Setting up a simple and functional nursery for twins
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Introduction
Congratulations on welcoming twin bundles of joy into the world! I know this time can be a mix of excitement, uncertainty, and maybe even some fear.
Creating a creating a functional and simple twin nursery is a great first step to laying the foundation to healthy sleep. A calming, safe nursery will be your twins’ favorite place while ensuring peace of mind for you, the twin parent.
With the challenge of managing 2 babies at the same time also comes the challenge of fitting all of their gear into one nursery. If your’e like me, space in my apartment came at a premium when my twins were little. Planning a twin nursery layout efficiently is key to managing small space or small rooms.
Sleep Space
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all babies, including twins, have their own sleep space. This not only helps prevent them from posing a potential safety risk (especially when they can roll), but it helps them sleep better. Even if you already have a crib from an older child, getting a second crib is highly recommended.
Whether using cribs or travel cribs, only use crib bedding that is approved for that product. It should be fitted, with no loose blankets or pillows. I know the crib sets often come with cute matching quilts or pillows, but those are to be used for tummy time or other supervised play- not sleep.
Cribs and Sleeping Arrangements
Evaluate your room size and decide on the best crib placement for your twin babies. Will you be using cribs or pack n plays? My twins slept in pack in plays until they were 2 years old because we were living overseas and had a limited budget and limited space. There is nothing wrong with this if that’s what fits your space and budget.
If you decide to invest in cribs, you might want to consider a crib that will grow with your child. Consider how much it will cost to buy 2 cribs and two toddler beds versus 2 durable, convertible cribs. Many 5 in 1 convertible cribs will also function as a full size headboard as well.
Twin Nursery Layout
No matter what type of cribs you decide on, they should be on opposite walls to promote the best sleep possible. We’ve seen those cute videos of twins hugging each other from across the cribs. That is super cute, but remember, they will do that at other times of the day as well. At night, it’s best to let them have some space. At the very least, it’s a good idea to be able to fit a fan or sound machine between the cribs. Just make sure any cords or outlets are out of reach for both babies.
Make the most of storage spaces if you are working with a small room. That might mean using the space under their cribs fora storage bin or basket. If you are handy, you can try placing shelves above the windows, in a corner, or above door frames for extra storage. If you want the nursery to feel open and accessible, minimize toys and gear. Although you have two babies, you don’t need two of everything, especially when it comes to bulky items.
Essential Baby Furniture and Storage
I love having a changing table that does double duty as a dresser for storing baby clothes and supplies. If you already have a dresser that is about hip height, you may be able to find a changing topper that fits. Depending on your budget and space, you could go with anything as simple as just the cushion, this wipeable cushion with a mobile, a changing station topper, or a full dresser and topper. Whatever you choose, I do think making sure you have a good diaper changing station with a buckle is worth the money and space.
Even if you do have a simple set up, twin babies come with a lot of stuff. Try using an over the door storage organizer for extra baby clothes, toys and diapers to save space.
Having a nursery chair or glider can help with middle of the night feedings and story time. If you have the space, it’s really nice to have two chairs. My husband and I moved a small wingback chair from out living room into our room as a second chair during the first 3 months. This way, we could both sit and snuggle or feed our babies at the same time in their nursery. If you don’t have the space in their nursery, consider having your chair(s) in another room of the home such as a living room or your bedroom.
Whatever you do, make sure that you get a storage ottoman to go with it. You’ll want to put extra burp cloths, pacifiers, and blankets (not for sleep, just for snuggles) in there during the first few months. Later on, this can either serve as another spot for diapers and clothes, or for books during bedtime reading.
Sleep-friendly elements
No matter what nursery theme or color palette you decide on, creating a sleep friendly environment will make this nursery your twins’ favorite room.
- Be sure to use blackout curtains
- Get a great white noise machine, such as the Hatch
- Split Screen video monitor for your peace of mind and their safety
Budget-friendly ideas
Focus on the important things you really need for the twin nursery, while avoiding unnecessary clutter. You don’t need 2 of every toy, you don’t even need 2 swings. I recommend getting two small bouncy seats that can fold instead of bulky swings. These are great for when you need a safe spot to put your babies when you have your hands full with laundry or cleaning. One play gym that folds is also plenty for the first few months.
Those big, bulky baby items are really used for such a short period of time. When you’re on a budget, you don’t have to get new of everything. I actually used to worry that my twin babies needed to have the same everything at first. They don’t. It’s ok not to have matching bouncy chairs or swings at all. If you can snag some second had gear or hand me down items from friends and family just check to make sure it is safe and has not been recalled. Even cribs don’t have to match.
Another great way to save is to register for items. You can usually save 10-15% on most items that don’t get purchased by your friends and family. I always add diapers and wipes to my registries so that I can stock up and save in the first couple of weeks.
Newborn Twins
Remember that for the first few months, you may not use the nursery for sleeping if you have your babies in your room with you. This is especially true if you happen to be one of the many twin families who spend their first days in the NICU. If your babies will be in your room during the newborn phase, be sure to get a great twin bassinet. I recommend a bassinet that will keep your twins close to each other but still in their own space.
You may use it for daytime naps, changing, or feeding. This will give you time to learn what you really need in a nursery. You should feel free to re-arrange your twin nursery as many times as you need to in order to get the right fit for your family.
Conclusion
Try to keep things as simple as possible when it comes to setting up your nursery. You will likely change things around as your twins grow and their needs change.
If you have questions or concerns about your nursery layout, I can definitely help you think this through! Part of my sleep consultation includes an optional nursery assessment so that we can optimize sleep and simplicity at bedtime. Set up a call with me and let’s get your twins sleeping!
