- Diaper bag
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An over-the-shoulder diaper bag
A diaper bag or nappy bag is a storage bag with many pocket-like spaces that is big enough to carry everything needed by someone taking care of a baby while taking a typical short outing.
These bags are not always designed expressly as a diaper bag, as any well-pocketed bag sized in between a child's school backpack and adult pro-camping backpack can be used for the purpose. Some are now being made with rigid handles and wheels so that someone can cart one around, allowing that person to hold the baby more firmly, complete more tasks (like opening a door, paying a cashier, or using a phone), and reduce lower back pain. My Child magazine suggests a brightly colored diaper bag is harder to lose and can help combat the "baby blues". [1]
Diaper bags are generally small enough to fit on or under a stroller or buggy. There have been fashion trends against large bags, as mothers learn to reduce the number of necessities carried.[2]
In recent years, there has been an "explosion of styles, colors, designs, and functions." [3] Diaper bags have helped fashion designers such as Timi & Leslie make their mark. Since 2005, some high-end designers such as Kate Spade, Coach and Ralph Lauren have launched expensive diaper bag designs. According to Fortune in 2006, "To gain an edge, smart manufacturers are doing whatever it takes to capture the attention (and aesthetics) of today's chic parents-to-be who are willing - sometimes even eager - to pay top dollar for products that seamlessly blend fashion and function."[4] Designers can be protective of their diaper bag designs and trademarks. In 1977, diaper bags were the cause of a New York court case between Macy's and Gucci. The court found that Macy's had infringed on Gucci's trademark by selling diaper bags with green and red bands and the wording "Gucchi Goo."[5]
Designs without bright colors or licensed characters can be high-fashion items associated with celebrity mothers.[6] Companies also produce diaper bags with a more rugged look, as part of a growing sector of the baby-products market designed to appeal to men.[7]
Typical contents
Diaper bags are frequently recommended in parenting guides. According to The Get Organized Guide for New Moms[8], an average full bag might contain:
- Diapers (disposable or cloth)
- Change Mat or Pad, often absorbent (Disposable or reusable) for diaper changes when Change table's in restrooms are not available or for putting baby down when the ground is not suitable
- Wet Wipes
- Bibs
- Bottles and infant formula
- Bottled water, for parents or to add to bottle
- Snacks for parents and baby
- Toys, rattle
- Receiving blanket
- Extra set of clothing for baby and extra shirt for mom
- Digital or disposable camera
- Pacifier, if baby uses one
- Anti-bacterial hand cleaner
- Cosmetic-type bag stocked with teething aids, extra pacifier and nail clipper
- Zip lock bags for many purposes, including storage of dirty diapers if no convenient disposal is possible
References
- ^ "My Child magazine". http://www.mychildmagazine.com.au. Retrieved 2008-03-10.
- ^ Tien, Ellen (2000-09-03). "Pulse; Diaper Bags, Downsized". New York Times. http://thediaperbagcenter.com/. Retrieved 2008-03-10.
- ^ "Diaper bags". Consumer Reports. 2007-04. http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/babies-kids/baby-toddler/care-and-dressing/diaper-bags/diaper-bags-4-07/overview/0704_diaper-bags_ov.htm. Retrieved 2008-03-10.
- ^ Boyle, Matthew. "The $5 million diaper bag", Fortune, April 19, 2006.
- ^ Gucci Shops, Inc. v. R.H. Macy & Co., 446 F. Supp. 838 (S.D.N.Y. 1977).
- ^ Walker, Rob (2005-07-24). "Sophisticated Baby". New York Times. http://www.nytimes.com/2005/07/24/magazine/24CONSUMED.html. Retrieved 2008-03-10.
- ^ Stephanie, Rosenbloom (2007-08-16). "My Dad, American Inventor". New York Times. http://thediaperbagcenter.com/. Retrieved 2008-03-10.
- ^ Organizing the All Important Diaper Bag, an excerpt from The Get Organized Guide for New Moms: Organizing Solutions from Conception through Baby's First Birthday by Stacey Crew - ISBN 0974983306
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