Diaper Bags

February 25, 2015

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There are so many options for diaper bags available. When searching for a diaper bag you will want to look for diaper bags that suit your style, can hold all those essential baby items you need to carry, and is practical in terms of size and durability. Read on to explore the many styles of diaper bags, some must-have features, and our suggestions for packing the diaper bag.

The Many Styles Of Diaper Bags

Choosing a diaper bag style is very much a matter of personal preference but, some diaper bags are definitely easier to use if you are constantly on the go. Check out the pros and cons of some of the most popular styles below.

Totes – Tote style diaper bags are the more traditional over the shoulder type bag. Within this category you will find several different designs and color schemes to coordinate with your style and baby’s. Browse the selection of totes at the [baby shop] and you will find that most of these bags include insulated pockets, to keep bottles and foods warm or cold, coordinating changing pads, and several pockets to keep all baby’s items organized. Most of the tote style diaper bags will have padded shoulder straps and some will offer optional handy-carry straps. Using a tote style diaper bag you will surely have enough room to carry everything you could possibly need.
Messenger – Messenger diaper bags are similar to the totes but, are slimmer and usually have a front flap closure rather than the top zipper closure of the tote. Like the tote diaper bags, the messenger bags will offer plenty of separate pockets, lined interiors and insulated areas. Unlike the totes, most of the messenger diaper bag pockets will be on the inside of the bag or hidden by the flap. Messenger diaper bags are a great option for busy parents who plan to carry their diaper bag through crowded areas.
Diaper Backpacks – The technology of diaper bags combined with the design style of backpacks creates these super convenient bags. Offered in as many styles as traditional backpacks, these bags incorporate the wipe-clean linings, coordinating changing pads, and multiple storage pockets of tote and messenger diaper bags and make it all fit in a bag that will fit on your back. These are probably the best choice for parents who always need both hands and arms free, such as when out and about will all the kids.

Must Have Features

It may appear that all diaper bags are made alike but, having tested many we know that this is just not true. To ensure you are getting the best bag for your buck, check out this list of diaper bags must have features:

Adjustable Shoulder Straps – Whether you choose the tote, messenger or backpack style diaper bag be sure that it has fully adjustable shoulder straps. Try it out, make sure they are comfortable on you, can be adjusted to a comfortable length easily, and re-adjusted with one hand. There will be many times when you are on the go and will not want to have to set your diaper bag down to pull out a bottle, pacifier or favorite toy. If you can easily adjust the straps, then you will be able to swing your bag around, loosen the strap,and grab the item you need, and then tighten the strap and be on your way. Make sure the straps seem sturdy too. We have seen too many moms and dads taken by surprise when the strap to their diaper bags tears away from the bag itself causing them to have to carry the whole bag under their arm. Sturdy, adjustable shoulder straps are a must!
Wipe Clean Lining – Think spilled bottles, broken baby food containers and leaky diapers. It is absolutely essential that you are able to wipe the interior of your diaper bag clean. Most diaper bags are promoted as having a wipe clean lining but, check it out for yourself. If the lining fabric looks porous, you will probably not be able to get the stink of pureed carrots out of it. You may also want to consider diaper bags with dark color interior lining. Stains happen between food, bottles and soiled diapers being thrown around; light color interior linings may hold the stain. Overall, your diaper bag should be completely machine washable as well. While it is fine to wipe clean on the go, you will want to be able to throw it in the wash if spills or smells are very bad.
Parents’ Pockets – We concern ourselves so much with accommodating baby that we sometimes forget about ourselves. Look through these diaper bags at the [baby shop] to find bags that have small pockets for parents’ essential items too. With all the stuff you are toting around it is too easy to lose things like your cell phone, keys, and even wallet. Many diaper bags include parents’ pockets as design features.
Insulation – While almost all diaper bags offer some type of insulated pockets, not all insulation is made alike. It is essential that you are able to keep warmed bottles warm or cold milk chilled. Be sure that the diaper bag you choose has insulated pockets that have their own full closures, such as zippers. In most instances, the smaller these pockets are the better. Not only will smaller insulated pockets prove more effective at maintaining temperature but, they will also safe guard against accidental spills.

Packing Diaper Bags

When you are on the go with baby, you will want to be sure that you have everything you could possibly need. Keep the following list on hand so you can easily ensure that your diaper bag is fully packed each time you leave the house.