Product Spotlight: Diaper Bags

cato99

Happy Monday! 

Today's topic is a very fun one (for me at least, since I'm reeeeaaally into purses): Diaper Bags! You will need to carry around a bunch of baby gear, so you may as well make it cute! Or if not cute, at least comfortable and organized. Or if not organized, at least easy to wipe off various baby fluids. Or if covered in baby fluids, sounds like you could use some cheering up with a cute purse. Circular and impeccable logic. 

Do you have a brand, or particular bag within a brand that you recommend? How about general shape (backpack, over-the-shoulder, smaller tote for quicker excursions)? How many diaper bags do you have, and do you stash them in different places (e.g., do you have a "car diaper bag")? Do you and your partner and other caregivers use the same bag, or do you have a variety? Do you rely on the organization built into the bag, or do you use additional storage solutions like baggies or insertable slots? And really, what do you even PUT in your diaper bag? Did you bring your entire nursery and also a pharmacy and also a Toys R Us in your diaper bag with a newborn? And do you just bring an old rag and like half a diaper when your baby is 1 year old and you're over it? Please share!

Prior and Upcoming Product Spotlights

mrosek91

Personally, I have the JJ cole backpack diaper bag in grey. I highly recommend a diaper bag backpack, because when your trying to juggle a baby, and a bag, and possibly blanket/toys/snacks/what ever else the baby is screaming for, you want as many hands as possible. I also recommend you get one with easily accessible outside pockets, because when baby is screaming you want to be able to grab a paci or bottle really quickly. 
Personally, I only have one bag, I also have items that stay in the bag. That way I know it's packed, and all I have to check when we're heading out the door is whether I remembered to replenish the diapers.
I tend to keep the bag very minimal, (if they need toys they are very happy with my wallet or keys) but that's a personal preference. Here's what I have in it.
Diapers - When they're little I carry a lot, but by the time they hit 9 months or so, you don't need more than 5.
Wipes
Diaper Cream
Diaper trash bags - when my husband bought these, I made fun of him for thinking our son was a dog, but they are really amazing.
Nursing cover/ Burp cloths- as long as they nursed
Change of clothes - I actually don't carry these as much as I used to, the first 6 months or so, I'm careful to have a complete change of clothes, after that I only bother if we're going to be out all day.
Snacks - I'm actually a terrible mom, and forget snacks more often than I remember, but I always *plan* to pack snacks. These again depend on age. Those fruit sauce pouches are really good, and once they're old enough to start feeding themselves things like cheerios or ChezIts these snack cups are amazing.

ash0625

I currently have a diaper bag backpack for our 1 year old. Hoping to just adjust and add some newborn stuff to it? 

Also +1 on the diaper trash bags. We use them for ALL SORTS of messes. 

cato99

So this for me is kind of a "do as I say, not as I do" because I think backpack options (or convertible to backpack) are super great, but my daily diaper bag is not that--it's a shoulder bag that admittedly sometimes digs into my shoulder when I over-stuff it!

I wanted a big black bag with no overt patterns or markings, that was designed as a baby bag but could potentially be used as a non-baby bag, and could fit my big work computer whether with or without baby stuff as well, and I stumbled on this Coach bag (discontinued now so it's a third-party link) that ticked all the boxes (I often think Coach is too aggressively branded but this is pretty discreet). It's easy wipe-able synthetic material, comes with a changing pad, and has some pockets and divisions (especially on the sides, so that I can fit bottles and sippy cups) but the main cavity is just a big space so I can create subdivisions as needed.

I initially got this insert organizer and I strongly do NOT recommend it or anything of that style. It was too thick and took up way too much room inside of my bag, and if I didn't use the pre-ordained slots it was just wasted space. Instead this time I'm going to get a set of separate little organizer pouches, so that I can decide on any given day how many separate spaces I need. I like the look of this style because they're clear so you can see immediately what's in them, and I like the look of this style because they have little wristlets so if you want to go somewhere without lugging your whole bag, and just want to bring the diaper options just in case, you can do so comfortably. 

Another thing I got last time but didn't end up using was this little clip set so you can hang your bag on any stroller. I just never felt comfortable that the stroller wouldn't tip over (especially the super light travel strollers). Also I found the clips themselves weirdly heavy to be lugging around. 

We also have this awesome SkipHop diaper backpack that my husband uses or we take on hikes or on trips. I think that brand is really solid, and I have given this SkipHop diaper bag a lot for babyshowers, and would get one for myself if it only came in simple, basic black!

