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The Best Baby Sock Monitor for Twins and Should You Even Use One?

Twiniversity — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 04:01:00 +0000

Considering getting a smart sock baby monitor for your twins? Read on to learn about the best baby sock monitors out there and experiences that other twin parents have had using them! Do you ever wonder how your own parents or grandparents raised their children? In the age of technology, there are so many things that are designed to make life easier and safer with raising our newborn and infant babies. Technology like continually advancing car seats and even disposable diapers. My mom reminds me that my grandma had hand washed cloth diapers for all the years she had children. And she raised 6! But car seats and diapers are probably not the first thing you think of when it comes to baby technology. Instead you probably think of all the things that blink and sync, like one of the latest and greatest to the infant tech world: the smart sock baby monitor! If you’ve never heard of this, you’re probably thinking what!? I’m telling you, the world of baby tech is wild! Smart sock baby monitors are a whole thing. The question then becomes why would you want to have a smart sock baby monitor? And if you do use one, what is the best baby sock monitor for you as a twin parent? So let’s get into answering all those questions on your mind! And be sure to read all the way to the end to hear about real experiences from other twin parents and their take on sock monitors for their twins. Disclaimer: All content on this website, including medical opinions and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others. What is a smart sock baby monitor? And how does it work? Smart sock baby monitors are like monitors with additional bells and whistles. If you’re expecting now in 2025, I’m going to guess your parents monitored you with an audio-only monitor. Or perhaps they had the first generation of video monitors. Video and audio are great to keep an eye on your child because if something happens, you’ll hear and see what’s going on in that room. But smart sock baby monitors are next level. They allow you to track even more. The smart “sock” is worn on your baby’s foot (just like a sock). And the sock has built-in technology that sends messages to the monitor (and ultimately to you). Some of these sock monitors can track sleep patterns and others may track heart rates and oxygen levels. Whether you decide to use one of these smart sock monitors or not, it’s important to realize that they are not a replacement for any other safe-sleep practices that can help prevent SIDS (like laying the baby on their back). And they are in no way, shape, or form meant to diagnose or prevent any sort of disease or health issues for your baby. Instead, smart sock baby monitors are a supplemental wellness device. And of course, it’s best to consult your pediatrician or other medical professional before using one for your babies. What are the pros and cons of using a baby sock monitor for your twins? As with all technology, there are those who love the monitor and others who are against their use. So let’s take a quick look at some of the potential benefits and drawbacks: What are the cons of using a smart sock baby monitor? One common argument against smart sock baby monitors is that they may increase anxiety for the parent because they make you feel like you’re always on alert. Like having too much information to worry about. For example, one pediatric clinic pointed to an incident where the baby’s heart rate dropped a little when they were asleep, which prompted the parents to take the infant to the ER. They explain that the heart rate can naturally drop during sleep, and so devices like this could cause unnecessary anxiety for the parents as well as unnecessary visits to the emergency room. Another argument on the opposite end of the spectrum is the fear that smart sock monitors could cause parents to be too lax when watching their kids because they may over-rely on the monitor. What are the potential benefits of using a smart sock baby monitor? While one argument for using a smart sock baby monitor is that they cause too much anxiety for parents, one argument for using them is that they may actually reduce a parent’s anxiety. This could be especially true for twin parents who have premature babies or who have had an extended NICU stay and are wanting to have extra vigilance with their fragile newborns at home. When you’re in the NICU for a long time, you may get used to having all the extra monitoring on your twins (like the pulse oximeter and the heart rate monitor). In some cases, using a smart sock monitor at home could help twin parents make a smoother transition from the NICU to home. But again, even in these cases, a smart sock baby monitor should not be used in any way as a replacement for other safe-sleep practices and overall vigilance with your newborn twins. Now that we know all about smart socks baby monitors, should you decide (with the recommendation of your pediatrician) to use one, what are the best baby sock monitors out there? Best baby sock monitor options for your twins Owlet Dream Sock The Owlet Dream Sock is a sock you may have seen around stores or heard about from a friend like me. The Owlet Dream Sock pairs with your phone and allows you to monitor your twins’ heart… Continue Reading The Best Baby Sock Monitor for Twins and Should You Even Use One?

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How to Celebrate Holidays and Special Milestones in the NICU?

