Every new parent has experienced the sudden panic when attempting to leave the house for the first time with their new bundle of joy. What if you need to change a diaper without your fully-stocked nursery close by? What if your baby somehow poops through his onesie? What if your precious little angel has a colossal meltdown and you're not equipped with every soothing tool at your disposal? Hopefully these "what if's" haven't already talked you out of your day away from home. We promise, even if something does go wrong, you'll find yourself armed to handle the unexpected as long as your diaper bag is fully stocked with these awesome essentials.
Cotton gauze swaddle blankets are hands-down our favorite type of multi-use blanket for baby. The blanket designs by Coveted Things takes our love for them up a huge notch. We can’t stop gushing over their unique, fashion-forward and all around cool designs. On top of looking great you’ll want to throw one of these great swaddles in your baby bag for a number of useful applications.
- Cover baby to keep him warm
- Drape it over baby’s car seat to shade her from the sun
- Use it as a burp cloth
- Drape it over yourself as a nursing cover
Aquaphor is one of those versatile items that you'll want to carry around at all times. It can be used as a diaper cream to treat diaper rash. It's gentle enough to be put on baby's skin (even the face). It also works as an ointment for chapped lips. Now (assuming you're now cringing and questioning our authority on the matter), we know using the same product (and tube) as a diaper rash cream and lip ointment may seem crazy, but if you are careful to only touch the dispenser with clean hands you should be fine.
Honest Co. Hand Sanitizing Spray
A hand sanitizer of any kind is a must-have for your diaper bag. This version by Honest Co is fantastic. We love how this spray is made with plant-based materials and always free of harsh chemicals.
Teether + Paci Clip by Lou Lou Lollipop Finery
As a seasoned parent I can tell you there are a few diaper bag essentials you don’t want to leave home without. While diapers and wipes are the obvious ones, there are less obvious but just-as-crucial items to add to your packing list. Even if your baby doesn’t take a paci, pack a paci clip! This clip is the answer to the dreaded problem of toys falling to the ground and thus covered in disgusting germs (yes I’m a total germ freak). Grab a paci clip like the adorable clips at Lou Lou Lollipop Finery, attach it to your child’s favorite toy, clip the other side to their shirt and voila! No more playing fetch with your child throughout lunch, and no more dirty toys.
We particularly like these paci clips because they are gorgeous, and made from wood + silicone beads which means your baby can also chew on the tether. Now she has two toys to entertain herself with :)
While you’re picking up a paci clip from their Etsy shop, be sure to check out their teething toys like our favorite– the Lulla Teether.
Honest Co diapers and wipes are a fantastic choice for a variety of reasons. Their diapers are free of harsh chemicals, protecting the bum of your little one. They come in adorable little prints making you smile every time a new shipment arrives. They're shipped to your house on a subscription basis which means you never have to remember to pick up diapers. Those of us experienced with "mommy brain" can tell you it's no joke!
Bottle feeding mamas you need to know about these! These perfectly measured packets of formula are a great compliment to your diaper bag. Simply pre-fill your bottles with water, grab a few packets and go. That simple!
We adore Tommee Tippee bottles for many reasons. They come in a variety of styles sure to fit any baby's needs. Their shape is great for babies who also breastfeed. They fit perfectly inside the ToteSavvy organizer. You can fit 2 8oz bottles stacked inside the insulated pocket!
This product is an absolute must-have for nursing mamas. In fact, add this item to your hospital bag. It's that important! Breastfeeding can sometimes lead to sore or cracked nipples which is just as painful as it sounds. This wonderful cream helps soothe and repair your nipples and even prevent dryness in the first place. It's 100% organic and completely safe for baby too!
Every breastfeeding mama will tell you nursing pads are a must! One unfortunate side to nursing your child is leaking breast milk. Luckily there's an easy solution in wearing nursing pads under your bra. We love the Cupcake nursing pads by Cake Maternity because they’re made from organic cotton, are super silky-soft and are reusable / washable.
