Thursday, October 9, 2008

Packing Diaper Bag

Going out with a newborn, infact not only newborn, going out with a toddler, to put it in simple words, is like packing on a holiday. The time you take to get ready is sometimes longer than the excursion itself. Experienced mummies will get what I mean. There's the feeding, poop, clean-up or bath, change, and if baby does not follow that order, you will have to repeat a few of the activities. Anyway, after taking Zoe out on a handful of excursions, I have derived a complete list of what's needed and what not to! Although many can manage with only half the items on the list, it is best to be prepared for all kinds of situations.

Diaper - What can I say, it's the most important item on the list. If you are not bringing anything else, you should at least bring spare diapers. Take more than you think you'll need, as many as one for every hour of your outing. Better safe than sorry!

Travel pack of wet wipes - Handy during diaper change. And they are not just for baby, mummy may need them for wiping hands.



Barrier Cream& First Aid Cream - Very important, though many in our local community ignore it, but it is the best solution to prevent rashes which can cause discomfort to baby.

Cloth diapers or handkerchief - For burping, spit-out or other messes, and sometimes also handy as a blanket if the surrounding suddenly gets chilly.




Rinse Free-Cleanser - This will be good when you need to cleanse the utensils.




Extra shirts, pants and socks for baby - Well, you never know when you'll need them.




Baby sunblock - If you are taking baby out during the day, and spend most of the time outdoors, it is best to protect baby's delicate skin from harmful UV rays.



Baby bottles - If you are not breastfeeding, bring at least two, one for formula and another for water.

Thermos - For water supplies (1 for cold ; 1 for hot)

Baby formula/food - Baby may get hungry in the mid of your outing, if you are not breastfeeding, bringing formula/food is a neccessity.

Toy or comfort object - If your toddler is above three months, and has a toy of his/her own, then you should bring it with you.

Bib - To minimise mess when feeding.

Pacifiers - If you baby uses one. You should bring extras, in case one drops and you have no where to clean and sterilize it.

Mobile phone - Though there is no need to be reminded, many people today cannot go anywhere without their mobile phones.

Index card - Every diaper bag should have an index card of your name, address and phone number should it get lost. Treat your diaper bag like your travelling bag.

Pediatrician's contact - Yes, always have your pediatrician's contact close by.

Changing pad - Comfortable and no mess while changing. Heh-heh, my Allerhand diaper bag comes with an attached changing pad, how great!

Several plastic bags - For sealing and tossing soiled diapers, yes, be responsible and hygenic, do not just leave a mess for others to clean up. Also handy in bringing home soiled cloths, clothing and bibs.

Water and snack for mummy - Hey, please do not forget about your own needs.Seems like a lot of stuff. But, if you should have a proper diaper bag, they should all fit inside without looking like an overstuffed rugsack. My hubby failed to grasp the idea until a couple of outings with a poor excuse of a diaper bag. Our new diaper bag is now the most incredible bag in the world. See for yourself.







No comments: