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Forbes
06-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Forbes
The 7 Best Diaper Bags, According To Moms Who've Tested Over 20 Styles
Before I had my first baby, I don't think I truly understood how many things I would need to carry around with them whenever we left the house. The best diaper bags have the space to stow all those baby essentials like wipes, diapers, bottles, spare clothes, burp cloths and toys. They're also comfortable and easy for parents to use, so you're not digging through the diaper bag abyss to find that elusive pacifier. After testing over 20 diaper bags among several testers, we found the Petunia Pickle Bottom Meta Backpack to be the best—it's made of high-quality materials and has dedicated pockets for all the essentials. Our top value pick, the popular Skip Hop Forma Diaper Bag Backpack , is lightweight, roomy and has remained durable through years of testing. The best diaper bags hold and organize everything you need for your little. ALICIA BETZ FOR FORBES Here are all of our winners after testing over 20 diaper bags: When choosing a diaper bag, consider the size and style you want. If you have multiple kids, you may need a larger bag—but be careful not to overload it. Additionally, many parents prefer a backpack or belt bag, so they can have their hands free. 'A comfortable, well-designed and ergonomic diaper bag that meets your specific needs can improve quality of life as you navigate the daily demands of motherhood,' says Amy McCormick, an occupational therapist who leads the postpartum rehabilitation program at UNC Rex Holly Springs Hospital in North Carolina. Continue reading for an in-depth look at all of our top picks for the best diaper bags along with more information on our testing process and what to look for when you're shopping for a diaper bag. Amazon Petunia Pickle Bottom Meta Backpack Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Dimensions: 13.4 x 6.7 x 13.8 inches | Weight: 1.3 pounds | Bag style: Backpack | Warranty: A 100% guarantee on hardware and fabric defects for two years | Cleaning instructions: Wipe down Best for: People looking for a stylish and professional bag Those looking for a durable and high-quality option that will last for years Organizing every item Skip if: You're packing for multiple kids or need extra space With 10 total pockets, the Petunia Pickle Bottom Meta Backpack makes it simple to find a spot for all your baby items and then some. From a discreet felt-lined electronics pocket to stretchy diaper pockets and an insulated bottle pocket, there's a place to put everything. The large main compartment zippers all the way down, which helps with packing the bag and finding things that may have fallen to the bottom. A strap on the back that attaches to rolling luggage makes it a great option for travel, too. It's also the lightest diaper bag backpack that we tested. The Petunia Pickle Bottom Meta Backpack is just the right size for essentials. ALICIA BETZ FOR FORBES Many of the more stylish diaper bags I've tested are either uncomfortable or have fabrics that are difficult to maintain and clean. That isn't the case with this bag. Depending on the style you choose, the outer material is either vegan leather, coated canvas or vegan leather with cable-stitch textured embossing. The styles are classic and professional, making this a good option to bring to work if you're pumping or simply want to continue to use the bag after your baby is older. Though the bag isn't machine washable, the materials are easy to wipe clean. Our tester intentionally spilled a blueberry pouch on the bag and left it to sit overnight. In the morning, it wiped up effortlessly. The included changing pad is machine washable, so there's no need to worry about messy diaper changes. The comfort of this bag is a huge plus, too. It's a backpack-style bag, which many of our experts recommend. The padded straps are nice and comfortable. 'When worn properly, with both straps well positioned, [backpack bags] can help minimize risk of injury and reduce stress on the back, abdominals, and pelvic floor,' says McCormick., But Don't Overpack It Though I laud the bag for its ample pockets, you can't pack quite as much in this bag as some of our other top picks, like the Skip Hop Forma or the Béis Backpack Diaper Bag. When I try to put too many things in the bag, it becomes lumpy and awkward because there isn't much give to the material. Our tester also found that the side water bottle pocket was difficult to pack when there were too many things in the main compartment. However, that limit on space is a good thing in some ways. 'More space just means more stuff crammed inside—and trust us, you don't need to carry everything but the kitchen sink,' says Laura Hunter, a licensed practical nurse and cofounder of Moms on Call, a parenting resource brand. Amazon Skip Hop Forma Diaper Bag Backpack Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Dimensions: 16 x 8 x 14 inches | Weight: 1.4 pounds | Bag style: Backpack | Warranty: Limited warranty | Cleaning instructions: Wipe down Best for: People who want a comfortable bag that's easy to pack Families looking for gender neutral styles People on a budget Skip if: You want something super stylish The value of the Skip Hop Forma Diaper Bag Backpack is unmatched. My husband and I have used it as our main diaper bag for over five years, and it's still in excellent shape. The bag has two padded straps and it's a backpack bag, making it the ideal ergonomic option. Because it's a backpack bag that's incredibly lightweight, this is a good option for parents have back problems or moms who may struggle with core strength, pelvic floor strength or who are recovering from a c-section or tear. 'Postpartum moms should consider their core and pelvic health when choosing a diaper bag. After a vaginal birth, weakened pelvic floor muscles and potential back pain mean a lightweight, evenly distributed bag (like a backpack style) is ideal to reduce strain. For c-section recovery, avoiding heavy shoulder bags that put pressure on healing abdominal muscles is crucial,' says John Gallucci Jr., a doctor of physical therapy and CEO of New York-based Jag Physical Therapy. The Skip Hop Forma is a great value option that's durable and easy to pack. ALICIA BETZ FOR FORBES Easy To Pack And Maintain I like packing this bag more than some of the more stylish or boxy bags because the material has some give to it. There are nine total pockets, plus two packing cubes. Pockets include two bottle pockets, a main compartment, two stretchy interior pockets, two front zipper pockets and more. The bag also comes with a changing pad. The side bottle pockets have plenty of room to hold water bottles for parents and caregivers or babies. The storage cubes are great for packing things on-the-go, too. If I want to leave the larger diaper bag in the car, I can put a bottle, diaper and some wipes in a packing cube and significantly lighten my load. McCormick likes the option of using removable storage cubes, too, as they make it easy to add and remove items based on the specific outing or activity. The fabric is water-repellent, and our tester found it easy to clean a spilled baby food pouch and water. In addition to being able to wipe down any spills, I've also found that it's easy to clean out crumbs and messes at the bottom of the bag because the fabric has enough flexibility to it that I can turn the bag inside out. Dagne Dover Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Dimensions: 9.5 x 5.6 x 12.3 inches (small), 11.8 x 6.5 x 12.8 inches (medium, 12.3 x 7 x 13.8 (large) | Weight: 3 pounds (small), 3.5 pounds (medium), 4 pounds (large)| Bag style: Backpack | Warranty: Limited guarantee for 1 year | Cleaning instructions: Hand wash Best for: People who want a comfortable bag with soft material Those looking for extras, like pouches and a changing mat Parents looking for something that doesn't look like a diaper bag Skip if: You're worried about stains Versatile Packing Options The Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack