Best Diaper Bags: Pampers Parents Help You Pick!

Why You Need a Great Diaper Bag

When you have a fussy baby, you should be able to reach in there and find exactly what you need without looking or fumbling.

Pampers Parent

What Kinds of Diaper Bags Are There?

I'm a mama on the go, with a 2-year-old and a baby on the way, so a bag with plenty of storage is ideal. The more I can pack the less I can forget.

Pampers Parent

• Backpack diaper bags. The best feature about this style of bag is that you have complete use of both your hands. With quite a few of the models, you can't even tell it's a diaper bag because it looks just like a sports backpack with multiple compartments and pockets. Look for those diaper bags that also have a large and strong carry handle for when you need to pick it up.
• Messenger diaper bags. These models look just like a standard messenger bag from the outside, hiding all your baby's supplies on the inside. Sometimes referred to as sling bags, the messenger-style diaper bag is designed with an adjustable strap that can be slung over the shoulder or worn across the chest. This style might be appealing for professional moms and dads because it can be mistaken for a work bag. Some models can even fit a laptop.
• Tote diaper bags. This style resembles a very large women's handbag or pocketbook with straps and handles that can be slung over a shoulder or carried by hand. Many designs feature multiple pockets and compartments.
• Convertible diaper bags. These versatile styles offer you multiple options, as they can be converted into a backpack or messenger bag depending on your needs for the day. They are ideal if you can't decide on which type you like best or if you know you’ll have a use for both styles. Most convertible diaper bags also have handles for carrying like a briefcase.
• Stroller handlebar diaper bag attachments. Some diaper bags are designed with stroller loops or straps that can be hung from stroller handlebars. However, when the bag is heavy, it can cause the stroller to tip backward, endangering your baby. Check with your stroller's manufacturer whether the handlebar can bear the weight of a diaper bag. Ideally, when you're not holding or wearing your diaper bag, it's best to keep it in the basket that's under the stroller.

What to Consider When Buying a Diaper Bag

• Solid construction. If you can, go for a diaper bag with reinforced seams, which might help the bag last longer and hold up better after machine washing (if the material is machine washable). Stress points on the bag, such as those around shoulder straps and handles, should have rivets or reinforced sewing. The hardware should be heavy-duty plastic or metal. Zippers with large teeth and pull tabs are easier to use. Avoid bags with magnetic closures, which can come open easily if your bag is overstuffed. A flap cover is a plus, providing another layer of protection over a zippered closure.
• Lots of storage. Pockets and compartments, both inside and outside, add lots of functionality to any diaper bag. You may also want a convenient space to keep your wallet or phone, too. Some diaper bags may even feature an insulated section for keeping your baby's bottle warm or cold.
• Comfortable straps and handles. You'll want to make sure the handles function as they should. With a tote-style bag, if the handles are too long, the bag could drag on the ground; if they're too short, the bag may not fit comfortably over your shoulder. The straps on a backpack should be padded and comfortable to wear. For messenger-style diaper bags, the single strap should be wide and comfortable. For the best comfort, choose a diaper bag that has adjustable straps.
• Durable and easy-to-clean material. There are a multitude of choices when it comes to materials, from natural fabrics to coated, modern ones. Some designer diaper bags are even made out of faux leather. Vinyl is not the best choice as the material can crack after some wear and tear. Make sure you choose a bag with a durable exterior and with an easy-to-clean interior fabric such as nylon or microfiber.
• A color that suits your lifestyle. This is a personal preference. Bags in pastel colors and with patterns like animals and baby toys tend to look more obviously like diaper bags. But there are also designs that look more like a fashion item and not like a diaper bag at all. These diaper bags might be more appealing for moms and dads who would prefer the bag seamlessly fit with their normal day-to-day style. The choice is yours. Browse a few different products and see what you'd prefer to carry with you each day. Diaper bags in darker colors or with busy patterns are great for hiding dirt and stains. When it comes to this factor, the bottom line is: Do you like it? Will you be happy carrying this bag around, day after day?
• Not too heavy. This is an important factor, because once your diaper bag is fully stocked it’ll get quite heavy. Before buying, check how much the diaper bag itself weighs. It might be a good idea to go for one of the lighter options if you plan on carrying the bag on your shoulder or back for longer stretches.
• The right size for your needs. You don't want a diaper bag that's too big or too small. If the bag is too big, you might find yourself overfilling it or not finding what you need quickly. It might also be harder to lug a large bag around. If the bag is too small, then you'll soon discover there's not enough room for everything you need to have on hand.
• A style you’ll be able to carry with ease. Think about which style will work best for you. If you prefer a backpack diaper bag, look for one with a sternum strap that can help uniformly distribute the weight of the bag and save your back from strain. If you think you wouldn’t like to wear the diaper bag, then a tote-style bag might be a good choice. Keep it stashed in the basket of the baby stroller when you don't need it.
• A changing pad is included. Many diaper bags come with a changing pad that can be folded up and stored inside. This means you can change your baby’s diaper more easily when you’re out and about. The bag might even have a dedicated pocket for the changing pad, which is a plus if the pad gets soiled and you want to keep it separate from other items.
• Price. How much you want to pay for a diaper bag is also an important aspect to consider. You can purchase a very good bag for between $30 and $80. Some of the designer diaper bags, however, will run you well over $200. Keep in mind that the more cost-effective brands of diaper bags can look just as fashionable as the designer ones, and are sometimes better equipped. No matter which one you buy, you'll be using your diaper bag on a daily basis — so you'll be getting a lot of use out of it.

[A good diaper bag should have] storage, strong zippers, [and be] comfortable for mom or dad to carry. Bonus for quick adjustment on the straps for switching who is carrying it.

Pampers Parent

Shoulder Diaper Bags

Backpack Diaper Bags

Convertible Diaper Bags

Designer Diaper Bags

Men's Diaper Bag

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