After the birth of the baby, the diaper bag becomes a constant companion for doctor's visits, shopping trips, and walks with the baby. Often, parents pack much more than is actually necessary. In this blog post, you'll learn how to pack your diaper bag sustainably and minimally, with valuable tips from the boep team and a practical checklist for a sustainable diaper bag.
A well-packed diaper bag is essential for all new parents. Especially for first-time parents, it can be difficult at first to gauge what they absolutely need to pack in their diaper bag and what can stay at home. But you don't need much for a short time out of the house! We'll give you a short checklist with everything you need to pack in a sustainable diaper bag – because parents already have enough to think about!
1. ORGANIC COTTON MUSLIN CLOTH
One of the most important items for a sustainable diaper bag is a few useful muslin cloths, ideally made from organically grown cotton. Muslin cloths are versatile and can be reused after being thoroughly washed at home. For example, you can use them as a changing pad, and transform a second muslin cloth with a little water into a reusable wet wipe. If you don't have a diaper handy or forgot it at home, a muslin cloth can serve perfectly as a sustainable cloth diaper. Muslin cloths are also suitable as burp cloths or bibs for the baby, or as practical nursing pads or a privacy screen for the mom while breastfeeding. In summer, they provide shade and can be used as a light blanket or headscarf for sun protection.
2. BABY CARE PRODUCTS IN SMALL SIZES
Regardless of the season, you should always have a diaper rash cream and a baby cream with you. For a more sustainable alternative to wet wipes, you can mix some almond oil with water and moisten a muslin cloth with this oil-water solution to gently and nourishingly clean the diaper area. A little tip from the boep team on this can be found below.
In summer, you should also carry a small sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30, but preferably 50. We advise you to use a natural, fragrance-free mineral sunscreen for your baby. In cooler temperatures, delicate baby skin particularly appreciates a natural wind and weather cream.
3. REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE
A reusable water bottle should also be packed in a sustainable diaper bag. Filled with lukewarm water or unsweetened tea, it's always ready when your baby wants something to drink. If you don't have access to water while changing, the water from the bottle can be a good emergency solution.
4. SUSTAINABLE TOYS
You can never know if your baby's good mood will last when you're out and about. That's why we recommend always bringing a few sustainable toys that can safely be put in their mouth and easily wiped clean. They're also great for distraction during diaper changes or when they're bored. Tips from the boep team: wooden rattles and teething rings, stacking cups, or their favorite stuffed animal.
O U R E X P E R T Charlotte I Midwife B.Sc.
