May 2018 Moms

Product Guide- Diaper Bags

For STMs+:
  • Diaper Bag used:
  • Link/picture:
  • Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.):
  • Pros:
  • Cons:
  • Is there another one you don't have but are considering? Why?:
  • Additional thoughts on diaper bags:

Re: Product Guide- Diaper Bags

  • I just use a backpack.  One of the nice tactical types with lots of pocketses.
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    • Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): $89.99
    • Pros: It was sturdy and the side pockets held a bottle of wine.
    • Cons: Basically everything.  I felt like the bag was a bottomless pit and was ever organized no matter how hard I tried.  The straps were too small to use as a shoulder bag for me and it felt very wide and bulky.  I got rid of it after a year.  
    • Additional thoughts on diaper bags:  Have your SO get a diaper bag if you plan on tag-teaming most of the time.  DH and I were ships passing in the night until about a year ago and it helped that he had his own diaper bag stocked and that we didn't have to remember to pass it off to one another when leaving for work, etc.  He had this one:https://www.target.com/p/diaper-bag-eddie-bauer/-/A-16712200#lnk=sametab  He picked it out himself when we registered since he was going to be the one using it.  
  • My first was a cloth messenger bag from Etsy for about $50. I can’t find the photo/link now. It was nice bc it had a matching changing pad and could all be machine washed which I loved. I just didn’t like it didn’t zip and close completely. Just had a snap. With traveling I ended up with a Juju Bee due to more storage. These are more pricey, about $180.  https://www.target.com/p/ju-ju-be-legacy-b-f-f-in-the-first-lady/-/A-50808641?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Baby+Shopping&adgroup=SC_Baby&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=m&location=9029969&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI9JH33IPE1wIVkMpkCh1nrgYNEAQYASABEgIblfD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
    i cant tell you how much I have loved this thing. I like the backpack, but like that you can make it a messenger if you want.. many pockets which I found helpful for organization. I still use it today/ only complaint is it’s spot clean, and I should have gotten a bag without white. It looks dirty now. I will stick with the same bag but may buy a new one with holiday deals in a darker style. 
  • doraleigh35doraleigh35 member
    edited November 2017
    • Diaper Bag used: I have 3 diaper bags- Olivia + Joy Zip Zoom Bag, Coach, and a Bebamour diaper bag backpack. 
    • Link/picture: 


    • Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): Backpack $35 via Amazon, Olivia + Joy $49.99 at Marshall's, Coach (was a gift) $$$.
    • Pros:I do like them all, but I pretty much only use the backpack these days. It holds everything I need, is easy to throw on my back and is canvas so easy to wash. If we are going out somewhere nice, then I use the Coach bag. 
    • Cons: I find the two shoulder bags to be a pain to lug around if I am carrying DD or baby wearing. I also find that the Olivia+Joy is so deep that it can turn into a bottomless pit and I have a hard time finding stuff.
    • Is there another one you don't have but are considering? Why?: I love the Itzy Ritzy diaper bag backpack and have had my heart set on it for awhile. I may end up just getting it this time around. https://www.itzyritzy.com/collections/diaper-bags/products/diaper-bag-backpack
    • Additional thoughts on diaper bags: I initially chose a bag based on aesthetic, but quickly switched to something more functional. Also, I should add that we got a Columbia diaper bag backpack for DH to use when he takes DD out on his own, it's definitely more masculine.
    • ETA (add link): https://www.columbia.com/summit-rush-diaper-bag-backpack-CAL162.html
  • I love my diaper bag. It is still kicking over 2yrs later and expect it to hold up for this little one. 

    Its great because it’s not girly so I make my husband wear it most of the time. :) 

    https://www.amazon.com/Bebamour-Travel-Backpack-Diaper-Handbag/dp/B00QA7OK7Q
  • edited November 2017
    • Diaper Bag used: Skip Hop Duo Special Edition
    • Link/picture: 
    • Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): $80 ish CAD
    • Pros: easy to clean, lots of compartments but not too many, change pad (seriously SO handy), insulated side pockets to keep liquids hot or cold,  handles and long strap for however you wanna carry it. Neutral colors but stylish so it doesn't clash with anything and is not overtly girly, also had clips to attach it to your stroller if you need to use the storage space for other things
    • Cons: not a lot of room for toys if you need them
    • Is there another one you don't have but are considering? Why?: Nope.
    • Additional thoughts on diaper bags: I like mine and will continue to use it for my second child. DH has no problems with it either. 
    • Diaper Bag used: I have 3 diaper bags- Olivia + Joy Zip Zoom Bag, Coach, and a Bebamour diaper bag backpack. 
    • Link/picture: 


    • Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): Backpack $35 via Amazon, Olivia + Joy $49.99 at Marshall's, Coach (was a gift) $$$.
    • Pros:I do like them all, but I pretty much only use the backpack these days. It holds everything I need, is easy to throw on my back and is canvas so easy to wash. If we are going out somewhere nice, then I use the Coach bag. 
    • Cons: I find the two shoulder bags to be a pain to lug around if I am carrying DD or baby wearing. I also find that the Olivia+Joy is so deep that it can turn into a bottomless pit and I have a hard time finding stuff.
    • Is there another one you don't have but are considering? Why?: I love the Itzy Ritzy diaper bag backpack and have had my heart set on it for awhile. I may end up just getting it this time around. https://www.itzyritzy.com/collections/diaper-bags/products/diaper-bag-backpack
    • Additional thoughts on diaper bags: I initially chose a bag based on aesthetic, but quickly switched to something more functional. Also, I should add that we got a Columbia diaper bag backpack for DH to use when he takes DD out on his own, it's definitely more masculine.
    • ETA (add link): https://www.columbia.com/summit-rush-diaper-bag-backpack-CAL162.html
    I have the Olivia and joy zip zoom bag as my pump bag! It works great to hold my PISA, a cooler, wet dry bag, and extra parts. I could totally see it as a diaper bag. 
  • I’m sorry but my review won’t be pretty and formatted because stupid mobile and I’m out in BFE.

    JJ Cole Satchel-started off with the JJ Cole Satchel and hated it. It was bulky and hard to keep organized. I quickly realized I needed a backpack style to keep my hands free, and it was definitely the right call. 
    https://www.target.com/p/jj-cole-satchel-diaper-bag-stone-arbor/-/A-14694773

    I went on to buy both the Petunia Pickle Bottom Sashay Satchel and JuJuBe BFF. They are both great bags.
    I have had them for almost 5 years and have used the PPB the most and still do even though my youngest is almost 2.5. I get compliments on it all the time from people who don't know it's a diaper bag! 
    I have used the JJB more for day trips or long trips out of town and when I was a first time mom who needed ALL THE THINGS in the bag. It is nice because you can see everything in the bag when you open it whereas the PPB is less organized and the inside pockets are a little smaller. I was able to fit a days worth of cloth diapers in both, though. 

    The JJB is machine washable and has padded straps. PPB I would suggest getting the glazed so you can wipe it off. I cleaned mine for the first time in years recently and it looks brand new. 
    All that said, I haven't reached for the BFF in over a year- it's just too big. I will probably sell it soon.

    PPB - Petunia Pickle Bottom Sashay Satchel in Venturing in Vienna https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L9DNYF0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_LyHdAbGZXZ4HH

    JJB- Ju-Ju-Be Legacy Collection B.F.F. Convertible Diaper Bag, The Queen of the Nile https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I0P7WIU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_jzHdAbNS4DSEJ

    • Diaper Bag used: Skip Hop Duo Special Edition
    • Link/picture: 
    • Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): $80 ish CAD
    • Pros: easy to clean, lots of compartments but not too many, change pad (seriously SO handy), insulated side pockets to keep liquids hot or cold,  handles and long strap for however you wanna carry it. Neutral colors but stylish so it doesn't clash with anything and is not overtly girly, also had clips to attach it to your stroller if you need to use the storage space for other things
    • Cons: not a lot of room for toys if you need them
    • Is there another one you don't have but are considering? Why?: Nope.
    • Additional thoughts on diaper bags: I like mine and will continue to use it for my second child. DH has no problems with it either. 
    I have the same one in gray. It's been great. I wish it had a bit more room as mentioned above. I bought the coordinating bottle bag to clip on for when I sent DD to my mom's while I was at work. I also bought the coordinating diaper changing pad (an upgrade from the one included) and a wet dry bag. I bought a gently used slightly larger black version of this bag for when #2 arrives from a local mom's sale. Just wanted that little extra room for 2 sets of clothes, diapers, bottles, snacks, and toys. DH didn't mind carryng it since it's not too feminine which is a plus. 
  • @arteduc8 It would be a perfect pump bag, I'm pissed I didn't think of that! I have a PISA too, but I used an over-sized purse to lug it around in.

