How to Choose a Diaper Bag? 5 Quick Tips
If you are a new mama, your life now mostly revolves around your baby's needs. Outings, even short ones like a quick coffee run, require you to be prepared for every situation, from diaper changes to feeding times. One thing that greatly helps you in this is a diaper bag. It doesn't just carry diapers or wipes, but all your baby essentials like feeders. But how to choose a diaper bag?
What size and material should it be? Here's a detailed explanation!
How to Choose a Diaper Bag?
The process of “how to choose a diaper bag” can be as complex as picking a stroller for your little one. Here are some tips that you should consider to make the decision-making process easier:
Look at the Styles
Since the nappy bag will accompany you for a few years, you should choose an option that you actually like to carry. Explore the various styles available and choose the one that best matches your aesthetic and personality. Here's an overview:
- Backpack: Backpack diaper bags feature two shoulder straps for a hands-free and balanced way to carry baby supplies. Since this design distributes weight evenly on both shoulders, you experience less strain on your back. It has multiple inner and outer compartments for easily storing your baby's essentials, including diapers, bottles, wet clothes, and wipes.
- Tote: If you are searching for something stylish yet practical, you can opt for a tote diaper bag. It has two parallel straps that resemble a typical handbag but are more spacious. You can put all your baby supplies in it and access them quickly whenever needed. Nonetheless, as all the weight is on one shoulder, carrying it for longer periods is difficult, especially if the bag is full.
- Messenger Bags: Messenger diaper bags feature a single long strap that allows you to wear them on one side or across the body. The strap is adjustable, keeping your hands free so you can attend to other child-related duties. It has multiple compartments, but the size is often smaller than that of traditional backpack or tote diaper bags.
Focus on Practicality
Another important tip in “how to choose a diaper bag” is to focus on its practicality. Make sure the bag has adjustable and comfortable shoulder straps for easy carrying around.
In addition, it must also have multiple compartments for easy organisation of all baby items.
For instance, there should be a separate pocket for diapers and an insulated space to store milk and water bottles. The bag needs to be easily cleaned so spills and other stains don't ruin its overall look.
Choose Durability Over Anything
Well, diaper bags are subjected to a lot of wear and tear, from being thrown around to being pulled in and out of various compartments. If you don't pick a high-quality and durable option, the bag will fray, split, or sag after a few months.
Not only does it result in a financial loss, but you also have to go through the complex process of “how to choose a diaper bag.” Therefore, one thing you should focus on is the durability of the diaper bag. Choose options made of long-lasting and easy-to-clean materials, such as polyester or coated canvas.
The bag should have double-stitched seams and reinforced stress points, especially around the straps, to avoid ripping incidents. It must also be water-resistant to stay protected from rain and spills
Pay Attention to the Size
Choose the right size bag based on how and where you'll use it. For example, if you need it to store baby essentials while running daily errands, a medium-sized bag is a good option.
However, if you need something for longer trips or vacations, a large bag with multiple compartments is required.
In addition to usage, the size of the diaper bag may vary depending on the child's age, whether they are a toddler or a newborn. Buy a bag that's a little bigger than the requirements, so you have extra space for storing other things.
Don't Miss Out on Additional Features
If you are paying for the diaper bag, ensure it has most, if not all, of the following features:
- Sturdy base that stays upright to avoid spilling the contents on unhygienic places like public washrooms or restaurant floors.
- Easy closure mechanisms, such as a zipper or a magnetic clasp, so you don't waste time and can stay focused on your child's needs.
- Insulated bottle packets that easily hold bottles of all sizes.
What to Pack in a Diaper Bag?
You shouldn't hesitate to invest in a baby nappy bag. Here's an overview of what you can pack in it:
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Diaper cream
- Changing pad
- Pacifiers
- Burp clothes
- Extra clothes
- Baby hat
- Sippy cups
- Sunscreen
- Light blanket
- Toys
- Baby snacks
- Band aids
Some other optional items you can carry include:
- Nasal Aspirator: A stuffy nose in kids isn't something unlikely, so pack a nasal aspirator to ensure the baby breathes easily and remains happy throughout the trip.
- Nursing Cover: If you feel uncomfortable breastfeeding in public and need some privacy, consider packing a nursing cover.
These are some general items; the exact list varies based on your baby's age and needs, so pack accordingly.
FAQs
How many diaper bags do I really need?
Most parents invest in a single, high-quality diaper bag and use it throughout their parenting journey. However, you can also have a small one for running daily errands.
What's the right number of compartments for a diaper bag?
There's no specific number of compartments for the diaper bag, but choose one with the maximum pockets for easy organisation.
Can diaper bags be machine-washed?
Yes, most diaper bags can be machine-washed, but if you have a leather one, it just requires spot cleaning.
Conclusion
The whole process of “how to choose a diaper bag” becomes easier if you consider the aforementioned tips. Wondering where you can find top-notch baby essentials, from nappy bags to high-quality blankets? Look no further than the buKKub! Get in touch with us today and make your parenting journey smoother.