Preparing For Twins

So, you're having twins! Now what? Preparing for twins does not 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, and perhaps, even put together some cribs.

There is certainly more gear needed for twins then 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, 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

1 twin nursing pillow (great even for bottle feeding)

If you have the above items on hand, you will be pretty well prepared for infant twins. If it's within your budget and you have the space, you may also want to purchase a baby monitor, 1-2 baby swings and/or bouncer chairs, 1-2 changing tables and a good quality breast pump (if you will breastfeed your twins). As mentioned earlier, lifestyle will play a role in deciding what items to obtain. So, use this list as your guideline when preparing for twins. Best of luck!

By Kellie Asaro: Mom-treprenuer, Author, Designer of Twin Clothing & Gifts

Kellie is the proud mother of identical twin boys and a daughter. She is the founder and author of http://www.twin-pregnancy-and-beyond.com , a wonderful resource for parents and families who have or are expecting twins. She also owns Trends In Twos - http://www.trendsintwos.com , a chic boutique specializing in clothing and gifts for twins and their families.

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