So for me, in general things to look for in a baby bag: comes with changing pad (though you can always get a separate one to keep in the bag), wipe-able material, some pockets/subdivisions for organization (though this too you can add later), general maneuverability so that you can grab stuff one-handed while carrying a baby. 

mkrel

I initially ignored everyone's advice and got a shoulder bag rather than a backpack style bag.  6 months later I bought a backpack style bag from Amazon for half the price and haven't looked back.  They are SO much easier!

lilmamabebe3

Do you have a brand, or particular bag within a brand that you recommend? I got a designer bag as a gift for my first and loved it, but it was hard to carry and annoying, it was just bougie. My husband uses a tactical baby gear shoulder bag but is planning to get a backpack style for this baby. I had a Sarah Wells pumping bag for work last time and it was wayyyy worth the investment and I used it as a diaper bag if I needed to, but was perfect for carting back and forth to work or for longer trips out of the house.

How about general shape (backpack, over-the-shoulder, smaller tote for quicker excursions)? I have no idea. Whatever fits under the stoller, in my opinion. Do not want to carry that thing.

How many diaper bags do you have, and do you stash them in different places (e.g., do you have a "car diaper bag")? Three. Mine, husband's, and nanny's. The nanny's is at home but she takes the boys to gymnastics, soccer, and swim lessons. Plus she'll take our 2 year old places during the school day so her needs are very different than say, mine for a quick target run. The other two we keep stashed in our cars so we always have one when we leave. We refill it when we get home.

Do you and your partner and other caregivers use the same bag, or do you have a variety? We all have different bags based on style / taste and function.

Do you rely on the organization built into the bag, or do you use additional storage solutions like baggies or insertable slots? Both! Keep a reusable bag for dirty clothes, baggies for diapers, cooler for bottles, but use the bag's organization to easily find those things.

And really, what do you even PUT in your diaper bag? Did you bring your entire nursery and also a pharmacy and also a Toys R Us in your diaper bag with a newborn? And do you just bring an old rag and like half a diaper when your baby is 1 year old and you're over it? Please share! I hate diaper bags. I rarely used one with my second because I just threw a changing pad with a change of clothes in the car and kept a small pack of diapers and a travel case of wipes in my car all the time. Once they're not SO little, you don't need to cart so much stuff around. Usually I would have a cup or a bottle, if they use a paci never, ever forget that thing! Clothes, diapers, wipes, be prepared for lots of your stuff to be covered in poop so lots of little baggies for that. 

parrothead78

I am a lover of Ju-Ju-Be (JJB)! With my first, it took me way too long to discover a backpack diaper bag was the way to go. I just upgraded with the new babe on the way to the JJB BFF bag. (We have/had the Be Right Back Backpack) - And I’ve bought all the inserts/set pieces + some. I’ve spent a good amount of time watching YouTube videos of “How I pack my JJB BFF”. We have what I think is a neutral print (Queen of the Nile - Black & White with a chevronish design) so DH can carry it and it’s not too girly from him - though he wouldn’t really care anyways.
I love all the features it has: machine washable, mommy pocket, crumb pockets, lots of pockets/storage, changing pad included,  + the set pieces you can mix and match for easy organization.

For us - I have their Fuel Cell lunch bag (yes lunch box style & fits perfectly into the BFF) I will store mine & DDs snacks in. We have their Be Quick Bag/insert/clutch (it can be multiple things) it holds diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream, panty liners/tampons for me + more depending how many diapers you store in there. It also has a diaper bag trash thing clipped to it + hand sanitizer)
I have 3 set pieces: Large, Medium, Small:
Large: has change of clothes just in case + wet/dry bag). Medium, toys. Some little toys for DD + will easily fit tethers & toys for baby. Small, I use it in the mommy pocket for cards/memberships, cash, etc. 

I also have a little first aid kit in there but the pouch is not JJB. The JJB BFF also fits an umbrella. I couldn’t love the functionality more.


You can use a 20% off Buy Buy Baby coupon on it or Amazon usually is cheaper by default + 15% off registry completion (if you have a registry w/ Amazon). I would recommend th Be Right Back or BFF to anyone - with 1 kid and more! 

Forgive me - I don’t know how to link on my phone. Otherwise I totally would 😜
Edited: words

Allycat11

When DD was born I was gifted a beautiful Coach diaper bag. I loved it at first but it was not very practical. For DS I bought a JuJuBe diaper bag and I am obssessed...it will be used for B3 too. It is machine washable, has functional pockets, cute prints and it is comdortable to wear. Mine has a messenger bag strap that I love for every day wear, but it also comes with backpack srraps that are great for longer days. 

Your lifestyle will determine how many/what types of bags you need in my opinion, so this is what works for my family with a WAHM and DH who works a more traditional job. We only have 1 diaper bag at a time and that is basically my purse for the first year or so. My babies are rarely away from me for long periods of time so there is not much need for anyone else to carry a diaper bag.