comes in small, medium and large sizes, so parents can find the right option for their carrying style. In addition to the many interior and exterior pockets, including a wipes and insulated bottle holder, it also comes with extras like a storage pouch and a shoe bag. A luggage sleeve on the back makes this a good option for travel, too. Other extras include a changing mat and stroller clips, though we don't recommend using stroller clips due to the potential danger of tipping the stroller. If you tend to overpack your bag, you might want to get the size larger than you think you'll need. Our tester found that when she had the main compartment of the bag packed full, it was difficult to use the exterior zipper pockets. The fabric on the Dagne Dover Indi is so comfortable and soft. MARGARET BADORE FOR FORBES Sought-After Look And Feel Many people love the look and feel of the Indi. The neoprene material is 100% vegan, and it's available in a variety of aesthetic colors, some of which are gender-neutral. From the outside, it looks more like a regular backpack than a diaper bag. The fabric is soft, not stiff, and the nicely padded straps make it comfortable to wear. Our tester found that the fabric stretches easily to accommodate items that you throw in the bag. If you (or your kids) tend to spill things a lot, this may not be the best bag for you. When our tester spilled water and a tot food pouch on the bag, it initially cleaned up well, but in the long-term, she found some stains lingered on her camel-colored bag. Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Dimensions: 12 x 7.75 x 15 inches | Weight: 4 pounds | Bag style: Backpack | Warranty: 45-day return policy | Cleaning instructions: Wipe down Best for: People with multiple kids Families with a newborn Those who want a sleek, stylish and gender-neutral bag Skip if: You want something small and compact Very Spacious Some people like to overstuff their diaper bag (guilty as charged). Whether you're packing for twins like me or just need extra space, the Béis Backpack Diaper Bag gives you the room you need. The top of the bag opens wide so you can pack and find the things you need, and there are a good number of pockets. Our tester found that the exterior bottle pockets were large enough to hold her water bottles, which wasn't the case with every bag she tested. Inside, you can tighten the insulated bottle pouch so your baby's bottle doesn't get lost in the main compartment. Because it's such a big bag and it already weighs 4 pounds, be careful not to overpack it. 'Extremely large or heavy bags may encourage overpacking, making it hard to reach items and adding unnecessary strain to the back, abdominals and pelvic floor,' says McCormick. Though the bag can get heavy if you stuff too much in it, our tester found it comfortable with nicely padded straps. Thoughtful Extras For Baby My favorite thing about the Béis Backpack Diaper Bag is that it's obvious it was thoroughly designed with babies and parents in mind. The included changing pad has a pouch to store diapers, wipes or diaper rash cream. In the bag, you'll find a pacifier pouch and a teething ring. There is also an odor-proof pouch, which is ideal for storing soiled clothes or for parents who use cloth diapers to store dirty diapers until they get home. Another included extra is stroller clips, though we do not recommend using these as the weight of the bag can tip your stroller. Our tester loved all of these extras as well as how easy the bag is to clean. The stain-resistant fabric can be wiped down. She had no problem cleaning up the food pouch that she intentionally spilled on the bag. The high-quality and easy-to-clean material makes this a great pick for families with multiple kids or those who want a durable bag that can stand up to extensive everyday use. Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Dimensions: 12.3 x 12 x 5 inches (medium), 13 x 12.8 x 5.8 (large) | Weight: 2.5 pounds (medium), 3 pounds (large) | Bag style: Backpack | Warranty: 21 day return period, manufacturing defects are assessed on a case by case basis | Cleaning instructions: Machine washable (black), clean with mild neutral soap mixed with warm water and a clean microfiber cloth (all other colors) Best for: Parents who like high-end products People who like to carry their bag different ways Families who like lots of pockets and compartments Skip if: Practical Features For Babies And Parents Becoming a parent doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your style or your love for luxury products. The Caraa Baby Bag is made with parent and baby in mind, with so many thoughtful features. Forbes Vetted editor Margaret Badore found that this bag had the best features of all the high-end bags she tested. She particularly likes the hot/cold pocket and the fully removable diaper caddy. The caddy has four pockets for storing wipes, diapers and other essentials, and it's a helpful feature for packing a few things on the go. 'The removable organizer is also extremely useful; when packed with diaper change essentials, I could take just that part out and head to the bathroom with baby for a change,' says Badore. Unfortunately, the bag does not come with a changing pad to complement the diaper caddy. One of my favorite baby-friendly features: the black version of the bag is machine washable, which isn't a common feature in diaper bags. No matter the spill, you can throw it in the wash for quick cleanup. For other color options, you need to clean with mild neutral soap mixed with warm water and a clean microfiber cloth to maintain the color. The Caraa Baby Bag can be worn as a backpack or a cross-body bag. MARGARET BADORE FOR FORBES High-Quality And Versatile The bag is available in a medium or large size, and the versatility is key. You can choose to wear the bag as a backpack or as a crossbody bag by attaching a shoulder strap. When you wear it this way, you can tuck the backpack straps out of the way. The bag also comes with stroller hooks, but we don't recommend using them because hanging a bag on your stroller can cause it to tip. This bag has so many pockets. From insulated bottle pockets to a phone pocket to hot/cold pockets and pockets with magnetic closures, you'll certainly find a spot to put everything. When you're traveling, simply slide the bag onto your luggage with the attached luggage sleeve. Badore has used this bag for about two years, including on family trips and as a carry-on, and has found virtually no signs of wear. The profile of this bag is a bit wider than many others, so that's something to consider if you need your bag to fit into a compact area. State Bags State Lorimer Diaper Bag Backpack Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Dimensions: 16.5 x 13 x 5.9 inches | Weight: N/A | Bag style: Backpack | Warranty: 1 year for material or manufacturing defects | Cleaning instructions: Spot clean with a damp cloth Best for: Using with multiple caregivers Families packing a bag for multiple kids People who want something that doesn't look like a diaper bag Skip if: Comfort For All With No-Fuss Fabric A gender neutral diaper bag is ideal if you'll be sharing the bag with other caregivers—or perhaps you simply prefer that look and style. From the outside, the State Lorimer Diaper Bag doesn't scream diaper bag, and it's available in five colors, including the several gender-neutral picks like an olive, black and navy. You can personalize the bag with up to three characters and two symbols or patches. The padded straps are nice, and Badore found the bag comfortable even when it was loaded up. When traveling, you can also attach the bag to your luggage with a built-in luggage slip. The fabric is easy to clean. In our tests, water ran right off the nylon parts, and our spilled pouch wiped up no problem. Room For All The Gear Badore appreciates all of the pockets in this bag, which include two main compartments, a front zipper pocket, side water bottle pockets, an insulated bottle pocket and more. With so many places to put things, it's less likely you'll lose something at the bottom of the bag. It also includes a washable changing pad and a padded laptop sleeve that fits laptops up to 15 inches. For parents who sometimes have to work while taking care of their kids, this can be a huge plus. Though there is plenty of room for all of the essentials, the large size of this bag could encourage you to pack too much, which could put extra stain on your back. This can also be dangerous if you use the attached stroller clips as a heavy diaper bag could tip a stroller. Amazon Colugo On-The-Go Organizer Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Dimensions: 6.5 x 7 x 4 inches | Weight: 2 pounds | Bag style: Belt bag | Warranty: Limited warranty for 1 year | Cleaning instructions: Machine washable Best for: People who need their hands free Families who want something versatile they can grab and go Parents who want something they can wear all day Skip if: Fits A Surprising Number Of Items I really couldn't ask for much more in a compact diaper bag. The Colugo On-The-Go Organizer is sleek, comfortable and highly adjustable. According to Hunter, small and compact is the way to go. 