Finding out your are having twins is such an amazing revelation. It’s not uncommon to want to run out and buy all the things right away. In this post I’ll share my advice for when to buy baby stuff for those who are just itching to get started.
Early on: Diapers and the big stuff
I highly recommend stockpiling diapers from the get-go because a) they can get pretty expensive and b) the first 4 or 5 months of newborn twins are the most challenging so the more prepared you are at home, the better!
Another thing you will want to plan for early in your twin pregnancy are the furniture items. Are you going to use 2 cribs or 1? Where will you store pack and plays and a double stroller? It’s best to decide what you want to use and where you are going to put it while you are still moving around comfortably. After the second trimester you are going to be sizably pregnant. Your body will really slow down and it is exhausting just doing regular stuff, much less putting together furniture, painting, shopping, etc.
*Tip: Save the receipts! Extra diapers can be returned.
After the anatomy ultrasound (usually 18-20 weeks): gender-specific stuff and clothes
During a twin pregnancy you have a lot of ultrasounds. Chances are you will have an idea of the babies’ genders before this, what my ObGyn called “the big ultrasound”. The ultrasound technician will also check to make sure that all the babies’ parts are developing at a normal rate, so it may be a good idea to hold off on buying too much until you’re sure they are both ok. Once you have the anatomy ultrasound you can start getting outfits and other items (check this list of twin essentials) that you want in gender-specific colors for your newborn twins. Keep in mind that “full term” for a twin pregnancy is 37 weeks, and it is not uncommon for twins to be born anytime after 32 weeks. You may want to install your carseats ahead of time so you are ready for when the babies come!
*Tip: Visit Twiniversity’s page for discounts for multiples.
After the babies arrive: Stuff for older babies
Play items like Fisher Price’s Exersaucers are nice, but they take up a lot of space and won’t be used until the twins are at least 6 months old. These, along with high chairs, carriers, and play items, can be purchased at a later date.
*Tip: You may not need 2 of every toy, so it is best to wait until you get to know your babies’ personalities before buying toys for them.
