Preparing For Twins

So, you're having twins! Now what? Preparing for twins doesn't have to be complicated. And it's not a bad idea to start preparations in the early part of twin pregnancy. You'll have a lot more energy to tackle projects, go shopping, interview pediatricians , and perhaps, even put together some cribs.

There is certainly more gear needed for twins than singletons, as well as a bit more space. Making a list of the key items needed to prepare for your twins eventual arrival will help with setting a budget and keeping you on track with the essentials.

The first thing you will need to think about is lifestyle. Will you have your twins in separate rooms or one room? Will you be nursing or bottle feeding? Cloth or disposable diapers? What type of double stroller will suit you? And, of course, finances!

Buying for two can become costly. Keep in mind that there are many things your twins will not need or use when they are newborns. Obtaining these items later is a nice way to spread out the expense and the fuss. If you’re on a tight budget or tight on space, you may want to forego two cribs or a twin crib, initially, and get one crib to share or

two bassinets instead. Twins can sleep in bassinets until around 6 months or so. Not to mention, a bassinet can be moved from room to room with ease…A huge plus when you’ve got two babies! You won’t have need of two highchairs for a while either so, if space and expense is an issue, you can save a bit here. You may also want to check out secondhand shops and garage sales for some of the pricier items. And don’t forget your sister or friend who had a baby and needs to get rid of some stuff. If neither cost or space is an issue for you, happy shopping!

The following is a recommended list of the essentials for your twins homecoming:

• 1-2 Cribs or 2 bassinets
  
• 2 car seats
  
• Double stroller
  
• 4-8 crib/bassinet sheets
  
• 6-10 receiving blankets
  
• 2-4 heavy blankets (for winter babies)
  
• Diapers! (100 or so per week)
  
• Cloth Diapers! (if you go this route, your local diaper service will let you know how many you will need)
  
• 2-4 boxes of baby wipes
  
• Twin diaper bag
  
• 10-14 one piece undershirts
  
• 10-14 one piece pajamas and/or gowns
  
• 4-8 pairs of socks/booties
  
• 4-6 hats
  
• 4-6 blanket sleepers (for winter babies)
  
• Baby wash and lotion
  
• 1-2 bath cushions or 1 portable tub
  
• 4-8 washcloths and towels
  
• Diaper rash ointment
  
• 2 thermometers
  
• 2 bulb syringes
  
• Tylenol for infants
  
• 6-14 bottles and nipples (if you will bottle feed)
  
• 2-4 large cans of formula (approx. a can a week)
  
• 1 bottle brush
  
• 6-12 burp cloths
  
• 4-8 bibs
  
• Twin nursing pillow (great even for bottle feeding)

Read more about That Fun First Year

Read more about Preparing For Twins

Click here to go back to Home Page