'Moms on Call recommends smaller, well-organized bags that keep only the essentials at your fingertips. Some other features we can do without,' she says. The bag has enough room for the basics like diapers and wipes. It has six pockets plus two bottle holders, so you can keep your items organized, too. Our tester was surprised at how many things she could fit in the bag. It also had room for her son's sweatshirt. The Colugo On The Go Organizer is ideal for staying hands-free while carrying all the essentials. ALICIA BETZ FOR FORBES Doubles As A Stroller Organizer My favorite thing about this bag is that it can double as a stroller organizer. While hanging larger, heavier bags from a stroller is unsafe due to the potential for tipping, I don't worry about that with such a small bag. In fact, the bag is designed to be a stroller organizer first, diaper bag second. It's nice to be able to just grab the bag and go when you need to park your stroller or leave it somewhere unattended. The versatility makes the price just right, too. You're getting two products in one. Comfortable And Low-Maintenance I appreciate machine-washable diaper bags like this one, because with three kids, sometimes I don't realize a spill happened until well after the fact. It wipes down easily, too. Our tester spilled the majority of a water bottle in the bag and found that it dried easily and didn't get things stored in other pockets wet. The bag is simple to adjust and comfortable. I don't have to fiddle with the straps too much to get them where I want them. Other crossbody or belt bags that I've tested feel too boxy or bulky, but I didn't find that with this one. The strap also has a pretty wide range, meaning it can work for caregivers of various sizes. Other Diaper Bags We Tested Over several years, we've tested more than 20 diaper bags among three mom testers. We included our favorites in the guide and continue to test additional bags as they become available. Here are the others we've tested: Freshly Picked Classic Diaper Bag : I've had this bag for years, and I really like the style and look of it. However, it's pretty boxy, and it doesn't offer as many organization options as other bags. Another tester also found that it started to fray almost immediately, which made us question the high price tag. BabbleRoo Diaper Bag Backpack : This is a budget-friendly diaper bag that is available in many colors and styles. It also has a lot of useful pockets, like a pacifier pouch and three insulated bottle pockets. It wasn't as comfortable as some of the other bags we tested, and our tester found it difficult to pack the bag with everything she needed. Ruvalino Diaper Bag Backpack : This popular bag is well-loved for its low price. However, it's somewhat bulky and stiff. It was also a bit more difficult to clean than many other bags we tested. We enjoyed the variety of pockets and were able to pack a lot into the bag. Herschel Baby Strand Sprout Shoulder Bag : Though this is more of a minimalistic bag, there is plenty of space inside. Our tester really liked the included changing pad. Unfortunately, it lacks many of the features of our top picks and our tester wasn't able to find a comfortable way to carry the bag. Eddie Bauer Cascade Back Pack Diaper Bag : There are plenty of features packed into this diaper bag like a wipes pocket, insulated bottle pocket and changing pad. However, it's not as user-friendly as we'd like. It can be difficult to reach the bottom of the main compartment and our tester found that the diaper pockets weren't wide enough. Béis The Diaper Pack : This bag has some nice features like a changing pad and a convenient wipes pocket. It's also pretty spacious for a belt bag. However, I found it too boxy and bulky. The main dealbreaker was that when worn as a belt bag, I couldn't get the straps small enough. Parents and caregivers with slim frames may struggle to get the bag tight enough to stay on. Dagne Dover Ace : Those searching for something extra minimalistic might like this fanny pack diaper bag—but it just didn't have enough features or space for us. Storq Quick Change Fanny Pack : Though this bag is a good size for a belt bag, it doesn't have the organization features necessary to store the amount of baby gear you can fit in a bag. We like that it's lightweight and machine washable. Ditty Co. Small Diaper Bag : This belt bag is comfortable and machine washable with an affordable price that matches it size. It might work for some families who prefer to pack light, but we wanted more space. Luli Baby Monaco Sling Bag : This sling bag has nice features given its smaller package, such as a pacifier holder and a phone pocket. It's more complicated to adjust and get items out of than other bags we tested, though, and when you're juggling babies and all their things, you don't want a bag that makes things more difficult. State Jordan Diaper Bag : We were able to fit plenty of things in this bag and liked the organizing pouches and changing pad. However, we didn't find the shoulder strap very comfortable, especially when compared to backpack style diaper bags. BagSmart Walker 25L Featherlight Travel Diaper Backpack : There are a lot of features in this bag that we appreciated, like the large insulated bottle pocket and the waterproof laundry pouch. What our tester didn't like was that many of these features don't quite work the way they should. For example, the insulated bottle pouch didn't fit many popular bottle brands, and it was hard to get diapers to fit into the diaper pouches. JuJuBe B.F.F. Diaper Bag : You can wear this bag as a backpack, messenger bag or shoulder bag—but our tester didn't find it comfortable to wear, and it wasn't quite big enough to fit all of our supplies. We also tested the Petunia Pickle Bottom Mini Bag and the Kibou Fanny Pack Diaper Bag. The Petunia Pickle Bottom Mini Bag is no longer in stock, and though the Kibou Fanny Pack Diaper Bag was our previous pick for the best diaper belt bag, the bag has since been discontinued. What we're testing next: We're continuing to test two No Reception bags, two Calpak diaper bags, including the Calpak Diaper Backpack With Laptop Sleeve , and plan to consider the new Away diaper bag collection as well as Uppababy's Changing Backpack, among others. How We Tested Diaper Bags We've spent years testing diaper bags and between myself and two other testers, we've tested over 20 bags. For this round of testing in 2025, myself and baby and kids gear editor Margaret Badore tested a combined 11 bags, and some bags have been tested by multiple families. We tested the diaper bags in real-world situations, like daycare drop-offs, family outings and trips to the pediatrician's office. Here's a peek at what we looked for when we tested bags: Ease of use and features: We listed any notable features the bags had and evaluated how useful and practical those features were. We listed any notable features the bags had and evaluated how useful and practical those features were. Comfort and ergonomics: We wore