There are a number of things you should consider before buying a cot, which I will explain in my article.

Co-sleeper bed

First things first. Midwives and doctors recommend that babies sleep in their parents' bedroom for the first six months. This is not only for practical reasons, but also for safety reasons. Studies show that sleeping in the same room can significantly reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Having your baby close to you makes it easier for you to respond to your baby's needs without having to move too far away from the bed.

The best and safest way for your baby to sleep in the first few months is in a co-sleeper. Before I designed the 4 in 1 convertible cot, I asked 30 mums in my circle of friends and almost all of them said that their child slept in a co-sleeper. On average, the children slept in their parents' bedroom for 9.6 months. However, standard co-sleeper beds are usually too small after 5-6 months, so when looking for a co-sleeper bed, make sure it is big enough.

Co-sleeping in your parents' bed

Babies need to be close to their parents, especially in the first few months, and it would be an illusion to think that your baby will sleep peacefully all night in his or her own cot or co-sleeper. I always put our children in their co-sleeper for the first half of the night to get them used to the cot, and then brought them into bed with me when they were fussy. Co-sleeping can be a wonderful way to bond with your baby. Whether or not you want to co-sleep exclusively with your child depends very much on your own needs. Unfortunately, I always needed my space and never felt 100% safe co-sleeping. I was too afraid that I would roll over or that the baby would fall out of the cot. Co-sleeping definitely has its risks, so it's important to make sure the sleeping environment is designed to minimise the risk of suffocation or overheating.

A safe sleeping environment

A safe sleeping environment is essential. Make sure that the cot is stable and that the mattress is firm and breathable. There are safety standards for cribs and cots that specify exactly how they should be constructed. Although all manufacturers should follow these standards, very few actually have their products tested. The Nani Berlin 4-in-1 convertible cot has been safety tested and certified according to DIN EN - 716 (the European standard for cots). So make sure that the cot has test certificates such as the GS mark (tested safety) or the EN - 716 standard (European standard for cots). Mattresses that are too soft can also pose a risk. You should also make sure that there are no pillows, blankets or toys in the cot - all of these can increase the risk of suffocation.

Baby cot

The classic baby cot can be used from birth and can also be placed in the parents' bedroom. However, I find a co-sleeper bed more practical for use in the bedroom, as you can easily reach the baby from your own bed without having to get up. However, the cot is a good and safe solution for children who can crawl and pull themselves up. High bars are important so that the child cannot fall out while asleep or climb over them while awake. You often see funny videos on Instagram of babies climbing out of their cribs. However, this can quickly become very dangerous if they injure themselves. It is always important not to leave your child unattended. My first daughter didn't need a traditional cot. She slept in a co-sleeper in the bedroom for 12 months because she couldn't sleep through the night. When she started walking at the age of one, she moved to an open bed in her own nursery.

Advantages of a cot that grows with your child

Unfortunately, one thing I didn't think about when I bought my first cot was the possibility of a model that grows with your child. Baby cots that grow with your child can often be converted into a junior bed so that they can be used for a long time. However, many of these models are not suitable for use as an extra bed. With the 4-in-1 Convertible Baby Bed from Nani Berlin, I have developed a bed that can be used for a long time, especially as a co-sleeper, and can be converted into a cot, toddler bed and/or junior bed with just a few extra parts. This means it can be adapted to your child's individual sleeping needs and you no longer have to worry about finding the right sleeping solution for your child.

Baby beds that grow with your child are a very sustainable choice. You save time and money by not having to buy two or even three cots.

Advantages of a cot that grows with your child

Unfortunately, one thing I didn't think about when I bought my first cot was the possibility of a model that grows with your child. Baby cots that grow with your child can often be converted into a junior bed so that they can be used for a long time. However, many of these models are not suitable for use as an extra bed. With the 4-in-1 Convertible Baby Bed from Nani Berlin, I have developed a bed that can be used for a long time, especially as a co-sleeper, and can be converted into a cot, toddler bed and/or junior bed with just a few extra parts. This means it can be adapted to your child's individual sleeping needs and you no longer have to worry about finding the right sleeping solution for your child. Baby cribs that grow with your child are a very sustainable choice. You save time and money by not having to buy two or even three cots.

In summary

Choosing a cot is not easy and there are many aspects to consider. Your baby's safety should always come first. I hope my tips will help you make the right choice. Take a look at our 4-in-1 convertible cot that grows with your baby. If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences, let me know! Every baby is unique and in the end you will make the best decision for your family.