Product Spotlight: Diaper Bags! Week of 1/15

SmashJam · January 2018

This is a place for FTMs to ask questions and S+TMs to share the wealth of knowledge they've accumulated on baby products. Each week we'll spotlight a new category of product to help streamline and make it easier to refer back. This week it's.... diaper bags! For mom, for dad, for anyone at all - feel free to include any random things you also think people might not think to keep inside said diaper bag.

Please use the prompts below to try to share as much relevant info as you can in a format that is easy for those reading to absorb/respond to. If you'd like to recommend/ask questions about more than one product, please copy/paste the prompts as needed.

For S+TMs:

Favorite [diaper bag]:
Link/picture:
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.):
What you like about it:
What you don't like about it, if anything:
Is there a [diaper bag] you don't have but are considering? Why?:
Is there a [diaper bag] you've tried that you absolutely hate? Why?:
Additional thoughts on [diaper bags]?:

For FTMs

[diaper bag] you're interested in:
Link/picture:
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.):
Any questions about it/them for S+TMs?:

To view past Product Spotlights or view the upcoming schedule, see here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nhSR3UAwJx8UitC9b2hRx57c4hHkK6BU679FjqXMeHQ/edit?usp=sharing

(Also just a reminder that if anyone wants to revive old threads to ask questions as we get further along and it becomes more likely everyone is doing further research, please feel free!)

ckmb_1250 · January 2018

Here's the real question - do I actually need a "diaper bag" or can I just use a cute backpack??

hillbillywife · January 2018

@ckmb_knottie I don’t think you need a FOR REAL diaper bag. I know lots of people who use backpacks and they always look super functional.

hillbillywife · January 2018

Im in the market for a new diaper bag for myself since I didn’t love the Petunia Pickle Bottom one that I had last time. (Didn’t love it because the fabric was really structured and stiff and didn’t feel like it was accessible because of that.)

Friends of ours bought my husband a Diaper Dude bag when my son was born and we both really liked carrying that one!

https://www.diaperdude.com/shop-now/diaper-bags/mens-messenger-i-bag-camo.html

the website says it’s around $65

the messenger style was really comfortable and all the pockets were easy to get into and there’s a pocket for everything!

Im considering a Jujube Hobobe this time. They’re around $100 it’s on the smaller side but I’m not really a diaper bag overpacker so I think it’ll be perfect for me!

Kenya715 · January 2018

Favorite [diaper bag]: I splurged and got a Lily Jade diaper bag for my first. The reasoning was that I knew I'd be using this everywhere and every day and didn't want to carry a diaper bag plus a purse. This bag is so beautiful and looks like a purse rather than screaming diaper bag. It holds everything and then some and I've loved it!
Link/picture: https://www.lily-jade.com/collections/diaper-bags/products/madeline-brandy-jade
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): $300ish depending on which style and if there is a sale.
What you like about it: It's gorgeous, holds everything, doesn't look like a diaper bag, durable so I know it'll last a long time. Also has straps to turn into a backpack when you want!
What you don't like about it, if anything: As with any diaper bag, it can be big and not fit well under a stroller.
Is there a [diaper bag] you don't have but are considering? Why?: I'll keep using this one. I've also learned that I can just grab the necessities and stick them in my purse.
Is there a [diaper bag] you've tried that you absolutely hate? Why?: Nope.
Additional thoughts on [diaper bags]?: Like @ckmb_knottie mentions, you definitely do not need a diaper bag. Any larger purse or backpack type bags will work wonderfully. I've seen on Pinterest the inserts for a diaper bag that fit most size purses. Grab one of those and you're good to go! However, having a diaper bag is great if you're an organization weirdo like I am. I like everything having a compartment and fitting just right. For short, overnight trips, it's been a perfect suitcase for DS.