the bags throughout our daily parenting lives, noting how comfortable they were (particularly when they were packed full). We noted if bags had ergonomic features like padded straps that offered even weight distribution. We wore the bags throughout our daily parenting lives, noting how comfortable they were (particularly when they were packed full). We noted if bags had ergonomic features like padded straps that offered even weight distribution. Durability: We kept the winning bags to evaluate durability and long-term use. In some cases, we've been using these bags for over five years. We noted any wear or deterioration that happened over time. We kept the winning bags to evaluate durability and long-term use. In some cases, we've been using these bags for over five years. We noted any wear or deterioration that happened over time. Maintenance and cleaning: We spilled water, a blueberry pouch and crumbs on each diaper bag and let them sit overnight. In the morning, we evaluated how easily we were able to clean the spills. What To Look For In The Best Diaper Bags The best diaper bags make it easier for you to get out and about with your kids. Here are some factors to consider when shopping for a diaper bag. Bag Type The three most common types of diaper bags are backpack, fanny pack or belt bags and shoulder or tote bags. Backpack diaper bags have two straps and often have a large main compartment that opens from the top. 'When worn properly, with both straps well positioned, they can help minimize risk of injury and reduce stress on the back, abdominals, and pelvic floor. These make great bags for frequent use and when carrying lots of items for a newborn or multiple children,' says McCormick. Hunter also praises backpack-style diaper bags because of the hands-free convenience they offer. have two straps and often have a large main compartment that opens from the top. 'When worn properly, with both straps well positioned, they can help minimize risk of injury and reduce stress on the back, abdominals, and pelvic floor. These make great bags for frequent use and when carrying lots of items for a newborn or multiple children,' says McCormick. Hunter also praises backpack-style diaper bags because of the hands-free convenience they offer. Fanny pack/belt bags are also often worn across the body. They're smaller than traditional diaper bags, but they still have baby-centric features like wipes pockets or changing pads. McCormick explained that they can be helpful for quick, one-handed access on short trips though they can cause unequal stress on one side of your body when worn as a crossbody bag. She recommends alternating directions regularly. 'Lightweight fanny packs with wide, adjustable and cushioned waistbands can be a great option if you want to travel light, minimize back strain and maximize mobility and functional use of your arms,' she says. are also often worn across the body. They're smaller than traditional diaper bags, but they still have baby-centric features like wipes pockets or changing pads. McCormick explained that they can be helpful for quick, one-handed access on short trips though they can cause unequal stress on one side of your body when worn as a crossbody bag. She recommends alternating directions regularly. 'Lightweight fanny packs with wide, adjustable and cushioned waistbands can be a great option if you want to travel light, minimize back strain and maximize mobility and functional use of your arms,' she says. Shoulder and tote diaper bags are often seen as more stylish, and can be quite large to fit a lot of items. McCormick recommends looking for a small-to-medium-sized bag that has a wide, cushioned shoulder strap. 'While stylish, [shoulder bags] are not the most ergonomic option as they create unequal weight distribution with increased upper back and shoulder strain on one side of the body. They can also restrict activity participation by requiring one arm for support and shifting significantly with little movement,' she says. Style Many parents and caregivers want a diaper bag that fits their style as it can become an extension of themselves for quite a few years. Don't forget to consider the preferences of your partner or other caregivers, too. While you might love a stylish floral print bag, another caregiver you'll be sharing the bag with might not. Ergonomics Ergonomics are incredibly important, particularly for new moms. After delivery, moms might face weakened abdominal muscles and a weakened pelvic floor. They might also be recovering from a c-section or a perineal tear. For any parent or caregiver, an ergonomic diaper bag can help reduce the risk of developing back, neck and shoulder pain. Some ergonomic features to look for include wide, padded backpack straps that allow you to evenly distribute weight, structured bags that maintain their shape while wearing them and adjustable straps. Choosing a lightweight bag and limiting how much you pack can be beneficial, too. 'It's important that all moms choose a diaper bag that is lightweight and adjustable to safely distribute weight and support healing of the pelvic floor and abdominals that are often compromised from the strain endured during both pregnancy and childbirth,' says McCormick. 'Moms experiencing postural changes or diastasis recti should prioritize ergonomic designs that prevent excessive forward hunching,' adds Gallucci. 'Ultimately, a well-balanced, adjustable bag can help reduce discomfort and support postpartum recovery.' Features Diaper bags can have many features. Some helpful ones include insulated pockets, changing pads, diaper pockets, wipe pockets, device pockets, storage cubes or pouches and clips for keys and toys. Materials 'Durable and easy-to-clean materials can hold up to everyday use, make messes quick to resolve with less stress, and prevent caregiver fatigue by allowing the bag to be set down without concern for damage,' says McCormick. While some bags are machine washable, most are water-resistant and can be wiped clean. My Expertise I'm a parenting writer, product tester and mom to three, and I cover baby and kids gear for Forbes Vetted. I've been testing baby, kids and parenting products for seven years, and I've tested many diaper bags on this list, some of which I've used for years. I test a wide range of products, from the best toys for 6-month-olds to the best strollers . In addition to testing products for this article, I also spoke to other parents and testers about which diaper bags they liked, conducted in-depth research, compared features of the diaper bags and interviewed four experts. Those experts include: Amy McCormick, an occupational therapist who leads the postpartum rehabilitation program at UNC Rex Holly Springs Hospital in North Carolina. John Gallucci Jr., a doctor of physical therapy and CEO of Jag Physical Therapy . . Gina Posner , a board-certified pediatrician at MemorialCare Medical Group. , a board-certified pediatrician at MemorialCare Medical Group. Laura Hunter, a licensed practical nurse and cofounder of Moms on Call . Can Any Bag Be A Diaper Bag?> Can Any Bag Be A Diaper Bag? At its core, a diaper bag is simply a place to carry baby essentials while you're out and about. You can use a purse, backpack or any other type of bag as a diaper bag. However, many diaper bags have convenient features such as insulated bottle pockets, wipes pouches and elastic diaper storage pockets. They're designed to carry all your baby essentials and often come with built-in changing pads, too. How Much Should I Spend On A Diaper Bag?> How Much Should I Spend On A Diaper Bag? Prices of diaper bags can range from around $20 to over $200. Many durable and comfortable diaper bags fall in the $75 to $100 range. You might pay a bit more for something that's more stylish or made of higher-end materials. What Is A Good Weight For A Diaper Bag?> What Is A Good Weight For A Diaper Bag? When it comes to a diaper bag, the lighter, the better. As you add more things into the bag, it can get heavy, causing back and neck strain. Most diaper bags are 4 pounds or less with some belt bags weighing under a pound.
