Who Wants a Stylish
Baby Diaper Bag?
Diaper bags can be quite expensive for what you get - a bag...
But I must admit, it is very tempting to go for a cool, stylish one. There are so many cool bags to choose between right now.
However, while choosing between all different styles available, you really should have a few practical issues in mind as well.
Check our tips on choosing a diaper bag that suites your needs.
Choosing a diaper bag
Go for quality
And I'd say if you have the cash, invest in a nice, quality diaper bag. You'll be using it for two or three years or even more if you plan for siblings some time soon.
Style
This may be the hardest and the most fun part of choosing a nappy bag. In addition to different brands, materials and sizes, there are also some different styles to consider.
The most traditional style is simply a bag. This may be the first style you think about. The bags are usually square and have one long handle to carry over your shoulder. The handle is long enough to be able to strap it around the handle bar of your stroller.
Another style that I've heard that many men like is the backpack. (My husband totally disagreed with that, though, so you'd better check with your spouse if you consider buying one.)
Sling bags are kind of a variation of the backpack, you wear it on your back, but it only has one strap instead of two.
The messenger bag is the newest addition to styles available. It is designed to be worn on the left hip, with a strap across your body. It is something in between a traditional bag and a back pack.
Material
Some materials stain easily, breaks easily and are hard to wash off. Consider buying a bag that won't give you a headache by looking old and dirty too soon.
Dark colors are better than light ones and coarse fabrics are more durable. On the other hand - if you completely fall in love with a light colored one, check the washing instructions.
Don't forget Dad
Buy one that dad likes too! This is something I hadn't thought about if my husband hadn't commented on it recently. When our old diaper bag broke, and I talked about buying a new one, my husband said:
-"Whatever you do, don't buy one that looks like a make up box!"
He meant those hard shell nappy bags.
Of course, both parents should be comfortable with carrying the bag around.
Compare prices online
This probably goes without saying. By just searching for a few seconds on the web, I found a online shop selling skip hop diaper bags at some 20% lower prices than does our nearest baby store.
Since quality diaper bags are quite expensive, do consider shopping online.
Fitting the handle bar
Get one that can be strapped onto your stroller's handlebar. This is very convenient and will save your back.
If you plan for siblings pretty soon, check if the bag also fits on the handlebar of a twin stroller. Mine did by pure luck, and that is very convenient!
Straps
You need padded straps to save your shoulders when carrying a fully-packed diaper bag. This is particularly true if you choose a sling model, but is the best for all models.
A changing pad
Buy a diaper bag that includes a foldable changing pad (or buy one). This is very convenient when you’re out somewhere, not to mention
when you’re traveling.
When controlling the quality of the changing pad, check that it is not too small and that it can be wiped clean easily.
It is also nice if the changing pad is a little bit padded, to make diapering more comfortable for your baby.
Pockets
You'll also need plenty of both inside and outside pockets on the bag.
Outside pockets are very convenient for bottles, both for you and your baby. One pocket for each of you to put a bottle in is a minimum.
Inside pockets are good too, for pacifiers, spoons, baby food etc. Little things that you don't want to disappear in the middle of all diapers and clothes.
Easy to close
Also make sure you choose a nappy bag that you can close properly and easily, for example with a lid or a good zipper. This is particularly important for rainy days!
Good luck!
If you need tips on how to diaper a baby, click here.
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