Here are the things I carry/features I like as a breastfeeding mom:

-Diapers...duh lol. More than you think you will need. 
-Disposable changing pad.
-Wipes
-At least 1 change of clothes, sometimes more if you will be gone longer. I keep ours in a Bumkins wetbag because that makes it easy to find and then I can toss the dirty clothes into the wetbag. Bumkins brand because the prints are adorable...we also use their reusable snack and sandwich bags. 
-Swaddle blanket. I love Aden and Anais brand....this is also what I use as a nursing cover. 
-Wallet and cell phone, I love when there are easy to reach external pockets for these. 
-Water bottle for me, again dedicated pocket for it is a must. 
-Snacks. For me at first and then for baby as he/she gets older. 
-As baby gets older sometimes a toy depending on the outing. 
-Hand sanitizer 

Most people carry pacifiers but my kids hated them (no judgment if you use them, sometimes I wish I had not been their human pacifier lol), if you formula feed of course you will need supplies for that, I am not helpful in that department but I am sure other moms will be able to provide useful info. I don't carry diaper rash cream unless I know we are dealing with a diaper rash before we leave, just one more thing to haul that will rarely be used and knowing my luck it will spill everywhere. 


And a funny story...when DD was a few weeks old I had to take her to the doctor at the last minute during a snow storm because she was sick. In the hustle of cleaning my car, getting us ready and rushing out the door, I left the whole diaper bag at home. Of course this would be the day that she had a diaper blow out in the waiting room. I am talking down to her ankles and allll the way up her back. Pro tip: doctors offices should have spare diapers and wipes, so I used that to at least get her cleaned up. I had to call my in laws to go to my house and get her a spare change of clothes. Have not forgotten a diaper bag since then lol. 

Twinkiedoll

My must have features for a diaper bag for a newborn:

1.  Insulated compartment

2. Changing pad

3. Lightweight

4. Something my husband would be willing to carry

5.  Stroller straps

I got the Skiphop quilted black backpack and loved it. Once DD was off breastmilk, I switched to a smaller shoulder bag, also Skiphop.  Nowadays, I just toss everything into my super lightweight Tokidoki tote bag.

TinaTho

I started with DD with 2 very nice diaper bags - one for me and one for DH. We now solely use a backpack. I’ll use it for this one as well, cannot stress enough how nice multiple compartments and an external wipe dispenser are. 

sourlemon

We don't carry a bag everywhere that we go, even at the NB stage. I'll pack a normal bag and leave it in the car. Running into a store I put a diaper, pack of wipes, and a bottle (if needed) in my pockets and off we go. 

We do keep a Tupperware box in the car with diapers, wipes, sippy cups, bottles, and clothes for each kid just in case. So we can grab from that if we forgot something. 

After about 6 months all I carry around is wipes. I can always run out to the car to get a diaper if needed but that was rare with both kids. 

We bring a standard bag if we are going to my parents for dinner or aomething longer than an hour. Generally about 5 diapers, wipes, a few bottles, burp rags, spare clothes, pack, swaddle blanket, diaper cream and meds if needed...I think that's it. 

elizabeth_1985

I really like our Playtex bottle bag. It has a messenger strap and smaller in size. (Fits under the stroller.)

I formula fed both of my kids. I'd pack bottles with water and pre-measured powder formula. When they got hungry, just added the formula to the water. And they were good with room temperature bottles which made it really easy.

BigBadWolf12

We got a convertible bag on sale from winners. No regrets. We use the stroller clips most often (it basically stays on the stroller 90%of the time since we don't have a vehicle and take the stroller everywhere)
Next we use the shoulder strap but it's nice to have the option of backpack style.  I only ever use the backpack style when baby wearing or carrying the bag a long distance / time,  personally speaking. And even then usually I was wearing the baby and dh was carrying the bag.

At first it was full of Diapers and spit rags (small ones,  big ones - I tied the corners of a bug muslin blanket together and preferred that to an official "nursing cover"). Then i swapped out spit rags for books and snacks.  His med bag takes a decent chunk of space,  so it always seems full

In the diaper bag I have a wet-dry bag and I keep 1 new diaper, a small pack of wipes,  and the change mat in the dry compartment.  Wet Diapers,  spit rags,  soiled clothes, whatever laundry can go in the wet compartment if needed. It's great.  Then I just wash and reuse do I have 2i switch between. Apparently they're great beach bags for older kids too also a super convenient "diaper change" bag without taking the WHOLE diaper bag which has backups of everything etc.

wanderlustsoul

I’m pretty sure my mom got me a Gucci backpack but I’m also going to try to get another backpack that I saw on Pinterest. It looks so cool with all these compartments. 