Twiniversity — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Being in the NICU with one or both of your twinnies during a holiday or a special milestone (like turning a new month old) may have you feeling down. But don’t worry, we asked other twin parents what they did to make these moments still feel special! Keep reading for a loving dose of NICU celebration inspiration. We recently asked our community of twin parents how they managed to honor all of those special milestones and holidays while dealing with a NICU stay. And here’s what they had to say: “For their 100th day, we bought “100” balloons and brought party hats.” — Karen “Themed pictures with milestone plaques/cards!” — Kendyll “Always celebrated to remember those memories most.” — Meghan “I kept a log and entered it all into their baby journals.” — Angela “Don’t worry, NICU twins are all fighters. Strong kids with even stronger minds.” — Tarriq “We wore our Christmas pajamas to the NICU to visit them on Christmas Day!” — Amanda “Special outfits and the hospital decorated for holidays. For us it was 4th of July.” — Karen “Father’s Day they made cards with photos for Dad and we spent the day there making the best of it.” — Lindsay “We liked to bring treats to the nurses as a thank you! It helped us feel less sad and more grateful.” — Addison “We spent Easter and Mother’s Day there. For Easter, the nurses were so kind and made sweet little cards out of the babies’ footprints.” — Paige More tips for celebrating NICU milestones and holidays from the hospital 1. Ask your team of NICU nurses to help From my own experience and other NICU parents I’ve come across, there’s a common theme: so much gratitude for the NICU nurses. Ask your twins’ nurses to help out! Whether it’s with assisting you with maneuvering around cords or having them help you hold your baby who’s on oxygen, more than likely, they will be glad to help you take pictures or put on cute outfits for special occasions. When my twins turned two months old, our NICU nurses helped us by putting on a photoshoot since we missed out on doing the typical newborn photos while being in the hospital. It took almost an hour to do both kids with the outfit changes and setup, but it made for a fun (as fun as the NICU can be) afternoon that we now have as a precious memory. 2. Get some fun NICU milestone cards To remember those special moments in the NICU–like breathing or eating on their own for the first time–or graduating and getting to go home, go grab yourself some special NICU milestone cards. You can use them to take pictures with your twins on those memorable occasions or and keep them in a special photo album or keepsake box. 3. Keep a NICU journal to record those big and small NICU milestones One of my biggest regrets as a parent to preemie twins who had a 3 month NICU stay was not keeping a journal to record everything. I don’t remember why I didn’t bring myself to do it because a mom in the same NICU pod as us would write in hers daily. But don’t make the same mistake I did and go get yourself a NICU journal so you can keep track of all those pivotal moments as well as your own reflections and memories throughout your twins’ NICU stay. 4. Bring some festive treats or decorations along Your babies won’t have any memory of this time period, but you will. If there’s a particular holiday or occasion that’s important to you, do something special that will allow you to keep the spirit of the tradition alive! Whether it’s baking a special dessert to share with your NICU nurses and other NICU families or bringing along some festive flowers or decor (without breaking any safety guidelines), those small gestures can go a long way in brightening an otherwise standard day in the NICU. 5. Read a special holiday-themed story to your twins Most NICUs will have a stash of books that you can borrow to read to your babies. Ask around to see if they have any holiday-themed books you can use, or borrow one from your own local library and bring it in! Reading to babies in the NICU may seem like a small thing, but reading to babies is great for their health, and having an on-theme book will help you feel like you’re putting them onto the traditions that matter to you and your family. Want more ideas and inspiration for surviving your twins’ NICU stay? Check these out too:

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Best Preemie Clothes for Your Twin Newborns

