wear diapers on a regular basis. Your trip may be an occasion on which they could wear a diaper after a long time. At such times, they could develop a rash on their sore bottom. It is best to keep a diaper rash cream in your diaper bag.
Vaseline
The dryness of the skin could be a result of dry and wintry weather. It could also result from extreme heat. Scratches, bruises, bumps, and falls are common when on a trip. At such times, Vaseline helps!
A Favorite Toy
To avoid tantrums and meltdowns, carry a small toy that is your child’s favorite. Keeping your child calm when outside, is no mean feat!
Pacifiers
If your baby is used to a pacifier, do not hesitate to carry more than one in your diaper bag. Make sure you pack them separately in plastic baggies.
Nursing Pads
If you are breastfeeding, slip in a couple of breast pads to avoid embarrassment from those leaking breasts.
Sippy Cup
Toddlers could drink milk, water, juices, and even soups in a sippy cup to avoid spilling and soiling of clothes. A sippy cup comes in handy here.
First Aid Kit
You never know when your baby will get colicky or develop a fever. So it is advisable to carry a small first-aid kit with the basic medicines for your baby, some band-aids, pain relievers, and other first-aid essentials.
While all of this may not be ready with you all the time, try to keep a small diaper bag with basics such as diapers, wipes, pacifiers, empty bottles, a small can of formula, and bibs ready. It will save you a lot of hassle if you ever go on a quick unexpected trip. Do not forget to stash your wallet, cell phone, sunglasses, bottle of water, and keys as well in your diaper bag!
Tips To Buy A Good Diaper Bag
Before picking a diaper bag, just don’t go by its looks, try it on for size. What is convenient for one mom may not be the same for another mom. Also,
- Just don’t stick to a conventional diaper bag design. You can broaden your search and look for bags meant for other purposes like a backpack that can be doubled as a diaper bag.
- It is a good idea to buy two diaper bags: a small one for quick unexpected trips and a big one for longer getaways.
- Pick a bag that has multiple compartments as this makes life easier and items more organized in the diaper bag.
- A waterproof lining is a boon as it makes cleaning easy in case of any spills.
- Also prevent leaks by packing liquids such as medicines in a small plastic bag.
- To make life easy for you, pack similar items like clothing in a resealable bag.
So all those mommies out there, what’s in your diaper bag? Do share it in the comments section below.
