Changing Bags a Buyers Guide

A lot of our mums are not just looking for a functional changing bag, but an everyday bag to use after the changing days are over. So size may not matter and it may be the look of the bag that matters more.  If a fashionable changing bag is top of your list then our changing bag range will not disappoint. But we do say is that spending more in the short term will pay dividends long term. as your bag will go everywhere with you and will take a lot of hard knocks and wear and tear. So a well made bag will more than likely last longer and may well last more than just one babies changing years.

BAGS STYLES

The Messenger Bag

A square shaped bag with an over the top flap. The OiOi Butterfly Messenger is a good example of this style.
The shape of the messenger changing bag is perfect for wearing over the shoulder or hanging from your pram or buggy. One of the larger sized changing bags, but great for all that changing paraphernalia you will end up packing it with.
Here are a few more examples of messenger bags available at Sugar plum Tree’s : Skip Hop Dash, Wallaboo Bag and Ju Ju Be BeAll

The Tote Bag

This style is most probably the best style to go for if you want your bag to look like a hand bag after you get past those changing nappy days. Again a square shaped bag, but this time without the up and over flap. To protect this bag from the elements, a zip usually replaces the flap. Although in the Skip Hop Duo changing bag range the top opening on this bag is fastened with a magnetic clip.  An advantage for easy access when hanging from the buggy.

The tote changing bag is bigger in size than the messenger and a bit deeper. The best example of the tote bag style is the OiOi Giraffe Tote.

The  Sack Bag
This one is for those who just want to chuck it all in and have a good rummage.  Deep and open plan but a bag that looks great over your shoulder. A changing bag for those who just grab and go.

A good example of the sack is the OiOi Hobo Sack.

Plain or Printed

Classic unisex colours like red or black can be found in most changing bag ranges. But if its up to date fashion prints you want, then you won’t be disappointed in what is available. Take a look at OiOi and Ju Ju Be’s funky bag range which changes every winter and summer season. Matching clothing, catwalk trends and fashions will make you stand out from the rest. Patterned bags will hide the messy marks and finger prints. You may prefer to match the bag colour with the pushchair or buggy, we are all for matching and co ordination!

Pockets and Pouches

Now how many pockets you want in your changing bag is really debateable. As a lot of feedback from mums has shown that there are only some things that need a separate pocket. Maybe a mobile phone pocket, keys (preferably zip-able), make-up/mirror/lip stick, purse and glasses/sun glasses. So don’t get too bogged down in finding bag with hundreds of pockets, as really you may only need a few.

The best example of changing bags with just enough pockets is the Ju Ju Be range.

The only other compartment you may think a must have, is an integral pocket for wet nappies. Also a stowaway pocket for your changing mat, you will want to get to this item in a hurry!

Changing Mat

Most mats will be wipe-able for obvious reasons and some (as in the Ju Ju Be range) are made with antibacterial material. But most importantly make sure of the dimensions and ensure that it is going to be nice and soft for your baby to lie on. Most bag changing mats will be large enough to cope will all sizes of baby. Mats will either fit inside your bag or neatly in a handy to reach pocket. But always easy to open and access for those messy moments.

Durability

Can your changing bag be put in the washing machine (the Ju Ju Be BeAll range can!), or can you wipe it clean with a damp cloth (OiOi, Skip Hop and the rest of our range).  You can guarantee you’ll get your bag dirty at sometime. One great idea to keep your bag clean inside as well as out, is the Ju Ju Be crumb drain. A small opening in the corner of the bag enables you to empty all those biscuit and bread crumbs from your bag.

Clips, Straps and Buggy Attachments

Some changing bags will come with integral buggy clips or straps to attach your bag to your pram/buggy. The OiOi Changing bag range is one example of bags with integral clips. Alternatively you may have to buy separate clips to attach to your bag and buggy. The Ju Ju Be BeConnected clip is a good illustration of this type of fixing.

If you are going to wear your bag over your shoulder, then a nice thick strap is a must and a padded section is even better.

Packing your Bag for Hospital

Here is a handy list of things to take with you in your hospital bag when you go to the hospital or birth center when you give birth! I recommend that you pack a bag for labor and birth and leave a separate packed bag for postpartum in the car or with someone else. This prevents you from dragging all of your stuff around the labor and birth wing!

•  Any reference book or pamphlet you might need (I prefer The Birth Partner.)
• Pillows from home (Use colored cases to distinguish from your birth place's linens)
• Music you would like (You may need to provide your own iPod, CD Player or Tape Player)
• Camera with film and batteries
• Camcorder with charged batteries and accessories
• Signed copies of your birth plan
• Water bottles for ice
• Your own wash cloths, colored ones work better
• Waterproof pads for the car ride
• Any clothes of your own that you wish to wear
• List of people to call after the baby is born (include childbirth educator)
• Lip Balm
• Massage tools (Oils, massager, etc.)
• Change of clothes for partner, including swim trunks for shower or pool
• Baby Book for getting the foot prints done by the nurse when she does the paperwork
• Focal Point (If you want one)
• Socks for mom
• Special foods or drinks
• Suckers or hard candy
• Snacks for labor support
• Calling Card for Long Distance Calls
• Anything else you think you can use (Candles, pictures, etc.)

Your Postpartum Bag

• Nursing bras and pads (preferably the washable, soft ones.)
• Breastfeeding book
• Going home outfit for baby
• Blanket for Baby
• More film (Though you can buy this for higher prices in most gift shops.)
• Another change of clothes for partner and any toiletries needed
• Your own personal night gown, robe (They will get dirty!)
• Personal Hygiene items (shampoo, your own pads, etc.)
• Number of La Leche League or other breastfeeding support
• Number of diaper service (if you need to arrange for delivery)
• Car Seat with instructions
• Going home outfit for mom (You will still be look to be about 6 months pregnant. Most women wear the clothes that they wore to the hospital, some bring nursing shirts.)
• Birth Announcements, stamps, envelopes
• You might also consider packing a bag for dad too.

So whatever you want in your changing bag either for you or your baby, take a look at our complete range HERE  and choose the right bag today. If you have any further question regarding any of our bags please give us a call (Tel:01935 508033) and we will be happy to help.