So you’re in the market for a diaper bag. As silly as it sounds, this isn’t a decision to be taken lightly, especially when you consider the bag you choose will be carried around on an almost daily basis for the next year or two. Diaper bags have changed a lot in the past few years. They are no longer unattractive plastic shoulder bags with pictures of duckies or teddy bears on the front. You now have several options to choose from depending on your needs. Before you decide on a type or style, however, you have to consider what you will be carrying in your diaper bag, how much you will be lugging around, and how often it will be put to use. The answers to these questions will help in determining the type or style bag that is right for you.
For the most part, the supplies you’ll pack will depend on where you are going and the length of your stay. For instance, if you’re only running to the supermarket, you’ll travel a little lighter than if you’re spending a day or two at the in-laws. If you plan on doing a lot of the latter-type traveling, you’ll want a bigger bag.
The essential diaper bag items are, of course, diapers, wipes, rash ointment or cream, bottles, changing pad, blanket, and maybe some little toys to keep baby amused. If you’ll be staying at your destination for a while, you’ll want to add a couple of changes of clothes, food if your baby is old enough to eat, wash cloths, bibs, books, burp cloths, teething items, and pain reliever. Keep these items in mind when looking for a diaper bag to suit your needs.
When choosing a diaper bag there are other things to consider. For instance, is it roomy? Will you be able to find all its contents without a lot of fumbling around? Does it have separate compartments to stand bottles so they won’t leak? Are there zippered pockets so smaller items won’t fall out or roll around on the bottom? Will you be carrying a purse? If not, you’ll want somewhere to put your wallet, lipstick and car keys.
Your second consideration is your own comfort. Will the shoulder straps dig into your arm? Will the material chafe or itch if it rubs against your skin? Is the bag sturdy enough to last for as long as you’ll need it, or will it have to be replaced in a few months?
Once you’ve considered the above, you’ll want to choose a style that’s right for you. There’s the regular plastic over the shoulder diaper bag women have carried around for ages, and these bags are usually the cheapest. Keeping that in mind, it’s important to note that these are also usually the bags that have to be replaced every few months. With diaper bags you really do get what you pay for. You can find the same style diaper bag but instead of being made from inexpensive plastic, there are models in sturdier canvas or even leather, with plastic linings for protection.
If you’re not happy with a style similar to the diaper bag your mother carried, you can try the messenger bag style. This has a heavy canvas strap and is a little more fashionable and trendy than the basic bag. You can carry it over one shoulder or over the opposite shoulder so the strap falls diagonally across your chest, which might be more comfortable if the bag is heavy. These bags have several compartments for all your baby’s necessities and can be quite roomy.
Another stylish diaper bag is the backpack. These come in all colors and styles. They range in price from affordable to very expensive. Baby backpacks are gaining in popularity, especially with Dads because they don’t look as feminine. Like the other bags, they come in heavy canvas or leather and are quite sturdy. They all have separate zippered compartments and pouches to hold all the essentials, and they last for a long time.
If money is no object, you can go to your local baby boutique and pick out a trendy designer bag, but keep in mind that even though they are expensive, a famous name doesn’t necessarily mean quality. Your best bet when choosing a diaper bag is to research different styles, materials and brand names. The Internet is great for product reviews, but friends and relatives with children are even better. Ask those close to you what they recommend and why. Most moms will tell you they want a diaper bag that’s sturdy, roomy, comfortable and chic and will be happy to recommend their choice.
This certainly gives you a lot to think about, but hopefully, you can now shop around for a diaper bag with a few ideas. Since this bag will be attached to you for a year or two, don’t follow trends. Choose what’s right for you and your baby.