Twiniversity — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

If your twinnies were born early, it might feel stressful trying to find clothes that actually fit them (so they stay warm and snug). So we’re sharing tips on where to find the best preemie baby clothes for your little ones! One of the joys of twin parenthood is having the chance to buy those cute little onesies and imagining your newborn twinnies wearing them. Like the identical matching outfits (cause they’re twins after all) or in the classic pairs ( ketchup and mustard, thing 1 thing 2, etc). And of course, then posing for those sweet pictures. Your family can’t resist the pull too! Even before your twinnies arrive, you’ve got a nice stash of fun pajamas, coordinating outfits, and more. And it’s all well and good until your babies come super early, and you’ve got to figure out what on Earth to dress them in. Because even those newborn onesies will drown your little preemies. My twins were born just in time for Christmas and weighed under 5lbs. My MIL had bought them each a Santa onesie sack which was so sweet. Both those onesies were huge! So, I can attest that there’s definitely quite a difference between preemie and newborn sizes. But unfortunately, lots of in-person retail stores don’t carry that many preemie sizes if any at all). And if you happen to find a stray preemie outfit, will they have another for the second twin? It’s a bit frazzling not being able to find the right size for your tiny twinnies. Especially since the chances of a multiple birth being earlier than scheduled is much higher than a singleton. That’s why we want to make sure you’re equipped with all the insights on where to find the best preemie clothes! But first, what is a preemie size? As you’ve likely experienced even with your own adult clothing, not all brands are sized equally. When it comes to preemie baby clothes, the sizing is based on weight and length. But each brand uses slightly different cutoff thresholds for what they consider to be “preemie size.” If you want to see for yourself, Dreft has a list of common baby clothing brands with their sizing parameters charted out. Most of the charts say preemie size is up to 5 lbs (up to 17”), whereas newborn size is between 5-8 lbs (up to 20”). You’ll notice some brands even have preemie sizing go up to 6 lbs. And some preemie baby clothes brands even have sizes that go below preemie size. These are teeny preemie (up to 4 pounds) and micro preemie (up to 3 pounds). What if my twins are in the NICU? If your babies spend time in the NICU, it’s a good idea to ask the nurses what they need as far as clothing goes. Depending on your babies’ particular medical needs, their medical team may have preferences and guidelines for how you dress them. Being hooked up to all those wires and a breathing or feeding tube can definitely make dressing your preemie twinnies more challenging (but not impossible!). Also, many NICUs have a stash of preemie clothes that they will let your twinnies use free of charge. So depending on the length of your stay, you might not even need to go out and buy preemie clothes. My personal NICU experience as a mom to preemies was “don’t bring anything,” which was nice. Our hospital clothed them, bathed them, and their NICU pods were heated. So again, definitely ask your NICU nurses what clothing would be helpful logistically. Then you can save money on what preemie baby clothes you buy and go with only what you really need. And take a look at the two websites below for preemie clothes that are made with NICU babies in mind! Best preemie clothes for NICU babies 1. Perfectly Preemie This site is dedicated to preemie baby clothes, and you can filter by size or style, which is super helpful! Most of the time, your NICU babies will have monitors on them. So if your hospital requires you to provide clothes, it’s best to have something with more flexibility than a single zip up. What’s also great about Perfectly Preemie, is they also have sizes smaller than preemie: micro and teeny, each with weight limits next to the names. 2. Preemie Store Another online retailer with the best preemie clothes is Preemie Store. This e-commerce shop sells multiple different preemie clothing brands (including Perfectly Preemie). Since preemies are their specialty, they have micro and teeny options with plenty of options suitable for the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) and PICU (pediatric intensive care unit). Outside of these NICU preemie stores (which are still a great option for non-NICU preemies), there are more mainstream brands that have preemie baby clothes too. Mainstream brands with preemie sizes 1. Carters: When searching on Carter’s actual brand site, you can apply filters for “preemie” to sort for that specific size. Personally, I found zippers to be easier than snaps, especially when you’re bleary eyed at 2:00am and not knowing if you’re placing the diaper the right way on. We’ve definitely woken up a few mornings with the buttons not quite lining up (whoops!). And Carter’s has sleep & play outfits with a 2-way zipper, which is always a win! They even have a dedicated section for NICU-friendly preemie baby clothes. 2. Gerber: Of all the baby branding, Gerber is a household staple. They have a variety of options for preemie baby clothes, along with accessories fitting preemies. Did I mention occasional sales? 3. Little Me You’ll notice many of the kids in your neighborhood or circle will wear the same big name brands. But if you want to stand out from the crowd with something more ‘boutique,’ Little Me has an array of preemie sizes. 4. Monica + Andy Another great brand you’ll see around is Monica + Andy. Their clothes are super cute and they have preemie options for a… Continue Reading Best Preemie Clothes for Your Twin Newborns

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Cleaning Baby Bottles: Care Tips and Hacks for Twin Parents

Twiniversity — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 10:30:00 +0000

