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This is the most comprehensive guide to Designing a Twin Nursery. In this expert-written guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about creating a nursery for twins. We'll give you the simple steps we use when planning a twin nursery, helpful tips for decorating a twin nursery and we'll share with you 50 beautiful twin ideas for inspiration
If you are expecting twins, this is the twin nursery planning guide that will give you the confidence to designing a twin nursery that is beautiful and functional.
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7 SIMPLE STEPS TO DESIGNING A TWIN NURSERY
There are so many decisions to be made when you are expecting a baby. When you are having twins, there's even more decisions you need to make, including how to design a nursery for the twins. It can feel overwhelming and daunting.
But fear not! We are sharing with you our proven steps to creating a nursery with 7 simple steps. With these steps you can enjoy your nursery designing process and create a nursery that is delightful and practical.
After all, the nursery is a special place where you are going to be spending a lot of time with your little ones and it needs to be place you are going to love!
1. FIGURE OUT THE LAYOUT OF THE TWIN NURSERY
When planning a nursery for twins, it makes sense to begin by taking stock of the space where you intend to use as the nursery.
Use a tape measure and take the measurements of the space. Plot it out on a piece of paper, making sure to mark the doors, windows, heaters, closet and any other fixed furniture.
Next, think about what you would need to make sure the nursery is functional. Generally, there's three essential zones in the nursery- diapering, sleeping and feeding. Also, think about other important things like storage.
Once you've identified the openings and fixed furnishings in the sketch of the nursery floor plan, you will be left with a canvas-the space you have available to work with. Cut out some 2-D models of the nursery furniture you would like to include in the nursery and move them around on the room sketch to figure out the ideal configuration and layout for you.
HERE ARE SOME TWIN NURSERY LAYOUTS TO CONSIDER
2. IDENTIFY YOUR NURSERY DESIGN STYLE
Your twin nursery design should reflect who you are and what makes you happy. How do you identify your nursery design style, then? Look around your home, what is it that you have an affinity for. Browse all the different nursery designs we have here on our blog and see what nursery designs you are drawn to.
HERE ARE THE MOST POPULAR NURSERY DESIGN STYLES
MODERN NURSERY
A modern twin nursery has a clean design, crisp lines and a simple color palette.
MINIMALIST NURSERY
A minimalist nursery embraces simplicity. It has a neutral backdrop, ultra clean lines, minimal furnishings and accessories.
MID-CENTURY MODERN NURSERY
A Mid-century style nursery is a throw back to 1950's and 1960's style, featuring organic and natural materials, pared down forms as well as simple furnishings.
SCANDINAVIAN NURSERY
Scandinavian nursery designs pay homage to the Nordic countries, highlighting the simplicity of designs, light color palettes and a sense of breeziness.
CLASSIC NURSERY
A classic nursery features a timeless style that exemplifies elegance and comfort.
COASTAL NURSERY
A coastal nursery is light and airy and takes us to the ocean with shades of blues and greens and relaxed finishes.
BOHEMIAN NURSERY
Bohemian nursery designs feature a mix of exotic finds, jewel tones, natural materials and global decor.
RUSTIC NURSERY
Rustic nursery designs are inspired by the outdoors and features natural as well as weathered finishes, raw woods and industrial elements.
MODERN FARMHOUSE NURSERY
Modern Farmhouse nursery designs are relaxed and inviting with a mix of minimal, modern and Scandinavian touches
3. CHOOSE a COLOR PALETTE
You want your nursery to have a certain mood and a sense of flow. Therefore, picking a color palette for the twin nursery will help the space evolve cohesively.
When choosing the palette, look for inspiration from things you love, like a upholstered chair, a painting or even a rug. It could also be a feeling you want the twin nursery to convey-dramatic, cozy, laid back, bright, etc
Keep in mind that you don't want to pick too many colors. It could overwhelm you. Choose a neutral color and a few more shades to keep the nursery visually balanced
Also, remember that natural lighting will affect the color in the space. Northern light is indirect and makes color appear darker or less saturated while southern exposure casts a warm glow.
4. PICK THE NURSERY CRIBS, NURSING CHAIR & CHANGING TABLE
When picking furniture for your twin nursery design, the cribs are likely to be your biggest investment. You'll obviously need two cribs for the twins.
Since you've already identified your nursery design style in an earlier step, look for a crib that will go with your over all nursery style. Consider the sketch of the floor plan you did before and determine whether should go with cribs that are smaller in size or full size cribs. Most often, space is an issue and parents tend to go with smaller cribs for a twin nursery design.
