When you bring a newborn home, the first thing you realize (after how tiny they are 🥹) is just how many diapers you’ll go through. Between my two boys and my siblings’ kids, I’ve changed more diapers than I can count—and trust me, having the right setup makes life so much easier.
This post is part of my Must-Haves Series, where I share the products and routines that saved my sanity as a mom. Today, we’re talking diapering essentials—what I keep in every diaper caddy, which creams actually work, and the small extras you’ll thank yourself for having on hand.
My Diaper Caddy Setup (One on Every Floor!)
Running up and down stairs for every change is not sustainable 😅. I keep a diaper caddy in my bedroom and one on each floor. Inside, I always stock:
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Diapers – For newborns, you’ll go through 8–12 per day those first couple of weeks. This newborn pack should be the only newborn diapers you need before moving to size 1!
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Baby Wipes – We’ve used these for years; great texture and you don’t need a ton to get baby clean.
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Disposable Changing Pads – Total lifesavers for blowouts and middle-of-the-night changes. These are the ones I keep in every caddy.
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Ointment for every change – Prevents rashes before they start. We rotate between Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment and a smaller on-the-go tube (also Aquaphor) when we’re out and about.
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A+D Original Diaper Rash Ointment – Another great barrier I keep handy. It lasts so long! A+D ointment.
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Diaper cream (for when rashes happen) – The most effective for us has been Desitin — purple label.
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Lotion – For dry patches, I like Cetaphil Baby Moisturizer. (We’ve also used Baby Dove and liked it.). But if you prefer scentless, this is the best.
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Change of clothes – Because diaper explosions will happen. I keep a simple sleeper ready: Baby pajamas we like.
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Socks, bibs & burp cloths – Small but mighty. Baby socks, a set of teething bibs, and soft burp cloths.
Tip: Restock your caddies during the day so you’re not scrambling at 2 a.m.
Why This Setup Works
The biggest win is convenience. With a portable caddy, I can change the baby anywhere—bedroom, living room, even the patio when the weather is nice. Having everything in arm’s reach (wipes, ointment, a backup outfit) turns chaotic moments into quick resets. And honestly, having a system reduces stress. It’s one less decision when you’re sleep-deprived.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need every baby product, but these essentials truly made a difference for us—and for my siblings when I shared this setup with them. Start simple, stock your caddies, and add as you go. Your future, 3-a.m. self will thank you.
This is just the first post in my Must-Haves Series. Next up: Sleep Essentials (bassinet, swaddles, sleep sacks, white noise, and more!).