Daddy Diaper Bags...hmmm...

In the 21st century, there is still some major issues dealing with mankind that must be dealt with, immediately. Diaper bags for men! Yes, a void still exists for those of use who need to carry around diapers, wipes, bottles, diaper rash cream and all the other hundreds of items that end up accumulating in the depths of the all-important diaper bag.

Out of all the purchases that you, as a father will make, this one most directly impacts your life. Retailers and manufacturers are finally starting to wise up to the market need, but for my money I still think there can be some improvements. Several years ago I ended up with a basic Eddie Bauer bag. It works great, although a little big for a toddler. Just check out Diaperbags.com for a full assortment from Camo to cliche, you can find many options. Personally, I've never been a fan of the one-shoulder diaper bag, it always seems to fall off and if you throw it across your shoulders, it will weigh you down and end up causing back issues. With my next child, I'm going go with my favorite backpack.

Here is my reasoning:

1) Less back pain-(you're already going to have a little considering the carrying and bending over changing diapers that you will have to do.)

2) Durable-I still have one that is great condition that is over 10 years old.

3) Lots of pockets and space-I have a place to carry my laptop, camera, pens/pencils, toys, wipes, diapers, etc. If you're worried about bottles, then think about this: get a separate insulated cooler so if they do leak, which they inevitably do, then it is contained, plus you can throw a freezer pack in if you want to keep it extra cool.

4) Multipurpose-can use on that day hike with buddies, throw in the car on trips, take a bike ride with the little one and not worry about an awkward diaper shoulder strap.

5) It doesn't scream 'look at the Dad!'-Now, I don't really care about this one, because let's be honest, if I'm walking through the mall or the park pushing a stroller and a toddler in tow, then it is fairly obvious what my role happens to be.


All this aside, diaper bags are really just another way for designers and retailers to capitalize on the 'baby crazy' that overcomes all of us in those early years. There is no special function or need that they fill. Need a place to put the dirty diapers? Carry some plastic grocery bags, they are free. Need a portable changing pad? An old, soft blanket will do the trick, the ones that are in most diaper bags aren't really comfortable, they are just a barrier between your child and the floor.

So next time you think you need that designer bag for dads, ask yourself what happens to this after my child is potty trained? Then ask yourself what actually works best for you? Obviously, I think a backpack with a few cheap additions is much more functional and you don't have to go for the 'daddy-camo' style. What kind of bag do you like? Any suggestions?

A Tip on Toys for New Dads...

There is literally nothing in the world that I despise more than toys that have no 'off' button or just continue on incessantly. I know there is a huge temptation to get all these toys with the cool effects and realistic sounds, but trust me, unless you are willing to invest in serious psychiatric care, or a great set of earplugs, just keep walking down the isle. The worst culprits in purchasing these little versions of Chinese water torture devices are the grandparents. Be warned! A nice set of Legos or even those old Lincoln Logs will be a much better choice. Don't buy the talking books, the little stuffed animals that don't stop, or anything else that saps you and your child's intelligence. Trust me, the temptation is there to get everything your little one wants and desires, but this is one thing to avoid at all costs! The best thing for keeping your little one occupied and quiet are watercolor paints. They will get them everywhere, but it comes right out. No scrubbing, no soaking, no pre-rinse. Just a soapy rag and it's off all surfaces. I know this doesn't cover great dad things, but I also know that so many dads are guilty of buying too much for their kids. That is why I've decided to share my thoughts on the subject. Please just trust me on this one, there are plenty of things going in their normal lives that are making sounds. They will not be devoid of acoustical stimulation. In fact, there are probably already too many things making noise which is why I hate the little buggers so much. Specifically, those books that you have to push the sounds as you read. If you have any personal dislikes, please share.

A New Start, A Different Perspective

As the first post, I think I need to expound on why I've created this blog. I have a two year old daughter, and another on the way. I'm also a full-time dad who is quite tired of the vast array of baby products geared toward women. If you don't believe me, just search for a 'masculine' type of diaper bag. I know it took me at least three weeks of looking before I settled on a basic, black, Eddie Bauer bag. Another example...if you've had a child, you know that the magazines will start coming, the catalogs will fill your mail box and diaper coupons are on their way! I have nothing against all of these, it's just that, as a father, I occupy a strange ground that the marketing gurus seem to have forgotten, or at least don't care. The magazines only deal with 'how to find time with your child after work' or 'don't forget daddy.' They don't delve into the fact that the modern father is not the same old stereotype of a dad that the media continues to insist upon. Now that my mini-rant is over. It's time to think of some posts.