When it comes to feeding your infant twins, cleaning all those baby bottles can really feel like a beast of a job to take on. But food safety and limiting the risk of harmful bacteria is so important for tiny humans with developing immune systems. So here are some helpful tips and hacks for all that bottle washing you’ll be doing as a twin parent. Looking back on those early newborn twin days cleaning baby bottles, I now wonder whyyyy? (Especially when I see my toddler twins take a mysteriously old cheerio from their car seat and put it in their mouth. Lol, cringe.) However, when I think back on those infant times, I wouldn’t have done anything different about how clean their bottles were. Newborns and infants have next to no immunity towards bacterial and viral pathogens. Every germ sticks. (My daycare parents, where you at? You know what I’m talking about). This means that the germs that find their way into your little ones’ mouths have the potential to cause some potentially serious harm. And of course, exposure to some germs helps them build immunity over time, but it’s best not to overwhelm their developing systems when at all possible. So, let’s quickly talk about bacteria and food safety. Bacteria like to grow in warm environments filled with food. And what do infants and newborns eat/drink? Warm breastmilk and/or formula chock full of nutrients for those hungry, hungry germs. Thankfully, many foodborne illnesses can be fought with good kitchen cleaning and sanitation habits. Just like washing your hands will bring down your chances of catching a cold, the same goes with cleaning baby bottles. Washing and sanitizing properly, especially in those first few weeks, can help limit foodborne germs and bacteria. So without further ado, here are some helpful tips and hacks for cleaning baby bottles carefully for those sweet twinnies of yours! 1. Make sure your hands are clean first This may give you some PTSD back to those early COVID-19 days. But before handling your twins’ bottles, make sure you wash your hands first. You’re probably doing this already, but with mom brain (plus changing all those poopy diapers all day), we know it doesn’t hurt to have those little reminders! 2. Completely disassemble the bottles Again, this one may seem obvious. But with all the high-tech baby bottles on the market these days, be sure to fully disassemble every part. For example, make sure you take the nipple out of the bottle collar. (This is the ring-like part that fastens onto the bottle around the nipple). And if you’re using Dr. Brown’s bottles, remove and take apart the internal venting parts. Having the bottles completely deconstructed will make sure that every little nook and cranny is able to be cleaned and dried fully. 3. Choose your washing method There are a few ways you can clean baby bottles with our twentieth century technological advancements. Of course, you can always handwash. But you can also use your dishwashing machine or a bottle washer. Here’s some insight on each bottle washing method! Hand-washing baby bottles While hand-washing may take the most “effort” on your part, it’s also the quickest method for cleaning baby bottles. So here’s how to clean your twinnies’ bottles safely and thoroughly: 1. Empty out any remaining milk or formula first. For safety, any remaining formula and breastmilk should be thrown out within an hour after starting the bottle feeding. This is because once the baby’s saliva mixes in with the milk or formula, it can cause bacteria to grow after sitting out. 2. Do a basic rinse of the bottle to get out any excess formula/milk. 3. Use a dedicated washing basin like this one. Avoid cleaning the bottles directly in your kitchen sink. Sinks tend to build up with germs over time (even when kept clean) since there’s always water hanging around them. If you don’t want to buy a legit cleaning basin, you can simply use a large mixing bowl. Just make sure that you only use that bowl for bottle cleaning (at least for the foreseeable future). 4. Fill the washing basin with soap and hot water, soak, and clean. Once you fill the basin, let the bottles soak in the water for a few minutes to loosen up the milk or formula residue. Then, using a dedicated bottle and nipple brush like this one, carefully clean each bottle part. Lastly, rinse the items under clean, hot running water. If you want to learn more about safe soaps and cleaning solutions for newborns, check out this article! 5. Dry in a dedicated drying rack area. To make sure the bottles dry completely and safely, avoid placing them in such a way that air isn’t able to flow freely. You want to make sure there is air flow underneath so that the leftover moisture doesn’t get trapped inside of the bottles and bottle parts. Also, steer clear of using dish towels for drying as they could house bacteria from coming into contact with dirty dishes or hands. Here are two examples of safe drying areas and drying organizers: Dr. Brown’s Drying Tower This Dr. Brown’s Drying Tower is great for drying and organizing the whole gang of bottle parts including the nipples, collars, bottle, caps, and even the brush! The way that this drying rack is set up also allows for tons of airflow to ensure each part dries completely. Boon Lawn Baby Bottle Drying Rack The Boon drying rack provides plenty of airflow and has an antimicrobial tray to help limit the growth of mold and mildew. It’s also a great place for drying pump parts since the drying space accommodates all sorts of sizes and dimensions! Twiniversity tip: If you get the Boon drying rack, be sure to remove and thoroughly clean the tray every few days. This will avoid extra water accumulating in the tray which could lead to mold and mildew. Using your dishwasher Yes, you… Continue Reading Cleaning Baby Bottles: Care Tips and Hacks for Twin Parents

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What Are Common Complications of Twin Pregnancy?