Buzz Feed
25-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
30 Walmart Products That'll Make You Feel Like The Smartest Parent You Know
1. A Hatch Rest baby sound machine with so many sound and lighting options, you'll have a blast picking your baby's room ~vibes~. This can also be set to use as an "okay to wake" clock when your kiddo is a little older! Walmart Promising review:"Love the wide range of volume, sounds, brightness, and color. I have one kid that prefers his sound quiet and two that like it loud. Third time purchasing this product. I have the Skip Hop sound machines as well, but they don't hold a candle to the Hatch products." — Nicole 2. Or a Nanit sleep set that includes a pro camera with wall mount, a sound and light audio monitor, a travel stand, and a breathing band that means you can easily slip it on your baby's chest and let the pro camera do the rest of the work of keeping you at ease so you can catch those sweet, sweet Zzzzz's. Walmart, Ashley Schumacher/BuzzFeed Plus, it comes with the CUTEST and most compact case, so this really is an everywhere kinda gadget, which every parent knows is ELITE when you have young kiddos and babies who get attached to their routines. 3. A pack of disposable table toppers for airplane seat trays and restaurant tables. These make cleanup so much easier that you won't have to stress about de-sticking fruit snacks from surfaces outside the comfort of your own home. Walmart 4. A Skip Hop baby activity center reviewers love for its grow-with-me functionality, safety, and ability to keep babies entertained for more than three minutes while you, like, run to pee by yourself or something luxurious like that. Also, it grows with your kids, so it can turn into a standing center or a table for your toddler! Walmart Promising review:"I so badly wish we would've known about this activity center or had this for our first two babies. It is PERFECT! So easy to clean, so many different ways you can arrange the little play toys on the surface, and the best part is that it encourages standing rather than tip-toe jumping! The assembly is incredible, I am so impressed with the design. The colors are not so bright that it's an eyesore for my poor, destroyed living room, but there is still color and life to intrigue my little guy. The seat is wonderful because it is so easy to pop out and clean up, or wash the lining. If I could give this 80 stars, I would. 300% worth the money!" — Haley 5. A Baby Trend expedition stroller wagon all the parents at the park will be envious of because it's roomy enough for two whole kids and *all* of the stuff that goes along with them. If you've gotta push a stroller, it really should have space to offload everything so you can just cruise and soothe without your back getting all hot from your backpack diaper bag or feeling like a pack mule. Walmart Promising review:"I love every single thing about this stroller. I put my 3-year-old and 2-year-old in there, and they fit perfectly. They enjoy being in it as well. It took two minutes to set it up, and it's very simple to fold and store in the trunk. I get compliments on it everywhere I go." — roxanna 6. A three-pack of Munchkin suction cup bowls still in my home even though my kid is past the toddler phase because they are the PERFECT snack size for cheese cubes, fruit snacks, and grapes. Walmart The suction cup bottom is GREAT because it totally works when they're younger, but isn't so obnoxiously sticky that it's a bother when they're older and don't need the functionality anymore. Promising review:"I love these bowls' perfect sizes, and the suction cup on the bottom is great. Easy for kids to use and easy to clean. This is actually my second set that I've purchased." — Akw11 7. An Oogiebear nose cleaner and ear wax removal tool because babies can be pretty finicky about getting their nose and ears cleaned, and this relieves of stress for both babies and parents vs. the traditional snot sucker balls. Walmart Promising reviews:" Best way to get rid of boogers in babies. My daughter hated the sucker ones and this was easy and the perfect size." — Mollie "This is a great tool for babies! I use it to clean my 2-month-old's nose and it works great. Their noses are so little and cotton swabs just push boogies further. This works so well because it can scoop the boogies out." — Jasmine 8. Or an electric nose sucker that puts on a little music and light show to keep your baby entertained while you get the gunk out of their noses. No manual effort needed on this one! Power it on and tell the boogies goodbye without having to squeeze a bulb or suck through a filter (IYKYK). Walmart Promising review:"BUY IT! Amazing. My kids have always hated ANY booger suckers I've tried. This one is like magic. It works so efficiently while also being gentle enough to not bother my child at all. It does make noise, but my baby does not seem to mind, especially when you use the music or light feature. It is well worth spending a little extra compared to other brands. BEST purchase ever in regards to getting snot or boogers out! Also, it comes with different sizes — fit for baby or toddler!" — Janelle 9. An Ingenuity 3-in-1 baby bouncer to have a safe place to let your baby bounce and play without you having to worry about them suddenly learning to crawl and taking off for the great wide yonder. (Which we all know is *probably* not going to happen the moment we turn our backs, but this eliminates the fear altogether. 😂) Walmart Promising review:"This has been a great addition to our arsenal. Lightweight and easy to move around. I appreciate that the vibration is easy to remove and change the batteries, so I can still do it while baby is in the bouncer." — Walmart customer 10. A bedside sleeper bassinet for easy night feedings and snuggles. It butts up right against the bed, so no aerobics are necessary to get to your little one when they're hungry or need some comfort in the wee hours. Work smarter, not harder than you already are! Walmart Promising review:"This has been a lifesaver! Having had a C-section, this has really made it a game changer as I can sit and access my newborn instead of bending over. It has a great little shelf on the bottom, and the side zips open and closed. I love that I can also push it around, and it doesn't feel flimsy. Wish I would have known about this style with my previous kids." — sande276 11. A Baby Brezza bottle sterilizer which happily lived on my counter for a long time because it can sanitize EVERYTHING from bottles to pacifiers to teething toys with the press of a button. Bye-bye, annoying stove method, hello getting some time (and brain cells!) back. Walmart Promising reviews:"This sterilizer is great. Easy to operate. Bought a second one for grandma's house." — Stephanie " In 30 minutes we have sterilized bottle. I wish this product had been around for our first grandchild. We sterilize everything in it, including bottle brushes and pacifiers." — Cindy 12. And a Baby Brezza Advanced Formula Dispensing Machine, affectionately called "the baby formula Keurig" in my household. This thing is MAGICAL. You check the manual and adjust the settings to your specific formula, and voila! A perfectly warmed bottle at the touch of a button. Scoops and spilled powder be gone! Walmart Promising review:"The Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced has been a total game changer for us! It makes bottles in seconds with the perfect temperature and consistency every time. No more late-night fumbling or worrying about mixing ratios. It's so easy to use and saves a ton of time. I honestly don't know how we managed without it. Highly recommend for any formula feeding parent!" — Iris 13. A Halo sleep swaddle a lot of hospitals will issue you as a ~free gift~ on your way out the door, but trust me: You're gonna want to be smart and have at least three of them in rotation. With Velcro wings you can use to swaddle arms or just wrap around their tummy if your kiddo likes to be hands-free, these are the easiest, comfiest swaddles around! Walmart Promising reviews:"This is amazing, especially if you have a baby that is constantly wiggling around at night. This is the only thing that seems to keep my son content." — alyissa "Love this swaddle, you can use it three different ways so you don't have to get new swaddles when they don't want their hands out of the swaddle." — Daven 14. A Skip Hop diaper bag backpack to hold everything but the kitchen sink, though I'm sure you could fit that in if you absolutely needed to. This bag is roomy, has plenty of pockets, and is easily cleaned, so you can spend more time soaking up cute baby sounds and less time scrubbing at spilled milk. 15. A lightweight, travel Graco Pack 'n Play for all the adventures to Auntie's house, vacations, and everywhere in-between! No more trying to finagle a place for your kiddos to play and sleep: You've already got it ~in the bag~. (Get it? Because there's a TRAVEL BAG INCLUDED?) Walmart Promising review:"My baby loves it, it's super easy to put together and is easily portable. It's spacious but doesn't take up too much room like an ordinary crib would. The product is also super durable and sturdy, best money I've spent on a product." — Kameryn 16. A Momcozy baby carrier your body and your baby will love for the hands-free abilities without straining your already-tired back. Lots of reviewers note that it's also a guaranteed nap-maker for their littles, which any parent knows means an automatic, "Add it to the cart." Walmart Promising reviews:"This is a great baby carrier for an even better price! Comfortable straps, fits my petite shoulder width, and you can wear it on your front or your back! Baby loves it! Still using it with her as a 7-month-old." — Anonymous " So impressed by this carrier! I wanted a WildBird Ariel carrier and ordered both, and this is just as good of quality, if not better! Save your money and buy this!!" — Megan 17. A four-pack of silicone baby bibs I loved even pre the solid food era because it caught all the lil' milk dribbles and spit up throughout the day. Also, it's ridiculously easy to clean up in a jiff in the sink. These made me feel ~super smart~ every time I avoided a huge mess! Walmart Promising review:"I love these bibs. I'm so happy I bought them. They are great for my babies. I love that they're dishwasher-safe, so they get sanitized in the dishwasher. I would definitely recommend buying these." — Melanie 18. A Little Remedies new baby essentials kit to stock up on all the over-the-counter helpers you can before cold and flu season rears its head again. I LOVE Little Remedies and still use their stuff on my 4-year-old. Walmart This kit includes saline nasal spray and saline drops, a nasal aspirator, baby gas relief drops, infant fever and pain relief with acetaminophen, gripe water for babies, Boudreaux's Butt Paste maximum strength diaper rash cream, and baby ointment. 