Hey there, fellow parent of multiples! Whether you're eagerly awaiting the arrival of your dynamic duo or you're knee-deep in the chaotic but beautiful world of raising twins, there's one thing we can all agree on: having the right gear can make all the difference. So, let's dive into the essential twin must-haves that'll have you feeling like a pro in no time!
1. Twin Z Pillow: Say hello to your new best friend. This lifesaver of a pillow is a game-changer for feeding, lounging, and even tummy time. It's like having an extra set of hands (or two)! We used this for our twins until a little over a year for every single feeding. When they were newborns it was the only way I felt comfortable giving them bottles by myself so we could do shifts (oh the shifts...). What worked best for me was propping them both up on each side on the couch and then sitting on my knees in front of them. Always a paci/soother in the middle to be able to plug into the twin who is still propped and you are burping the other twin!! That tip came from another twin mom and it saved me! As soon as I picked one up to burp, I'd plug up the propped baby with a paci so we didn't have a scream fest at 1am. Do NOT come at me for using a paci because literally, it saved me haha!
2. Double Trouble Bottle Warmers: With two hungry little ones to feed, having two bottle warmers is a must. Do your research based on the bottles you choose to ensure you get the perfect match. I tried out several and always ended up back with two separate dr. brown ones. I would love for their to be a magical double warmer but I didn't have much luck finding that! If you find it, SEND!
3. Bottles Galore: Stock up on bottles like there's no tomorrow. Having a stash of 4 oz and 8 oz bottles will save you from endless dishwashing sessions. Yes I know, less is more BUT not when it comes to bottles and newborns ha! If you are like me and weren't able to breastfeed long, you will end up with having to wash SIXTEEN bottles a day at least. Ask your friends with toddlers if they have any bottles laying around and you can always purchase new nipples if you're worried about that. It's just much easier to run the dishwasher every night vs. wash the same 4 bottles 4-5 times a day RIGHT!?
4. Baby Monitor Magic: Keep a watchful eye (or two) on your precious pair with a reliable baby monitor. Bonus points for an extra camera to cover all the angles. Read the reviews but there are really great options out there now! We have Infant Optics DXR8 and have no complaints but I have plenty of friends that all love different brands.
5. Steam Sterilizer: Keep those bottles squeaky clean and germ-free with a trusty steam sterilizer. Because when it comes to your babies, there's no such thing as too clean. Good 'ole trusty amazon for this!
6. Double the Bouncers: Definitely on the luxury item side of things BUT in my opinion worth every cent. These are great to get 2nd hand b/c you can machine wash the covers and make them as good as new!
7. Sound Machine: It's a bedtime essential recommended by the pros at Moms On Call. If you don't know Moms On Call, they are the baby whisperers. We followed their schedules and suggestions as closely as possible and I would get MOC tattooed on me if I wasn't afraid of needles ha! I am forever grateful for those women! One is even a twin mom herself which always made me feel extra comfortable with the advice and schedules.
8. Baby-Wearing Bliss: Keep your hands free and your heart full with a quality baby carrier. Whether you prefer the Baby Bjorn or the Ergo, wearing your twins is a game-changer. This will be so helpful for when you are along with the twins around the house. Wearing one, while one swings or bounces etc will help you move around quicker!
9. Diapers: I know you just assume you have enough diapers but you don't LOL. In the first few weeks you'll be changing around 20 diapers a day, I know, it's gross but it's facts. So STOCK UP. It helped me a lot to have an auto subscription for diapers and wipes come every two weeks. The last thing I wanted to happen was a middle of the night blow out and be out of diapers or wipes!
Now that we've covered the must-haves, let's talk about what you can skip. Say "so long" to wipe warmers (ain't nobody got time for that!) and skip the Bumbos—they're just not worth the investment.
So there you have it, fellow twin parents! With these must-have items in your arsenal, you'll be ready to tackle twin parenthood like a champ.
