how to choose a diaper bag?

Okay..other than picking the color or material...how do you pick a diaper bag?

I can't see spending tons of money for a designer bag that's going to get thrown around and abused on a constant basis. And just because I'm having a baby, I don't think the bag needs to be a screaming "I'm a diaper bag" for everyone to notice.

But what else should I look for?

Help!?

Thanks ladies!

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

I'm having trouble with this too. My biggest problem is that I want to see it in person and I don't like any of the ones I saw at BRU. I've only found 2 other stores that have them and they only had a few. So I have no idea where else to look for one. I live out of state and don't really know anyone to ask. I better figure something out soon though! Baby's due Nov. 4.

Sorry I'm not more help! You're not alone.

Good luck!

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

I picked one that was more like a backpack. It could fit everything in there but still didn't make me feel like I was carrying a suitcase around. This was DH didn't feel funny carrying it also.

It also made me keep things simple that I packed to go out. I don't remember where I bought it though. I might have been at Burlington Coat Factory.

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

I judged by style, amount of pockets, not too bulky, the ability to machine wash.

I got a petunia pickle bottom shoulder bag.

Good Luck

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

Don't get one yet...that is my advice. Some hospitals will give you a "Welcome Kit" and it comes in a diaper bag. I got two before DD came along and neither really work for me for various reasons. I say, wait and use just a regular bag the first couple of times and then go get one. You don't necessarily realize what you need until it isn't there.

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

I had the same exact problem that you are having - I didn't like any of the ones at BBB or BRU. I even looked at coach and Kate Spade, but didn't love anything. I wanted something simple.

Then one day, I was looking at Pottery Barn kids and found out that they carry diaper bags - the one that I picked is plain black but comes in other colors as well (and my macho DH won't have a problem carrying it either - it looks kind of like a laptop bag). And, it turns into a back pack to boot. The best part - it was only $60.

You might want to take a look - I can't get the link to work, but it is the Ultimate Diaper Bag.

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

thats why despite loving the gorgeous coach baby bag for like 500 dollars...I am not doing it! I think coach is a little nuts thinking of making a diaper bag that much! I am actually doing vera bradley diaper bag bc sis n law gets it discounted.

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

Oooh! I love Vera Bradley...I'll have to check that out and the one at Pottery Barn too.

Thanks for the tips ladies!

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

I am all about the Vera Bradley. I can be her spokesperson. She makes a really nice diaper bag.

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

Get something that isn't a cutesy bag. Wendy Bellissimo makes great bags at BRU. I would go with a backpack to be hands free.

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

I got a backpack one.

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

I have a Vera Bradley and I love it! I had a Kate Spade before that, but the Vera Bradley is definitely more convenient

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

I registered for skip hop
they come in plain colors- black, red, etc.
the handles are made to loop around the stroller and I know a lot of moms that have & love.

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

We actually registered for two bags- I know that I tend to get bored. I registered for bags that I knew would hold everythig I needed as well as bags that DH would feel confortbale carrying as well.- nothing girly or too babyish.

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

I love these bags but I can't buy another bag. I actually saw it on Teresa (I can't think of her screenname but her daughter is Sophia) and I really liked it so I checked out the website. They have such nice designs and they dont look babish to me.
Diaper Bag

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

I wanted a bag that I would use without a baby - and that I could still use after DS got bigger - so I ended up with a very neutral Coach bag. Go to the outlet in Riverhead, mine was only $160 (regularly ~$300)

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

What else should you look for?? Hmmm mine has a thermal lined side pocket for bottles that is great. The lining is all plastic and washable just in case of spills(that do happen). Something neutral(black/brown/khaki) so you don't have to worry about staining or changing it constantly.I can't see spending a fortune either. Mine is a black tote by Baby Innovations in BRU for $50. It's working great....

Re: how to choose a diaper bag?

I have a few and my vera bradley is my favorite, I use it everyday. I also have a Kenneth Cole tote bag that is great, it has so many pockets!