How to Refinish a Used Crib

Disassemble the crib, and remove all hardware and plastic rails.

Using a mild industrial-grade abrasive like a Scotch-Brite heavy-duty scouring pad, scrub down all surfaces of the crib. This loosens up dirt and grime, and takes off some of the varnish or lacquer. It makes the original finish on the wood less slippery so paint will adhere more easily to the surface.

Using a tack cloth, wipe down all the surfaces of the crib. Tack cloths are made from a gauze fabric and are quite sticky. They pick up all dust, dirt and other particles in preparation for refinishing. They can be purchased from paint and home care stores.

Paint a coat of bonding primer on all wood surfaces. Bonding primer is a better choice in this type of project than other primers because it is specifically formulated for hard, glossy surfaces. The primer will feel dry to the touch in about 40 minutes. Wait 4 hours to apply a second coat.

Since baby will probably gnaw on the crib from time to time, be sure to pick a paint that is baby safe. One such paint is called "milk paint." It is all natural and made from real milk. It leaves wood with a streaky, antique-looking finish. Another more commercially available paint is called "low-VOC," or low volatile organic compounds. These paints are free of solvents and chemicals that leave that "paint smell" in the air. Wait for paint to dry, and add another coat as needed.

Reattach all hardware and reassemble the crib.