Twiniversity — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Pregnant with twins and finding yourself googling: what are the complications of twin pregnancy? You’re not alone. We’re here with answers for you about the most common complications for twin pregnancies. Unless you’ve been pregnant before, you’ve likely been misled into a simplified understanding of how pregnancy works. You get pregnant, deal with some temporary challenges—crazy cravings, morning sickness, etc.—and then poof, you have the baby! It sounds linear enough, right? But of course, pregnancy can be much more complex than that (at least in my experience). And if you’re pregnant with twins, your mind may be swirling wondering about the extra complications of twin pregnancy. Thankfully, my twin pregnancy was fairly easy for the first trimester. I had the usual tired feelings but no morning sickness. (I did have a meat aversion which I was told was very normal). No biggie there. But then came the second trimester of my twin pregnancy. That was tricky because my placenta was dangerously close to my pelvic floor which made me unable to workout. The third trimester was even harder. I was told I had to be mostly on bed rest because my blood pressure kept spiking. Having been through a fraction of complications, it made me wonder about other complications expecting twin moms are up against. So, if you’re expecting twins and want to be super informed, keep reading for a list of 7 common complications of twin pregnancy to be aware of. Please keep in mind that this list isn’t meant to cause you alarm. Instead, it’s meant to educate you and help you be more aware about twin pregnancy challenges to look out for. Of course, your concerns should always be addressed with your doctor!! Disclaimer: All content on this website, including medical opinions and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others. 1. Preterm labor with twins Let’s start with a well-known complication of twin pregnancy that everybody brings up: preterm labor. Premature birth is a common complication with pregnancies involving multiples. In fact, more than 60% of twins and multiples are born prematurely. So what qualities as being “premature” anyway? According to the World Health Organization, a preterm birth means any birth that occurs before 37 weeks gestation. If you experience this, your doctor will be there to plan out your options and back-up plans. Babies who are born before 37 weeks often need medical intervention in a NICU because their bodies and organ systems haven’t fully matured. There are great hospitals and organizations out there with amazing people who can help with prematurity in twins. I refer to them as angels in scrubs because that’s really who they are. This includes the nursing and doctor staff at the NICU. There are also other unsung friends like the Little Giraffe Foundation, Madhatter Knits, and March of Dimes. Symptoms to look out for with preterm labor: Learn more about preterm labor and prematurity with twins: 2. Vanishing twin syndrome (or miscarriage) Vanishing twin (VTS) was a recent term I heard from a couple of different moms as of late. It’s a type of miscarriage that happens with twin pregnancies and multiple pregnancies. VTS occurs when multiple embryos were detected during an ultrasound but can’t be found on future ultrasounds. Usually with this twin pregnancy complication, the tissue from the other twin gets absorbed by the other embryo and the mother. VTS most often occurs in the first trimester. And while it may cause sadness and alarm, the surviving twin is usually able to carry on in a healthy pregnancy. Symptoms to look out for with vanishing twin syndrome: Learn more about vanishing twin syndrome and how to get support: 3. Gestational diabetes (GD) Gestational diabetes is when you develop diabetes for the first time during pregnancy. This is usually diagnosed when you do the 1-hour and 3-hour glucose test between weeks 24 – 28. This pregnancy complication can happen for singleton pregnancies, but it’s even more common in twin and multiple pregnancies. One study found that gestational diabetes was three times more likely to develop in a twin pregnancy compared to a singleton pregnancy. Like other types of diabetes, pregnant twin moms with GD will have to manage their sugar intake during this time. This may involve doing regular blood sugar readings, checking in frequently with your OB, and making dietary changes. Controlling your blood sugar during pregnancy will help keep you and your babies healthy. And the good news is that gestational diabetes is likely to go away once you deliver. Symptoms to look out for with gestational diabetes: Learn more about gestational diabetes: 4. Anemia of pregnancy Another complication of twin pregnancy is anemia. Anemia is a medical condition marked by a low red blood cell count. Red blood cells are responsible for delivering fresh oxygen throughout the tissues in your body. When you’re pregnant, your blood volume increases. This means your body is hard at work making more red blood cells. But in order to make more red blood cells, you need more vitamins and minerals (like iron). Anemia of pregnancy can often be managed with iron supplements and an altered diet. This could include eating foods with higher iron (i.e. spinach, lean beef, etc.) and consuming more Vitamin C (which helps absorb iron). Another complication for twin pregnancies involving anemia is called Twin Anemia Polycythemia Syndrome (aka TAPS). This happens in twins who share a placenta when one of the twins becomes anemic due to an imbalance of red blood cells. Symptoms to look out for with anemia: Learn more about anemia of pregnancy: 5. Twin to twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) This… Continue Reading What Are Common Complications of Twin Pregnancy?

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Weego Twin Carrier vs. Others: What Sets It Apart?

Amanda Hadley — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 10:30:00 +0000

When it comes to carrying twins, parents face unique challenges that singleton carriers can’t meet. The Weego Twin Carrier, designed specifically for twins, stands out with its unique features and benefits. In this article, we compare the Weego Twin Carrier to other popular choices, such as the TwinGo Carrier, the MiniMonkey Twin Carrier, and using two Hip Baby Wrap Ring Sling Baby Carriers. We examine important aspects like design, comfort, safety, and ease of use to highlight what sets the Weego Twin Carrier apart from the rest. The Weego Twin Carrier The Weego Twin Carrier is a front-facing carrier that lets you carry both of your twins at the same time. It focuses on comfort, safety, and ease of use, ensuring even weight distribution to reduce strain on your back and shoulders. Unique Features of the Weego Twin Carrier The Weego Twin Carrier Compared to Other Baby Carriers Weego vs. TwinGo The TwinGo Carrier is an adjustable baby/toddler carrier that lets parents strap one child in front and one behind. Here’s how the Weego Twin Carrier compares to the TwinGo Carrier: Plus sized twin mama’s!The plus sized Weego twin carrier is super comfy to wear, it was easy to put on by myself, I have lots of slack in the tightening straps. It comes with two extra sets of the snap on bibs. I highly recomend this! -Rebecca B. Weego vs. MiniMonkey Twin Carrier The MiniMonkey Twin Carrier is another twin-specific carrier that allows parents to carry their twins in different positions, accommodating various needs and preferences. The Weego TWIN Carrier is the best and easiest to use twin carrier out there. l’ve felt comfortable (and cozy) carrying my girls around hands free (even as preemies)! I recommend it to every twin mom. – Kylee B Weego vs. Two Hip Baby Wrap Ring Sling Baby Carriers Using two Hip Baby Wrap Ring Sling Baby Carriers is an approach where parents carry twins with separate slings, typically on each hip or with one in front and one on the hip. Why choose the Weego Twin Carrier? If you’re a twin parent who just wants a carrier that works, the Weego Twin Carrier is a fantastic choice. It’s designed specifically for twins, so you don’t have to worry about complicated setups or extra accessories. Plus, it’s comfortable, safe, and easy to use. Perfect for those days when you just need a little extra help. Ultimately, it comes down to what works best for you and your twins. The Weego Twin Carrier is unique because it’s designed with twin parents in mind, focusing on ease, comfort, and safety. So, if you want a reliable carrier that lets you keep your twins close and your hands-free, the Weego Twin Carrier is a solid choice. Now that you’ve gathered all the info on why the Weego Twin Carrier is unique and an outstanding option for twin parents, now is your chance to win one of your very own! To enter the giveaway, simply fill out the form below. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to win the Weego Twin Carrier and experience the unique benefits that make it the best choice for twin families! Loading…

