Babys first diaper bag

            You’ve been anticipating this day for 9 months now and you cant even bare the thought of not being prepared for your little one the day that he or she arrives. A lot of moms tend to want to pack anything and everything baby related with them “just in case” they might need it. The truth is, the hospital will most likely provide the major baby items so that means you can leave all the extra stuff behind and lower your load.

            When buying or picking out a diaper bag you want to choose something that is sturdy because believe it or not your baby bag is going to get kicked on, tossed around, and super dirty. Also pick something with a lot of compartments so that everything has a place and it is easy to reach for when you have your hands full. Diaper bags can range anywhere from $20.00-??? (hundreds and even thousands), but just pick something that you feel comfortable with and that does the job. 

Example of what to bring in baby bag

            So lets get into the details of what to bring and what not to bring. Ill start off by telling you what he hospital will most likely provide for you. This is going to sound crazy, but they actually provide diapers for your baby and even let you take some home. Diapers can take up a lot of room in your diaper bag so feel free to leave them at home along with your wipes because they have those too. If the wipes that they provide do not look like the wipes that you are accustomed to, don’t be alarmed. They sometimes look like gauze type napkins that you can wet so that its extra gentle on your baby’s bottom which is perfectly normal and safe. Unless you’re really picky or are doing something like cloth diapers the hospital has got you covered. They will also provide things like swaddle blankets, hats, basic onsies, nasal bulb, and any basic baby items, which isn’t much when they are new borns. One major thing that is essential in order to leave the hospital is you must have a car seat properly installed or else the hospital will not approve you and you will not be allowed to leave. If you have reservations about our car seat and whether it is installed correctly you can go to your local police department and they should be able to help you or the staff at the hospital would most likely be experienced as well.  Along with the car seat you want to bring a coming home outfit of your choice. Pick something like a sleeper or a comfy two-piece outfit. Keep in mind those are going to be the first few days your baby has ever experienced the outside world so keep him or her warm, cozy and comfortable.

Cozy new born in her carseat

            Some extra things that many parents like to bring is their own breast pump if they are planning to breast feed so that they can get used to their own but the hospital has those too and they will sometimes even let you take one home for a couple weeks or months. Another thing is bringing extra socks, hats and swaddle blankets because every mom knows it is crucial to keep your baby warm. Besides that your baby is going to spend the majority of his or her time sleeping, eating, and pooping. You don’t have to worry about shoes, toys, or even pacifiers yet.  Just enjoy your new baby!

Links:
http://www.parents.com/baby/gear/diaper-bag/what-to-keep-in-your-diaper-bag/

Picture Links:
https://static.squarespace.com/static/52961f9ce4b03e8adcd36af1/52962245e4b005bfe2b2bc45/52962263e4b005bfe2b2d575/1326468822753/1000w/OB_Stokke%20Diaper%20Bag%20.jpg

http://cdn.sheknows.com/articles/2012/04/baby-carseat-car.jpg