What to Pack in a Reusable Nappy Changing Bag
By LittleLamb | Published: 2026-10-15
Category: How-to Guides
A practical, step-by-step reusable nappy changing bag checklist for cloth nappy outings. Learn what to pack, how to use a wet bag for outings, and avoid common mistakes.
Quick answer
Pack for a cloth nappy outing in this order: one nappy per expected change plus one spare, a waterproof wet bag with two compartments, reusable or disposable liners, a change of baby clothes, and your usual wipes and mat. Put clean nappies in one wet bag pocket and dirty ones in the other so you never mix them up.
Why a two-pocket wet bag changes your changing bag
A standard changing bag has one big compartment, which forces you to wrap dirty nappies in plastic or hunt for a separate sack. A double-pocket wet bag solves that by giving clean and dirty nappies their own zipped, waterproof sections. That means you can pack fewer bags overall and still keep clean items separate from soiled ones. Look for a bag that fits at least five fitted nappies with wraps, or ten pocket nappies, so it covers a full day out rather than a quick trip.
How many nappies to pack for a day out
The number depends on your baby's age and how long you will be away. A useful rule is one nappy for every two to three hours, plus one spare. For a newborn, that could mean six to eight nappies for a full day; for an older baby, four to six is often enough. If you are unsure, pack the extra nappy. Running out is the mistake that forces a disposable purchase or a rushed trip home.
Liners and wipes: the small items that save a change
Nappy liners on the go make cleanup faster because you can lift solids away without scraping. Reusable fleece liners can be washed with your nappies; disposable liners go in the bin. Either way, keep them in a small pouch so they do not get lost at the bottom of the bag. Pair them with your usual wipes and a waterproof changing mat. A common mistake is forgetting a wet cloth or spray for messy changes, so add one small wet bag or sealed pouch for that too.
Packing steps for a reusable nappy changing bag
- Count your nappies and add one: Work out how many changes you expect and add one spare. For a full day, that is often four to eight nappies depending on age. Put them in the clean compartment of your wet bag. Checkpoint: if you are away over a mealtime, add one more nappy.
- Load the dirty compartment with a liner and a small wet bag: Place a reusable or disposable liner and a small wet bag in the empty zipped section. This is where soiled nappies go, so they never touch clean ones. Common mistake: putting dirty nappies in the same pocket as clean ones. Keep the pockets dedicated.
- Add liners, wipes and a changing mat: Keep liners in a small pouch so they are easy to find. Add your usual wipes and a waterproof mat. If you use cloth wipes, include a wet bag for those too. Checkpoint: do a quick feel of the bag to confirm the liner pouch is not empty.
- Pack one change of clothes that fits over cloth: Choose a babygrow or outfit cut with extra room for reusable nappies, such as the Hey Ewe Babygrow. Roll it tightly to save space. Common mistake: packing a standard-size outfit that will not fasten over a cloth nappy.
- Zip both compartments and do a final check: Close the clean and dirty zips, then check you have nappies, liners, wipes, mat and clothes. Put the wet bag in your changing bag last so it sits on top. Next step: when you get home, empty the dirty compartment straight into your nappy bucket or wash bag.
Products that fit this routine
- Double Pocket Reusable Wet Nappy Bag - Large: Double Pocket Reusable Wet Nappy Bag - Large: double zipped wet bag fits ten pocket nappies or five fitted nappies with wraps, with two zipped waterproof compartments. The two compartments let you separate clean and dirty nappies in one bag, so you can pack lighter and avoid plastic bags.
- Hey Ewe Babygrow - Designed for Reusable Nappies: Hey Ewe Babygrow - Designed for Reusable Nappies: organic cotton romper with extra room to fit over reusable nappies, mittens on cuffs and feet, and a flexible zip. A babygrow cut for cloth nappies means you can pack one change of clothes that actually fits over the nappy, rather than sizing up and still struggling.
- Everything you’ll ever need kit (Reusable Sanitary Pads): Everything you’ll ever need kit (Reusable Sanitary Pads): includes 4 pantyliners, 8 day pads, 4 night pads, one small double wet bag and one large double wet bag. The small double wet bag in this kit is the same style you can use for clean and dirty nappies on outings, so the packing method transfers directly.
