top of page
Writer's pictureNina Belle

9 tips to help you choose the perfect baby bag

Updated: May 5, 2020


Nina Belle with her Prada baby bag

I have to admit when I got pregnant the first thing I thought of was – what baby bag am I going to buy? I am very fashion conscious, and the thought of carrying around an ugly bag frightened me.

There are so many options out there these days because there is a big market for baby products. So rest assured, there is no need to settle for that hideous bag with bear prints on them unless that is your style of course.

Here’s a guide to help you choose one that is right for you:

1. Style If you are into appearances, you may want to ask whether it suits your style. Will it go with what you wear? For me, I picked a classic black bag as I knew it would go with everything I wear. Also, think about who will be carrying the bag around. If daddy will be taking your baby to the park, then a bright pink one might embarrass him (unless he is the flamboyant type).

2. Size

Will it fit everything you need in there? You will need something that is large enough for nappies, wet wipes, nappy cream, possibly a bottle, a change of clothes and any other items. But hold on, you don't want something that is too big either. It will be like lugging a big travel bag around. 3. Weight There are some gorgeous bags out there, but gosh some of them are so damn heavy when they are EMPTY. Imagine when they are FULL? Try to get something that is light. You don’t want to hurt your shoulders. Your body will be recovering from the birth, so the last thing you need is an unnecessary strain.

4. Budget Budget is important. There is no point buying an expensive bag worth your month's pay check if your budget doesn't allow. You will have many other baby items to buy at the same time, so know what your priorities are. It is much more important to have all the essentials first, like a cot, sheets, clothing etc, before splurging on a bag which is out of your price range.

5. Practicality Is it practical, and does it fit everything you need? If you are planning to use it as your handbag as well, then will it have enough pockets to fit all your cards, mobile phone, makeup etc?

Personally, I keep a small shoulder bag on me at all times, with my wallet and phone directly on me. My nappy bag is usually kept at the bottom of my pram, and there is no way I would leave my valuables in there, as it would be in arms reach for thieves when shopping. Yes, I’ve seen lots of mum’s wallets get stolen like this when I used to work in retail.

6. Cleaning Is the bag easy to clean? Your bag will be getting around, going to all sorts of public places full of all sorts of germs and nasties. There is also the possibility that milk might spill in your bag or it might get vomited on, pooped on, urinated on, well you get the drift. Motherhood is unpredictable. Is the material wipeable, or if not, can it be thrown in the washing machine?

Dark colours are better than light ones (don’t show markings and stains) and coarse fabrics are more durable. The bag I picked can be easily wiped clean which has been a godsend.

7. Quality If you are planning on using your bag a lot, you may want to consider getting something that is good quality. You don’t want to end up buying numerous bags down the track because they’re all worn out or broken.

8. Accessories What kind of accessories does it come with? Does it come with a shoulder strap? This may be useful for you if you will be walking a lot. Does it come with a changing pad, or will you need to buy this? Be careful about getting too many accessories though because you probably won't end up using them all.

9. Long term Do you expect to use this bag for multiple children, or will you be happy to throw it out and buy a new bag for the next baby? You may want a bag you can you use for many years when your baby is grown up and no longer wearing nappies. I choose a bag that doesn't look like a baby bag, so I can use it later on. Mine could be used as a travel bag for short trips or taken to swim classes well into toddlerhood.

Well there you go, I hope this has helped you decide on what bag suits your needs. But in all honesty, I know it may seem like a big deal choosing the "perfect" bag. But really it’s not that important.

I rarely used mine after my daughter turned 9 months. Often when I go out I have all the essentials in my car, and just throw in the bottom of the pram a nappy and a packet of wipes. I drive everywhere so if I ever need anything my car is only a short walk away.

Good luck and happy shopping!

Nina Belle with her Prada baby bag

109 views0 comments
Hey, it's me Nina!

30-something mama living down under in Sydney, Australia.

They call me a clean-fluencer but I'm just an ordinary Aussie mum trying her best to raise a happy and healthy family. 

I'm passionate about doing every day things with joy and gratitude. I am interested in holistic wellness, making a beautiful home, and all things parenting.

Join my community of like-minded women, and subscribe to my blog.

You can also keep up to date by following me on Instagram. 

Judgy Mummy logo
Nina Belle headshot
  • Grey Instagram Icon
  • Grey Facebook Icon
  • Pinterest - Grey Circle
  • Grey YouTube Icon
55e5ee_4134537a8b624f8e83aba7b624801f2a~
bottom of page