  • I will just promote getting a backpack diaper bag. This is $40 from Target and I love it. 
    • Diaper Bag used: Juju Bee BFF bag
    • Link/picture: https://shop.ju-ju-be.com/b-f-f-diaper-bag-the-queen-of-the-nile/?utm_medium=googleshopping&utm_source=bc&gclid=Cj0KCQiAi7XQBRDnARIsANeLIesPcWowmny5XPYrtz0k-9W75nbHixzjqLMOpBscjARaZMoOV_6WPBsaApcPEALw_wcB
    • Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): 180
    • Pros: Big enough for EVERYTHING. We CD so we can fit 3/4, plus wet bag, wipes, change of clothes and snacks/waterbottle easily 
    • Cons: I don't love the print... While I 99% of the time wear it as a back pack the placement of the straps aren't in the right spot, but it's not uncomfortable, just took time getting used to it. 
    • Is there another one you don't have but are considering? Why?: I really like the Fawn Design bags. I like that they are big, but simple and can be worn without screaming DIAPER BAG. I have used a purse maybe 5 times since DS and end up tossing my stuff in the diaper bag or carrying it solo so it would be nice to have a bag that I actually like rather than just a diaper bag. *If anyone has a FD let me know what you think! I am torn between the original and mini. Since we CD and will have 2 I think the original makes the most sense but a hate excess space and want to keep it minimal too. 
  • I don't know the brand, but it's one that you can wear as a shoulder bag or backpack which was very handy. I think we registered for it at Babies R Us. I also picked it in gray because I like the neutral color and gray doesn't show the dirt as quickly. I know it had an insulated front pocket too which was nice for a bottle when DS was an infant. But honestly I was so glad when he turned closer to one. I just kept a toy or two in my purse and then a spare diaper and a pack of wipes in the car for emergencies. We usually used cloth diapers so had a wet bag for dirties that had a front pocket for clean ones. Now DS has a little backpack if we are going somewhere for more than a couple of hours. But I hated carrying a diaper bag. I really did.
  • Fisher Price diaper bags.
    They're about $30.
    Pros: WIPES DISPENSER ON THE OUTSIDE. We stick a while package of wipes in ( we don't move them to that plastic holder) and they're so easy to access. That's what we use most in a diaper bag so this was awesome.
    There are also tons of labeled compartments and the bags are huge and lightweight. Solid neutral colors.

    I agree with whoever said it's good to have multiple. We'd leave a small bag with diapers and wipes in each car.
  • I second @nanifrog.  Fisher Price for the win. 


    • Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.):  The link says $30, I think ours was $50-60?
    • Pros:  I love this bag.  It has a wide-open top, so it opens into almost a full rectangle.  It's hard to describe, but it's super easy to find stuff because the top opens so wide.  The insulated pocket on the outside is big enough to fit two 8 oz (baby) bottles, or water bottles like is shown in the picture above.  The diaper changing pad is on the outside, so it's easy to keep separate (and find), and there are labeled pockets for pacifiers, wipes, and other things on the outside.  There is a wipes holder on the outside, which is also awesome like nanifrog mentioned.  And the bag has SO much room in it.  I never had a problem carrying enough diapers, wipes, extra clothes, toys, etc for two babies.  
    • Cons:  The wipes container on the outside opens easily, so sometimes the latch will open and the wipes will dry out.  When I bought it, most of the reviews mentioned it, so I don't know if they've fixed it or not since then.  Like nanifrog mentioned, you can take the plastic container out that comes with it and put a small package of wipes in there, or I just usually threw it in the main pocket anyway.  
    • Is there another one you don't have but are considering? Why?:  Nope



    Me, 35 Hubs, 32
    Married June 2012
    BFP June 2013- blighted ovum, D&C Aug 2013
    BFP Oct 2013- twins!  A&H born May 2014
    BFP Aug 2017- EDD 5/8/17


  • We also used the skip hop duo and really liked it. I switched to the skip hop forma (backpack) when we were getting ready for #2. I wanted to have totally free hands and nothing falling off my shoulder and whacking me or others as I chased them through target.

    (not that such a thing would EVER happen)

  • I got this Petunia Pickle Bottom bag at a shower for DD. It has worked great.

    https://www.target.com/p/petunia-boxy-backpack-breakfast-in-berkshire/-/A-50740265?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Baby+Shopping&adgroup=SC_Baby&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9010218&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIq5f1xvPF1wIVhoSRCh0FTApxEAQYASABEgLA-fD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

    I even love that the strap can be converted from one single to a double strap backback style. The built in changing pad came in handy, especially if a restaurant didn't have a changing table and I had to resort to changing on the (eeek!) floor. It has 2 bottle-sized pockets on the sides. I BF when I was out and about with DD, so didn't need to use those for bottles unless it was for my drink or a sippy cup later on.

