DIAPER BAGS
Your diaper bag is the one piece of gear you will have with you at all times—it stocks every essential. Most come standard with several pockets inside and out, and a diaper changing pad. Our advice to you when buying a diaper bag: choose one that reflects your personal style.

Types of Diaper Bags

1. Messenger Bag: A messenger style bag is designed with a long single strap that crosses over the chest so the weight of the bag is not fully concentrated on your shoulder. They also free up your hands because you're not always fidgeting to keep them on your shoulder. Example: Diaper Dude Messenger

2. Backpack: A backpack style diaper bag has all the traditional features (pockets, storage, etc), but has the added convenience of being worn on your back so you’re fully hands-free. However, when you need to access something from your bag you need to remove it from your back, which for some parents is not a desirable option. Example: Claire

3. Tote Diaper Bag: Tote styled diaper bags have a pair of handles that may vary in length and can be carried either with your hands or on your shoulder. These bags are traditionally larger than the other style bags. Example: Lexington

4. Fashion or Designer Bags: These bags are designed to conceal the bags true identity as a diaper bag. They look more like an every day handbag while offering all the bells and whistles of a traditional diaper bag. They’re typically more expensive too. Examples: Olivia, Emily

Features to Consider:

1. Changing Pad: You'll need a portable changing pad when you're on the go. Most diaper bags come with their own compact changing pad.

2. Storage Compartments: Almost all diaper bags are equipped with several compartments/pockets to make it easier to keep everything organized.

3. Stroller Compatibility: While not the most important feature, make sure you consider if you the diaper bag can easily attach to your stroller or if your stroller has a large enough storage basket to hold your bag. If not, you might want to consider investing in stroller clips from which you can hang the bag.

4. Insulated Bottle Holder: Most bags today feature an insulated bottle feature that helps maintain the proper temperature of your bottle.

5. Adjustability: Some bags will offer various ways of wear. For instance: some over the shoulder bags can be converted into a backpack style (The Claire bag is great at this!).

6. Washability: Between leaky bottles, dirty diapers, and cheerios, your diaper bag will get dirty. Be sure the on you select features washable fabric such as vinyl (especially on the inside).

Your Diaper Bag Checklist:

As your little one gets older, you'll need less stuff, but in the beginning these are the diaper bag essentials:

• change of clothes

• bottles or nursing supplies

• formula and formula dispenser

• zip lock bags (great for concealing dirty clothes from the rest of your bag)

• disposable bags (perfect for wrapping up dirty diapers before you throw them away)

• diapers and wipes

• changing pad

• bibs & burps

• rash ointments

• extra pacifiers

• toys

• favorite lovey

• blanket

• snacks