Babies require so many things that it can be difficult to know where to start when compiling a list of newborn gifts that serve a purpose for your future bundle of joy. One item that you should definitely consider adding to your list is a newborn bag for nappies.
Do you actually need such a bag, you may ask? Yes, you do. While you may believe that any good-sized bag will work well, I’m afraid it will not. The nappy bag is a multi-purpose carrier, a constant companion, and a parent’s must-have. Simply said, whenever you take your baby out, you must also bring a bag full of baby supplies. It’ll undoubtedly be one of the most-used pieces of baby gear you’ll have, far more than just another of the many baby accessories you’ll end up accumulating.
What’s the Difference Between a Diaper Bag and a Regular Bag?
The main and most obvious difference between a regular bag and a newborn nappy bag is the storage pockets that they provide. Diaper bags have storage pockets that are specifically designed to hold baby items such as diapers, bottles, and wipes. While backpacks have storage pockets and separate compartments, they are not designed to hold all of the baby’s essentials. Diaper bags also usually come with a wet bag to keep soiled clothes separate from the rest of your belongings. If you value organization and style, a proper diaper bag is the way to go.
How to Choose a Diaper Bag
Of course, you want your diaper bags to be stylish but it’s also important that they’re functional. And, while bigger may appear to be better with all of the items your little one will require, it is not always the best option for every family. The following is what you’ll want to consider before purchasing a newborn nappy bag or adding it to your gift list.
Size
You might want to get a large nappy bag to make sure you can fit everything you might need in it. The problem with that is you could end up with a very heavy bag to carry around. A large bag could also make finding what you need more difficult. This doesn’t mean that you should go for a too-small bag either, otherwise you won’t be able to bring along the items that are really necessary to have for your baby.
My suggestion is to choose a medium-sized bag, perhaps erring on the larger side. You won’t overdo it this way, and it will still fit everything you need, such as several diapers, a package of wipes, burp cloth, bottle, bib, baby food, thin blanket, change of baby clothes and pacifier.
Type and Number of Pockets
Even if you get the right bag size, it won’t be easy to use if it lacks functional and usable space. I’ve seen diaper bags with only a few large pockets, and everything ends up a big mess inside. Check what kind of pockets comes with the bag and consider what you would put inside each one to stay organized.
Types of pockets you may want your bag to include are bottle/water bottle, portable bottle warmer, insulated and those for phone storage.
Carrying Style
When deciding which carrying style is best for you, the most important factors to consider are comfort and accessibility. You don’t want to end up with something that causes pain in your shoulder or back. This is not only unsafe for you, but you will also not want to use it. I suggest you get something that you can carry while also carrying your baby.
- Messenger/Tote Diaper Bags – These bags look great and work well if you don’t need to carry much. It’s convenient to get to what you need, but it can be taxing on your shoulders if the strap isn’t properly padded, or you have too much stuff in your bag. Furthermore, if you always carry your baby and purse on the same side, you’ll end up weighing down one side of your body even more, which is bad for your back.
- Backpack – This style of newborn nappy bag has grown in popularity and for good reason. It’s extremely lightweight and frees up both your arms and hands. Designs used to be much more purse-like, but we all realized how many of those options aren’t conducive to carrying a baby around. They don’t resemble your elementary school backpack any longer!
- Convertible – A fun option that gives you the best of both worlds. When travelling light or not going far, the messenger option will suffice, whereas longer outings requiring more gear will most likely go smoothly when using the bag as a backpack.
Changing Pad
Most diaper bags now include a changing pad, but you shouldn’t just assume. Of course, you can buy your own, but that’s just another thing to buy. Look for a model with a changing pad that is velcro attached to the bag and just folds out. You’ll love how convenient this is.
