User Test Drop!

Today I dropped off two prototypes with a family: a stroller/diaper bag and a one-handed adapter for an umbrella stroller. Here's how the umbrella adapter looked on the stroller:

I was also shown a cool roll-up diaper carrier. It was sewn for them by a friend. It fits several diapers, is compact and folds neatly. It's made to be thrown into a bag. 

I really like the grey lining and durable outer material, as well as the brown trim. It fit into my bag- maybe it will make a trip with it!

Stroller Bag Number Two

Here's a new version of my stroller and diaper bag.

For the second iteration, I thought of some important criteria.

1. The bag needs to be able to fit onto a variety of strollers — not just an umbrella stroller. 

2. There is also a need for flexibility- both for the user and for a variety of users. 

I added a clip system that not only is convertible from a tote to shoulder to messenger, but is adjustable and lets the user clip the bag onto a stroller that has a crossbar. 

3. The bag should be easily washed.

Whether or not the user will wash the bag often, it definitely should be an option. I used a lightweight material for this version, though a sturdier canvas that is also soft could provide support, comfort and washability.

A test run on a Phil and Ted's stroller.

The bag can be converted into a shoulder or messenger bag. It can also be handled like a tote.

4. The bag should be easy to use. 

Storage should be ample, and the items stored should be easy to find. I made the middle, 'easy to grab' compartment smaller. 

I'm planning on having Mindy, whose storage habits I observed, test the bag for me in the next few days.

Stroller/Diaper Bag: First Prototype

Here is my first attempt at a simple, collapsible diaper bag to fit on a stroller, based on my observations with Mindy. Here it's on the studio 'test' stroller.

It fits well on the stroller — I've oriented the straps so that when full, the bulk of the bag will be side to side, minimizing interference (the straps on Mindy's bag were the opposite). I quickly realize though that it will not fit on any other type of stroller.

The center compartment, constructed from an extra panel, may be too roomy- making it so that quick reach items may not be visible from above, like Mindy's bag.

Here are a few more details:

I'm happy with the overall size so far, and that it isn't an obvious diaper bag. Next step is to try to minimize the inner space, and make the straps more flexible. A more durable material then this scrap fabric is necessary, though a simple to clean cloth could be a necessity.

A Simple, Organized Bag

While out observing Mindy, I paid attention to her use of an umbrella stroller and her storage solutions. Rather than using a diaper bag (a type she has been unhappy with), Mindy uses various totes and canvas bags. Her current bag of choice is made of green canvas and has a simple dividing system.

A complaint of Mindy's is that diaper bags are too bulky. Also, the one she has is made of an unpleasant material. Could it be that, in addition to size, diaper bags have too many pockets and options?

Here is what Mindy took to the park and farmer's market on the day I observed her. We were gone for about three hours. A large bag was not needed. An additional canvas bag was taken for groceries.

The contents easily fit into the bag.

A perk of having a small bag made of a material that isn't too stiff is that it can be shoved into a larger bag for easy transport. All the baby stuff stays in the bag, no matter who is taking it.

The straps hang on the umbrella stroller handles, and can be used to store coats and in this case, a skateboard.

Observations: Storage

While out with Tess on a trip to the Botanical Gardens, I observed a possible need: easy storage and quick-find solutions.

Before purchasing tickets, Tess had to remove her backpack and take out many contents to get to her wallet. 

For a parent who prefers a backpack to a diaper bag, is there a solution for organization?

Stroller Cargo

Strollers store and carry more than a child. 

Diaper bags are carried on the back of the stroller, straps strung over the bars or hooked directly to the stroller. Besides a diaper bag, the handles hold additional bags, such as the users' non-diaper bags and totes. Errands result in grocery bags that add to the back of the stroller.

Strollers Tipping Over

Strollers carry much more than a baby. They are used to transport bags, both for the baby and those accumulated during errands.

A major need we have discovered is for lightweight strollers, mainly umbrella strollers, to not tip over. 

Without the baby, a diaper bag makes the stroller tip over. To prevent tipping, the bag is placed where the baby will be. 

One bag too many...