Our Top 13 Diaper Bag Essentials

When it comes to packing up your diaper bag, you might think you have all the space in the world to store the essentials. However, many new parents quickly realize that you actually need to store a fair amount of stuff in a diaper bag. Not only do you need space for changing supplies, but you also need room for feeding essentials, “just-in-case” items, and some extras for yourself. To help you stay prepared (but not over-packed), here are the diaper bag essentials that we recommend for every parent.

1. Diapers

Of course, you can’t have a diaper bag without diapers! Whether you use disposable or cloth diapers, pack as many as you expect to use during your outing. It can’t hurt to pack more than you think you’ll need, since diapers don’t take up too much room.

2. Diaper care products

While you change your baby, you’ll need reliable and safe products to clean and moisturize their diaper area. Instead of loading baby wipes, lotion, AND a diaper rash cream into your bag, opt for a 3-in-1 product like NOLEO Diaper Cleanser and Moisturizer. NOLEO 3-in-1 cleans and hydrates the diaper area while treating and preventing diaper rash. Best of all, it only uses 5 natural ingredients that won’t irritate your little one’s sensitive skin. Simply use a pump of NOLEO 3-in-1 on a soft, fluffy cotton pad to effectively and gently wipe away messes. To save even more space, try the NOLEO Travel Kit, which comes with a 3-oz. bottle and a travel-sized container of our organic cotton pads.

3. Changing pad

To protect your baby’s bottom from bacteria and avoid messes on changing surfaces, a portable changing pad is a must for any diaper bag. Some diaper bags come with changing pads, but you might need to get one that better fits your needs.

4. Plastic bag

Dirty cloth diapers, clothes, and burp cloths all need a home while you’re out. Make sure to pack several plastic bags or another kind of waterproof bag to safely contain soiled items until you’re able to throw them in the wash.

5. A change of clothes

Messes happen, especially with babies. Whether your child spills food down their front, spits up, or manages to get messy another way, keeping a change of clothes (or two) in your bag will let you clean them up without having to rush home.

6. Hand sanitizer

This one’s for you, parent! Hand sanitizer is a must when you’re on the go with your little one. You never know when a bathroom will be all out of soap.

7. Burp cloths or washcloths

Whether you need to wipe away food messes or spit up, a clean cloth will definitely come in handy.

8. Toys (and toy straps)

While there’s no need to bring along a whole bunch of toys, packing a couple of options will help keep your baby entertained during an outing. Make sure to bring toy straps to keep their favorite playthings off of dirty floors!

9. Food for your baby

Whether you’re breastfeeding, using formula, or have a serial snacker in your house, bring any food essentials your baby will need while you’re out on the town.

10. Sun protection

If your baby isn’t too young for sunscreen, pack some SPF to protect their delicate skin. If they are too young, bring a hat, sun shirt, or even a blanket to keep their skin out of the sun.

11. Small first-aid kit

You never know when you’ll need it, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Band-aids, baby pain relievers, nail clippers, and other first-aid items should be a staple in your diaper bag.

12. Pacifiers

Don’t forget your baby’s favorite pacifier! We recommend storing it in a sanitary place, like a plastic bag, to protect it from picking up bacteria. It’s a good idea to pack an extra in case one falls on a dirty surface.

13. Your essentials

Lastly, remember to bring your own essentials when stepping out with your little one! A good diaper bag has a designated place for your wallet, phone, and keys. We also recommend packing a snack for yourself, a water bottle, and even an extra shirt.