You don’t have to double your debt when you’re raising twins. Knowing a few tricks of the trade can keep your pocketbook, if not your sanity, intact.
Steps:
- Write down what you can afford to pay monthly for clothes, food and other needs. Stick to it.
- Have twins share items like cribs, playpens, clothes and toys when possible.
- Take advantage of wholesale, close-out and thrift store prices. Buy formula, diapers and wipes in bulk, and tear wipes in two.
- Opt for breast-feeding instead of formula.
- Find out if you qualify for the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) or Head Start programs.
- Ask for preschool and day care discounts and scholarships.
- Browse thrift stores for expensive items like double strollers and high chairs, or contact your local Mothers of Twins Club and visit its annual rummage sale.
- Let the word out that you love hand-me-downs. Keep them organized.
- Evaluate high-priced items by borrowing from friends before you buy.
- Keep a few special items that each child can call his or her own.
Tips:
- Buy different outfits instead of matching ones. This gives the twins’ wardrobe twice the variety.
- Avoid buying two swings, two bouncy seats, and so forth. Buy one of each and switch the babies off.
- Make your own baby food by mixing plain vegetables in a blender. Freeze leftovers in ice trays.
