Surviving the First 6 Months with Twins: 6 Must-Have Baby Items ~ SuperMom Monday

When I found out I was having twins I was in shock.  Never in my mind did I think I would hear the words "Do twins run in your family?" come out of the ultrasound techs mouth.  And my husband will never let me live down my "Shut up!" reply.  After I got feeling back in my face and feet, and my random giggle fits stopped I did what any newly expectant mother of unexpected twins would do...get to Google'n like it was nobodies business!  If you are any where near the point I was at, close the Google tab and see what 6 baby items actually helped me survive the first 6 months with twins!

This is NOT a sponsored post!  Although this post, and my site, contains affiliate links these are the items that I personally used and recommend from one SuperMoM to another!

1.  The Original Arm's Reach Co-Sleeper

Used Ages 0-6 Months (play yard can be used for years)

One thing that was constant in all the 'Twin Forum' groups I suddenly found myself reading was officially the (unofficial) twin bassinet.  Meaning it is the only bassinet who's weight is rated high enough and is large enough to hold two babies.   

According to the maker themselves the bassinet portion can hold 30 pounds, double that of a normal bassinet (the Original only, not the other models).  One side is low so you can easily reach in to soothe your babies and lift them out for night feedings without having to get out of bed!  The trend is starting to change to not let your twins sleep in the same bassinet.  That being said, MoM's everywhere swear by keeping them in the same bed in a safe way, and I agree!

2.  Fisher Price Power Plus Swings

Used Ages 0-6 Months+

Swings. Are. Awesome.  And life-savers.  No matter how many babies you have.  They love the rocking motion and I love that I can put them somewhere safe when I have to get something done.  The best things about these particular swings...they plug in!  Holy smokes the money we saved on batteries alone is UNBELIEVABLE!

Back to the forums the MoM's are split on the never-ending debate of "Do I need two of everything?!?" question.  My answer to the swing, is yes!  Now we all know the hit to the pocket book of one baby is bad enough so spend your money wisely.  Check consignment stores, yard sales and Craig's List.  I got both these swings for less then the cost of one!  Short on space?  Check out this travel size plug-in swing.  They didn't make these when I was looking a year ago!   

3.  Baby Trend Double Snap-N-Go Stroller

Used Ages 0-6 Months

Getting around with twins can seem daunting.  This stroller frame folds up to nothing and allows the infant car seats to simply snap on. 

It is a 'Universal' stroller as well meaning it fits all brands of car seats!  If you got the whole car seat/stroller package combo good for you.  If you are looking for a less expensive option the Snap-N-Go Stroller is your best-bet.  I didn't chose to go the package route because I really wanted a different type of double stroller.  Maybe one not so big and that doesn't take up as much space.

4.  Bumbo Floor Seats

Used Ages 3-6 Months+

I used my purple Bumbo for my last three girls and LOVE it double as much for my twins.  Good thing it's so durable. I only had to buy one in blue this time.  I really like how I can get the babies off the floor and sitting way before they can sit on their own.  Putting a play gym next to their seat allows them to bat at the toys hanging which is a fun
change of scenery too.  

I also use the Bumbo as a feeding chair.  They take up way less space then two high chairs!  Safety is always first SuperMoM's so never leave them sitting on a table or counter unattended.  Did you know that a portion of proceeds from every Bumbo purchase is donated to help the underprivileged and special needs children in South Africa?

5.  Mini Security Blanket aka Softie
Used Ages 3-6 Months+ (my 11 year old still has his)
Now I'm not an expert but I am a huge believer in teaching our babies to self-soothe.  It builds self-confidence and promotes Independence.  Now you can assign them their 'Lovie' item like I have with my 7 kiddo's, or you can let them choose their own.  But they will pick something.  The planner in me dreaded carrying around a giant blanket, or big teddy bear, or have them running around with a pacifier in their mouth 'till they were 5.

  If you go for the Softie route look for one trimmed in silk.  My 7 year old had one similar to this one and would twist and rub the little silk bow while she slept.  I have seen all of them rub the trim in between their fingers and rub their faces with it too.  Again, safety first when having loose blankets with your babies. 

The Softie is my number one tool for pacifier-weaning too!  Look for an upcoming post on how I weaned 6 kiddo's from their 'suckers' at 4 months (the 7th never used one!) and why you should too.  Did you see the Softie tucked under my little man in his swing? 

6.  Twin Z Pillow
Used Ages 0-6 Months+ 
If there is only one thing you purchase for your infant twins, get THIS pillow.  For nursing it is amazing.  The only one with back support.  For bottle feeding 2 babies it's like magic.  I like to think of it like a double Boppy Pillow that serves not just as a feeding support, but to assist babies with tummy time and sitting time too.

The buckle in the front keeps the opening smaller for tiny babies.  If you have a baby with Reflux or a bad cold this pillow works wonders to keep them in a supported yet reclined position for sleeping!  A bonus use: awesome photo prop to help pose your babies!
Just cover with a fun blanket or sheet!   

See all the uses of the Twin Z Pillow HERE

Now I did try the EZ-2-Nurse pillow that  I picked up for next to nothing at consignment store.  I quickly gave it back.  Even without being able to nurse for very long (another post that is coming) I still use this pillow on almost a daily basis.

It is my number one survival item!

Give me a few more months and I'll have 6 new items that get me through
the next 6 months!

Do you have a twin, or singelton, baby item that helped you survive the first 6 months?  Please share & let us know  =)