How to Make S15 Crib Spring Hooks for Vintage Baby Cribs When You Don't Know Where to Find One

Updated November 3, 2025 by Jan of Unique Baby Gear Ideas

S15 crib spring hooks are one of the most common parts my visitors send me messages about when they're restoring a vintage baby crib, and they can be surprisingly difficult to find. I’ve had many readers ask where to buy them, and the truth is that most are no longer manufactured. The good news is that you can have new hooks made safely (read my disclaimer below) and affordably at a local metalworking shop using one good original piece as a pattern. I checked around and spoke to a local metal worker and in this article, I’ll share exactly what he said as to how to go about it, what materials to request, and how to be sure your finished hooks are safe and strong.

A view of an authentic, vintage S15 crib spring hanger hook used to secure the mattress spring frame in older Childcraft baby cribs and possibly others that so many parents need replacements for.

Your second block of text... Many parents restoring heirloom or vintage cribs discover that one or more S15 hooks are missing or bent, leaving the mattress spring unstable. Since the original parts were discontinued years ago, the easiest solution is to have a local metal shop bend new ones using sturdy steel wire of the same gauge as the originals. With a sample hook and accurate measurements, most small fabrication shops can reproduce a complete set in less than an hour, often for less than the cost of shipping used parts online.

DIY S15 Crib Hook Replacement for Vintage Baby Cribs

If your crib parts search has come up empty, don’t worry. Making your own DIY S15 crib spring hanger hooks is surprisingly simple once you know the materials and tools required. A local metal fabrication shop or machine shop can reproduce each hook by hand, ensuring a secure fit for your vintage crib’s spring frame.

1. Gather Measurements for Custom S15 Crib Spring Hooks

Start by bringing one good hook to serve as your S15 crib hook pattern. Measure carefully — include overall length, hook radius, and wire thickness. Most S15 hooks are made from 3/16" steel wire. Ask the fabricator to use cold-rolled steel or a similar durable material that can handle weight without bending.

2. Visit a Local Metalworking Shop

When searching, use terms such as “custom metal bending,” “wire forming,” or “small batch metal fabrication.” Many local shops are happy to help homeowners with small custom projects. You can also read this guide to antique baby cribs to better understand the different hardware styles used through the years.

3. Ensure Safety and Stability

Once the new hooks are made, test each S15 hanger hook for fit and strength before reinstalling your spring frame. The hooks should slide in smoothly but remain firm under tension. Avoid any pieces that feel loose or uneven, as they could compromise crib stability. For modern safety guidelines, visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s crib safety page.

4. Finishing Touches and Rust Prevention

Ask your metal shop to apply a zinc-plated finish or rust-resistant coating for longer life. After installation, inspect periodically for corrosion or wear, especially if your nursery is humid. You can see how other parents have restored their cribs beautifully on our baby crib makeover page.

Alternative Solutions and Sourcing Tips

If you can’t locate a metal shop nearby, consider checking online forums or restoration groups for vintage crib replacement hardware. Sometimes, local hardware stores with a workshop area can bend wire to spec if you provide a photo and measurements. Avoid makeshift substitutes or plastic hooks, which can fail under tension.

For related help, see more crib hardware and assembly guides here:

• Crib Parts and Replacement Hardware
• Repairing and Restoring Baby Cribs
• Antique Cribs and Restoration Ideas

Having new S15 hooks made keeps a treasured vintage crib sturdy and secure for generations to come.

Tips for Maintaining and Storing S15 Crib Spring Hooks

Once your S15 crib spring hooks are safely installed, a little care will keep them in excellent shape for years to come. Wipe the hooks occasionally with a soft cloth to remove dust or humidity buildup, especially if your crib is in storage or near a window. A light coating of clear protective wax or a touch of rust-resistant spray will prevent oxidation without affecting the finish. I always remind readers that even these tiny metal parts are part of your nursery’s story — small details that keep a vintage crib strong and beautiful. Whether you’re restoring a family heirloom or giving new life to a flea-market find, proper care of your S15 hooks ensures both safety and sentimental value for the next generation.

About the Author

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. 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.

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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.