Crib Screws Missing? What to Do and How to Find the Right Replacement Hardware

Updated December 17, 2025 by Jan of Unique Baby Gear Ideas

Are your crib screws missing? That can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to assemble or reassemble a crib and can’t tell which hardware is supposed to go where. Many parents use the word “screws” to describe all crib fasteners, even though some cribs use bolts, barrel nuts, or other connecting hardware. This page helps you sort out what may be missing and how to identify the right replacement hardware for your crib.

Can you replace crib screws with hardware store screws?

Go here to see more

On this page, you’ll find a simple way to sort out which crib screws or connecting hardware may be missing, how to tell what type your crib uses, and where parents usually look first for replacement hardware. The goal is to help you move forward without guessing, whether you’re dealing with a newer crib, an older model, or a crib that’s been taken apart for storage or moving.

Keeping all crib hardware in one place during assembly makes it much easier to notice when something is missing.

Crib screws missing? Start by identifying what’s actually gone

When parents say crib screws are missing, they may be referring to several different pieces of hardware. Cribs often use a combination of fasteners that work together, and if even one part is missing, the crib may not assemble the way it should.

When crib screws missing becomes the issue during assembly, it’s often because one small connector or fastener was separated from the rest of the hardware.

Common crib hardware that may be missing

• Machine screws or bolts
• Barrel nuts (also called cross dowels)
• Washers or spacers
• Cam-style connectors (on some newer cribs)
• Allen keys or assembly tools

It’s also common for hardware to be packed in small plastic bags taped inside the box or tucked into cardboard corners, so a careful recheck can sometimes solve the problem quickly.

How to identify the right replacement hardware

The most reliable way to find replacement crib screws or bolts is to start with the crib’s model information. Cribs that look nearly identical can use different screw lengths or thread types, especially if they were made in different years.

If you’re unsure about size or thread type, this step-by-step guide on how to measure crib screws correctly can help you match replacement hardware more accurately.

Where to find the crib model number

Most cribs have a manufacturer label attached to the inside of the headboard or footboard, the mattress support frame, or a lower rail. Write down the brand name, model number, and manufacture date exactly as shown on the label.

If the part you’re missing is not a screw or bolt but the crib mattress frame, spring, or support hangers, this guide explains how crib mattress support systems work and how to identify the correct replacement parts: crib mattress support frame and spring replacement help.

If you’re not sure where to begin, the main crib parts help and replacement hub can help route you to the correct brand or category.

For a single page that organizes crib replacement parts by brand, hardware type, and common missing-hardware situations, see the crib replacement parts hub.

Go here to see more

Matching length, thread type, and head style helps reduce trial-and-error when replacing crib screws.

If the crib is older or discontinued

If the manufacturer no longer supports your crib, many parents still locate compatible replacement hardware by matching measurements or finding original assembly manuals online. In some cases, the crib may have been sold under a store brand even though it was manufactured by a larger company.

You may also find helpful guidance in the baby crib replacement parts guide, which covers common scenarios for older and secondhand cribs.

Common assembly issues when replacing crib screws

Barrel nuts not aligned

If a bolt won’t catch, the barrel nut may be rotated slightly inside the hole. Loosening the joint and realigning the opening often resolves the issue.

Wrong screw length

Screws that are too short may not engage properly, while screws that are too long can bottom out before tightening fully. Comparing measurements before installation can help avoid this problem.

Threads not catching

If threads feel rough or won’t turn smoothly, the screw or nut may be damaged or mismatched. Replacing the hardware rather than forcing it is often the better option.

Why crib screws often go missing during moves or storage

Missing crib screws are especially common when a crib has been taken apart for a move, stored between children, or purchased secondhand. Hardware bags can be separated from the crib frame, mixed with other furniture screws, or taped to a box that later gets discarded. In some cases, only a few screws are missing, which makes it harder to notice the problem until reassembly begins.

If the crib has been disassembled more than once, it’s also common for different screws to be swapped between locations, even though they may look similar at first glance. This is why identifying the original crib hardware by model number and measurements usually works better than trying to replace screws one at a time.

Important crib hardware note

Crib disclaimer: If crib screws or connecting hardware are missing, it’s generally best to wait until the correct replacement parts are installed and the crib is fully assembled according to the manufacturer’s instructions. I’m not the manufacturer and can’t verify compatibility for crib models. For model-specific guidance, consult the crib’s manual, the manufacturer, or a qualified professional. For general crib recalls and consumer information, you can also review the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall database.

Related crib help

• Can you use a crib with missing parts?
• Crib replacement parts hub
• Where to find baby crib replacement parts

If you still have the crib’s label, writing down the model number and manufacture date is often the most helpful next step when tracking down replacement crib screws or hardware.

Hi, I’m Jan — the creator of Unique Baby Gear Ideas. I love helping expecting parents discover nursery décor inspiration and creative photo shoot ideas that make every stage of pregnancy feel beautiful.

Over the years, I’ve helped thousands of parents choose safe, stylish nursery furniture through hands-on reviews and real-world testing.

The suggestions I share here come from years of hands-on experience styling nurseries, reviewing maternity gowns, and learning what makes each photo session shine.

All articles and images on Unique Baby Gear Ideas are personally reviewed and edited by Jan Bay. Modern creative tools may assist with design or drafting, but every final page reflects my own voice, experience, and editorial judgment.