Is your diaper bag properly prepared, or do you need to add a few items before you and your little one head out on another family adventure? We’ve put together a complete list of everything worth packing in your diaper bag!
Diapers: Yeah, this one is pretty obvious, but it’s still super important to have enough diapers in your diaper bag. A good rule of thumb is to pack one diaper for every three hours that you’ll be out, plus two more.
A Changing Pad: Sure, you could use a random blanket in a pinch, but do you really want to risk soiling a perfectly good blanket? A changing pad is a great way to keep your baby off whatever questionably clean surface you end up changing their diapers on. This is an absolute must to have on the go when you are out and about!
Baby Wipes: If you’re changing diapers, you’re going to need baby wipes! This is the best way to clean up your little one outside of bathtime.
Hand Sanitizer: You’re not always going to have access to soap and water where you change your baby, so make sure you have a way to sanitize your hands.
Diaper Rash Cream: Sometimes babies can develop tender skin or irritation from wearing a soiled diaper. It’s always advisable to have some kind of diaper-rash-specific soothing balm or ointment at the ready, just in case.
Nursing Cover: A soft, stretchy nursing cover does more than just give you privacy while feeding your little one. It can be used as a sun shade, stroller cover, or even as a makeshift blanket.
Waterproof Bags: Whether it’s a zip-loc, garbage, or an old grocery bag, make sure you always have a place to stow those dirty diapers in case you don’t have immediate access to a proper garbage bin.
Burp Cloth: Babies love to burp up little messes, especially after mealtime, which is why it’s so important for parents to always keep a burp cloth handy. Be sure to choose a burp cloth that’s soft enough for even newborn skin and machine washable for easy cleanup. We recommend keeping at least two of these in your diaper bag at all times.
Feeding Supplies: Every child has unique needs when it comes to feeding time, but keeping your little one’s favorite milk or formula on hand (plus a bottle to feed them from) is always a good idea.
Snacks: You’ve packed your baby’s feeding supplies, but what about your own? Parents, especially those who are nursing, can often forget to take care of themselves. Pack a few of your favorite snacks just in case you get the munchies.
Baby Hair Brush: This one is optional, depending on how troublesome your baby’s hair tends to be. If their hair easily gets messy and tangled, or if they’re dealing with a condition like cradle cap, don’t forget to bring a baby hairbrush.
The Diaper Bag: Alright, you’ve got everything you need for your diaper bag, but do you have the right diaper bag? We prefer diaper bags that have roomy interiors, tons of pockets, and ideally, an included changing pad. Backpack-style diaper bags are great because you can stay hands free and you can give shoulders a rest by hanging them from the handles of your stroller.
