How to Prepare for Twins [6 Tried-and-True Tips]

Getting ready for twins? There’s nothing more helpful than solid advice from baby experts who’ve been there and done that. Truly, taking care of twins is a whole new ballgame. “I took a multiples training class several years ago, and there was a section about becoming an octopus. Honestly, with twins or triplets, you’ll literally feel like one!” says Kristin Revere, newborn care specialist, author, and owner of Gold Coast Doulas in West Michigan. Kristin and her team have firsthand experience caring for twins and have tons of knowledge to share.

When you’re expecting two babies at once, preparation is key. And with a little extra support too, your first few months postpartum can be much smoother compared to the messiness of jumping in cold turkey. Keep on reading, these expert-backed tips will help you get ready for life with twins—we’ve got your back.

6 Tips on How to Prepare for Twins:

1. Treat your twins as one baby

No, not literally. Here’s what we really mean: When possible, do everything simultaneously with both babies—baths, feedings, naps, diaper changes… the whole nine yards. It might feel unnatural or forced at first, but syncing their schedules will give you more pockets of peace throughout the day instead of juggling all needs at different times.

For example, if one baby wakes up to eat, wake the other up and feed them together. “Having multiples is one scenario where feeding on demand isn’t an option—you will run yourself ragged,” says Kristin Revere. Bottom line, get your twins on the same schedule, and you’ll thank yourself later.

2. Stock up on pre-made meals

One thing’s for sure. You won’t have much extra time to cook in those early weeks after birth. And when you do, you definitely won’t want to. Prepare now by stocking your freezer with easy, ready-to-eat meals. Oh, and fill up your pantry with plenty of snacks, too. On top of it all, you could also have a family member set up a meal train so you can have full meals dropped off at your home for at least the first week after birth.

3. Take advantage of disposable dishware

Dishes? Yeah, you probably won’t want to prioritize those early postpartum either. Do yourself a favor and stock up on paper plates, disposable cups, and utensils in prep. No, it’s not ideal from a wasteful, Earth-sustainable standpoint. But it’s also not forever. Disposable dishware will make life easier when your arms are full of babies and sleep is lacking. Grab a few weeks’ worth just in case!

4. Set up multiple baby stations

Walking all the way across the house for diapers and wipes when both babies are crying is no fun. No thank you. Create mini baby stations wherever you spend the most time—the living room, bedroom, and nursery. Have a cart or basket ready to go with diapers, wipes, extra clothes, binkies, and burp cloths handy. You’ll save yourself so many unnecessary trips in the long run.

5. Hire a postpartum doula

If it’s in your budget or if your company benefits cover doula services, invest in a postpartum or night doula. Many twin moms look back and wish they had more help in those early months, and doulas are a game-changer. An overnight doula can take care of the babies while you get some sleep, while a daytime postpartum doula can support you and the babies with daily care, feeding help, and even light housework. It’s truly worth every penny to have a helping hand around who’s an expert in everything baby and postpartum life.

“With twins, having an extra set of hands for each baby is really helpful. Think ahead about what kind of help you may need later, and find a postpartum doula that is skilled with multiples” shares Kristin Revere. If you’re in the area, baby experts at Gold Coast Doulas support West Michigan families with full postpartum doula support. If you’re not in the area, you can also find care using Doula Search.

You can also take an online class to fit your busy schedule, such as the “Preparing for Multiples” 90-minute class offered by Gold Coast Doulas. This particular class covers what to do during pregnancy (hospital tours and insurance), what kind of gear you need to purchase and how many, tips to keep you sane, and where to find resources and support.

6. Think about getting set up with a therapist

Twins are a blessing, but they’re also a lot of work, both physically and mentally. And postpartum depression and anxiety are a real thing. In fact, medical experts say twin moms have a higher risk of developing postpartum depression compared to moms with one baby. Finding a therapist before birth means you’ll already have someone to turn to if you start feeling overwhelmed. We’re not saying you will struggle—but if you do, having support in place can make all the difference.

All in all, if we’re being honest, preparing for twins can be a bit overwhelming. But our biggest tip? Get ahead of it now. It will make your routine much easier later.

If you want more expert guidance on postpartum life, from mood swings and bleeding to your changing ta-tas and even your first post-birth poo, grab Kristin’s book, Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby. It’s made by moms, for moms, and is packed with invaluable tips.

Kristin Revere, MM, CED, NCS, is a certified birth and postpartum doula and the founder of Gold Coast Doulas in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is also the co-host of Ask the Doulas Podcast and co-author of Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby.