Modern Mamahood: Diaper Bag Essentials + Extras

Besides the obvious suspects (diapers, wipes, bottles, food), here are some items you may want to add to your most likely already too heavy and bulky diaper bag!

For the germ-cautious:

• Hand Sanitizer - A staple these days! But check out this baby-safe, non-toxic version by BabyGanics.
• Paci Protector - Where does the paci go when it's not in baby's mouth? Keep it clean(er) with this cute Pacifier Pocket from Skip Hop.

For the meal times:

• Placemat - We love ours from Target. This disposable placemat with cute characters sticks to the table, great for babies who are into finger foods but are too young for their own plate.
• Formula dispenser - For powder formula, use this dispenser to portion out bottles you can prepare on the go. Just add water! These can also double as snack-holders.

For the fussy times:

• Teething tablets - I wish I'd started using these when she was younger...these homeopathic teeny teething tablets by Hyland's can be found everywhere and work wonders.
• Baby Tylenol - Enough said! Since many stores still don't carry this brand after the big recall, use a generic for the same effect.

For the summer time:

• Swim Diapers - These are usually required at public and private pools and work great. Don't forget to pack extras like you would regular diapers.
• Sun Screen - Be prepared for any moment of fun in the sun by packing this skin staple for baby.

The Modern Mamahood Column on the Ladies Lotto Blog:

As our Ladies Lotto community grows and evolves, we now have quite a few mamas and mamas-to-be! The LL Modern Mamahood weekly column presents the issues and products related to being a Ladies Lotto Mama. Blogger: Lana Perry

Modern Mamahood: Stylish (and functional) Diaper Bags

These style-conscious diaper-bags are sure to satisfy the the fashion-forward mama.

Skip Hop Duo

(pictured in Blossom)

www.SkipHop.com

With 15 different fabric option, the Skip Hop Duo Deluxe Edition diaper bag is a Parenting Magazine favorite. This modern bag has the perfect combination of nooks and crannies and can be easily wiped down. In addition to the changing pad tucked in its own special compartment, another cool feature is the shoulder strap that converts (quickly) to a stroller strap -- totally functional diaper bag technology!

StorkSak Emily

(pictured in Pewter Twill)

www.StorkSak.com

StorkSak has created designer bags that cover up the fact that they are indeed diaper bags, allowing for an effortless switch between times with baby and times without. With features like a thermo-insulated bottle pocket, an adjustable shoulder strap, a removable changing pad, and a removable make-up bag, the StorkSak is carried by mamas like Angelina Jolie, Heidi Klum and Jessica Alba, who keep style a priority.

Petunia Pickle Bottom Boxy Backpack

(in Roseberry Chenille)

www.PetuniaPickleBottom.com

Despite this line's whimsical name, the Petunia Pickle Bottom diaper bags are serious about functionality and style. With three fabric choices -- brocade, chenille and glazed, and several pattern choices, there are dozens of options to select from. This large tote is great for the mama who prefers an oversized bag, and converts from shoulder strap into a hands-free backpack. Special features include a great combo of compartments, a built-in changing pad and a removable dirty-diaper pouch.

The Modern Mamahood Column on the Ladies Lotto Blog:

As our Ladies Lotto community grows and evolves, we now have quite a few mamas and mamas-to-be! The LL Modern Mamahood weekly column presents the issues and products related to being a Ladies Lotto Mama!