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There are some super cute diaper bags out there. Several of which I’ve used and like a lot. But there are some days that I just miss my pre-mommy handbags. I have a few sitting in my closet that remain unused, only seeing the light of day for an occasional date night. Which makes me sad, because I have some bags I really love. That’s why I was so excited to check out ToteSavvy from Life In Play when they asked if they could send me one to review. It’s an organizer insert for your favorite handbag – the perfect excuse to brush the dust off of mine.
The ToteSavvy comes in two different sizes. I’ve been using the ToteSavvy Mini over the last few weeks. At just 9.5 inches long, it includes one main pocket, three large pockets and two smaller ones. There’s a lot I really like about the ToteSavvy Mini. It’s just big enough for all the essentials I need for short outings with Liam and Caleb. For me, that list includes:
– a bottle of water for Liam
– a pre-mixed bottle of formula for Caleb
– 2-3 diapers
– diaper wipes container
– teether or toy for Caleb
– a snack or two for Liam
– burp cloth
– my wallet
The insert also comes with a thin changing mat and a little clasp so you can attach your keys. I tend to just toss my keys in my bag, so I haven’t really used the key clasp much. But the changing mat is great. It’s pretty basic, but it’s light and thin and doesn’t take up a ton of room. And it’s just what you need for quick diaper changes on the go.
I like putting my Mini inside some of my cross body purses, because those generally give me more options for carrying. The nice thing, though, is that it’s versatile enough to fit inside of a medium-sized backpack or really any kind of bag or tote that’s a little bigger in size than the Mini itself. The elastic around the pockets help keep things from falling out, so it’s really versatile across different bag styles. Which is awesome if you like to change your bag according to your outfit.
The handles on the top of the Mini make it so easy to remove from my purse while keeping everything intact. I can take the boys out to a play date, but then head out for a girls’ night with the same bag. All I have to do is remove the ToteSavvy and set it aside until I return. The baby essentials stay put in the ToteSavvy, so it’s super quick and easy to turn my purse into a diaper bag again. And this way, I don’t have to run around the house trying to collect everything to put back into the bag.
I love the price of the Mini as well. It’s $45 and you can get it in either black or grey – whichever matches the interior of your favorite bag better. While you can easily pick up an inexpensive diaper bag at that price point, the ToteSavvy allows you to use the bag you already own and love. Babies already make it hard to avoid accumulating “stuff”, so I like that the insert replaces the need to purchase an additional bag.
One thing I’ve noticed about the ToteSavvy is that I’m frequently wishing I had the larger size. While I like the compactness of the Mini, it makes it hard for a bottle-feeding mama like me to use over a longer period of time. Caleb eats pretty regularly every three hours. If I have both boys with me, I can fit one pre-mixed bottle of formula in the bag. If we’re going to be out longer than that, I prefer not to mix bottles up ahead of time.
I think if I changed up the way I carry powdered formula and water with me, I could potentially fit a second bottle in the Mini. But otherwise, I’d need to keep additional bottles and formula in the car or bring a different bag. If I were a nursing mama, this dilemma would likely be a non-issue. Or if I only had one little with me, I wouldn’t have a water bottle and toddler snacks taking up precious real estate in my bag.
For me, I can see scenarios where I can benefit from owning both sizes of the ToteSavvy. If you tend to carry more things with you (or have a larger purse you love), the original version is probably the right one for you (it costs $72 and comes in four color options). If you prefer to be a little more minimalistic, the Mini version is the way to go. Either way, you’re going to love the fact that you can turn your favorite purse into your favorite diaper bag.
You can check out both versions of the ToteSavvy and purchase them here on the Life In Play website. I’ve also seen the regular version available on Amazon. And if you want to check it out in person, take a look at the store locater to find out what shops near you may carry it. To see the insert in use (and see what kinds of handbags other mamas are using with it), you can check out ToteSavvy on Instagram and Facebook. My personal favorite combo is the original ToteSavvy with the LV Neverfull. Which I will probably never be able to afford and own, but a girl can dream, right?
Do you own a ToteSavvy? What bag to you pair it with?
Melanie Pickett says
This looks so handy! There are so many nicer options now to stay organized and carry everything you need. Thanks for sharing!
Amy from mehmomblog.com says
This is amazing! Now that I have a toddler I have no need to haul around an entire diaper bag, but hate just throwing all her things haphazardly in my bag. I can see this being the new hot 2018 baby registry item.
Liz says
This is genius! I have been carrying a diaper bag around for almost 5 years! I can’t believe I’ve never even thought of something like this!!
magen says
I don’t think enough people understand how important it is to have an organized diaper bag. If the baby needs something you can’t find it within seconds a meltdown can be already on the way.
Jiya B says
Wow this baby essential prodcut is really a saviour I have a habit to keep things in bag and then keep searching for it when I need it. This is really nice, handy and comfortable.