Diaper Bag: Easy {DIY} Organizing System
It took me a while to perfect the organizing system in my diaper bag, but I truly believe I have finally created something which is practical, functional, and effective.
First, I use a backpack versus a bag with a strap or handles. I started using a backpack that I got from the hospital when I had my daughter. By using something I already had, I saved lots of money.
Using a backpack is amazingly functional! I am hands-free to chase my toddler around, to hold her hand and my car keys, and to pick things up. Having a bag that I can carry on my back allows me the freedom I did not have before when I was constantly readjusting my diaper bag straps.
I did a lot of research trying to come up with the best organizing solution for a diaper bag. I kept coming across a really expensive system called SugarSNAP Files. This “file” system is pretty pricey, at least to my standards and what I wanted to spend! This new find led me to start shopping around for cheaper alternatives.
In turn, I found several canvas pouches at Michael’s, in two different sizes. They are perfect! I made a list of everything that I need in a diaper bag, put the items into categories, and then decided how many pouches I would need. I bought 4 large and 4 small pouches. I love how they have cute designs, including ones with the phrase “My Stuff” scribbled in fancy font.
The canvas material is very durable and the zipper is good quality as well. Each canvas pouch was $2.00. I also used a coupon which was 40% off.
Another idea that I mulled over in my search was using pencil pouches. These pouches are typically used for the front of your binder to keep pens, pencils, calculators, and all sorts of other small supplies. While that was a neat idea, I could not find any that were reasonably priced. I suppose if I had looked during the back-to-school season, I would have found a winner.
Here are the categories I used for organizing my diaper bag:
Diaper changing: I wanted to consolidate these essentials into 1 pouch, but a maximum of 2. That way, we can make a quick getaway to the bathroom by just grabbing these little pouches, instead of the entire bag. This included a change of pants, one diaper, a small pack of wipes, a changing pad, and a travel-size rash creme. I keep the changing pad and change of pants in one large pouch and the other items in another.
Medicines/ointments: This included Tylenol, Orajel, and sunscreen. Now that my daughter isn’t teething, I only keep her sunscreen and an extra pacifier. I kept these three items in a small pouch.
Small blanket and burp cloth: I like to have a small blanket just in case my daughter gets cold, and a burp cloth if I need to clean up something. Most of the time I am cleaning up a spill and these have always come in handy. I keep them in a big pouch.
Snacks: I keep a small pouch of snacks and two small bowls fit into a larger pouch. Depending on how long we will be out, will depend on which size I use.
Lunch box: I have a small lunch box in the diaper bag as well. I keep an ice pack or two, along with her water and milk inside. It keeps everything cool for hours! This lunch box cost me approximately $3 at Walmart.
Extras: I have a couple of extra pouches for extras. Extras might include extra pacifiers, medicines, snacks, or anything of mine.
I like to use her diaper pouch (of the bare essentials) and small pouch of my cell-phone and keys for when I go to the gym or run a quick errand. I attach them with a hook and it makes for super quick and easy mobility. It’s super convenient and incredibly efficient.
I hope my diaper bag organization has inspired you, and given you some useful tips to use as well!
Do you have any diaper bag organizing tips?
Copyright © Rachel Criner, Moms of Faith®, All Rights Reserved
Great Post! As a mom of 2, I too have always used a back pack. The practicality of a back pack works so much better, and my husband doesn’t have to look like a pansy while he carries it. lol With my oldest I tried a diaper bag, but having to lug it around everywhere along with my purse was a hassle. So now, the front pocket of my Jansport is for me (wallet, phone, and other purse essentials) and the big pouch for the kiddos. My youngest, now two, really has the monopoly over the backpack contents, as she’s the neediest, but even so, I really only carry the BASIC daily essentials:
4 diapers, small package of wipes, changing pad, sanitizer, snacks, change of clothes (including socks), a plastic grocery bag and water. I found that I was carrying all this unnecessary stuff that RARELY got used and driving myself nuts digging through it and hauling it. Unless you’re going somewhere far from home, all the other stuff is just unnecessary. Of course I always pack specific to where we are going too if it’s not just a routine run for errands or stroll around the mall.
I’ve got what I will call “2nd child syndrome” :) those of you with more than one will probably know what I’m talking about. I’m never unprepared, but I have quit over preparing because it always caused headaches. And as far as organization goes, I found giant ziplocs to be the most practical for us. Easy to change out if they get yucky, and large enough to holster all the diapering essentials. I will say, I do always carry a towel or 2 in the car trunk… just in case. That has come in handy.