11 Things Every Mom Must Have In Her Baby Diaper Bag

After spending hours buying the most spacious, stylish and practical baby diaper bag, the next challenge you have to cope with is what to put in your diaper bag. A baby diaper bag packed smartly with all the essentials not only saves your day but also ensures you’ll be able to meet your baby's all needs on-the-go. If you often get confused between what to keep and what not to keep in your baby diaper bag, check out our handy list of eleven diaper bag must-haves you shouldn’t leave your home without.

#Diapers:

The most essential of essentials! Even if your little one is potty-trained, make it a habit to always include several highly-absorbent disposable diapers in your baby diaper bag. Although how many diapers you pack depends completely on how long you'll be out and how old your newborn is, try to target at least one diaper for every two hours you'll be out of the house, plus a few extra – just in case.

#Wipes:

Again, another obvious one! Baby wipes are perfect not just for gently cleaning your baby’s pee and poo, but also for wiping off dirty hands and surfaces on the go. When you’re going out, prefer baby wipes that come packed in a small reclosable travel package because it won’t take up too much space. Bring at least three wipes per diaper to ensure you have enough when needed.

#Changing Pad/Mat:

If you have ever changed your baby’s diaper out of the house, you know how disgusting changing tables in public restrooms are. Even, sometimes there is no fold-down changing table available due to which you need to change a diaper on the floor or somewhere else. In such situations, a reusable changing pad proves quite useful to create a hygienic layer between your baby and the not-so-clean surface. Most baby diaper bags come equipped with a reusable changing pad, but if your bag doesn’t, consider buying one separately.

#Diaper Rash Cream or Ointment:

Some mothers think that the diaper rash cream should be applied only when a rash appears, but the fact is that you should apply a thin layer of it every time you change a diaper. Particularly when you’re away from your home, carrying a small tube of diaper rash ointment or cream becomes imperative to create a layer of protection that locks out moisture and irritation. To be on the safe side, apply a thin layer of rash cream your baby’s bottom before you leave the house.

#Spare Changes of Baby Clothes:

If your diaper bag is big enough, consider bringing at least two pairs of spare clothes just in case your little one dirties his clothing. You never know when your newborn will spit-up, drool, spill or have a poop explosion and necessitate a change of clothing. Given that accidents can happen anytime and anywhere, a couple changes of lightweight baby clothes are a must to easily tackle emergency situations while you’re on the move.

#Burp Cloths/Bibs:

You can definitely use your napkins to wipe your baby’s spills, spit-ups, and burps on the go, but if you want a more convenient option, then a bib or a burp cloth would be perfect for you. These lightweight and super-absorbent rags are perfect not only for draping over your shoulder when burping the baby, but also for wiping your baby’s face and spit up. Bring at least two of these when stepping out with your little munchkin.

#Nursing Cover or Bottle & Formula:

Depending on whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, pack a nursing cover or a bottle and some formula in your baby diaper bag. After all, you never know where you are going to get stuck and need to feed your little cherub. If you breastfeed, don’t forget to carry a nursing cover that provides the utmost privacy and comfort for breastfeeding in public.

#Hand Sanitizer:

While washing hands is imperative before every feed and after changing a diaper, it isn’t always possible when you're out and about. Keeping a small bottle of anti-bacterial hand sanitizer can be a lifesaver when there is no sink, water and soap available nearby. Make sure to use an alcohol-free version that is completely safe for newborns.

#Your Child’s Favorite Toys:

To keep your little one busy and entertained on the go, add some of your baby's favorite toys - like rattles, stuffed animals, and colorful picture books - to the diaper bag. When you’re shopping or traveling, these items play a vital role in keeping your child occupied. If your child uses a pacifier, include a few ones in your bag to calm your sidekick from sudden crying.

#Disposable Plastic Bags:

Pack a few waterproof plastic or biodegradable bags for storing soiled outfits or diapers – just in case there is no trash can available nearby. Be it a snap lock bag or a reusable grocery bag, you'll constantly need these spare bags to store damp clothes or dirty diapers until a trash can is available. However, just make sure to keep your child away from them as they can pose a suffocation risk to your wee one.

#A Little First Aid Kit:

An absolutely essential but often overlooked item on your diaper bag checklist! When you're heading outdoors, your newborn may start feeling unwell any time. For that case, put together a little first aid kit that includes an antibiotic cream, a non-aspirin liquid pain reliever, gas relief drops, some adhesive bandage strips, and other basic first-aid supplies. After all, prevention is always better than cure!