A properly assembled crib is the foundation of safe sleep, and even a small oversight—a loose bolt, a mattress that does not fit snugly, or a drop-side rail installed incorrectly—can create serious hazards. This checklist walks you through every stage of crib assembly, from unboxing to the final safety inspection, so you can set up your baby’s sleep space with confidence.

Before You Begin: Preparation Essentials

• Check for recalls. Before assembly, verify your crib’s model number against the CPSC recall database at cpsc.gov. Never assemble or use a crib that has been recalled.
• Confirm current safety standards. A new crib should comply with CPSC and ASTM F1169 standards. Avoid older or secondhand cribs with drop-side rails, missing hardware, or gaps wider than 2⅜ inches between slats.
• Inventory all parts and hardware. Lay out every piece and compare against the manufacturer’s parts list. Contact the manufacturer for replacements if anything is missing—never substitute hardware from a hardware store.
• Read the manual completely. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions in order. Do not improvise or skip steps, even if assembly seems intuitive.
• Choose the right tools and location. Assemble the crib in the room where it will be used, on a soft surface such as a blanket or cardboard to protect the finish.

During Assembly: Key Safety Checks

• Tighten all bolts, screws, and fittings securely. Hand-tighten first, then finish with the included tools. Do not overtighten, which can crack wood or strip hardware.
• Use only the hardware provided. Original bolts and screws are engineered for the crib’s specific load and stress points.
• Verify the mattress support height. Set the mattress support to the highest level for a newborn, and lower it as your baby learns to sit, pull up, and stand.
• Check the drop-side mechanism (if applicable). Drop-side cribs are banned in the United States. If you own one, discontinue use and replace it with a fixed-side crib.
• Inspect all slats and rails. Ensure slats are secure, evenly spaced, and no more than 2⅜ inches apart. There should be no missing, loose, or broken slats.
• Confirm corner posts. Corner posts should not extend more than 1/16 inch above the end panels, unless the crib is designed with a canopy, to prevent clothing from catching.

The Mattress Fit Test

A properly fitted mattress is critical to preventing entrapment and suffocation. After assembly, place the mattress inside the crib and perform this test:

• There should be no more than two fingers’ width (about one inch) of space between the mattress and any side of the crib.
• Press down on all four corners and along each side—the mattress should not shift or leave gaps.
• Use only a mattress designed for the crib’s specific dimensions. A mattress that is too small creates dangerous gaps; one that is too large can warp the crib frame.

After Assembly: Final Inspection

• Shake the crib gently. It should feel solid with no wobbling, creaking, or shifting. Retighten any loose connections.
• Remove all packaging materials. Discard plastic wrap, styrofoam, and tags immediately—these are suffocation and choking hazards.
• Position the crib correctly. Place it away from windows, blinds, curtains, wall decor, and electrical cords. Ensure it is not within reach of a heater, radiator, or monitor cords.
• Keep the crib bare. The safest sleep environment includes only a fitted sheet. No bumpers, pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, or positioners.
• Secure the drop-side or conversion hardware. If your crib converts to a toddler bed, store conversion kits and hardware safely and follow instructions when converting.
• Register your crib. Send in the manufacturer’s registration card or register online so you can be notified of any future recalls.

Ongoing Maintenance

• Check all hardware monthly and retighten as needed.
• Inspect the crib for cracks, splinters, or loose parts, especially after moving it.
• Never modify the crib or add third-party accessories that are not approved by the manufacturer.
• Stop using the crib once your child reaches the manufacturer’s height or weight limit, or can climb out.

Final Thoughts

Safe sleep starts with a safe crib. By following this checklist carefully—verifying recalls, using only original hardware, testing the mattress fit, and inspecting the finished crib—you create a secure sleep environment for your baby and peace of mind for yourself. When in doubt, always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and the latest guidance from the CPSC and the American Academy of Pediatrics.