Organize Your Diaper Bag to Save Time and Stress |
Be ready for any adventure with baby
Having a diaper bag packed and ready to go makes getting out the door faster, and having everything you need in it means less stress for you. Here are some tips to make organizing the diaper bag fast and easy:
- Choose a bag with a number of pockets, and store similar items together. For example, store everything you need for changing diapers in one compartment and all the food and utensils in another.
- Make a list of everything you need to pack, and keep the list in a pocket of the diaper bag so you can do a quick check before heading out. Add the name and phone number of your paediatrician and an emergency contact name and number. It might be helpful to laminate this sheet of paper so it doesn’t fall apart.
- Replenish supplies when you get back so the bag is always packed and ready to go.
- Pack an extra pacifier if your baby uses one.
- Pack one diaper for every couple of hours you’ll be out and add an extra one.
- Place a wet washcloth in a zippered bag for wiping the baby’s hands or face.
- Pack baby wipes; purchasing them in travel size means less bulk. To save money, you can buy the large size and transfer some into a plastic zippered bag.
- Add baby ointment to prevent rashes.
- Carry a foldable change pad and receiving blanket or towel.
- Make sure you bring a change of clothing and a couple of bibs.
- Bring along some small toys/teething rings.
- Bring some tissues and anti-bacterial hand cleaner.
- Just before you’re ready to leave, add some bottles of formula, extra liners and nipples. If your child is on solids pack some snacks and feeding utensils. Don’t forget to add a healthy snack and a bottle of water for yourself.
- Keep a small purse with your wallet, keys and other personal essentials inside the diaper bag so you can leave the diaper bag in the car and just take your purse into the stores when you are running quick errands. This frees up your hands and may prevent some of the back and shoulder injuries that can occur when you’re always carrying around a heavy diaper bag.
**Find out more about the Skip Hop Diaper Bag shown above and available at Pinky & Company.
About the Author
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Hellen Buttigieg
Hellen Buttigieg is an award-winning Certified Professional Organizer®, Life Coach and Gemini-Nominated HGTV host. You may have seen Hellen on TV as the compassionate yet firm professional organizer who helps... Learn more about Hellen Buttigieg
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Lee | February 3, 2009 at 9:08 am - §
First of all, I can't imagine why packing formula is on this list considering most mothers at least start out breastfeeding. I have four kids and have never had to pack "extra liners and nipples" and I hardly know anyone who bottle feeds. A better suggestion would have been to add an extra shirt for mom, in case of leakage or baby spit up.
Barbara | February 8, 2009 at 12:27 am - §
I thought this was a great list for first time mom's like me had some great idea's definitely going to book mark this one so can check back on it as the little guy gets older : ) I also think Lee's idea for an extra shirt for mom is great especially for summer time.
Nina | February 13, 2009 at 2:53 pm - §
This is a great article and the details are absolutely true and practical. Im a Mom of 2 and yes, the effort of packing their bags is like going to a camping trip. It might also be helpful to add that ziploc (resealable) bags are very helpful in sorting diapers, extra clothing, soiled clothing, and small toiletries. It also has a vacuum effect to compact the bulky items like diapers and clothing. Its transparent and easy to grab when you need them, and it protects the other items in the diaper bag from getting wet should the food items accidentally spill, or to seal out the soiled or wet clothing.