What to Put in Your Diaper Bag Checklist

For new parents, preparing a diaper bag can be a nerve-wracking experience. A diaper bag contains so much more than just diapers. It can be a lifeline. When packing a diaper bag, so many “what ifs?” come into play. What if I forget something? What if everything won’t fit? What if the bag is too heavy? The most important thing for parent to do is to NOT panic. To make it easy on you here’s exactly what to put in your diaper bag – the basic necessities that every diaper bag should contain.

For your baby

• First, get a good diaper bag. You will want to make sure that it is big enough to fit all your baby’s needs.
• Diapers. Of course this should be obvious, but plan on packing extra. Most babies need to be changed every two to three hours. Always pack between four to six extra diapers.
• Wipes. To be on the safe side, take a whole box. There are even wipes available in soft packages which can save space.
• A changing mat. An absolute must if you have to change your baby on a surface that is less than clean. Which leads to the next diaper bag must-have…
• Some sort of disinfectant. Whether its white vinegar, alcohol, bleach…. Even though you have a changing mat, it’s always better to be safe. Just make sure that you keep your disinfectant in a separate compartment so you don’t contaminate your baby’s personal items.
• Take at least two extra changes of clothes. Accidents happen and you will want to keep your baby in clean clothes. Plus it never hurts to take an extra incase the weather changes.
• Receiving blankets. Take at least two to make sure your baby stays warm.
• Food for your baby. Depending on how you are feeding your baby, you will want to make sure they have something to eat. If you are bottle-feeding, take extra bottles. Some diaper bags come with insulated compartments that can keep food cool. You might have to take an insulated lunch box just to make sure that the formula or milk does not spoil.
• Toys. Depending on your baby’s age, it never hurts to give them something to play with.

For you

• Hand sanitizer. You want to make sure that you have clean hands. Soap and water is best, but just in case none is available, 70 percent isopropyl alcohol should be fine.
• Snacks. You have to keep up your energy if you get hungry. It’s also a good idea to take some drinks. Water is an absolute must for nursing mothers.
• Purse. You’ll need to pay for something….
• Keys. Have your house and car keys clipped on securely inside the diaper bag.
• Mobile phone with a full charge.