SmashJam · January 2018

Favorite [diaper bag]: boken. Not my favorite, just what I https://www.amazon.com/Boken-Every-Day-Diaper-Eggplant/dp/B016ISTO8Q?th=1
Link/picture:
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): $60
What you like about it: I liked that I could messenger, backpack, or bag it. I didn't think the back pack thing would be useful but my shoulders are weird and if I was wearing DS I couldn't hold a bag on my shoulders and my purse.
What you don't like about it, if anything: I think something about diaper bags or any bags with your baby shit in that I universally disliked is no matter the pockets and crap you had in them, it was hard to keep extra clothes/diapers/bottles/formula/wipes/butt cream/etc all separate unless you were organized. I was an over packer because my mother in law loved changing him 100 times so I always had extra clothes lol.
Is there a [diaper bag] you don't have but are considering? Why?: I probably won't by a new one, but one with a fold out changing pad on the side might have been cool; I usually used extra blankets that I had in there but then you can't wipe them down in the event of a blow out.
Is there a [diaper bag] you've tried that you absolutely hate? Why?: No.
Additional thoughts on [diaper bags]? You absolutely don't need a diaper bag per se, but I would say the more pockets the better. An outside pocket (or two) one for your water one for their bottle, would be cool. It's nice to try and have some separation. Also, I always thought carrying a purse AND a diaper bag would suck, but more often what sucked is me leaving my wallet in the diaper bag when I went out without my kid. So I just carried both to avoid remembering to switch out!

elizabethrn87 · January 2018

hillbillywife said:

Im in the market for a new diaper bag for myself since I didn’t love the Petunia Pickle Bottom one that I had last time. (Didn’t love it because the fabric was really structured and stiff and didn’t feel like it was accessible because of that.)

Friends of ours bought my husband a Diaper Dude bag when my son was born and we both really liked carrying that one!

https://www.diaperdude.com/shop-now/diaper-bags/mens-messenger-i-bag-camo.html

the website says it’s around $65

the messenger style was really comfortable and all the pockets were easy to get into and there’s a pocket for everything!

Im considering a Jujube Hobobe this time. They’re around $100 it’s on the smaller side but I’m not really a diaper bag overpacker so I think it’ll be perfect for me!

I didn’t like mine either. To hard to get to thing in it.

And then one time sloan threw up and it went inside it- very hard to clean.

SmashJam · January 2018

@hillbillywife @elizabethrn87 I just looked the Petunia Pickle Bottom up and this kind of diaper bag organization seems like it would be great for me! Would be interested to see if there is a less structured version or if anyone liked theirs because with two bad reviews I'd be unlikely to check it out myself!

wildtot · January 2018

We bought an actual diaper bag (Jeep brand) and it was a total waste. We quickly just switched to a regular backpack. We probably won’t be getting any actual diaper bag this time. I was gifted a clutch which had a changing pad. I really like it and still use the changing pad part. Sometimes i even just carry a ziplock bag with a diaper and wipes for quick trips out.

zande2016 · January 2018

I have a skip hop and another one my aunt sent me recently that I'm not sure the name of. My issue is I really wish we had gotten a backpack style. It just seems so much more practical. Sometimes it's really hard to fit the bag under the stroller so I'd rather be able to wear it on my back. I was eyeing the jujube bff, but its pricy. Anyone have feedback on that one?

i don't think you need an actual diaper bag per se, but it is a convenience in my opinion. Mine had insulated pockets to keep bottles cool, came with a changing pad, and had hooks for the stroller. Little things like that are nice but not necessary.

acunamatada · January 2018

I used the Skip Hop Duo diaper bag, I didn’t love it. I’ll be looking for a back pack style diaper bag this time. It had lots of pockets but I don’t like the messenger bag style, it was uncomfortable trying to hold DS and keep the bag on my shoulder. It was $60.

What I have that I like more than this bag is a simple diaper clutch. The one I used was a Skip Hop Pronto. It is big enough to hold a few diapers, wipes and either a small toy or snack. I used it until potty training. It comes with a changing mat, but I didn’t use that part because it makes the clutch bulky. It was about $30, I think.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5020794/uploads/editor/98/jipd6zbj8whg.jpeg

When I wasn’t using the clutch I would just squeeze a couple of diapers and a ziploc of wipes into an old makeup bag and throw it in my purse. Since potty training, I keep an emergency diaper in my purse and a change of clothes in my car.

cseley321 · January 2018

I got one of those cheap ones you see on the wall at babies r us and walmart and I haaaated it. It was way too big for every day use and the smaller bag it came with wasn't very functional, but it's what I ended up using.

This is one of the few items I got and absolutely hated and will be upgrading. If you're thinking about skimping on a diaper bag, don't get those awful plastic-looking ones!

tarheelgirl8 · January 2018

I didn’t really like the diaper bag we had for DD. (Will try to find the name/brand later, because I can’t remember.). It definitely looked like a diaper bag but my main issue was that the pockets stretched out which eventually meant everything just fell into the center of the bag and was completely unorganized.

