Buying a stroller for twins

Expecting twins and not sure what to look out for when buying a twin stroller?

In addition to our tips on what to consider before buying a stroller, here are a few extra tips on what you should consider when buying a stroller for twins:

Affordability

In general, twin strollers are more expensive than single strollers but they do come in different price ranges so you will be able to find one that fits in your budget.

Door dimensions

If you are considering a parallel twin stroller which has the two seats side by side (see below image) you must make sure that it fits through a standard door. The most popular single door size is 813 (w) x 2032 (h) mm but some doors are slightly narrower 762 (w) x 2032 (h) mm so you need to make sure it will fit. Please note that it might only just fit.

Weight

Twin strollers are generally quite heavy (they average around 13kg). Therefore it is important that mom makes sure that she is able to lift it on her own as dad won’t always be around to help out.

Easy to fold

It is important to learn how to fold the twin stroller before you buy it. Umbrella fold strollers are generally easier to fold and are more likely to be able to fit into a smaller sized car boot. However, it is recommended that no matter how it folds it should be smooth and easy to collapse.

Types of Twin strollers

There are two types of twin strollers namely tandems and side-by-side or parallel twin strollers.

Tandems

A tandem stroller features a front and back seating arrangement (see image below for an example). Tandem strollers are often preferred as they are easier to fit through narrow doorways and often they are compatible with two infant car seats but they can be a lot heavier than side-by side twin strollers. Before considering a tandem stroller it is also important to check whether the seats are designed for two infants or for an infant and toddler. Often only the back seat reclines flat which means that you can only fit an infant in the back seat and a toddler in the front seat. Another factor to consider with tandem strollers is that children can fight over who sits in the back or front seat.

All Star Tandem Shuffle Stroller (for newborn and toddler)

Side-by-side twin stroller

A side-by-side twin stroller has two seats positioned forward facing next to each other (see image below for an example). These strollers are usually lighter than tandems and more compact and easier to store; however, they may be more difficult to fit through narrow doorways so check the width of the stroller before you buy it. Side-by-side twin strollers also allow your two munchkins to communicate with each other and you avoid the issue of who sits in the back or front seat. 

You2 Owl & Pussycat Side-by-side twin stroller

If you are expecting twins you should consider joining the South African Multiple Birth Association who will be able to provide you with valuable advice and tips as well as discounts in preparation for the arrival of your two mini superheroes. For more information, please visit: http://www.samultiplebirth.co.za/ 

Twin Talk is also an online community for parents with twins where you can share your experiences, trials and tribulations with those who are in the same boat. For more information, please visit www.twintalk.co.za