The diaper bag is essential for the first year of your baby's life. Here are a few tips for keeping yours packed and ready for action.
Pack the following: Don't forget to keep in mind how long you will be out!
__ Diapers (diaper covers if using cloth)
__ One or two receiving blankets
__ Diaper ointment
__ Wash Cloth
__ A changing pad and burp cloth
__ Baby wipes stored in a resealable storage baggie. Wipes will stay moist longer and take up less space.
__ Formula and bottles
__ Nursing pads if breastfeeding
__ One or two bibs
__ Antibacterial water-less hand cleaner
__ An extra set of baby clothes
__ A couple of small plastic bags for disposing of diapers or dirty clothes
__ Pacifier or teether
__ Camera to catch those special moments
__ Baby food and feeding utensils and a snack for the older children
__ One of your baby's favorite toys
__ Small bottle of water to mix with formula or for clean-ups
Keep a separate purse
Mom, resist the temptation to keep your personal items in
one of the compartments of the diaper bag. Instead use a small purse
that you can remove from the diaper bag before passing it on to Dad.
It saves time and prevents the hassle of rummaging through the bag for
your personal items.
Picking a Bag
Consider choosing a diaper bag in a neutral color and style
so that both parents will be comfortable with it. Back pack and messenger
style bags free both hands for baby.