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Diaper Dilemmas: When to Size Up

Amanda Hadley — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 10:30:00 +0000

Navigating the world of diaper sizes can be a daunting task, especially when you’re managing the needs of two little ones. For parents of twins, knowing when to size up can make a big difference in their comfort and your sanity. Learn the signs that it might be time for a diaper size change to keep your twins happy and leak-free. Diaper duty is in full swing, and you’re navigating the world of explosive surprises and adorably tiny bums. Hold onto your baby wipes; we’ve got the answers to all your questions, plus some cheeky tips to keep those messy mishaps at bay. The Perfect Fit How Should a Diaper Fit? Your baby’s diaper should snugly embrace their waist and thighs without being too tight. It should form a gentle seal around their legs to prevent leaks. Remember, a well-fitting diaper should feel like a cozy hug, not a straitjacket. When Is It Time to Switch From Newborn to Size 1? Weight is one of the simplest ways to let you know it’s time to size up. Newborn diapers are designed for babies up to 10 pounds, so if your babies are bulking up and pushing that limit, it’s time to level up. Be sure to consult with your diaper brand of choice, too. Most provide recommended parameters for each size. Other than weight, there are a few ways to know if the diaper is too small: Leaks, Blowouts, Oh My! What Even Is a Blowout? A diaper blowout is a situation where the contents of a baby’s diaper (most often poop) bursts out of the diaper, often reaching the baby’s clothing and beyond. It’s quite a messy situation and dreaded nonetheless. Do Blowouts Mean the Diaper Is Too Small? While it’s true that a diaper that’s too small can contribute to blowouts, don’t place all the blame just yet. Blowouts can also occur if the diaper isn’t properly secured or if your little one is in a particularly explosive mood (which can be often, if we’re honest). So, when in doubt, size up. It can help you avoid both diaper disasters and wardrobe malfunctions. How Do You Prevent Blowouts? Preventing diaper blowouts is a bit of a dance. It’s all about sizing correctly and securing the diaper snugly. You can also dress your baby in onesies or outfits that provide an extra, tighter layer of protection and hold the diaper in place. We’ve found this especially helpful in preemies. Do Diapers Leak When They’re Too Small? Yes, diapers can leak when they’re too small. An ill-fitting diaper won’t contain your baby’s mess effectively, leading to leaks and potential blowouts. Why Does the Diaper Leak Out the Back Specifically? If your baby’s diaper is leaking out the back, it’s usually because the diaper is too small and can’t adequately cover your baby’s bottom. It’s time to switch to a larger size to prevent those backside mishaps. How Do I Stop Diapers From Leaking? We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again—to stop diaper leaks, ensure you’re using the correct diaper size, fasten the tabs securely, and make sure the diaper fits snugly around the legs and waist. Additionally, consider using overnight or extra-absorbent diapers for extended wear. How to Tell if the Diaper Is Too Big If the tabs easily meet or overlap in the middle, the diaper might be too large. If you see excessive gapping at the legs and waist, the diaper may be too big for your baby. Wait for your baby to gain another couple of pounds, then try again. Check out more info on choosing the right diaper size from our friends at Hello Bello. If you are considering a Hello Bello subscription, check out our Hello Bello Review. From sizing up to dodging blowouts, you’re now armed with “diaper size” wisdom that would make any baby’s bottom proud. Keep those little ones comfy, clean, and cute, one well-fitted diaper at a time.

