Once we hear the exciting news that new babies are coming, we have the urge to shop, shop, shop. From the most essential items, like diapers to totally frivolous ones such as sterling silver rattles.

Contemplating what is essential and what the babies can live without may be a daunting task for some families. To help ease the anxiety, I have compiled a list of nursery items that should make the first few weeks of transitioning into life with multiples less hectic.

Sleep Time:

• Crib (I recommend one at least for the first six months, especially if there are budget constraints. My twins shared a crib for twelve months.)
• Crib bedding, which should include an extra 2-3 sheet sets, so that you don’t find yourself laundering daily. Crib bedding can also include a blanket for each baby, and a bumper pad to protect soft heads from the crib railing. Remember, as a safety precaution, the bumper pad should be removed during the babies' sleep time.
• A crib mobile

Diapering:

• Diapers, obviously. If you are going to use cotton diapers, have two week's worth on hand. Keep in mind that your babies may be smaller in size at birth than a singleton, so don’t order them too large. If disposable diapers are going to be used, don’t invest in too many prior to bringing the babies home, one reason being the possibility of a wrong fit or the brand you choose initially may cause one or both babies to have skin irritation. Once you have settled on the perfect choice for, stock up at least a two week's supply, accommodating for weight increases.
• Changing table for convenience and storage. If budget is a concern, lying the babies on a bed under a towel works fine.
• Diaper Genie (helps minimize odors)
• Baby wipes. I recommend unscented, which minimizes the risk of allergic reactions.
• Baby wipe warmer
• Diaper rash cream

Feeding Time:

• Breast pump, if the babies are going to be fed breast milk
• Bottles (I recommend bottles with disposable linings. The amount of gas-inducing air is minimized and cleanup is much easier. I also recommend having at least bottles per baby and two-weeks worth of liners on hand)
• Bottle warmer (microwaving can be dangerous because of milk warming disproportionately and using a pot on a stove top can take longer than desired)
• Burp rags (no need to spend extra money, here; hand towels work great)
• Bibs (be prepared to have a clean one for each baby at each feeding to lessen the laundry load)

Bath Time:

• Baby Bath (again, start with a sample of one or two brands that you like, if there are no adverse reactions with the babies’ skin, go ahead and stock up with a month’s supply)
• Baby lotion (the same above advice applies)
• Infant sized tub. Always be present when the babies are in water, even very shallow bath water; drowning is a very real threat.
• Infant washcloths and bath towels. They tend to be softer. I would recommend starting off with 5 for each baby.

Grooming and Dress:

• Baby sized grooming kit which may include: a soft brush, fine-tooth comb and nail clip
• Nose bulb or aspirator
• Cotton swabs and Q-tips
• Hand mitts to prevent the babies from scratching themselves
• Onesies: keep it simple with the clothing for the first couple of months

Safety:

• Car seats for both babies before you leave the hospital. It's unlawful to transport them home without a car seat.
• Monitor (a monitor can allow you to listen in on the babies when you are in another room. In case one or both babies have a sudden need, there is little time lapsed in handling it.)