Having a new baby comes with a lot of "stuff". You have toys, clothes, diapers, wipes, toys, swings, strollers, and more toys! Babies are pooping and eating mess machines, and just leaving the house for a couple of hours requires some forethought. You need to be prepared for any eventuality (read: baby pukes all over you and himself) and have your diaper bag stuffed with the right items to make a trip out pleasant and possible.
Baby clothes
It is vital to have in your diaper bag at least one extra outfit for the day ahead. Murphy's Law tells us that if you only bring an extra pair of pants, baby will spit up all over her shirt. And if you bring a shirt, she'll have an explosion in her diaper and require a onesie. So, for baby, have an extra onesie, and an extra full outfit. If it is cold out, having a knit hat and a sweater comes in handy. Keeping an extra blanket in the bag (if space allows) is a good idea as well, and could come in double handy as a towel if the occasion arises. Some women like to keep a footy-pyjama in their bag as well, and since socks tend to slip off baby's feet more often than not, an extra pair in the diaper bag would not hurt.
Diapers, wipes and other items for changing baby
It is quite obvious that you will need diapers when leaving the house, but don't forget a package of travel wipes, and a "peepee tent", or something to cover baby so you don't get an unwanted shower. Also, bringing your own changing pad prevents the need to use the mall's paper liners (which are generally empty) or a friend's towel (which no one wants baby pooping on). Most changing pads can fold up fairly small. A travel sized diaper rash cream would also be a good idea, in case baby has a red bum. As for diapers, it is wise to consider how long you will be out of the house, and figure out how many you will need. It is always better to have more than you need, lest you be stuffing baby' pants with toilet paper and making a mad dash to the car.
Bottle and breasts
If you are fortunate enough to be breastfeeding, most of what you need to feed your baby does not need to be packed in a diaper bag! However, don't forget a bib (or two), and if you are shy, a blanket to cover yourself and baby. Having extra nursing pads is also a good idea. And for those women who are formula feeding or pumping, you will need enough milk for the day ahead (base this on baby's habits and try to make sure you have as much, if not more, than you will need). Most milk or formula requires refrigeration, so have the milk on ice in a cooler or cooler bag. Make sure you have one extra nipple (in case you drop it on the floor) and a bottle to feed baby with, and I have found having a travel mug for getting hot water to warm up a bottle is very handy.
Bathing baby
If you will be bathing baby wherever you are going, be sure to pack travel sized shampoo and baby wash, as well as a number of clean washcloths. a non-stick mat for the tub is also handy, though not necessary. And of course, when baby is old enough, be sure to have a bath toy to keep her entertained.
Extras
Other things that are a good idea to have with you are:
- a cell phone in case of emergency
- an extra shirt for you, in case of baby spit, drool, vomit, etc.
- a travel pacifier (one attached to a clip is a good idea so it will not fall on the floor)
- extra washcloths for cleaning spitup, drool and other messes. Be sure to keep these washcloths seperate from one you may use as a "peepee tent" so that you are not using the same cloth on baby's private parts and mouth
- toys for baby to play with
Check items often for size and cleanliness
Before leaving the house, you should review your diaper bag to ensure you have everything you need for the day. As well, you should check sizes often of the clothing items in the bag - baby outgrows things very quickly, and you would not want to be stuck with a too-small onesie as your only spare clothing item. Check for cleanliness as well... did you shove a spit-up-filled shirt back in the bag and forget to replace it with a clean one? Ensure all items are the proper size and are clean and fresh for the next use.
It is important to be prepared when leaving the house with a baby, or you may find yourself turning tail and running home to pick up extra diapers or a clean outfit. A well prepared diaper bag can give you the freedom to enjoy your day, no matter what baby may throw at you, or drop on himself!
Ashlea Langevin - Ms. Langevin is a freelance writer and currently works for the federal government as a Program Assistant in Ottawa, Ontario. She completed ...
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