19. A Fisher-Price portable travel play space with a dome shade and a surprising amount of room for your little one to snooze and play given how easy it is to bring along on all your outings. Walmart 20. A Munchkin portable diaper changing pad because rule #1 is never, ever assume "they'll have a changing table" at that restaurant/store/sporting event bathroom. Save your baby (and yourself) from the ick of being unprepared by having this cute-as-a-button folded up dream in your diaper bag always. Walmart 21. A stain-treating spray you'll want to keep on hand during the baby years and beyond for its amazing stain-fighting power against spilled food, spit up, and mud. Walmart 22. A Gerber grocery cart cushion perfect for your next in-person Walmart trip so your little sidekick can come along on your bargain-hunting adventures. Walmart 23. A baby car camera even the Spy Kids would envy for how efficient and affordable it is. No more awkwardly angling your rearview mirror to try and catch a quick glimpse of your snoozing (or squalling) baby: Just position the camera on your dashboard for easy and safe viewing (when stopped, of course). 24. A Frida Baby 4-in-1 bathtub so you don't have to worry about cleaning out your sink or baby-proofing your bathtub in order to give your little a wash. This grows from newborn to up to 24 months and the sling is machine-washable! Wins all around. Walmart Promising reviews:"The bathtub is wonderful. Love how you can use the adjustments. Baby likes it too." — Donna " All around great product for newborn to comfortable tub-sitter age." — Samantha Price: $49.97 25. A baby diaper caddy organizer because even the tightest diapering routine can involve a lot of stuff, and it's so much easier to have it all in one space, especially if your home has several floors or changing stations. (Psst, I also used mine for breast pump transpo!) Walmart 26. A Munchkin wipe warmer and dispenser you'll love no matter your climate because trust me: As someone living in Texas where "warming" isn't usually a concern, this dispenser also keeps the diapers moist, so you don't have to worry about a whole pack going to waste because it accidentally dried out. The night light is also perfect for late-night diaper changes without light-blinding you or your baby. 27. A Bluey and Bingo cookbook to help get your kids psyched about helping out in the kitchen. This has 13 recipes including Chile and Bingo's omelet, Shadowlands cupcakes, and Nana's ice blocks! If you've got a picky eater, sometimes getting them involved in the kitchen can get them excited to try new foods. Walmart Promising review:"Really cool cookbook. We're big Bluey fans in my house, so everyone was so excited when it arrived. There's a good variety of food to make, and if you're not from the U.S., it's got a lot of nostalgic recipes too! If you're debating buying this, don't. It's been a family night activity for months now. It's genuinely worth the purchase!" — Maverick Price: $9.14 28. A pair of noise reduction ear muffs that'll cut back on the noise in your little's ears by 23 decibels and help muffle loud travel sounds whether they're awake or asleep. Walmart Promising review:"These worked great for my 2-month-old. The headband part adjusts nicely, and the headphones cover the ears well. Plus, they are super cute." — Julie Price: $15.29 (available in three colors) 29. A Welly First Aid Kit to give you peace of mind for any bumps and ouchies that your baby might get on the go. The colorful (and secure) bandages are so cute that you should be prepared for your kiddo to request more than one for ~aesthetic~ reasons. Walmart Promising review:"Love the designs and organization. It's got a little of everything, which is perfect for our little boy." — Kelly Price: $33.77 30. A Munchkin portable UV light sanitizer because you know the second you find the dirtiest floor, that pacifier is going down. This will have your binky sanitized and ready to go again in just under a minute! Walmart Price: $25.93 (originally $29.95) Reviews in this post have been edited for length and clarity.
Yahoo
30-01-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
What goes into designing that popular teapot or water bottle? 2 top creators discuss the process
Ever wonder how some of the stuff we use every day came to be? I think about it sometimes when I'm at the stove with my favorite sauté pan, with its perfect trifecta of size, weight and performance. Or when I'm struggling with the badly designed zippers on my otherwise-swanky new tote bag. Good design doesn't just come out of thin air. From the idea to the finished product, it can be a long road. One mind might have cooked up the product idea, but there's usually a slew of others who have a say in getting it to your store. See for yourself — The Yodel is the go-to source for daily news, entertainment and feel-good stories. By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy. At the beginning, every clever gadget and life-simplifying tool had an industrial designer who spent hours thinking about the components that make it so clever or life-simplifying. I talked to two of them, both winners of multiple design awards: Dan Harden of Whipsaw, a San Francisco-based firm that's designed all kinds of products, from water filters and home saunas to the little tags you stick on things you don't want to lose. And Scott Henderson, an industrial designer whose eponymous firm in Brooklyn, New York, designs products for brands you've probably got in the kitchen, nursery and bathroom. 'Moby' spout cover for babies and tots If you have toddlers, you may have a little blue rubber whale, a Moby, on your bathtub spout. Henderson designed it for Skip Hop in 2008. Moby, made of a rubbery latex-free material called TPE, fits over the spout to protect kiddos from bumping into or touching the warm spout while they're in the bath. Its tail can function as a hook, and the tub's water spout can be right where a whale's blowhole would be. When Henderson is asked about his design favorites, Moby tops the list. 'I think it was a first-of-its-kind product that combined problem-solving innovation with an intrinsic soul and an iconic personality,' he says. Pixar included a Moby-like spout cover, Drips the Whale, in 'Toy Story Toons.' Working with boldface names in the kitchen Your OXO dustpan, T-Fal measuring spoons, Sunbeam Mixmaster and Chantal kettle also came from the imagination of Henderson and his team. If a product makes you smile, he says, it becomes easier to use. How do you get a blender or a spoon to make you smile? 'One approach I like is to design the object around one big idea, instead of 10 small ones. When someone can easily understand the purpose and the way to use a tool, that's a happy feeling," he says. 'The experience is as much sensed as it is seen. The product makes them feel smart, and when they feel smart, they smile.' A new kind of face shield for the pandemic During COVID's disruption of the supply chain, many designers started 3-D printing personal protective equipment (PPE) for hospitals and essential workers. After brainstorming ideas with product development company ZVerse, Henderson and his crew had an idea: How about a face shield that attached at the neck instead of the top of the head — a boon for food service workers, dentists and others? The ZShield was born. It also became popular for public appearances by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Brad Pitt and Michelle Obama. The shield was produced in North Carolina, instead of overseas. 'We bypassed the supply chain backlog," Henderson said. Creating something useful is 'a sublime experience' Henderson says the creative breakthrough for a new product idea is the most gratifying part. "It's a dopamine explosion.' And when millions of people start buying it? Says Whipsaw's Harden: 'It's awesome to see your design out in the real world succeeding and making people happy. It starts with a thought that makes your heart jump. Followed by a sketch, then a computer rendering, then a model. Seeing a concept come to life like that's a sublime experience.' Harden's design oeuvre includes the FreeSip, a collaborative product with water bottle maker Owala, part of Trove Brands. The product made TIME magazine's Best Inventions list in 2023, as well as The New York Times' list of best water bottles in 2024. Whipsaw also worked with fitness company Tonal on a smart home gym that has fans like Serena Williams and Lebron James. Instead of a bulky set of iron, the Tonal system is wall-mounted, with digital weights powered by electromagnets, and an interactive screen for virtual training lessons. Then there's the Tile tracker, which attaches to things like wallets, phones, bikes, carry bags and sports gear. Whipsaw worked with Life360 on refining the design for easy attachment, and came up with fun colors to appeal to new tech adopters and families. 