Nov 29 Preparing a Diaper Bag
Here are 10 things you need to know when preparing your diaper bag. This just isn't a normal list that runs down the usual things. I go deeper into why you need them. I know for first time parents you could look at this and think that this is crazy and way overkill. I suggest that you try it for at least the first 3 months and adjust it from there if you would like.
1. First thing is diapers. You are going to go through a lot of these so I would pack one diaper for at least every 2 hours you are going to be away from the house.
2. One package of wipes. You don't want to have to use the provided wipes, If they even do that, in the store or worse off be caught without any wipes. Bring a box of these along to clean your little one's bottom.
3. A clean changing pad. These are included in most diaper bags now of days but make sure before you leave that it is actually in the bag and didn't get taken out to be cleaned and not get put back in.
4. A & D Ointment. I am not trying to promote any brand here but the point is you need some butt cream so your baby doesn't get diaper rash.
5. Burp cloths and extra clothes. You will need the burp cloths for spitting up and burping and if you have a really messy accident you will need the change of clothes. This goes for stuff coming out the front end and the back end.
6. Pack a receiving blanket in case the meteorologist isn't right and the temperature changes on you. The last thing you want is a chilled baby.
7. Baby bottle with either fresh breast milk or dry powder formula.
8. You need a toy. This is important to have something along that can keep the little one occupied. If this means while he is in the stroller or in the car seat, this is a must!
9. Soft Blanket. Babies like familiar surroundings so giving them a familiar blanket will sometimes soothe them in an over stimulated environment.
10. Plastic bag for the soiled clothes and soiled diapers. Especially if you are cloth diapering you can't forget this or you will regret it.
Contact information is another good thing to have in your bag. A simple business card will work fine. Having a card that has all of your pediatrician's numbers on it and any other emergency numbers is a good idea also.
Having these things in your diaper bag will help you be prepared for just about anything. I did say just about so don't get mad if you come across some crazy situation that I have no control over.
I know this seems like a lot to do for just one simple diaper bag. You will not regret taking the time to fully prepare your diaper bag. It will make your outing with your baby that much more enjoyable.
For more information on the changing bag visit my blog. I really like to write about baby bags. They are fun and can come in real handy.
