Hand Sanitiser – A Changing Bag Essential
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As a parent of a toddler, I rarely go anywhere with my little man without my changing bag. It’s got everything in it that I might need and it’s all organised into little pockets for easy access.
So if you are looking at buying your first changing bag and stocking it with everything you need, here’s my suggestion on what essentials you should pack in there.
Spare Clothes
Changes of clothes for your little one. In my bag, I have a spare top, a pair of trousers, a pair of socks, a hoodie, a sleepsuit and a hat. That covers pretty much all the scenarios that I can think of. Also if your baby makes a mess of all your outfits, you can just pop them in the sleepsuit and be done with it!
Nappies, Nappy Bags and Wipes
Spare nappies are a must. Nappy bags are handy for used nappies, but also a lot of other things, including wet or mucky clothes. Wipes are useful for cleaning up bottoms, faces and messy hands.
Hand Sanitiser
You can’t be dealing with the messy end of parenting without hand sanitiser. It’s important to clean your hands before touching bottles, cups or any of the food that your little one will be eating. It’s also super handy to have after a nappy change, especially if you have to change one on-the-fly, where there might not be somewhere to wash your hands after.
As hands of a parent of a newborn can get pretty sore from all that washing, it’s a good idea to use a moisturising hand sanitiser. Your hands will thank you for it.
Muslin Cloths
These are essential for wiping dribble and noses. They can also be used to entertain the little ones, should you get caught out waiting somewhere unexpected. Muslin cloths are great for peek-a-boo. They are also useful for covering Mum up a little when breastfeeding baby.
Cellular Blanket
I always carry a small blanket in my changing bag. It’s useful if you are out for a walk and it’s a bit chilly. Or if baby is in the car seat and it’s a bit nippy in the car.
Changing Mat
A changing mat is really useful, especially if you are going to be changing your baby anywhere other than at home. They provide a more hygienic solution when using them in combination with public facilities. You can also change babies pretty much anywhere with a changing mat. Back of the car, no problem. Bench, easy peasy.
Power Pack
You might think this is a strange one, but phone batteries can get drained quite quickly. I’m thinking streamling lullabies in my car whilst we are trying to get a nap in. I always travel with my powerpack, so that if I actually need my phone in a real emergency, I’m not caught short.
Snacks
If you are going out for the day, of course you would pack food. But what happens if you get stuck in traffic or your car breaks down. You might end up with a hungry baby or toddler. I’ve always got a few snacks stashed away in my changing bag. Just in case we end up being somewhere longer than I planned. That can often happen where we live!
Bottles/Cups
Again this is another just in case. If you are just popping round the shops. Pack a bottle or a cup. It’ll save you if you end up being longer than you planned. A thirsty baby is a grumpy baby.
Toys
I always have a few small toys in my changing bag. They aren’t often used as Austin will pretty much play with anything, whether it’s a toy or not. But having a couple of small toys may save you if you are somewhere where you need to keep little one amused for a short period of time. Think the doctor’s waiting room or if you are waiting for a train.
What else is in your changing bag? What’s your number one essential you don’t leave home without? For more parenting tips, take a look at my parenting section. Also take a look at my post to help you master baby bathtime.
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