https://citibabies.com/citi-explorer

cmessamore

This is what I have from amazon and it’s perfect. It’s sturdy, lots of pockets and currently holds everything I need for my 1 and 2 year olds. It’ll be able to hold all of the things I need for this baby as well. 

jmesue1030

Anyone have experience with the freshly picked diaper bag? I have the black quilted skip hop from DS but looking to up my game this time around! 

mwmiller4

@parrothead78 I am also a HUGE fan of the BRB.  I own 3 and use 1 as a diaper bag and the other two as work bags. I love the set pieces and be organized to help keep stuff together and so the bag doesn't turn into a black hole.  I avoided buying a nice diaper bag for DD until she was nearly 2, but it's so nice to have a sturdy one and I love backpacks for babywearing since I almost always did front carries when DD was little.

MollyH1987

I'll also add: don't just pack a change of clothes for baby, have extra clothes for yourself as well. You never know when some of their bodily fluids will also end up on your clothes.

WinchesterGirl

For all the jujube lovers, where is the best place to see one in store? I'm really picky so I'd like to scope bags out in person before I buy anything. 

Allycat11

@WinchesterGirl I got mine from a local cloth diaper store. The main place I see them is at local boutique type stores. 

mrosek91

@WinchesterGirl I do not have one, but I am a professional Googler. 
Try this - https://www.ju-ju-be.com/pages/retail-locator 

BigBadWolf12

@WinchesterGirl I forgot what thread I opened for a sec and thought you were talking about the candies 😂 I was like, scope out the bags as in which bags have the best colour ratios to your preference? 🙈

And now I want jujubes

aukeev

You all have such good taste lol.

Is anyone planning on using a regular bag instead of a designated diaper bag? I picked up the Madewell Lorimer Backpack the other day after scoping out the Honest City Backpack. It seemed a little bit bigger, and I liked the style more. At our 12-week scan today they gave us this perfect insulated bottle/milk bag that I'll probably use inside it. 

cato99

@oklahomak I think if I had to get another bag this time around I would probably just go for a regular bag and fill it with inserts/pouches/insulated thingies/a changing pad. Just as long as the material is wipe-able and it's generally maneuverable when you're handling a baby! Ideally it should have 1-2 pockets that are SUPER reachable for quick needs like a spit up rag. 

aukeev

@cato99 Thanks! It's vegan leather, so should be decently wipe-able... I hope! 
Do you use the changing pad that came with your first bag, or do you have another favorite? That's something we're looking for now. 

parrothead78

@WinchesterGirl I think you can @ Buy Buy Baby but I bought my first one based on YouTube videos! I’m kind of obsessed with watching people pack theirs 😂

cato99

@oklahomak I just use the changing pad that came with my various bags so I don’t have a separate one to recommend, but I know there are some cute ones out there! 

Amdogger82

@oklahomak we have this skip hop mat and I love it. Now that DS is almost two, I don't carry our diaper bag much at all. This fits 4-5 diapers, wipes and diaper cream and I can throw it in a bigger shoulder bag, a back pack or just carry it alone. It's been one of the most useful items we didn't register for! 

aukeev

@jmesue1030 I know this thread is old, but I've been drooling over the Freshly Picked diaper backpack lately. Is that the one you were considering? If so, did you end up going with it/is that your plan? 

agpandme

I put a back pack style bag on my registry with a cute southwestern design.  I'm planning to also utilize one or more of several large diaper bag size cloth totes with multiple pockets that I already have.   I told my husband to use one of his new tool bags that come with all the stuff he buys from Snap On.  They are diaper bag size with one large zipper.  Should suit him just fine He did say he doesn't care what he uses but I'm sure he doesn't want to be carrying around my cloth tote with a big horse head on it LOL

cato99

Updating with a new bag I’m coveting and thinking about as an unnecessary second-baby bag. I hung out with a mom who had an Itzy Ritzy backpack and it was so cute! 

Edited to add: ok just looked up Freshly Picked and that is gorgeous. That may be my second-baby-unnecessary-gift-to-myself instead  

wanderlustsoul

@oklahomak, not her but that’s the one I got! 

jmesue1030

@oklahomak I haven’t decided yet! I have two friends who have it and love it though! They had a few at buy buy baby last time I was there and I do like it a lot but I just can’t decide... 

aukeev

@cato99 Isn't it beautiful?! Just trying to decide if it's worth the price!

@AKuzReve Ooh, which color did you get? 

@jmesue1030 Is there another bag you're debating between? The FP backpack is so dang cute, but we don't have a Buy Buy Baby where I live, so I haven't been able to scope it out in person yet.