How to Repair a Broken Baby Crib

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has recalled approximately 7 million cribs since 2007, the large majority of which have drop-sides. Depending on the problem for which it's recalled, crib manufacturers may issue a repair kit or replace the entire crib. For cribs that aren't recalled but have missing hardware or broken or warped pieces, the manufacturer might be able to send replacement parts. Unless the repair is straightforward and done with parts and hardware directly from the manufacturer, you shouldn't attempt to fix a broken baby crib. The CPSC points out that poorly repaired cribs or do-it-yourself repairs are dangerous and have proven deadly.

Instructions

- 1
  Stop using the broken crib, immediately. Find a safe sleeping alternative for your baby. Infants who are not yet able to push or pull themselves up --- usually around 5 months of age --- can temporarily sleep in a bassinet, play yard or Moses basket. Climbing babies or toddlers can sleep on a mattress on the floor until the crib is repaired or replaced. Don't add heavy blankets, comforters or pillows to your baby's sleep space, as they present a suffocation risk.
- 2
  Take a look at the crib. Note what is obviously broken and assess whether more than one piece of the crib is affected by the damage. For example, if the wood of a top rail is splitting at the joint where it meets another top rail, assess both pieces as well as the joint for damage. With the mattress removed, wiggle the crib to check its joint stability. Visually check all joints to make sure they're sound.
- 3
  Call the crib's manufacturer. Be prepared to have the crib's model number, serial number and date of manufacture on hand. Explain in detail what is broken and otherwise loose or questionable.
- 4
  Order replacement parts or a replacement kit if feasible. If the manufacturer tells you that it cannot be fixed for any reason, do not attempt to repair it. Cribs are tested during the manufacturing process to be able to withstand a certain level of use and meet specific safety standards. The manufacturer might be able to replace the crib, depending on your warranty or whether it's a recall situation.
- 5
  Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using its replacement parts or repair kit. Call the manufacturer for clarification if the repair instructions are unclear. Make sure all parts fit snugly and the crib as a whole is tight once finished. Put the mattress back in the crib and double check that you cannot fit more than two fingers between the mattress and the crib at any point.

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