15 Dad Hacks to Save the Day
Like Iron Man and his suit or Thor and his hammer, Dads and dad hacks just go together. Use these tips and tricks to be the superhero of your fatherhood story.
For both new dads and veteran dads, being on the frontlines of fatherhood is a joyful and challenging experience. Changing diapers, doing hair, picking outfits, making breakfast, washing laundry—there are a lot of tasks dads have to do. And we want to make them easier, because fathering should be all about love, not stress.
You’ve heard of life hacks, now get ready for dad hacks—the super secret weapons dads use to navigate fatherhood like a pro.
From diaper-changing tricks to meal prep mastery, there is a whole world of dad hacks. These practical tips and innovative solutions can save time, reduce stress, and amplify the joy of being a dad. So get ready to unlock your superpowers as we explore a collection of dad hacks that will help you rock the challenges of fatherhood like a true superhero!
(And remember, being a dad is a continuous journey, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and your family.)
1. Diaper Bag Essentials
Always keep spare diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, and a small blanket in your diaper bag. This way, you’re prepared for any unexpected messes or accidents.
2. Double Duty Diaper Bag
Keep a spare set of essentials—diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes—in your car. It comes in handy for unexpected situations or if you forget to restock your main diaper bag.
3. Daddy-Diaper-Changing Station
Set up a dedicated area for diaper changing with diapers, wipes, and a trash bin nearby. This makes diaper changes quicker and more convenient.
4. Baby Monitor Hacks
Use a baby monitor app on your smartphone or tablet instead of buying a separate device. It’s a cost-effective solution that allows you to keep an eye on your baby.
5. Car Organization
Car organization will save your sanity on long trips. Use a car organizer or caddy to keep essentials like wipes, tissues, and snacks easily accessible during car rides.
6. Car Entertainment
Create a car entertainment kit with books, small toys, and coloring supplies to keep your little ones occupied during long car rides. Or go big with some small TVs or tablets you can set up in the back seat.
7. Outfit Planning
Organize your child’s outfits for the week by assembling them in separate labeled drawers or hanging organizers. It saves time during busy mornings.
8. Stain Removal
For stubborn stains on baby clothes, pre-treat them with a mixture of baking soda and water before washing. Or if even that doesn’t work, try out a bar of Zote (the only thing it doesn’t remove is your genes).
9. Emergency Kit
Create a small emergency kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and basic medicines like fever reducers. It’s handy for minor accidents or illnesses on the go.
10. Bedtime Routine
Establish a consistent bedtime routine, like brushing teeth, combing hair, and then reading a story. It helps children relax and signals that it’s time to wind down for the night.
11. Meal Prep
Plan and prepare meals in advance, especially if you have a busy schedule. This saves time and ensures your family gets healthy, home-cooked meals.
12. Sneaky Veggies
If your child is a picky eater, blend vegetables into sauces, smoothies, or soups to sneak in some extra nutrients without them noticing.
13. Dad’s Emergency Snack Stash
Keep a secret stash of your favorite snacks hidden away. It’s a quick and easy way to satisfy your cravings without having to share with the kids.
14. DIY Toy Organizer
Use a hanging shoe organizer to store and organize small toys. Hang it on the back of a door or in the closet for easy access and tidy storage.
15. Toy Rotation
If you have a surplus of toys, rotate them every few weeks. This keeps things fresh and exciting for your child while reducing clutter.
For more hacks, read our book 115 Hacks and Hacktivities for Parents of Mini Humans.
More Books That Give Dads Superpowers
Shaelyn Topolovec earned a BA in editing and publishing from BYU, worked on several online publications, and joined the Familius family. Shae is currently an editor and copywriter who lives in California’s Central Valley.