Keep a Lookout for Deals: Some websites such as babylist.com, have “best deals of the week,” or other opportunities for you to save a buck. Do your research and take advantage of the two-for-one deals!
Shop Like you Have One: Obviously you will need more of some things (diapers, wipes, etc.), but having your multiples share items and take turns (with the rocker and swing for example) can save bucks until you absolutely feel like you need two! Look at the bright side — they may even build early sharing habits!
Second-Hand Gear is Phenomenal: Local consignment shops, family and friends are your go-to sources for second-hand gear. If someone offers to give something to you, take it! You may find that depending on the difference of size, one twin may be a great second-hand resource for the other!
Become a Coupon-Cutting Queen: I know, who has time to cut coupons? So if you don’t have time to search for coupons in the Sunday paper, try signing up for coupons and e-mail sale alerts from your favorite baby brands. Or, jump on local Facebook groups — some have online yard sales and may even hand off unused or unwanted coupons for free.
Join a Club: Moms’ clubs exist, even for moms with multiples (see Expecting: Twins, Triplets and More, Oh My for great local mom groups), and some even have annual sales. You can also qualify to be a MoM (mother of multiples) meaning you can subscribe to Multiples of America (multiplesofamerica.org) for a free year of membership. Being a member gets you free food, plus this national organization hosts consignment sales, and members are always posting free or cheap gear on local websites.
“There are also apps you can download that offer rewards for taking surveys or writing reviews on the products you’re already using like wipes, diapers and clothes,” suggests Rebekah Otto, editor-in-chief at babylist.com. “If you’re having one boy and one girl, opt for neutral colors like green, yellow and gray for items like jammies. You’ll be able to use those items for both children, plus any future children you might have!”
Having multiples is hard, but there is so much support out there to help you along the way. Plan, prepare and don’t be afraid to ask for a little help to help you enjoy this big moment!
“Enjoy this time and do everything you can to prepare before your little ones get here,” she continues. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You can even include things like help and favors for meals, house cleaning and more (babylist.com/index)!”
REGISTERING FOR MULTIPLES
Registering for two or more, doesn’t mean you need more of everything! According to Otto, there are countless, shareable items for your multiples. “There are some items you will need multiples of,” assures Otto. “For example, it’s a good idea to have 10 – 16 bottles per baby.” Here are some bottles that are perfect you have twins or more:
1. PODEE HANDS-FREE BABY BOTTLE FEEDING SYSTEM (TWIN PACK) | amazon.com | $15.99
Comes in handy for those times you need to be hands-free! Holding bottles is a full time job, and every parent deserves a break from time to time.
2. DR. BROWN’S NATURAL FLOW ORIGINAL NEWBORN BOTTLE GIFT SET | babylist.com | $20.18
Babies go through these very quickly. Less plastic bottles to wash, Mom!
3. BABY RELAX DOUBLE ROCKER, DARK TAUPE | amazon.com | $238.33
Before your little bundles arrive, consider having these items ready to go in the nursery! Sometimes you have to splurge a little to make life with two more comfortable. This double rocker is comfortable and accommodates tandem nursing sessions and bedtime routines as your twins grow.
4. THE TABLE FOR TWO TWIN FEEDING SYSTEM: GOTCHA, BRIGHT YELLOW | buytablefortwo.com | $279
Twins hungry at the same time? This two-feeding system designed for twins takes care of that.
5. TWINGO ORIGINAL BABY CARRIER | twingocarrier.com | $214.99
Mom can accomplish anything with this carrier that gives her the ability to carry two! Converting into ergonomic single-child carriers (each parent can carry one!) you can use this from infant to toddler!