When I first started leaving the house with my baby, I realized pretty quickly that packing a diaper bag wasn’t as simple as tossing in a few diapers and wipes. I wanted to be prepared for anything, but I also didn’t want to carry around a bag full of things I’d never use.
After a few outings, I figured out exactly what I actually needed. If you’re wondering what to pack in a diaper bag for an infant, here are 13 diaper bag essentials for infants (0–6 months) that you’ll actually use every day.
1. Diapers
Personally, Huggies are our favorite. A good rule of thumb is to pack at least one diaper for each hour that you’ll be away. I usually take a few extras, too.
2. Wipes
Some choose to keep their wipes in a special wipes case, but I feel like I would always forget to restock them (and this is not a situation worth risking).
3. Changing Pad
This made me feel more at peace about changing my son on a changing table in a public space. Disposable changing pad liners or easily wipeable changing pads are great options. Our diaper bag (that I will discuss below) included a changing pad in its purchase.
Be cautious about choosing an extra soft changing pad if one is not included in your diaper bag, as this can easily take up valuable real estate in your diaper bag if its too bulky.
4. Disposable Diaper Sacks
These truly serve a dual purpose.
Mainly, as they are intended, we use these to dispose of poopy diapers. These are especially useful when a trash bin may not be nearby, so you must carry the contents with you on your person.
Secondly, instead of carrying a wet bag around for the occasional blowout, we toss the soiled clothes in one of these diaper sacks until we address them at home. We never have any issues with odor. As a matter of fact, they purposefully give off a pleasing aroma of fresh laundry.
5. Diaper Rash Paste
We use this dispensing device both at home and on the go for a hands-free application. I will forever recommend this to those I come across.
6. Bottle Warmer
If you’re not exclusively nursing, a portable bottle warmer can be a game changer. In most cases this is handy for both breastfeeding (for breast milk) and formula feeding (for water). I’ve tried several portable bottle warmers, but this Momcozy portable bottle warmer is my top travel-friendly warmer with its easy-pour spout and long battery life.
Unsure which portable bottle warmer is right for you? Visit my list of The 6 Best Portable Bottle Warmers For Busy Moms.
I usually leave this item and the next item off for short outings or if I plan on nursing my baby directly.
7. Breast Milk Cooler and/or Formula Container
As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, this Momcozy breastmilk cooler comes in handy for keeping my breast milk in frigid temperatures and quickly accessible.
If you’re a formula feeding mom, pre-portioned containers make on-the-go bottle making much less messy without worrying about that scoop.
8. Bottle
Pretty self-explanatory, but essential if you’re feeding away from home.
9. Extra Outfit(s)
I feel most comfortable having two outfits on hand, usually one sleeper and one short-sleeved outfit. Of course, depending upon the season, socks and hats may want to live in your diaper bag as well.
10. Burp Cloth
I usually have two, but these have proven to be invaluable for spit-up and spills.
11. Toys and Teethers
I like to have at least one of each for variety and to keep my baby entertained.
12. Small Blanket
This is a versatile item, as it works as a stroller cover, a clean surface, and even for breastfeeding when needed.
13. Pacifier
Usually these stay tucked away in a small pouch attached to the handle of our diaper bag for easy access.
What Bag Do I Have?
We use the RabbleRoo Diaper Bag with the included changing pad, and we have had zero regrets for the past 6 months. Several of our friends use the same diaper bag as well.
It has plenty of space for all of these infant diaper bag essentials while still keeping everything organized and easy to grab.
If you’re more interested in a unique or unconventional diaper bag, those options exist, too!
Final Thoughts
Packing a diaper bag doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Once you figure out what works for you and your baby, it becomes second nature. Taking a quick glance and restocking your diaper bag becomes natural, too!
Focus on practical items you’ll actually use every day, and don’t be afraid to adjust your setup as your baby grows. My diaper bag contents when my baby was only a few weeks old looks a little different compared to the essentials my diaper bag contains now at 6 months, but we learn and grow (just like our babies!).