Also, be mindful of the US crib safety standards which outline the guidelines for cribs. Here's a comprehensive guide to choosing a good crib for the twin nursery design.
OUR FAVORITE TWIN BABY CRIBS
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best twin bassinet
Bassinets are a great sleeping option for twins as you transition them home from the hospital. A bassinet allows you to keep the babies near you at night for feeding or just to keep an eye on the twins.
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best twin mini cribs
While a mini crib is larger than a bassinet, it is smaller than a full size crib. Mini cribs are a great option for a twin nursery because of the smaller footprint. They are also cheaper than a full size crib.
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best twin portable cribs
Portable cribs are space efficient, lighter in weight than a full sized crib, and easier to pack up for storage or transportation. They are great when traveling with twins or when you need to keep a second crib at grandma's place.
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best twin full size CONVERTIBLE crib
Convertible cribs can be converted into toddler beds as the twins grow. Though initially you might have to make a bigger investment, you'll get the most bang for the buck.
DIAPERING STATION
Once you've identified the cribs for the twins, its time to look for a changing table. You could choose to double up or just go with one and have the twins share it.
If space is a concern, we recommend going with one dresser that would also do double duty and provide storage.
NURSERY CHAIR
You'll spend a lot of time on this chair-feeding the twins, rocking them to sleep, reading the twins a book or just gazing at their eyes. Therefore, invest in a chair that's going to be super comfortable.
There are many different kinds of nursery chairs to choose, from traditional to more modern. A nursery chair can be a glider, recliner or a rocker.
How many nursery chairs do you need for a twin nursery? Most parents go with just one nursery chair, though you could add additional seating options. Some parents decide to opt for a love seat or a sofa instead of the nursery chair, for a twin nursery. That way, there's enough space for both parents to sit and feed the babies or just hold them.
5. IDENTIFY NURSERY STORAGE OPTIONS
When designing a nursery for twins, it is imperative that you add as many storage solutions as you can. Babies accumulate so much stuff over time and having designated storage spaces will keep the twins nursery organized and clean at all times.
Choose storage options that maximizes space such as shelves and bookcases. Use bins and baskets to organize baby's essentials. Hang closet organizers to store baby's clothes and increase space in the twins nursery closet.
NURSERY ORGANIZATION TIPS & IDEAS WHEN DESIGNING THE TWIN NURSERY
6. CHOOSE NURSERY BEDDING
By now, your twin nursery plan should be coming together well. Next up, you'll have to shop for the crib bedding. While shopping for bedding, keep in mind your nursery style and the color palette. Try to incorporate them into your selection.
7. ACCESSORIZE THE TWIN NURSERY
Let's move on to the fun part, decorating the twin nursery. It is time to personalize the space and make it unique. Use textures and patterns to give your twins baby room character.
A rug is a key element of the nursery design and will help ground the space while bringing color to the nursery. Look for a rug that is easy to spot clean since you are sure to have some spills.
Yet another important element of the design are curtains. Not only will curtains keep light out, but will also dim outside noises allowing the twins to sleep or nap comfortably.
Lighting is also an essential nursery decor. Be sure to incorporate both overhead lighting and task lighting to your twins nursery design. A table lamp or a floor lamp placed near the nursery will become invaluable during late night feedings.
We saved the best for the last! Bring in accessories that you love, sentimental pieces, artwork, DIY decor and make the twins nursery special and beautiful.
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18 HELPFUL TIPS when PLANNING A NURSERY FOR TWINS
Taking care of twins involves a lot of work. Hence, when caring for twins, you'll have to be super efficient. And, your primary focus when designing the twin nursery should be to create a twin nursery that is extremely functional and safe.
Here, you'll find some of our best and most helpful tips when designing a twin nursery.
1. YOU CAN CREATE A TWIN NURSERY ON A BUDGET
It is totally possible to create a twin nursery on a budget. One of our favorite go to shops for creating a budget nursery is IKEA. Their products are modern, stylish and affordable. Here's a Stylish IKEA nursery board and another Neutral IKEA nursery design.
2. don't buy two of everything for the twin nursery
You really don't have to double up the nursery furnishings other than the crib. That way, you'll save money and keep the nursery spacious.
3. GET A DIAPER PAIL
You are going to have double the dirty diapers, so invest in a diaper pail to keep odors at bay.
4. don't wait till the due date
Remember that furniture can take one to eight weeks to arrive and may require assembly. Its best to start designing your nursery once you've found out the babies gender.
