Kinds of Diaper Bags
Even though babies are very small, they require a lot of stuff. When heading out with baby, you will need diapers, wipes, a change of clothes and a place to change them. Many parents find that they also need a swaddle, bottles, pacifiers, a breastfeeding cover and a lot more.
This is why baby diaper bags are so helpful. They corral everything you need for baby (with space for mom’s stuff, too). Before you add a diaper bag to your baby registry, here is everything you need to know to choose a great diaper bag.
Messenger Diaper Bag
These are probably the most popular diaper bags. The cross-body strap is easy for multiple caregivers, and they tend to have tons of pockets to keep everything organized. Since these are made for baby items like wipes and bottles, they’re harder to use as a general purpose bag when your baby outgrows newborn needs.
Tote Diaper Bags
Totes tend to be the most fashionable diaper bags, and some don’t even look like diaper bags at all. If you are looking for a diaper bag that can double as a work bag, tote diaper bags are a great option. One major drawback is that they have less interior organization than dedicated diaper bags.
Backpack Diaper Bag
Because all the baby stuff gets heavy, many families find that it’s easier to use a backpack diaper bag than a tote or messenger bag. Backpacks tend to have lots of pockets, and some popular backpack diaper bags even have insulated storage for bottles and snacks. (You could even opt to use a backpack you already own instead of getting a dedicated diaper bag.)
However it is difficult to wear a baby carrier while you are wearing a backpack diaper bag, so if you plan on babywearing often, this might not be the best choice.
Designer Diaper Bags
Diaper bags have come a long way in the past few years, and some of the most popular handbag designers now make diaper bag variations with lots of pockets for mom and baby. These bags have the luxury styling and hardware that you want from a nice handbag, while also being practical for baby. However, few of them can be washed, so you will have to careful with spills.
Personalized Diaper Bags
Some popular nursery companies offer personalization, with your initials or baby’s, to customize your diaper bag. These usually offer similar features (lots of pockets, stroller clips, easy access) that you find in standard diaper bags.
Other Features to Look For
Some diaper bags can convert from a backpack to a messenger bag. This is particularly helpful when one parent prefers the backpack style, and the other likes a cross-body strap. If you are looking for a men’s diaper bag for dad, backpack or messenger bags also convert nicely for any caregiver.
Look for stroller clips that allow you to clip your diaper bag to the handles of your stroller so you don’t have to wear it while you stroll.
Lastly, make sure to check the washing instructions. A bag that can be thrown in the wash could save you an incredible headache when some baby food erupts inside.
Whether you are looking for a practical backpack or a flashy tote, here are the eight best diaper bags to choose from.
Have you created your baby registry yet? If not, head to Babylist now where you can create the perfect baby registry, quickly and easily.
Read our ultimate maternity hospital bag checklist.
