Advice from Parents of twins or multipules on not going broke?

Question

Okay so I was so worried something was wrong with my pregnancy because there were lots of tests for my HCG turns out I am having twins and everything looks good so far. I am very excited but overwhelmed. One of my concerns is the cost of raising two newborn babies. My boyfriend just started working as a teacher and I have not finished school so finances are a bit tight. I was just wondering if any parents had tipos or money saving advice.

tips* excuse the typo

there are no mothers of multiples groups in my area based on the info on their website.

got the 1st ultrasound yesterday its just a tiny lil dot but my HCG is 69,000 and im only 3 weeks so if it is twins they will be identical. so far theres some great advice thanks so much

Answer 1

Find some people in your neiborhood who have kids and befriend them. I give everything that doesnt fit my kids anymore to the daycare my kids go to and she gives it to kids who can use them. I am constantly getting clothes and toys and things from other parents at the daycare.

Thrift stores are great and yard sales. I bought a double stroller from a yard sale for $10. It was a little old fashoned but it worked. Also try to get things that grow with them. You might spend a few extra dollars but it will last them (a crib that turns into a bed, a car seat that converts from an infant seat to a baby seat to a toddler seat)

The best diapers i have ever used were white cloud from walmart. They dont leak and are really cheap. You can also make your own wipes with wet paper towles.

Get on wic. You will get free formula or if you choose to breast feed, they will give you healthy food for you to eat. (assuming you are in the USA)

Answer 2

Congratulations first of all!! As a single, working mother of almost 18 month old boy/girl twins I can tell you that it will be hectic, crazy but most of all FUN!! I completely recommend starting a baby registry for those who can and are willing to help.
Babies 'R Us gives a discount for buying 2 identical bigger ticket items - car seats, strollers, etc - I think maybe 20%?? That is where I've gotten my car seats - now in toddler! - and stroller. I may be a paranoid Mom, but I only have purchased new car seats.
Ebay is another place that I have to highly recommend. My mom has found TONS of clothes in quite large lots for fairly cheap prices. You can find some really nice stuff in great condition there for cheap prices! Craigslist is another great site for some cheap stuff.
Definitely check into WIC, especially if finances are tight. It is a wonderful benefit for young mothers!!
As far as daycare is concerned, check with your state/county about daycare assistance. I can tell you that I pay $1200 a month in daycare and it stretches me beyond my limits, but I was just approved for the assistance and it will make a WORLD of difference for me.
Please feel free to email me if you need any advice or just need to talk about being a mother to twins! Get ready for attention because twins get it everywhere they go!! 8^)

Answer 3

Welcome to the club!! When we found out we were having twins it was one month after we bought our first house, so I know how tight money can be.
Start a baby registry - people that can help out will - I had a few family members go togther to get me the expensive things. Spread out your purchases - make a list of the important things you will need and prioritize that list to the must haves and the want to haves. Then start to save your money to get things that you need. Check out local garage sales - I got a brand new double jogging stroller for $50 - it was still in the box!
Buy as much as you can used - you don't need everything new.
I have tons of twin stuff that I could sell to you (cheap) car seats, etc. And other stuff that I would give to you.
I would be more than happy to help you out. email me [e-mail]

Answer 4

Congratulations on the twins! There's the National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs (see link below). They have clubs across the country, you can search for your state and see where there's one close to you - I know the group has outings and events for moms and for moms to bring the babies to as well. They also act as a support group cuz the other members know what it's like having twins.

As for financial issues, I know Easter Seals can help with car seats (I'm not sure if you have to meet certain criteria to qualify or not). Also, just look out for sales - where I live there's a baby items sale - I've never gone, but from friends who've been I hear you can find lots of good things cheap. Garage sales are usually good, as well as hand me downs from friends and family. Look for things on clearance as well - I know Wal-mart and Target both have clearance racks in their babies and kids clothes sections and you can find outfits for only a few dollars.

Good luck and again congratulations!

Answer 5

Have you looked into a group called Mothers of Multiples. They usually have local chapters and do garage sales - that they open to members first. I think they also have pretty good websites.

Also things like activity centers, bouncers, swings, etc, you can get them at such great deals at sales and stores like Once Upon a Child that, unless its a carseat or crib, theres no need to buy new. (plus a used carseat or crib from a trusted source would work too)

Answer 6

i would suggest you start on the dave ramsey plan.. check out his web site.. you really just need his book to get started you can get it at Costco for like 1/2 the price . it has changed my family's life.. we have paid off 9 credit cards in 6 months and lowered our debt 20k ... and before this plan we could only make min pymts.. so check it out .. really great wisdom.. hope this helps.. it can be hard financially to have multiples.. but you can do it.

Answer 7

go to craigslist.com and buy everything cheap!! that's what i do, and i only have one.