Im also looking into a backpack style this time around. Anyone have experience with backpack style bags, when you and your partner are very different sizes? DH is 6’5 and very broad. I’d love a backpack style but I’m hesitant because I know we’d have to constantly adjust the straps between the two of us.

hillbillywife · January 2018

@elizabethrn87 ooh puke inside sounds terrible! I hate that you can’t machine wash them!

@SmashJam you should check out the jujube diaper bags. They’re like an organizers dream. And all of them pretty much seem to be less stiff than the PPB. Similar in price point and lots of cute patterns and they’re machine washable and have lots of accessories too. People post packing videos on YouTube so you can see how big they are and what you can fit inside. Lol I’m feeling obsessed and I don’t even own one lol.

morethanamama · January 2018

@Kenya715 I'm glad you're mentioning the Lily Jade because I really wanted to splurge on it, I was going to get a new purse for myself and this looks like it could do the job of a diaper bag+fancy purse. Only problem is because it's only sold online (I think) I can't see what it looks like and test it with a stroller, plus it is a pricey bag...I do love the shape though and can see it become a functional work bag too, so I might splurge!

TalesOfASocialIntrovert · January 2018

Favorite bag:
JJ Cole Caprice in Gray

What you like about it:
Initially drawn to the neutral color (figured DH wouldn't mind carrying it) and am still happy with it. I like the size - not too big but still enough space to hold bottles, extra clothing, a few toys, extra burp clothes, wipes, Aquaphor, changing pad (comes with the bag), blanket or two, and a small container of formula (didn't plan on carrying this but LO eventually ended up formula fed). I can easily fit my wallet, keys, and a few others purse items too. It also came with loops to hang the bag from a stroller or shopping cart. It has a few small outside pockets that are good for things like pacifiers, nail trimmers, chapstick, or cards / coupons.

What you don't like about it, if anything:
Nothing.

Is there a diaper bag you don't have but are considering?
Not at this time.

Additional thoughts on diaper bags:
I personally have found an actual diaper bag to be very useful and helpful. The bottles fit in the pockets as they were intended and I like the look. My LO will still be under 1 yr when this LO is born so I'm hoping the bag is large enough for both kids items. I can't imagine carrying a bigger bag!

Edited bc the bump ate part of my post.

stlmegs · January 2018

I have a Skip Hop Studio still that I used with my son. I just looked and apparently it's discontinued, but I plan on using it again because I loved it! Lots of space, and lots of pockets, easy to carry for longer outings.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001LF3X66
I will say though, I had a diaper clutch with a changing pag that I picked up from Target that I kept in my purse (or just carried with me) for quick trips to the store. It fit a diaper, wipes, and an outfit for those "uh oh" moments.

https://www.amazon.com/Anvy-Changing-Toddlers-Portable-Accessories/dp/B01AKYXX04/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1516033991&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=jj+cole+diaper+clutch&th=1

powellgirl · January 2018

I had a diaper bag when my DS was a newborn. I won it, so I’m not sure where it came from. It wasn’t anything expensive or special. I liked having a big diaper bag when he was little because I always needed more stuff like extra clothes, nursing cover, medicine, etc. when he was little, but now that he’s older I just throw a few diapers, wipes, and a thin changing of in my purse. I’m thinking I’ll go with a backpack this time. I’m especially thinking one with a special pocket for wipes on the side. It sucks to dig through a bag for wipes when your hands are dirty.

Kenya715 · January 2018

@kissableviv The photos on the site are true to size. For the stroller, it'll depend on the stroller you get. We have the Citi Mini GT and it fits nicely in the basket when we take the seat out. We could do that when DS was still in his carseat all the time that we would click in. Once he got bigger and started to sit in the seat, it got a lot harder. But by that point, I was usually just taking the essentials in my regular purse. I still recommend the Lily Jade, though. It's so pretty and after a year of use, is still in perfect condition.

zombiehoohaa · January 2018

@acunamatada The Skip Hop Duo is what I've been eyeing. Are there other reasons why you wouldn't get it again, besides the messenger style? I really like the organization it offers (I'm a compartment type gal) and the price isn't too bad ($53). I do like the backpack style and this one (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0722VTCQ5/ref=abs_brd_tag_dp?th=1) keeps popping up on my Facebook feed. However, it looks too small for my liking.

