diaper bags? any suggestions for a new mom

[Anonymous]

I need to find a diaper bag - there are so many out there it seems overwhelming. I really like the look of the pottery barn kids quilted bag but am worried that it does not have enough pockets (only two on the inside). They have another one that I don't love as much but seems more practical. It also seems expensive for something so basic. Are there certain brands or things I should look for in a diaper bag? thanks

[Anonymous]

Honestly - I think diaper bags are an expense you can largely avoid. They tend to be really bulky and completely unstylish. I just used a large purse/bag and threw everything in there. I have seen some people use LL Bean monogrammed bags and they seem to work really well. They are very basic and plain.

[Anonymous]

For me, it was a waste of money.

[Anonymous]

I used a small back pack - it was way cooler, my DH didn't mind toting it, and it allowed both of my hands to be free.

There was a post on this awhile ago.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Honestly - I think diaper bags are an expense you can largely avoid. They tend to be really bulky and completely unstylish. I just used a large purse/bag and threw everything in there. I have seen some people use LL Bean monogrammed bags and they seem to work really well. They are very basic and plain.

I agree. Ended up not buying one. Instead, I use one of my huge Tod's bags that seems to be large enough for the baby stuff plus my purse, lipstick(s), compact, etc.

[Anonymous]

JuJuBe! Their backpack/tote is great!

[Anonymous]

i love my stylish bag i got -- some off brand at Buy Buy Baby on sale for $40! i've gotten lots of compliments to me and to me, it was important to have a diaper bag and not a dumping bag ie my purse.

one KEY thing for me -- BACK PACK STRAPS! it helps so much when lugging stuff around.

DH got an Eddie Bauer diaper bag back pack for his use. When we've taken trips on a plane, we each carried a diaper bag as our 1 on board bag (his -- all food, food stuff like bottles, bibs. mine -- extra clothes, diapers, wipes, blankie, etc).

it's been a great help to have two bags -- we each have one in our car for those quick trips out where you just might need to do a diaper change, clothes change etc.

really though depends on your lifestyle!

[Anonymous]

I totally agree that you don't need a specialized bag. First of all, your needs will change as the baby grows - you may need to carry more diapers and extra clothes at first, then fewer later but more food or toys - and depending on where you're going. So you'll need several different bags. I did go out and buy a cute new tote bag, because I wanted something that looked good while I was still feeling frumpy wearing pregnancy clothes post-partum! But it isn't a diaper bag, so I can keep using it. I also use a backpack for air travel - not as cute but can hold so much more and great to throw on your back out of the way.

[Anonymous]

You will get at least one for free in the hospital. Granted - it is not pretty, but does the trick until you figure out how much gear you carry around. DD is 14 months old. I have a bag in my car with diapers, wipes, bibs, change of clothes, etc. I also have an extremely tiny dipe and wipe pack that carries just a couple of diapers, wipes, and diaper cream - key for quick outings when you don't need bottles, etc.

Key tip - try to carry around as little as possible. Your hands will be full with baby. Also make sure that your diaper bag fits under your stroller. You will not want to lug around a diaper bag, especially after giving birth. A stroller frame is a great alternative to a stroller and often has a bigger basket for baby junk.

Good luck!

[Anonymous]

While I love purses and would love to use a regular one as my diaper bag, I'd have to disagree with many of the above posters. The diaper bags I have are so much more functional than a regular purse-especially with all the compartments/pockets for diapers, wipes, snacks, bottles, sippies, etc. If I just threw everything into a purse it would be like a black hole and would never be able to find what I was looking for!

Some brands that I think are functional as well as attractive:

Fleurville (sling tote)
Skip Hop (pretty much any style-their appearance is pretty utilitarian, but they're very functional).
StorkSac

Buy Buy Baby has a great selection. They don't carry StorkSak which is my current favorite though...

[Anonymous]

Skip the big bulky ones.

Get a free one from the hospital that has the reusable ice packs.

Use a JJCOLE Essentials bag...with extras in the car/stroller.