5. look for JPMA CERTIFIED PRODUCTS
Look for the Juvenile Products Manufactuers Association certification when purchasing the cribs, mattresses and bassinets for the twins.
6. ANCHOR furniture to the walls
Make sure you anchor the dresser, changing table, bookcases or any furniture with height to the walls, preventing them from tipping.
7. CONSIDER THE QUALITY OF THE CRIB MATTRESS
Babies spend a lot of time sleeping and hence, carefully consider the quality of the twins crib mattresses before you buy. Look for a mattress that is firm with no gaps between the mattress and the crib. Here's a great guide on how to choose a crib mattress and our picks for best crib mattresses.
8. invest in a cradle or bassinet
During the early months, having a cradle or bassinet for the twins will make your life so much easier.
9. position the crib properly
The cribs in the twin nursery should be placed away from windows, window blinds, draperies and any dangling cords.
10. don't put any soft bedding in the cribs
Take care not to put any loose blankets, soft toys or bumpers in the cribs as they can increase the risk of suffocation or SIDS
11. a couch gives you more space
When choosing the nursery chair, think about getting a couch for the twins nursery. If you have space, then a couch might be the best option for you. It will provide ample space for nursing the babies or space for dad to sit and feed a baby while you feed the other.
12. black out shades are the best
Keep the nursery dark and quiet while the twins are napping during the day by installing black out shades in your twin nursery.
13. PAY ATTENTION TO HOW THE CRIBS ARE PLACED
Though you could place the crib right next to each other when the babies are really small, we recommend you place them on the opposite walls or with some distance between each other. Cribs should be at least 30 inches apart to avoid entrapment, since there has been tragic accidents of babies slipping in between the cribs.
14. a white noise machine can be a lifesaver
Babies tend to get startled quite easily by sudden noises. Get a white noise machine for the twin nursery to help drown out startling noises, letting the twins sleep comfortably.
15. install a smoke alarm and a carbon monoxide detector
The twins safety always comes first. Install a wireless smoke alarm and carbon-monoxide detector to ensure their safety.
16. avoid second hand cribs
We strongly discourage the use of second hand cribs just to be on the safe side and to guarantee that they conform to current crib safety standards.
17. KEEP THE TWIN NURSERY WELL VENTILATED
The temperature in the twin nursery should be between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
18. avoid hanging decorations near the crib
When hanging mobiles make sure its out of arm's reach of the babies, always.
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11 TWIN NURSERY STORAGE AND ORGANIZATION TIPS
We believe that everything in the nursery should have a designated storage place and that having an organization system will make your life much easier. Organizing your twin nursery will save you time, money and stress. You will be able to find what you need with much effort and will be able to maintain the nursery nicely,
Here are our tips for twin nursery storage and organization.
1. use a dresser as a changing table
Get a double duty dresser to use as changing station and to store the twins clothes.
2. install shelves
As you seek to maximize space in your twin nursery, use all the vertical space you can find. Install shelves to store baby's eseentials,
3. get drawer organizers
We can't emphasis enough how important organizing the twins nursery is. So get drawer organizers to compartmentalize and arrange both the babies clothes.
4. HAVE DESIGNATED STORAGE FOR TOYS
Create a space in the nursery for storing and organizing the twins toys. We love using baskets and bins for toy storage.
4. create a reading nook
Use floating shelves to set up a space for storing and organizing the twins books. Ideally this should be near the nursery chair so you can reach for a book easily.
5. set up a diapering station
Keep the twins diapering essentials close to the dresser/ changing table. Use wall shelves or even a kitchen cart for organizing the diapering essentials.
5. MAXIMIZE space in the twin nursery closet
Use the space in the nursery closet efficiently and maximize storage with these creative ideas.
6. use durable storage CONTAINERs
Store clothes that the babies are yet to use in durable containers and label the containers for future use.
7. edit relenntlessly
Every few months go through the twins clothes and sort them. Place the clothes that the babies have grown out of in durable containers for another baby down the road or donate them. We recommend finding a place in the basement or somewhere else for storing all these containers.
8. use over the door organizers
Keep the twins shoes, hats and other accessories organized by placing them in an over the door shoe organizer.
9. mount a board to keep schedules
Taking care of two babies is a lot of work, especially when you are sleep deprived. Use a command center to keep track of the twins feeding and sleeping schedules as well as diaper changes.
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50 TWIN NURSERY IDEAS TO STEAL
Designing a twin nursery calls for tons of style, lots of functionality and the perfect doze of style. We've put together a list of 50 Twin Nursery Ideas that have the correct combination of style, patterns and colors.