'Design is incredibly fun to do, but there are challenges,' Harden says. 'Keeping a vision alive for the duration of a project is hard, since there are many opportunities for it to get sidetracked by things like cost, product requirements and making sure the concept fits the brand. 'People think a designer has the proverbial 'big idea in the shower' and snap, it's done. It's way more involved than that.' Rethinking the piano Also an accomplished artist and musician, Harden says his design 'aha!' moment came while listening to classical music on a long flight. He got thinking about how instruments like the harp, violin and trumpet were beautiful to look at as well as listen to. 'What each of those instruments looks like greatly elevates the listener's musical experience.' But then there's the piano. 'It's a big black box held up with three chunky legs, with a sound-reflecting lid that's kind of a functional afterthought,' he said. Further, a pianist is watched in profile, so you miss much of the emotion on their face. So he started sketching out a sleek, smaller, front-facing piano that showed off its strings and mechanism to the audience within an evocative, wing-like silhouette. 'By the time I landed several hours later, it was conceptually worked out, and that soon became the Ravenchord piano," he says. There's more where that came from If these designers could redesign anything next, what would it be? Henderson would love to make city water towers more attractive; the standard silo with legs doesn't do anything for the look of the building it sits on, he says. He's also bothered by the unsightly orange construction barriers that beleaguer cityscapes, and sees those as ripe for redesign. Harden thinks the common walking cane could use a rethink. 'Or really any product that serves our aging population, I'd like to design," he said. 'Creativity is the most precious of human traits, and there's no better life pursuit than to study, practice and actualize one's creative expression.' ___ New York-based writer Kim Cook covers design and decor topics regularly for The AP. Follow her on Instagram at @kimcookhome. For more AP Lifestyles stories, go to
The Independent
30-01-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
What goes into designing that popular teapot or water bottle? 2 top creators discuss the process
Ever wonder how some of the stuff we use every day came to be? I think about it sometimes when I'm at the stove with my favorite sauté pan, with its perfect trifecta of size, weight and performance. Or when I'm struggling with the badly designed zippers on my otherwise-swanky new tote bag. Good design doesn't just come out of thin air. From the idea to the finished product, it can be a long road. One mind might have cooked up the product idea, but there's usually a slew of others who have a say in getting it to your store. At the beginning, every clever gadget and life-simplifying tool had an industrial designer who spent hours thinking about the components that make it so clever or life-simplifying. I talked to two of them, both winners of multiple design awards: Dan Harden of Whipsaw, a San Francisco-based firm that's designed all kinds of products, from water filters and home saunas to the little tags you stick on things you don't want to lose. And Scott Henderson, an industrial designer whose eponymous firm in Brooklyn, New York, designs products for brands you've probably got in the kitchen, nursery and bathroom. 'Moby' spout cover for babies and tots If you have toddlers, you may have a little blue rubber whale, a Moby, on your bathtub spout. Henderson designed it for Skip Hop in 2008. Moby, made of a rubbery latex-free material called TPE, fits over the spout to protect kiddos from bumping into or touching the warm spout while they're in the bath. Its tail can function as a hook, and the tub's water spout can be right where a whale's blowhole would be. When Henderson is asked about his design favorites, Moby tops the list. 'I think it was a first-of-its-kind product that combined problem-solving innovation with an intrinsic soul and an iconic personality,' he says. Pixar included a Moby-like spout cover, Drips the Whale, in 'Toy Story Toons.' Working with boldface names in the kitchen Your OXO dustpan, T-Fal measuring spoons, Sunbeam Mixmaster and Chantal kettle also came from the imagination of Henderson and his team. If a product makes you smile, he says, it becomes easier to use. How do you get a blender or a spoon to make you smile? 'One approach I like is to design the object around one big idea, instead of 10 small ones. When someone can easily understand the purpose and the way to use a tool, that's a happy feeling," he says. 'The experience is as much sensed as it is seen. The product makes them feel smart, and when they feel smart, they smile.' A new kind of face shield for the pandemic During COVID's disruption of the supply chain, many designers started 3-D printing personal protective equipment (PPE) for hospitals and essential workers. After brainstorming ideas with product development company ZVerse, Henderson and his crew had an idea: How about a face shield that attached at the neck instead of the top of the head — a boon for food service workers, dentists and others? The ZShield was born. It also became popular for public appearances by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Brad Pitt and Michelle Obama. The shield was produced in North Carolina, instead of overseas. 'We bypassed the supply chain backlog," Henderson said. Creating something useful is 'a sublime experience' Henderson says the creative breakthrough for a new product idea is the most gratifying part. "It's a dopamine explosion.' And when millions of people start buying it? Says Whipsaw's Harden: 'It's awesome to see your design out in the real world succeeding and making people happy. It starts with a thought that makes your heart jump. Followed by a sketch, then a computer rendering, then a model. Seeing a concept come to life like that's a sublime experience.' Harden's design oeuvre includes the FreeSip, a collaborative product with water bottle maker Owala, part of Trove Brands. The product made TIME magazine's Best Inventions list in 2023, as well as The New York Times' list of best water bottles in 2024. Whipsaw also worked with fitness company Tonal on a smart home gym that has fans like Serena Williams and Lebron James. Instead of a bulky set of iron, the Tonal system is wall-mounted, with digital weights powered by electromagnets, and an interactive screen for virtual training lessons. Then there's the Tile tracker, which attaches to things like wallets, phones, bikes, carry bags and sports gear. Whipsaw worked with Life360 on refining the design for easy attachment, and came up with fun colors to appeal to new tech adopters and families. 'Design is incredibly fun to do, but there are challenges,' Harden says. 'Keeping a vision alive for the duration of a project is hard, since there are many opportunities for it to get sidetracked by things like cost, product requirements and making sure the concept fits the brand. 'People think a designer has the proverbial 'big idea in the shower' and snap, it's done. It's way more involved than that.' Rethinking the piano Also an accomplished artist and musician, Harden says his design 'aha!' moment came while listening to classical music on a long flight. He got thinking about how instruments like the harp, violin and trumpet were beautiful to look at as well as listen to. 'What each of those instruments looks like greatly elevates the listener's musical experience.' But then there's the piano. 'It's a big black box held up with three chunky legs, with a sound-reflecting lid that's kind of a functional afterthought,' he said. Further, a pianist is watched in profile, so you miss much of the emotion on their face. So he started sketching out a sleek, smaller, front-facing piano that showed off its strings and mechanism to the audience within an evocative, wing-like silhouette. 'By the time I landed several hours later, it was conceptually worked out, and that soon became the Ravenchord piano," he says. There's more where that came from If these designers could redesign anything next, what would it be? Henderson would love to make city water towers more attractive; the standard silo with legs doesn't do anything for the look of the building it sits on, he says. He's also bothered by the unsightly orange construction barriers that beleaguer cityscapes, and sees those as ripe for redesign. Harden thinks the common walking cane could use a rethink. 'Or really any product that serves our aging population, I'd like to design," he said. 'Creativity is the most precious of human traits, and there's no better life pursuit than to study, practice and actualize one's creative expression.' New York-based writer Kim Cook covers design and decor topics regularly for The AP. Follow her on Instagram at @kimcookhome.