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Tips to Ease Your NICU Stress and Anxiety

Twiniversity — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 10:30:00 +0000

If you are like the majority of Twiniversity families, you may have spent some time in the NICU or may even be there now. If you are there now, I’m sure you might feel overwhelmed by the experience, and we understand. Over 86% of twins are born prematurely (under 38 weeks) and twin moms and dads are no strangers to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Today we’re going to give you some of our best tips to make your time there as stress-free as we can. Before we jump in, we want to tell you that everything will be okay. Personally, my twin boys were born at 34 weeks gestation and spent 2 weeks in the NICU. I know how you feel, a lot of us do. Seriously, trust us, you will be ok. Do Not Compare – Not All Preemies Are the Same It’s VERY important to remember that each baby admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is facing a range of medical issues that require specialized care that can range from minor to major. Not one story is the same in the NICU. So, it’s important that you refrain from comparing your baby (or babies) to anyone else or to each other. Personally, my babies were born at a low birth weight (under 5 1/2 lbs), which automatically got them a first-class ticket to the NICU at my particular hospital. Twiniversity families have NICU stays for many, many reasons. Some even get brought there for observation. So please remember that every hospital has its own set of criteria regarding the NICU and you might want to speak to your doctor about the rules in your particular situation. So remember, if/when you’re in the actual NICU, try to stay focused on your baby(s) and do not allow your mind to spiral. Don’t think about different hypothetical scenarios that other babies might be experiencing around you. Your babies are right where they need to be. They are being taken care of by some of the most skilled hands in the hospital. Not All Motherhoods Look the Same I used to think that adulthood was the scariest of “hoods”, but then I entered motherhood! Add a side of twins and some NICU stress and anxiety and the “mother” of all the “hoods” wins! Try not to compare your early parenting experience with your mom’s, your friends or any parents. You may feel inadequate and lonely if you do. You might even feel depressed, sad, anxious, and stressed. NICU babies are not uncommon, but you may be the only one in your group of friends to experience it. If you find comfort in your aloneness, that’s okay. Feel free to establish a boundary, especially at first, so you can get comfortable with your current life status. There are plenty of life experiences that no one will truly understand until they go through it and for you, this may be one of them. But don’t stay disconnected for too long. If your friends and family can’t relate to your experience, seek out the help of a social worker in the NICU who might be able to introduce you to some other families there. Heck, consider making friends yourself with a person visiting their baby(ies) right next to you. Many Twiniversity families have made lifelong friends in the NICU. Personally, during the NICU stay with my twins, the pump room (where I pumped breastmilk for my kiddos) was often filled with other NICU moms. Although all our stories were different, we were all chapters in the same book. I shared my story or sometimes just listened to theirs, I found a lot of comfort there. If your hospital doesn’t have a communal room, consider joining the Twiniversity gang during the monthly meeting. You’ll find plenty of NICU parents there. Your Babies Are Where They Need to Be! You might have uncertain feelings about not having your babies come home with you right away, or you may be in the hospital yourself recovering from a C-section or another medical condition. Remember your babies are in the NICU and being looked after day and night by qualified nurses and doctors. They are in good hands! They are getting the care that they need and can not be provided at home. At least for now. Nurses Are Your Friends Use this time in the NICU to pick the brains of the nurses and let them guide you! If you are spending hours there anyway (breastfeeding, pumping, and just spending time with your babies), observe the nurses. Watch their techniques, especially their swaddle abilities. Take notice of the products they are using (during diaper changes, baths, etc.) and the routines they keep. I was always impressed and grateful for how comfortable the nurses were with my babies. The same babies who were so little and fragile, even I was afraid to hold them. They gave me the confidence to be the best mom I could be. Speak up and Ask Questions! As their parent, you have all the right to ask the nurses and doctors any questions you might have! Make sure you are getting updates on your baby’s progression in height, weight, and any other medical issues they are dealing with. In my experience, the nurses usually changed shifts every 12 hours, and my babies were seen by the perinatologist each morning. Because I knew the schedule, I knew when I needed to be there if I had questions or concerns to be answered. Pay attention to the schedule and know when to call or when to be there to speak with the doctor! Prepare questions. Keep the communication open. You want to know exactly what is going on with your babies. And, I honestly believe, no question is off limits, as long as it pertains to the care of your babies! You Just Might Grow Attached to the NICU I was so shocked and worried about my babies being sent to the NICU… Continue Reading Tips to Ease Your NICU Stress and Anxiety

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Must See Stroller Combo for Twins

Amanda Hadley — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 10:30:00 +0000

