How to choose a diaper bag

A diaper bag is perhaps one of the most important items you will need as a parent. Even though babies are tiny, they require all kinds of things especially when you’re heading out, including diapers, a change of clothes, pacifiers, a breastfeeding cover, wipes, and a lot more. This is why you need a quality diaper bag. Read on to find out how you can choose one that will suit your needs.

1. Type

Like purses, diaper bags in different styles. Here is a look at the most common types of diaper bags.

• Messenger diaper bags

Messenger bags are popular with parents, and with good reason. The cross-body strap – most of which can be adjusted – allows you to hold onto the bag securely. This design also makes it easy for you to open up the bag and grab items while you’re on the move.

Additionally, a messenger strap has great functionality, as you can wear the bag behind you, and with a simple pull, twist it around to your front. Messenger diaper bags also tend to have several pockets that make it easy to organize essentials for a day out with your little one.

• Backpack diaper bags

Because lugging around all that baby stuff can get tiring, a lot of families choose to go for backpack diaper bags This is because a backpack will stay securely behind you with no chance of it falling off your arm or getting in the way of your legs.

Additionally, the weight of the items you're carrying is evenly distributed across your back, so you don't have to worry about having to switch it to the other side of your body now and then. Backpack diaper bags also grow with your family – even when your children get older, you can still use them for other purposes.

• Tote diaper bags

A tote diaper bag is as functional as it is fashionable. It’s easy and convenient to use; simply sling it over your shoulder, just like you would with a tote purse. Totes don’t look like diaper bags, so you can get away with them in a variety of settings. Totes come in a wide variety of designs and materials, which make them even more versatile. In addition to their spacious interiors, many tote bags also offer several exterior pockets and a changing pad.

• Convertible diaper bags

Some diaper bags can serve as a messenger, tote, or backpack, depending on the design of the straps. Convertible diaper bags are a great choice if you want to be able to have the option to carry your baby gear in a variety of ways.

2. Fabric

Fabric choice is an important consideration when choosing a diaper bag. The fabric needs to be:

• Durable: You want to go for a diaper bag that will last for years so that you don’t have to worry about constantly replacing yours.

• Easy to clean: Your diaper bag will inevitably end up covered in juice spills, spit-up, milk, food debris, and even poop and pee. Thus, it is of utmost importance to go for a diaper bag made of fabric that you can easily clean. Choose one that you can quickly wipe down with a baby wipe or toss in a washing machine.

Some fabric options you might want to consider include:

• Glazed and coated fabric

These are specially treated fabrics that are waterproof and durable. Glazed and coated fabrics are also lightweight in nature and scratch-resistant.

• Nylon fabric

Nylon is lightweight and durable. Varieties such as cotton-nylon blend are easy to clean, with some brands offering machine washable designs.

• Cotton canvas

Bags made of this fabric are easy to spot clean or hand wash.

3. Size

You need to consider how big a diaper bag is. Initially, you may want to go for a smaller diaper bag that won't affect your mobility, but if it has no space for all your baby essentials, then you need to scale up in terms of size.

Keep in mind that you need to bring along diapers, wipes, extra clothing, and more when going out with your baby.

4. Pockets and compartments

Because you’ll be hauling around all sorts of baby essentials, it is important to choose a diaper that will allow you to keep all your things organized. Ideally, your diaper bag should have several pockets and compartments.

Some diaper bags have insulated pockets for baby bottles, specialty pockets for phones, compartments for wipes, as well as pockets where you can temporarily stash dirty burp cloths.

5. Stable base

The last thing you want is a diaper that will be flimsy and unstable. Look for one that has a stable base, especially if you’re going to have to carry your little one hand and a bag in another.

6. Straps

You’ll be walking around with your diaper bag for most of the day when you’re out and about with your baby, so it’s important that you choose one that has strong, padded straps that you can adjust with ease.

7. Changing pad

Some diaper bags come with a changing pad that is either removable or can be folded from the bag for a makeshift changing station. Varieties that come with this handy feature save you from having to buy a changing pad, and can also come in handy if you forget your main changing pad at home.

8. Stroller clips

If you use a stroller, then it would make a lot of sense to choose a diaper bag that features stroller clips. This way, you can easily attach the bag to your stroller when on the move. That said, if your stroller has a large storage basket, you might not need to consider this feature.

9. Color and design

If you intend to share the diaper bag, choose a color and design that everyone won't mind. To avoid having to buy several diaper bags, consider looking for a gender-neutral design.

Final thoughts

Choosing the right diaper bag comes down to personal preferences. What works for you may not work for someone else. But no matter what kind you go with, ultimately choosing the right diaper bag means finding one that allows for convenience, comfort, and functionality on a day out with your precious little one.