Associated Press
30-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
What goes into designing that popular teapot or water bottle? 2 top creators discuss the process
Ever wonder how some of the stuff we use every day came to be? I think about it sometimes when I'm at the stove with my favorite sauté pan, with its perfect trifecta of size, weight and performance. Or when I'm struggling with the badly designed zippers on my otherwise-swanky new tote bag. Good design doesn't just come out of thin air. From the idea to the finished product, it can be a long road. One mind might have cooked up the product idea, but there's usually a slew of others who have a say in getting it to your store. At the beginning, every clever gadget and life-simplifying tool had an industrial designer who spent hours thinking about the components that make it so clever or life-simplifying. I talked to two of them, both winners of multiple design awards: Dan Harden of Whipsaw, a San Francisco-based firm that's designed all kinds of products, from water filters and home saunas to the little tags you stick on things you don't want to lose. And Scott Henderson, an industrial designer whose eponymous firm in Brooklyn, New York, designs products for brands you've probably got in the kitchen, nursery and bathroom. 'Moby' spout cover for babies and tots If you have toddlers, you may have a little blue rubber whale, a Moby, on your bathtub spout. Henderson designed it for Skip Hop in 2008. Moby, made of a rubbery latex-free material called TPE, fits over the spout to protect kiddos from bumping into or touching the warm spout while they're in the bath. Its tail can function as a hook, and the tub's water spout can be right where a whale's blowhole would be. When Henderson is asked about his design favorites, Moby tops the list. 'I think it was a first-of-its-kind product that combined problem-solving innovation with an intrinsic soul and an iconic personality,' he says. Pixar included a Moby-like spout cover, Drips the Whale, in 'Toy Story Toons.' Working with boldface names in the kitchen Your OXO dustpan, T-Fal measuring spoons, Sunbeam Mixmaster and Chantal kettle also came from the imagination of Henderson and his team. If a product makes you smile, he says, it becomes easier to use. How do you get a blender or a spoon to make you smile? 'One approach I like is to design the object around one big idea, instead of 10 small ones. When someone can easily understand the purpose and the way to use a tool, that's a happy feeling,' he says. 'The experience is as much sensed as it is seen. The product makes them feel smart, and when they feel smart, they smile.' A new kind of face shield for the pandemic During COVID's disruption of the supply chain, many designers started 3-D printing personal protective equipment (PPE) for hospitals and essential workers. After brainstorming ideas with product development company ZVerse, Henderson and his crew had an idea: How about a face shield that attached at the neck instead of the top of the head — a boon for food service workers, dentists and others? The ZShield was born. It also became popular for public appearances by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Brad Pitt and Michelle Obama. The shield was produced in North Carolina, instead of overseas. 'We bypassed the supply chain backlog,' Henderson said. Creating something useful is 'a sublime experience' Henderson says the creative breakthrough for a new product idea is the most gratifying part. 'It's a dopamine explosion.' And when millions of people start buying it? Says Whipsaw's Harden: 'It's awesome to see your design out in the real world succeeding and making people happy. It starts with a thought that makes your heart jump. Followed by a sketch, then a computer rendering, then a model. Seeing a concept come to life like that's a sublime experience.' Harden's design oeuvre includes the FreeSip, a collaborative product with water bottle maker Owala, part of Trove Brands. The product made TIME magazine's Best Inventions list in 2023, as well as The New York Times' list of best water bottles in 2024. Whipsaw also worked with fitness company Tonal on a smart home gym that has fans like Serena Williams and Lebron James. Instead of a bulky set of iron, the Tonal system is wall-mounted, with digital weights powered by electromagnets, and an interactive screen for virtual training lessons. Then there's the Tile tracker, which attaches to things like wallets, phones, bikes, carry bags and sports gear. Whipsaw worked with Life360 on refining the design for easy attachment, and came up with fun colors to appeal to new tech adopters and families. 'Design is incredibly fun to do, but there are challenges,' Harden says. 'Keeping a vision alive for the duration of a project is hard, since there are many opportunities for it to get sidetracked by things like cost, product requirements and making sure the concept fits the brand. 'People think a designer has the proverbial 'big idea in the shower' and snap, it's done. It's way more involved than that.' Rethinking the piano Also an accomplished artist and musician, Harden says his design 'aha!' moment came while listening to classical music on a long flight. He got thinking about how instruments like the harp, violin and trumpet were beautiful to look at as well as listen to. 'What each of those instruments looks like greatly elevates the listener's musical experience.' But then there's the piano. 'It's a big black box held up with three chunky legs, with a sound-reflecting lid that's kind of a functional afterthought,' he said. Further, a pianist is watched in profile, so you miss much of the emotion on their face. So he started sketching out a sleek, smaller, front-facing piano that showed off its strings and mechanism to the audience within an evocative, wing-like silhouette. 'By the time I landed several hours later, it was conceptually worked out, and that soon became the Ravenchord piano,' he says. There's more where that came from If these designers could redesign anything next, what would it be? Henderson would love to make city water towers more attractive; the standard silo with legs doesn't do anything for the look of the building it sits on, he says. He's also bothered by the unsightly orange construction barriers that beleaguer cityscapes, and sees those as ripe for redesign. Harden thinks the common walking cane could use a rethink. 'Or really any product that serves our aging population, I'd like to design,' he said. 'Creativity is the most precious of human traits, and there's no better life pursuit than to study, practice and actualize one's creative expression.' ___
