Top 10 Things to Put in Your Diaper Bag

It seems like the smaller the baby, the more stuff you need. But don't worry, you won't be hauling everything but the kitchen sink for long. The older baby gets, the less you'll need. But for now, here is a good list of what to put in your Diaper Bag to get started...You've Got the Diaper Bag. Now What Do You Put in it?


Diapers ( Duh!)  -Refill your stash often. Don't forget diaper rash cream.

Wipes - Get a small carrying case so it's less bulky. There are many stylish options available. Wipes can also be used for sticky faces and dirty hands.

Bottle - If you're using formula, keep a small bottle of water ready to mix with formula for a fresh bottle. You can buy prepackaged dry formula, or measure it out in a zip-lock bag. Snip the bag's corner to pour into bottle. Breastfeeding? Get an insulated bottle carrier to keep it refrigerated as long as possible.  SkipHop, Bumble and JJ Cole make wonderful  bottle coolers.

Change of clothes - You can bet as soon as baby is in a cute outfit, it will get soiled with some sort of fluid. Make it easy on yourself and throw in a one-piece outfit. They may not be as cute, but they cut down on space. And regardless of season, pack a hat!

Pacifier and Blanket - These are your soothing agents. Fussy baby? Either of these will come to the rescue. Pacifiers tend to get lost, try a JJ Cole pacifier pod to keep the pacifier clean and handy.

Medicines - Of course, ask your Doctor about these, but a good list includes: Children's Tylenol, Teething Gel, Mylecon Drops for upset tummies, Bulb Syringe for stuffy noses, Benadryl for bee-stings, and band-aides.

Food - For baby, pack a few jars of food. Keep jars safe, handy and organized with Jar Pac's jar organizer. Snacks for older kids or Mommy. Small boxes of raisins, granola bars, animal crackers, string cheese, sippy cup. Don't forget: fed kids are happy kids!

Important Information - You never know when you'll need them. Write down contact numbers for doctors, work, day care, next of kin.

Camera - You never know when the perfect picture moment will pop up. Be prepared and carry a camera. It doesn't have to be a big fancy one, any disposable will do, just make sure you're prepared to take the shot!

Mommy Area - Don't forget yourself. The diaper bag becomes your quasi-purse. Have a little bag for lipstick, wallet, and keys.