morethanamama · January 2018

@Kenya715, awesome! I've been saving for it already, I think it will be my last treat...I usually splurge on expensive workout clothes, because I get discounts since I teach fitness classes, but at the moment that's a pretty pointless expense!

acunamatada · January 2018

@zombiehoohaa no I loved it for organization, I just never knew I wasn’t a messenger bag person. The pockets on the outside made the bag a little bulky and awkward when they are full, but I bf’d so I didn’t use them for bottles.
It was a good bag, still great condition and I still use it for trips, but this time I’m eyeballing the Skip Hop Chelsea I think. That is unless I happen to see a cute bigish backpack style purse that can fit a diaper bag insert or some organization that also doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.

michelle_bird · January 2018

I have a Jujube BFF. I took the shoulder straps off almost immediately because they rattled and I didn't think I would use them - they attach using metal clasps.

Honestly, I feel like it's too big. It has a lot of pockets and my wallet fits in the front one, which is nice. It definitely doesn't fit under the stroller. We still use it, and I wish I could define what I really want in a diaper bag so that I could get one that's a better fit for me.

SmashJam · January 2018

@zombiehoohaa that same backpack pops up on my feeds now, on some website where it's now half off. It looks nice for organization!

acunamatada · January 2018

@zombiehoohaa ooooh I’m just clicking on that bag link... I think I actually like it a lot, especially for the price

owl_momma · January 2018

For S+TMs:

Favorite [diaper bag]: Between JuJuBe BFF and HapTim
Link/picture: (HapTim backpack)
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): JuJuBe $$$ HapTim $$
What you like about it: I love them both for the organization, lots of pockets! The HapTim backpack also has stroller straps that are amazing and they both wipe clean very easily
What you don't like about it, if anything: I always lose stuff at the bottoms, but I'm like that with everything
Is there a [diaper bag] you don't have but are considering? Why?:
Is there a [diaper bag] you've tried that you absolutely hate? Why?: I had a Vera Bradley one and condensation from sippy cups/a wet wipe shoved in a side pocket caused the cloth to mildew.
Additional thoughts on [diaper bags]?:

mamabird18 · January 2018

ckmb_knottie said:

Here's the real question - do I actually need a "diaper bag" or can I just use a cute backpack??

I got a cute diaper bag my first time around... and finally got a diaper bag backpack. HUGE difference once toddlerhood starts, and highly recommended!

Any backpack will work, but I'd suggest a "diaper bag" backpack just cause the inside lining makes spills easier to clean up, there's lots of pockets for drinks and essentials, etc!

also one that has the capability to also clip onto stroller handles is a huge plus!

owl_momma · January 2018

Just saw JuJuBe is on Zulily right now if anyone is looking for one!

michelle_bird · January 2018

@owl_momma - I seriously might get a HapTim. How would you say it compares with the BFF for fitting under strollers? Or do you not even bother trying because it has stroller straps?

runsomewhere · January 2018

For S+TMs:

Favorite [diaper bag]: I'm still on the lookout for the perfect bag
Link/picture: I used this one with DD and I still use it, although mine is in a slightly different color pallet with tans and pinks
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): $285 on amazon, don't remember how much mine was
What you like about it: It's cute and I like the outside side pockets and the organization inside. The changing pad that came with it is sturdy, waterproof but also washable. Despite it having some leather it's gone through the wash a few times and still looks ok. I used this as my main purse for a long time and it held all my stuff and all the baby stuff.
What you don't like about it, if anything: A shoulder carry diaper bag is kind of dumb. It slides off when you bend down to pick up kiddos, it's a pain in the ass to constantly have on your shoulder
Is there a [diaper bag] you don't have but are considering? Why?: I like the Lily Jade bags and I like this bag from milkmaid goods. I am definitely getting a gross body or even better a bag that an be worn cross body or as a backpack this time. I'm also hesitant to get a leather bag since something you can toss in the wash makes the most sense. I just can't see myself using one of those water resistant polyester bags so I'm kind of stumped.
Is there a [diaper bag] you've tried that you absolutely hate? Why?: nope
Additional thoughts on [diaper bags]?: Based on my experience diaper bags that can only be worn over the shoulder makes no sense, don't do it ladies, no matter how cute the bag!

