Newborn Twin Nursery Set Up & Essentials
Congrats, it’s twins! When you find out you’re going to have a newborn twin nursery it is often overwhelming. Setting up one room for two brand new babies can seem like a daunting task. With a couple helpful pointers, you can set up a nursery that works perfectly without all the extra clutter.
Newborn Twin Crib Setup and Safety
When setting up any baby’s sleep space, it’s important to keep in mind the AAP’s Safe Sleep Guidelines. Twins are no exception! Set up each baby’s crib or bassinet with a firm, flat surface free of any objects other than the baby. Brand new babies prefer a tight swaddle. You can also lay them down with a pacifier if you choose.
The best place to set up both cribs is away from windows and definitely out of reach of window shade cords. The safest way to arrange them is separate from each other (on opposite walls or on opposite ends of the room), though that’s not always feasible. Bonus: this can give babies a chance to make noise without waking the other one up.
While it may look cute, avoid hanging things like heavy artwork or mobiles over the baby’s bed. It’s important to make sure nothing falls in during the night!
Changing Station
While you do have two new babies, you haven’t suddenly grown a new set of arms! Opt for one dresser that is well-stocked with a changing station on top. You can invest in dividers to help keep drawers organized and tidy.
Essentials to consider: diapers, wipes, thermometer, nasal aspirator, nail clippers, diaper rash cream, baby lotion
It might seem odd to keep things like nail clippers and thermometers near the changing table but it’s easiest to do things like taking temperatures and clipping nails when baby is within arm’s reach!
Mobiles may not belong over beds but they’re an awesome addition for a changing station. Their often bright colors and fun designs can help keep a wiggly baby busy while you’re changing diapers and clothes.
Newborn Twin Feeding + Seating Area
A plush rocking chair is a great idea but any chair works well. If you plan to feed your babies in their nursery, ensure the chair is comfortable enough for you to have a baby in your arms. A bottle warmer is a great thing to set up. It’s also a good idea to have burp rags stocked and easily accessible. Spit-up happens, it’s best to be prepared!
Remember that there are two littles who need to eat, consider where you’ll be placing one baby while you feed the other (unless you’re very skilled at tandem feeding!). Baby positioners that incline higher than 30* aren’t considered safe for sleeping babies to be in. Consider a bassinet, swing, or even Boppy lounger that keeps baby at 10* or less incline.
Another wonderful add-on is a basket full of healthy snacks, water bottles, and anything you may need within reach when nursing or bottle-feeding your babies. A feeding pillow is a super helpful item as well!
Baby Sleep Essentials
Of course, you’ll want your little ones to sleep as much as they can. We highly recommend grabbing some sleep essentials like a white noise machine, blackout curtains, and lightweight swaddles. For a more in-depth list, check out our Newborn Sleep Essentials blog!
Other Things to Consider
Stocking a few extras of receiving blankets, changing pad covers, crib sheets, and bassinet sheets will make for quick and easy changes in the event of messes. If you plan to hire someone to come help with baby overnight, make sure you have a sleep space ready and waiting for them! A bed in the nursery works just as well as a guest room. Having a mini-fridge is nice to have bottles ready and waiting. Just pop into the warmer while you change diapers. Remember, we’re aiming for easy here!
Preparing a nursery for twins doesn’t have to be a struggle! Keep in mind safe sleep, streamlined changing area, and the basics and you’ll have a streamlined-yet-functional nursery ready in no time.
You may also be interested in this article: A Doula for Twins.
