Finding a feeding routine that works for your twins

Finding a feeding rhythm that suits you and your twins

Feeding twins can feel like a full time job, especially in the early weeks when days and nights blur together. Whether you are breastfeeding, bottle feeding, combination feeding or still weighing up your options, it is natural to wonder if you should have a proper routine in place.

There is no single ‘right’ way to feed twins, triplets or more. What matters most is that your babies are growing well and that you feel as calm and supported as possible. A routine can give everyone a bit of structure, but it should also leave room for the reality of newborn life, where growth spurts, tiredness and cluster feeding sometimes throw the plan out of the window.

The good news is that feeding routines can grow with your babies. You do not have to figure everything out at once.

Understanding your twins’ different feeding needs

Twins often share a strong connection, but they are still two separate babies. Each one has their own temperament, appetite and way of feeding. One might prefer slow, steady feeds while the other is quick and efficient. One might wake more often at night, while the other stretches longer between feeds. It can be tempting to compare them, especially if one seems to be ‘easier’, but differences are usually normal rather than a sign of a problem.

A helpful place to start is watching your babies rather than the clock. Early hunger cues like rooting, lip smacking, sucking on hands or becoming more alert often show up before crying. Responding at this stage can make feeds calmer for everyone. Over time you will get to know each baby’s rhythm, even if they are not the same.

Many parents of multiples choose to gradually synchronise feeds. This often happens because it is simply more practical. Feeding both babies close together can mean fewer separate feeding sessions, slightly longer stretches of rest and a more predictable flow to the day. It may also reduce the pattern where one baby finally settles and the other wakes soon after.

That said, simultaneous feeding is not a rule you have to follow. In the early days you might prefer to feed one baby at a time so you can focus on positioning, latch or bottle technique. This can be especially helpful if you are recovering from birth, learning to breastfeed or getting used to managing bottles for two. Some families find they start with staggered feeds then gently bring them closer together as everyone gains confidence. (Link INF-39 how to bottle feed safely)

Different ways to shape a feeding routine

There are many ways to build a routine that fits your family and you can change your approach as your twins grow. Some parents like a looser pattern where they feed on demand but nudge the babies towards having feeds within the same general window. Others find comfort in a clearer timetable, especially if there are older children to juggle or partners going back to work.

You might decide to wake the second baby when the first needs a feed, particularly overnight. Over time this can help their body clocks line up. If waking feels too disruptive at first, you could try aligning one or two feeds in the day instead and seeing how that goes.

Practical planning can make a big difference. Having everything you need to hand means less stress in the moment. For bottle feeding, this might be organised storage for clean bottles, a safe system for preparing formula and a plan for night feeds. For breastfeeding, setting up a regular feeding spot with cushions, water, snacks and muslins can make tandem or back to back feeds more comfortable.

As your twins grow, you will usually notice longer gaps between feeds and clearer patterns in their day. This is often a good time to introduce a little more structure, especially as you move towards solids. Mealtimes and milk feeds often begin to line up in a way that feels more manageable, even if the early months felt quite unpredictable.

You might find it useful to:

• Experiment with both tandem and one at a time feeds to see what feels safest and most comfortable
• Adjust your routine after growth spurts, illnesses or developmental leaps, rather than expecting it to stay the same
• Talk to your health visitor or a feeding expert (link to INF-38 Can I breast feed twins? Everything I need to know) if you are worried about weight gain, latch or milk supply

Looking after yourself while you feed your twins

Feeding two babies, however you do it, is demanding work. It is easy to feel as if you should be able to feed on time, keep the house running and stay cheerful, all while getting very little sleep. Try to remember that you are doing the work of more than one parent. It is okay if the washing piles up or meals are simple while you focus on feeding and resting.

Accepting help can be part of your feeding routine too. A partner, family member or friend might bring you drinks, hold a baby between sides, wash bottles or take over burping so you can stretch your shoulders. These small acts can make feeds feel less lonely and more sustainable.

Most of all, give yourself permission to adapt. If a schedule that once worked now leaves you exhausted, it is fine to rethink it. If synchronised feeds suddenly feel too intense, you can space them out again. Your confidence will grow as you get to know what works for you and your babies.

If you would like more individual support, you can reach out to our helpline (LINK). You do not have to figure out feeding routines on your own. For Premium Members take advantage of our 121 feeding support and apply to speak to one of our trained feeding experts here. LINK to 121 Support feeding page