    DH also liked this bag as well. It's gender neutral (and more importantly not screaming pink), so he felt (somewhat) comfortable carrying it around when he had DD by himself.

    It came in a Nordstrom box, so I know the gifters paid a pretty penny for it. Per the link above, Target has it for $189.99. It's not one I would want to spend that much on myself, but it has been a great bag. It's still in good shape, other than needs a good vacuuming and cleaning before using for another baby.

    The only thing I didn't like about it is I had to carry my (everything but the kitchen sink) purse separate. On occasion, I could get by with just putting my wallet, keys, and phone in the diaper bag, but my "just in case" brain didn't like to do that very often lol.

    After writing this post, I'm trying to think how I'm going to pack stuff for the new baby AND the 3yo in one bag. I'll probably either need to upgrade to something bigger or try to train my "just in case" brain to let go lol.

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  • Diaper bag used: Vera Bradley Stroll Around Baby Bag
    Link: https://www.verabradley.com/us/product/Stroll-Around-Baby-Bag/Snow-Lotus/15717-15717I66?Ntt=VB-PDP-BAGS-DIAPER-BAGS-PDP-VB

    Cost: $128 but I got mine on sale for $40

    Pro/con: it is a goodbye size and has 6 pockets inside a back zip pocket ans two pockets that's hold bottles/ water on the outside. Also ha s and changing pad attached. Overall I like the bag, it is a bit annoying when really full to cart around as a shoulder bag. 

    I'm excited to look up all the backpacks that have Brenneis posted. I'm thinking that will be the way to go with kid two so I have both hands free. 
  • @doraleigh35 I love that itzy ritzy bag, I love how it opens up all the way in the front so stuff can't get lost! That may be a good Christmas idea for myself. Thank you for sharing!

    I will also say I highly recommend a backpack style bag, when I went back to work I had a shoulder purse, shoulder pumping bag and a shoulder diaper bag, not to mention the infant baby carseat to lug around. I switched to a backpack style at about 4 months. 
  • So this is kind of a strange review, but I am a sewist (sewer? Person who sees fabric together using a sewing machine!) So I made my diaper bag! 

    I used a pattern called Time For A Change from www.dogundermydesk.com. It was so easy to put together, her patterns are ridiculously amazingly written so even a newish seamstress could figure it out!

    Pros:It zips all the way, has as many pockets as you want, and lots of other add ons if your interested! She has added patterns and tutorials for a pacifier pocket, stroller straps, and other such goodies! You can choose your own fabric and make it as basic or complicated as you want! Plus it's machine washable!!!!

    Cons: It can sometimes be tough to find the correct buckles if you don't order them online or live close to a really good fabric store. I had no problem, but I could see some places not having them.  Also, the top zipper was a tiny bit of a challenge, but I got it eventually!!

    Price: pattern was $10, supplies probably cost be $30, but that depends on the quality of fabric you go for. I went middle of the road but you could get premium fabric and it would cost a bit more. And I finished it in one afternoon when my mom took my DS to give me some "me time"!

    Here are pictures from her website, I'd put mine up but it's dirty and I need to wash it!!! 


    So there ya go! I know a lot of people don't have time or even like to sew, but maybe there are some kindred spirits out there who would want to give this a try!!!!
  • I splurged and bought a bag from Pottery Barn, but it was well worth it. It's convenient, perfect amount of storage, and has additional straps to use it as a backpack. It's also very easy to clean, and my husband doesn't mind using it on his own since it's a simple looking black bag. Holy long link..

    https://www.potterybarnkids.com/m/products/the-ultimate-diaper-bag-gray-aqua/?kwid=productads-adid^213818382703-device^m-plaid^345272853763-sku^293857-adType^PLA&amp;cm_cat=Google&amp;sku=293857&amp;catalogId=97&amp;cm_ite=[[BP] - Good Mobile]&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiA9MTQBRAREiwAzmytw3r4BYuRFQZlC9jFuAtaI4E2TXNzEECjRhu9ihHe2HrrLjGMVD_8AxoCSB0QAvD_BwE&amp;cm_ven=PLA&amp;cm_pla=Diaper Bags & Totes
    image
  • @curleemama32 High five, fellow sewist!
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