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What Goes In My Diaper Bag? by Michelle LaRowe Being prepared, especially when on the go, is one of the keys to successful parenting. If you use the following list to pack your diaper bag, you’ll be prepared for almost anything! baby food forumula   baby spoon  hand sanitizer  Band-aids  hat  bib  lotion  blanket  nursing cover  bottled water  nursing pads bottles  pacifier   burp cloth  plastic bags to hold soiled clothes or diapers  change of clothes  small toys  changing pad  sunscreen  diaper rash cream  thermometer  diapers  tissues  emergency information  Vaseline  fever reducer  wet wipes  Diaper Bag Dos: Do restock your diaper bag immediately after each use. Do remove soiled clothing and diapers as soon as you return home. Do remember to update your spare clothes as your baby grows and as the seasons change. Do clean your diaper bag thoroughly at least once per month. Do have a spare diaper bag packed that you can easily grab if you’re in a rush. Do keep a small diaper bag with changing and feeding necessities in the car. Do consider leaving a fully stocked diaper bag in the car and toting a smaller bag that holds just changing and feeding necessities with you. Diaper Bag Don’ts: Don’t hang your diaper bag on the handles of your stroller, unless it’s meant to go there. The uneven distribution of weight can cause your stroller to tip over and injure your child. Don’t leave a diaper bag with prepared formula in the car overnight. Extreme heat and cold can compromise the quality of the formula. Don’t choose a diaper bag that can’t easily be wiped clean. If it’s difficult to clean and formula gets into its nooks and crannies, it will smell stinky. Tips for Choosing a Diaper Bag Your diaper bag will get years of use, so when choosing a diaper bag be sure to look for one that is made of a durable, washable fabric. You’ll also want to choose a diaper bag that is well constructed and has good quality stitching and heavy-duty zippers. When making your selection, look for additional features such as adjustable straps, and oversized changing pad, a coordinating insulated bag, and lots of compartments and pockets. Many moms enjoy the backpack model of diaper bags, which allows their hands to be free. My personal favorite is the Glazed Boxy Backpack from Petunuia Pickle Bottom (petuniapicklebottom.com).