What To Pack in a Diaper Bag: Tips From Type-A Mom of Three

Most diaper bags include a changing mat, but I usually suggest swapping it out for this one. That's because the included changing mats tend to be flimsy and narrow, and this Herschel changing mat is wide, sturdy, and gives you plenty of surface area for a wiggly baby bottom, a dirty diaper, and those inevitable blowout-covered clothes. Plus, it’s easy to wipe down and has convenient internal and external storage sleeves for wipes, diaper balm, or tissues.

Speaking of dirty diapers, there’s nothing worse than lugging around blowout-covered clothes or soggy swimsuits after a fun day at the pool. That’s where this wet-dry bag comes to the rescue! It has two separate compartments—one with a waterproof lining for wet items and a zippered dry section for everything clean. It folds up neatly in your diaper bag and, when needed, keeps wet clothes sealed away without leaks. Plus, its odor-resistant design and secure zippered closures ensure messes and unpleasant smells stay contained until laundry time.

If your diaper bag doesn’t have snacks, is it even a diaper bag? Keeping a stash of easy-to-grab snacks in your diaper bag is essential, especially shelf-stable pouches like these ones. They’re packed with nutrition, have 3 grams of protein and fiber, and will keep your baby (and even older kids!) happy until the next snack break.

Tossing your baby’s pacifier straight into the diaper bag is basically like throwing it in the trash—it’s bound to end up covered in crumbs, dust, and that old wipe from two weeks ago. Definitely not something you want your baby sucking on. But with this pacifier holder, you can keep two pacifiers clean and separate, thanks to its dual compartments. Plus, the handy silicone strap allows you to attach it to the diaper bag or the inside zipper, so no more blindly fishing around when your baby needs it.

I am mindful of our plastic use, so instead of tossing crackers or puffs into a plastic ziplock bag, I've been loving this snack cup as a plastic-free, reusable alternative. It's made from 100% BPA-free, food-grade silicone, so it’s super easy to clean and dishwasher safe (top rack only). It’s also designed for little hands for snacking on-the-go and comes with a secure lid to prevent spills when your diaper bag inevitably gets tossed around in the car. Win-win!

If you’re out and about with your diaper bag, chances are your hands will get dirty. And chances are, you won’t have a sink nearby. And chances are, you’ll need hand sanitizer instead (see how my type A mind works?). I love this one because it’s plant-based, scent-free, hypoallergenic, and dries quickly. It’s also made with aloe, so instead of leaving your hands dry like other options, it keeps your skin feeling soft and moisturized.

I always keep this lightweight muslin blanket in my diaper bag in case it gets chilly (especially in the freezer section of the grocery store!). It also doubles as a breastfeeding cover by simply tying it around your neck. It’s super lightweight, made from breathable fabric, folds down small, and doesn’t take up precious space in your diaper bag.

I never realized how much water I’d drink until I became a mom. I'm constantly thirsty. Whether it’s staying hydrated to keep up my milk supply for breastfeeding or chugging water after chasing toddlers all day, my water bottle is always within reach. My favorite water bottle is the Owala FreeSip because it's 100% leakproof (seriously, no spills!), keeps my water cold for hours, is easy to clean, and made from stainless steel. Plus, it has the most creative and practical design—you can sip through the built-in straw when holding it upright or tilt it back to take a swig through the wide-mouth opening.

If you’ve got a baby in tow, having a change of clothes (or two) in your diaper bag is a must. You never know what’s going to make them messy—spit-up, milk spills, or another (another!!) blowout. I always keep a couple of these bodysuits in my diaper bag for those moments. They’re my favorite because they’re super soft, made from thick and breathable jersey bamboo fabric, tagless for extra comfort, and super stretchy so babies can comfortably move around freely.

You might be thinking, A baby spoon? Really? But hear me out. This spoon doubles as an incredibly practical teether. It's made from soft silicone, it’s gentle on sore gums, has sensory bumps to help reduce gagging, and features a short, wide handle that’s easy for little hands to grip. Plus, if you’re out and about and forget a spoon, well, problem solved!