Let these twin nursery ideas inspire your own interior design creativity as you start designing your twin nursery for your babies.
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TWIN BABY REGISTRY CHECKLIST: WHAT DO YOU REALLY NEED FOR TWINS?
As you prepare for the arrival of the twins, you are probably trying to figure out what you will need to buy for the twins. It does seem like quite a bit, doesn't it?
Well, we know how stressful it can be as you decide between all the things that are MUST-HAVE'S for the twins and everything else. That's why, we've put together this Twin Baby Registry Checklist, the ULTIMATE list of must-have items for twins.
For the TWIN Nursery
There are so many options when it comes to cribs. Some of our favorites include the Babyletto, Oeuf and Union. There are some beautiful and comfortable nursery chairs including the Sleeptime rocker and Baxton Studion rocker.
- CRIB (2):
- CRIB MATTRESS(2)
- FITTED SHEETS (4-6)
- CHANGING TABLE/ DRESSER
- CHANGING PAD & COVER (IF YOU PURCHASED A CHANGING TABLE)
- ROCKING CHAIR, GLIDER OR SOFA
- BASSINETS (2) optional
- STORAGE BINS
- HAMPER
- DIAPER PAIL
TWIN CLOTHING
You'll probably get a lot of baby clothes as gifts. Just make sure you have the essentials though.
- COMING HOME OUTFIT (2)
- NEWBORN ONESIES (8)
- 0-3 MONTH SHORT SLEEVE ONESIES (10)
- 0-3 MONTH LONG SLEEVE ONESIES( 10)
- 0-3 MONTH PANTS (10)
- SLEEPERS/ SLEEP SACKS, GOWNS( 12)
- SOCKS (12)
- MITTENS (6)
- HATS/BEANIES (6)
- BOOTIES (4)
TWIN BATHING ESSENTIALS
We love the First Years, Blooming Bath and the Skip Hop tubs for bathing the little ones.
- BATH TUB
- HOODED TOWELS (4-6)
- WASH CLOTHS(12-14)
- BODY WASH
- SHAMPOO
- BABY LOTION
- BATH TOYS
TWIN BEDTIME ESSENTIALS
Its great to get a white noise machine to help the twins sleep better. You'll want to get a baby monitor to keep an eye on the little ones. Rock 'N Plays will give you a lot of flexibility allowing you to keep an eye on the twins.
- ROCK 'N PLAYS
- WHITE NOISE MACHINE
- SWADDLES (20)
- PACIFIERS
- BABY MONITOR
TWIN FEEDING ESSENTIALS
This nursing pillow is great for breastfeeding and bottle feeding. And this drying rack is a favorite.
- NURSING PILLOW (2)
- NURSING COVER (2)
- PUMP
- MILK STORAGE BAGS
- BURP CLOTHS (20)
- BOTTLES ( 12)
- FORMULA DISPENSER
- BOTTLE BRUSH
- DRYING RACK
- BIBS (12)
- BOTTLE WARMER
- LANOLIN CREAM
TWIN DIAPERING ESSENTIALS
It helps to have at home diapering essentials at least for the first 4-6 weeks so you don't to worry about shopping. We also love the flexibility of ordering diapering essentials online and the convenience of having them delivered to the home.
- NEWBORN DIAPERS ( 200-300)
- DIAPER WIPES (1000 +)
- DIAPER PAIL
- DIAPER PAIL REFILLS
- DIAPER RASH CREAM
TWIN HEALTH & SAFETY ESSENTIALS
Invest in a humidifier for the nursery and a night light for the twin nursery.
- BABY LAUNDRY DETERGENT
- HEALTHCARE/ GROOMING KIT WITH THERMOMETER
- HUMIDIFIER
- NIGHT LIGHT
TWIN GEAR ESSENTIALS
There's a few items you should get for the twins. You'll need car seats, a double stroller and swings/ rockers.
- DOUBLE STROLLER
- CAR SEAT WITH BASE
- CAR SEAT COVERS
- SWING/ ROCKERS
MOM ESSENTIALS
Here's a few items you should get for yourself.
- DIAPER BAG
- CARRIER/SWING/SLING (2)
- NURSING PADS
- NIPPLE CREAM
- NURSING BRAS & CAMIS
There you have it! The most comprehensive Twin Nursery Design Guide along with the Twin Baby Registry Checklist. Please pin and share it! And, if you would like a PDF of the twin baby registry checklist get it below.
Last Updated on May 20, 2019 by Tira Attygalla
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