What’s in my Diaper Bag

What diaper bag to choose and what to pack in it, is something I think all first-time moms stress over.  I know I did, as did most of my friends.  That is why writing a blog post on this topic has always been on my (never ending) to-do list.  With my friend Kimberley's baby shower approaching, I found the perfect opportunity for the post.  I stocked a diaper bag for Kim, with the help of my friend Lindsay, with everything us 'experienced moms' consider essential.

First and foremost, it's important to find a diaper bag that suits your needs.  Some prefer a backpack, others a regular bag or purse with an insert.  For me, I looked for something that both my husband and I were comfortable carrying.  I also liked something with a cross body strap for those times when you need your hands free (all the time).  We chose the Strand Duffle Sprout by Herschel.  It is functional, stylish, and durable.  Plus it comes with a super adorable matching change pad that reads, 'The Future is Yours.'  I'll take anything that makes changing diapers more bearable.  Find the Strand Diaper bag at Cravings Maternity Baby Kids in Saskatoon.

That brings us to the changing essentials.  So your change pad is covered.  Now you are going to need diapers, wipes, diaper cream, and bags.  When it comes to diapers, you need to find something that fits your babe and your lifestyle.  Some prefer cloth, others disposable.  For us, Bella was super sensitive so we opted for a natural diaper.  We like Honest but often reach for President's Choice Green diapers as they are a more affordable option.  I like to keep around 4-5 diapers in the bag at once, and *try* to check stock before leaving the house.

When it comes to wipes, through trial and error I've discovered I prefer the Kirkland Tencel Wipes from Costco.  They are well priced, durable, hypoallergenic, and don't leave behind bits and pieces of the wipe.  I often transfer them into a cute clutch, like the Huggies one above.  For diaper cream, I tend to jump around and try different products but one of my favs is Substance Nappy Ointment by Matter Company, available at Cravings. It is super rich, nourishing, a little goes a long way, and can be used for a variety of skin ailments.  

The next little genius product, was introduced to me by my friend and fellow mom, Whitney.  She told me about these Diaper Genie Portable Diaper Bag dispensers.  These little blue bags are super convenient when your little one makes a mess when you are out and about.  The bags are scented and opaque so you can dispose of them without embarassing yourself. I found mine at Walmart.

That was the perfect segue for our next section.  In the event of an accident, blow out, or whatever you like to call it, you're going to want a change of clothes and a wet bag.  This Grab & Go Wet/Dry Bag by Skip Hop, purchased from Cravings is a necessity to contain soiled clothing.  It keeps the odour and mess contained, when the inevitable happens.  Once you get that cleaned up, you are going to need a new outfit.  This is one area I have been known to forget from time to time.  Must. Remember.  For newborns, a sleeper is the perfect thing to keep in the diaper bag.  This adorable, gender neutral, bear sleeper by Blue Banana, also purchased from Cravings, is super stretchy cotton.  

A toy of some sort is also something you may want to consider keeping in your bag.  This Jellycat bunny is super soft and cuddly, but a teether, book, or rattle are also good options.  My daughter seems to be most intrigued by toys that she hasn't seen in awhile, so I like to switch them up frequently.  

Finally, we have feeding essentials.  Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding, do your thing mama, no judgment here.  I breastfed my daughter and brave as I was, I still liked to have a cover with me for the most part.  I tried a few but the ones with boning at the top, so you can see what's going on under there, were my favorite.  This Booby Trapper (pun intended) makes viewing your babe super easy, comes in a ton of patterns, and is lightweight.  If breastfeeding isn't your thing, it's best to have a bottle (or several) on hand.  I recommended Dr. Brown's Bottles.  If you are lucky enough to have a baby that takes a soother, throw one of those in too! The Wubbanubseems to be a well-liked soother, as babies can hold onto the little stuffy attached for comfort, and they usually stay put in the mouth.  All of these products can be purchased from, you guessed it- Cravings!  As your baby begins to eat food, consider keeping a snack cup with some of their favourites (animal crackers, goldfish, etc.), as well as a food pouch, granola bar, or piece of fruit.  

Lastly, while I focused mainly on baby items for my post, don't forget to include some items for yourself too!  I like to keep my Swell water bottle, lipstick, wallet, tampons, and hair ties in my bag.  Usually I throw in a little make-up bag to keep my stuff organized.  

So there you have it, that's what's in my diaper bag.  Did I miss any essentials? What do you guys keep in your bags? I would love to hear from you, so please comment below!

Thanks to my husband for editing these photos.

XO KK