Diaper Bag Round-Up Review

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Once you have a baby, you'll have lots of new baby necessities to carry around. Diapers, wipes, burp cloths, extra clothes, bottles, snack cups, toys -- it all adds up! While you don't have to use a bag that's designed as a diaper bag, I will say that diaper bags usually have compartmentalization and organization built in hat makes it super convenient and are also usually made of a material that is easy to clean. I made the mistake of not buying a diaper bag in the beginning with I had Dylan and unfortunately the inside lining of the bag I used has all sorts of stains and spills. That being said, diaper bags have definitely come a long way in the past few years (with some that are super stylish and don't even look like diaper bags!) so let's get started on a mini round-up!

The Skip Hop Duo Essential bag is their signature diaper bag and retails for $58 (although buy on Amazon for less than $40). The brand is quite popular among moms out there as the price point makes it an accessible option and the bags are versatile. The messenger bag straps adjusts well even for petites (I'm 5' tall exactly) and the handles are nice when the shoulders start getting tired. Style is "dad-friendly" too. :)

newly redesigned this year
adjustable messenger bag carrying strap
grab handles
10 pockets, 2 elasticized mesh side pockets, easy-access tech pocket
main compartment zip closure
removable changing pad included
stroller shuttle clips (see video demo here)
fits laptops up to 15"
dimensions: 13" length x 4.25" width x 13.75" height, 1.6 lbs

Pros:

patented shuttle clips allow for easy clipping to strollers, shopping carts, etc
lightweight "medium-size" bag that allows for you to carry the essentials without getting weighed down
more ideal for quick trips around town

Cons:

narrow main compartment and can be hard to access if outer pockets are filled
deep main compartment results in lots of digging around for things that settle to the bottom
no insulated bottle holder included

Ju-Ju-Be started in 2005 and I'm a big fan of their stylish and versatile diaper bag styles. The BFF bag ($165 - 20% off w/ CUTENLITTLE) is a one of their most popular bags that has multiple carrying options to make it easier for moms juggling everything.
Disclaimer: I actually own and use this as my current diaper bag!

adjustable messenger bag carrying strap, convertible backpack
top satchel handles
3 main pockets, 7 zippered pockets, 1 "mommy" pocket in the front w/ key-fob stretch cord
main interior contains 4 open gusseted pockets, 3 zippered pockets
2 exterior insulated bottle pockets with 3m thinsulate on either side
removable memory foam changing pad included
teflon-treated exterior, anti-microbial interior linings
fits laptops up to 15"
back pocket designed with crumb drains
machine-washable
dimensions: 16.5" length x 13.3" width x 6.8" height, 2.6 lbs

Pros:

versatile carrying options: top handle, over-the-shoulder messenger, backpack
perfect for baby-wearing! (my main reason for getting this bag as I always had a baby in front of me during the newborn days)
main compartment opening is slightly slanted, making it easy to see / access everything
anti-germ lining prevents funky smells
machine washable makes care and maintenance so easy
waterproof exterior can survive getting soaked in big rainstorms

Cons:

shoulder straps are a bit wide-set if you have narrow shoulders and sometimes slip off
may not be big enough for longer trips or if you're taking care of multiples
stroller clips sold separately

Petunia Pickle Bottom is also known for their fashionable diaper bags in bold graphic prints and the boxy backpack ($130 ) is another classic favorite. This bag also can be worn as a backpack and has multiple versatile carrying options.

adjustable messenger bag carrying strap, convertible backpack
main compartment has 1 zippered pocket, 2 open pockets, 2 bottle pockets (non-insulated), 1 key clip
2 exterior bottle pockets
quiet magnetic closures for pockets
built-in changing station with removable diaper pad
dimensions: 13" length x 4.9" width x 13" height, 2.9 lbs

Pros:

beautiful prints!
versatile carrying options: top handle, over-the-shoulder messenger, backpack (ideal for babywearing!)
easy access to wipes and all diaper changing necessities without opening bag
lots of storage space

Cons:

exterior textured fabric can get caught on velcro
interior fabric is not coated and difficult to clean
no-padding on straps and can dig into shoulders and slip around
can be a bit bulky
stroller clips sold separately

Storksak is a designer diaper bag label that offers bags that are super stylish -- you would never guess that they're diaper bags! It comes as no surprise that they're a celebrity favorite and have been seen on Angelina Jolie, Rachel Ray, and Tori Spelling. The Isabella bag ($235 - 20% off w/ CUTENLITTLE) is deceptively sleek as it provides ample storage space and organization options.

detachable adjustable messenger bag carrying strap
padded purse handles
main compartment has 1 zippered pocket, 6 elastic pockets, 1 velcro pocket, and detachable zipped makeup bag
4 external pockets including cell phone pocket
fits laptops up to 15"
removable thermo-insulated bottle holder
separate padded changing pad (machine-washable)
dimensions: 11" height x 16" length x 6 1/4" depth at base

Pros:

light, stylish diaper bag and surprisingly roomy -- can be used as a normal handbag or travel bag
makeup pouch is a thoughtful accessory and attachment option makes it easy to find
bottle holder keeps temperatures warm or cool for up to 4 hours

Cons:

velcro interior pocket can easily snag blankets/clothes
no padding on messenger bag shoulder strap

Storksak's Gigi diaper bag ($230 - 20% off w/ CUTENLITTLE) is one of their most popular as it was last seen carried by Angelina Jolie. Similar to the Storksak Isabella, the Gigi is an inconspicuous diaper bag that boasts lots of roomy storage and

2 length options for purse handles
3 compartments - 2 large side zippered compartments 1 large center compartment with removable internal divider
removable thermo-insulated bottle holder
separate padded changing pad (machine-washable)
fits laptops up to 15"
dimensions: 12" height x 15" width x 6" depth, 3.2 lbs

Pros:

stylish diaper bag that can continue to be used past the diaper years
lots of roomy storage and compartments
fits Medela breastpump parts
bottle holder keeps temperatures warm or cool for up to 4 hours

Cons:

weighs in about 0.5-1 lb more than other diaper bags
no easy stroller attachment

Ultimately a diaper bag decision is a personal one and dependent on your lifestyle and needs. Hopefully this round-up gave you at least a few ideas though and highlighted a few different options that are available. Pickles & Ice Cream is running a 20% off coupon code (CUTENLITTLE) for my readers through the end of December that includes diaper bags, so be sure to take advantage if you're currently expecting or know someone who is!
And a big thank you to Pickles & Ice Cream for lending me these bags for review!

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P.S. In case you missed it:

Aztec Fringe Cardigan Giveaway - Win $50 store credit to White Plum!

Kileen Valenzuela

Diaper Bag Round-Up Review