Twins are a double blessing, but double anything can surely hit your wallet hard! Well, thanks to Baby Trend, they just made the whole double thing a whole lot more affordable! Check out their Sit N’ Stand 2.0 Double Stroller paired with two Baby Trend EZ-Lift 35 Plus Car Seats below. This is definitely a must see stroller and car seat combo for twins, plus enter to win your own! Finding a stroller that’s compatible with car seats can be a challenge. Not spending an arm and a leg on the combo can be even more difficult! Baby Trend is here to save the day with the Baby Trend Sit N’ Stand 2.0 Double stroller paired with two compatible EX-Lift 35 Plus Car Seats. Keep reading to learn all about this must-see stroller combo for twins. Baby Trend = Compatibility In the early stages, outings with the twins (like doctor appointments or grocery shopping) are a lot easier if you can leave your babies in their car seats and pop the car seats into a stroller rather than carrying two infant seats. But it can be a challenge finding car seats that are compatible with the stroller you pick. This is where our friends at Baby Trend deliver! The Baby Trend Sit N’ Stand 2.0 Double stroller is compatible with four of their car seat models — Secure-Lift 35, EZ-Lift 35 PRO, EZ-Lift 35 Plus, and the EZ-Lift 35. We chose the EZ-Lift 35 Plus car seats to pair with the Sit N’ Stand 2.0 Double stroller. This pair is one of the best car seat stroller combos. The EZ-Lift 35 Plus Car Seats These car seats are shockingly light! They’re one of the lightest car seats on the market at only 7.5 pounds (without the base), making them easy to carry and mobility. Details The EZ-Lift 35 Plus is designed for babies between 4 lbs to 35 pounds. Completely suitable for preemies (cue sigh of relief), with a maximum height of 32 inches. The head and body padding is very thick and plush. However, the outside material is made from polyester and could be softer for babies’ skin. The EZ-Lift 35 Plus comes with a multi-position car base and is also extremely light and easy to install. The base features a bubble level indicator, flip foot recline, and Latch connectors. What We Love The best part of the EZ-Lift 35 Plus is how easy it is to click in and out of the Sit N’ Stand 2.0 Double stroller. No attachment is needed to secure the infant seat to the stroller, and it takes nearly zero effort to lift and click in. Plus, the car seats feel very secure when locked into this stroller. I love the direction in which they click in. Unlike many double strollers, the car seats face the parent, so you’re able to see both babies at the same time while pushing the stroller. And removing the car seats is a piece of cake, too. Simply remove them the same way you’d remove a car seat from the base with the button on the back. As an added bonus, the EZ-Lift 35 Plus car seats include a side handle for an ergonomic grip. This grip is recommended by chiropractors for reducing back strain. Talk about helping a twin mom out. Carrying two babies is hard enough on our backs, thanks, Baby Trend! And if that wasn’t enough, the handle of the car seat acts as an anti-rebound bar to limit rotation in the event of a collision when in the forward position. Sit N’ Stand 2.0 Double Stroller You’ll want a stroller that will grow with your family, and when your infants grow to toddlers, you can continue using the Sit N Stand 2.0 Double. There are multiple riding choices for newborns, infants, and toddlers. When your babies are out of the infant car seat, they will utilize the forward-facing seats. When they become busy, the rear seat can be converted to a bench for standing mode for toddlers. Keep in mind there are weight and age recommendations for each variation: Features The Sit N’ Stand 2.0 Double stroller has a lot to offer with an attractive sales price. Let’s talk about all the features. Size First up, let’s talk size. When picking a double stroller, you have two options: side-by-side or tandem (aka one-behind-the-other). Depending on which option you choose, you may be limited on where you can take your stroller. Side-by-side may not fit through the doorway, and tandem can be hard to maneuver through narrow aisles. I went with the tandem choice. With a tandem set-up, the Sit N Stand 2.0 Double will get you everywhere you need to go at only 22.63″ wide. Fighting doorways is a thing of the past! Storage Storage is always a big concern with strollers. Babies require a lot of stuff. Twins require double the amount, so ample storage is a must! Each seat has a snack track with a removable cup holder. Parents have their own tray, too! Complete with two cup holders (it’s like they know twin moms need 2 cups of coffee) and a phone holder- ideal for catching up on Twiniversity YouTube videos on your walk. Beneath the stroller, you’ll find a large basket with mesh sides that has plenty of space for your diaper bag backpack and more. It’s accessible from both the front and the back of the stroller. There isn’t a mesh cover in front of the basket, so be sure not to overfill, or you might lose some items. Seating Safety first, both seats have a 5-point child restraint safety harness with push-button release and easily recline for babies’ comfort using straps located behind each seat. Each seat has a canopy for those sunny days, and they are removable. However, the rear seat’s canopy is larger and has a mesh peekaboo window. Each seat also has a footrest for safety and comfort. Steering The large single-front wheels… Continue Reading Must See Stroller Combo for Twins

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Twin Pregnancy Concerns

Twiniversity — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 17:45:29 +0000

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The Twiniversity Podcast with Natalie Diaz… I Had Twins at 53 Yes, you read that right. I had twins at 53-years-old…. An Incompetent Cervix – What it Means and When to Worry When I found out I was expecting twins, one of… My Prenatal Depression with Twins It was a hot August morning when I woke up,… The Birth Hour Podcast: Julie’s Double Whammy Twin… Continue Reading Twin Pregnancy Concerns

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