Dropside Crib Assembly Instructions

Tools Needed

• You will need a wrench designed to hold the nuts in place while the crib’s bolts are tightened with an appropriately sized allen wrench. A screwdriver is needed to tighten the screws in the crib. Most dropside cribs use Philips head screws instead of flathead screws. Dowels and screw holders should be pounded in place using a strong hammer. Use of a stone or other heavy item instead of a hammer can result in crooked installations and dangerous crib constructions. Finally, sandpaper should be used to soften any sharp edges along the crib to avoid cuts and scratches on the child.

Assembly

• Before assembling the crib, check all components for quality issues and familiarity with the components’ installation locations. Your child’s safety comes first and should never be compromised by faulty parts. Assemble the crib starting with the headboard and footboard frames. Next, install the rest of the lower framework. The crib should be self-supporting at this point. Before installing the sides of the crib, support the bottom with the spring frame and cover board. It’s easier to access the bottom of the crib while the sides are detached, and they should be installed at the very end of the setup. Set the springs to the appropriate height before installing the sides. Align the ends of the drop sides with the crib’s pins before pushing the sides into place. Tighten the hardware and test the dropside to make sure it slides up and down easily and locks into place. If you prefer a fixed side, lock the side in the top position before mounting it with screws. Add the wheels to the bottom of the legs before finishing the assembly with the addition of a crib mattress.

Other Considerations

• Regularly check the dropside crib’s assembly for loosened hardware. Tighten any screws or bolts that appear to be loose and test the dropsides to make sure they lock into place after tightening. Clean the crib with mild dishwashing soap and water applied to a soft cloth prior to use to remove any dust or debris that may have gathered on the crib during assembly. If disassembling the crib for transportation or storage, do not unscrew any bolts or screws. Repeated removal and re-entrance of screws can strip the wood, breaching the crib’s safety. Many dropside cribs are made of treated wood that will peel or swell when exposed to moisture, so avoid using humidifiers or vaporizers near the crib.