Packing the perfect nappy bag

Aren’t babies the cutest things in the world? That little bundle of joy that causes your heart to swell, giving you that warm, fuzzy feeling inside. Well, that same bundle of joy is also a hazard zone for poo explosions, projectile vomit and nappy rash, making it imperative to be prepared at all times. Your nappy bag will be your best defence against all unexpected baby attacks. With the perfectly packed pouch, you’ll never be afraid to leave the house again. 

Nappies

What good is a nappy bag without nappies? It seems like the most obvious element, but it’s also the most important. Can you imagine being stuck somewhere with a dirty nappy and no clean one to replace it? Always pack one nappy for each hour you plan to be out. And maybe even one extra just in case. 

Plastic bags

There really is no better alternative to plain old plastic bags. You can use them to store dirty nappies, wet clothes, food scraps, and more. If you feel a tad guilty for the environment, aim to buy biodegradable bags and if possible, ones with a slight scent to mask any odours until you find a bin or make it home.

Baby wipes

The Holy Grail of nappy changing and general cleaning: baby wipes. No need for water or a bathroom when you have these handy toilettes at the ready. WOTNOT Baby Wipes are gentle enough for delicate baby skin and are also 100 per cent biodegradable and compostable, so you won’t have to feel so sheepish when you go through an entire pack just from a single trip to the park.

A change of clothes

Nappy leakage, food spillage, spit up and other general messes can sometimes call for an entire outfit change. To ensure you and your baby can continue on your outing always pack a spare change of clothes.

Baby cream 

There’s nothing scarier than when red spots or rashes suddenly appear on your baby’s skin, so a cream that instantly soothes irritations is a must. DermaVeen Baby Moisturising Cream is great for calming your baby’s skin and absorbs quickly for instantaneous results. It is also safe to use on newborn babies or babies with eczema and dermatitis.

Hand sanitizer

Your hands are exposed to a lot of germs when caring for your little one and it can be hard to keep them clean when there isn’t always a sink and soap readily available. Not to mention constantly washing your hands may cause them to dry out.  Dettol Instant Hand Sanitiser is a simple and effective way to clean your hands on the go. The soothing gel also helps your hands to remain hydrated and smooth, instead of dry and irritated.

A blanket

When your baby has a smelly nappy any smooth surface will do for a quick change, and blankets (or a small towel) can provide the perfect on-the-go change table for those nappy emergencies. You’ll also have something on hand if the weather turns chilly and you need to give your baby some extra warmth. If you’re breastfeeding and prefer to be modest about it, the blanket can also be of use in that scenario, too.

Food

If your baby is still bottle-feeding, you’ll need to have a bottle filled with formula or expressed breast milk at the ready (unless of course you’ll definitely be home by feeding time). It’s also a good idea to pack some quick snacks. Hungry and fussy babies are just no fun when you’re waiting in line at the bank.

Sunscreen

We all wish that we had skin as soft as a baby’s, so while your baby does have it, you must do your best to protect it. Banana Boat Baby Roll-On SPF 15 + is an easy way to apply sunscreen to your little one. Instead of fussing about with runny lotions you can simply roll it straight onto your bub’s skin and rub it in.

What essential items do you have in your nappy bag? How do you best prepare for an outing with your bub?