Jessicajorden · January 2018

Favorite [diaper bag]: Had two with DD a Marc Jacobs Nylon one but quickly realized that it wasn’t practical as much as it was cute so I purchased a Lassig Green Line Diaper Bag and loved everything about it!
Link/picture:
https://m.shop.nordstrom.com/s/lassig-green-label-neckline-diaper-bag/4679823
Cost (either actual dollar amount, or just $, $$, $$$, etc.): Its $ 219.99 CAN
What you like about it? Love how easy it is to keep organized. The pointed folds on the sides are actually separate deep pockets which is great to keep things like snacks, formula, water ect separated. Then you still have a place in the center to load up your diapers, wipes, extra outfit ect. There is also more storage pockets inside I used for things like medicine. It comes with its own change mat and bottle cooler/warmer. I travel quit a bit with just my daughter and myself as our family is a plane ride away so this made travel soooo much easier so I wasn’t digging through the main pocket looking for everything. The options to carry cross body or shoulder/armis great. The cross body strap is also adjustable so you can throw it on your stroller handles too. This bag was super functional.
What you don't like about it, if anything? Nothing about the Lassig bag I did not like.
Is there a [diaper bag] you don't have but are considering? Why?:
Is there a [diaper bag] you've tried that you absolutely hate? Why?: I wanted a cute bag with DD and based my Marc Jacobs diaper bags off cuteness and not functionality. The pockets weren’t deep enough and bottles inside the bag had potential to leak.
Additional thoughts on [diaper bags]? Shop around and find what works best for your budget. They make adorable stylish bags in all sorts of styles. This will be one of your most used items so make sure it’s practical.

owl_momma · January 2018

@michelleag05 It isn't super bulky, I think it's about the same fitting under the stroller as most of them, the only thing with the stroller straps is in a smaller stroller it will tip over once the baby is out of the stroller (I totally forgot and pulled DS out to change his diaper and the whole stroller toppled over!)

We initially got it for our Disney trip and I absolutely love it! Check Amazon, they have lightening deals on them quite often!

krystlerr · January 2018

@Kenya715 I have also been eyeing the Lily Jade bags after seeing it on Instagram. They look so durable and stylish but have the functionality too. I also like the backpack option.

Like @kissableviv I need to buy a new purse anyway so I’m thinking this would be a great alternative. Thanks for sharing!

zombiehoohaa · January 2018

@smashjam & @acunamatada I was reading the reviews on that backpack and people are raving about how much space and organization there is on top of being sturdy. It's pretty well priced and I may just go that route...I love the bottom opening, so you don't have to dig. Decisions, decisions.

acunamatada · January 2018

@zombiehoohaa I LOVE the bottom opening. Perfect for diapers, that’s my favorite part! I’m probably getting it, even if I end up hating it for a diaper bag it seems like it would be a handy bag to have.

stillziggysmom · January 2018

Favorite [diaper bag]: None. I honestly have tried 3 different diaper bags and always reverted back to a normal backpack. The one below, to be exact. It has been a well loved member of our family the past couple of years, lol.
Link/picture:

What you like about it: It actually fits everything and is easier to handle than a big, stiff diaper bag.
What you don't like about it, if anything: Obviously less pockets than desired, but there's so many ways to overcome that.
Is there a [diaper bag] you've tried that you absolutely hate? Why?: I used the Danzo Baby Hobo for a while thinking it would be perfect for a Type A person. I was sooo wrong. Pockets are way too small and stiff, and the side zippers wear down super fast which just leaves the bag hanging open.
Additional thoughts on [diaper bags]?: CARABINERS!!!! Get them, attach them, love them. They make life so much easier, and you don't know what you've been missing all this time until you start using them. I usually have a few on the bag handle at all times.

catftm2018 · January 2018

@Kenya715 now I’m obsessed with the Lily Jade bags! If I can justify spending that much I money that might be the one! Especially since you can also wear it as a backpack!

owl_momma · January 2018

@d_marie_23 I love that bag! We have an avengers backpack that we use as our daycare "diaper bag" and it holds everything and the front pocket is great for creams and sunscreen!

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Product Spotlight: Diaper Bags! Week of 1/15

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