How to Stock a Diaper Bag

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:StockDiaperBag
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How to Stock a Diaper Bag

Introduction

Your diaper bag is your survival kit and trusted right hand. Keep it well stocked and you'll not only
survive shopping trips, restaurants and other excursions (handling head-to-toe blowouts, sudden snack
attacks, and boring car rides) in stride, but actually thrive with baby in tow. Include a few extras to
handle additional surprises that come your way.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Steps

1

Step One


KEY ITEMS CONSIDERATIONS
Bag Basics Choose the right bag--not necessarily one labeled "diaper." Microfiber backpacksand plastic-lined handbags can work just as well and keep your senseof style intact. Put the same thing in the same pocket every time so you canlocate that pacifier in a hurry. No compartments? Group like items in clearzipper-lock plastic bags.
Check out hands-free backpacks with attached changing pads.
Diapering Needs Stock one diaper for every two hours you'll be out, plus a few extras. Packdiaper covers if using cloth diapers. Keep a wad of wipes in a zipper-lockplastic bag or portable container. Take extra plastic bags for dirty diapers orsoiled clothes. Include a changing pad and diaper cream.
Feeding Essentials Stock bottles (one for every feeding time away from home); liquids to put inthose bottles; diversions that double as snacks (cereal O's); a snap-on orVelcro bib for secure, cleaner feedings (tie-ons are difficult to tie on squirminginfants and are easily pulled off); burp cloths (for babies under six months); anursing pad (if you are breast-feeding); cooler bags with ice packs for bottles.
Spare Parts Bring one complete change of clothing per meal away (stored in a zipper-lockplastic bag), including socks, shoes and a blanket.
Road-Trip Toys Diversions and silence-keepers such as pacifiers and plush or teething toysare essential for everyone's sanity. A bored baby is a dangerous thing.
Health Must-Haves Flavored teething gel, 30-plus sunscreen (for babies six months and older),Children's Motrin or Tylenol, diaper rash ointment and Benadryl for allergicreactions. Antibacterial wipes for wiping down the high chairs at restaurants.
Other Essentials Bottles of water and snacks for both of you, single-serving formula packets,disposable breast pads, booties, hat and an extra blanket for discreet publicfeedings.

Overall Tips & Warnings

  • Keep an extra package of diapers and wipes, and a fresh change of clothes (head to toe) in a zipper-lock plastic bag in your trunk for the inevitable blowout when your bag is empty and you're far from home.
  • Replace whatever items you've used each time you return home so the bag is always ready to roll. See 47 Prepare Grab 'n' Go Activity Bags.
  • Always carry your pediatrician's phone number and your health insurance card with you. Keep the baby's immunization record in a pocket as well.
  • Wise parents keep a book or a magazine in the car for those times when your baby finally falls asleep and can't be moved.
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