Bump Watch: Checklist – How to pack a diaper bag

September 16, 2014

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By Rosanne Moore, Bump Watch Editor​

Putting together a diaper bag for a baby may feel like packing for a weeklong vacation! How many diapers do I need? Is one pacifier enough? What other baby gear essentials should I take with me?

For new mothers, leaving the house takes on a whole new meaning. Preparation is key, even if your out-of-the-house excursion means running a few errands with your infant (or infants, in the case of twins!) in tow.

To help make the process easier for new parents, we asked several Bump Watch mothers to share their tips on what to pack in their newborn’s diaper bag. After all, you need to be prepared for any surprises.

Top 15 list of diaper bag essentials:
1. Diapers (at least two per child) and plenty of wipes
2. Boogie wipes (unscented) for the nose and face
3. Travel changing pad
4. Munchkin diaper disposal bags, like this one. They are scented which is a Godsend when baby has a dirty diaper.
5. Small tube of Triple Paste diaper rash cream
6. Pacifier and pacifier sanitizing wipes
7. A favorite teether/toy for baby (such as a Sophie or a rattle)
8. Extra change of clothes in case baby has a blowout
9. BabyGanics stain stick (in case baby stains clothing, you can pre-treat it right away)
10. Blanket or “hooter hider” cover for nursing
11. Pre-measured formula/water if you are formula feeding so you can prepare a new bottle on the go
12. Lightweight blanket for baby
13. Extra bib
14. Burp cloth for spit ups
15. Ziplock bag (so that if baby soils clothing, you can keep it contained away from the rest of your things)