What to Do If You Cant Find Crib Replacement Parts

Updated December 20, 2025 by Jan of Unique Baby Gear Ideas

If you’re trying to figure out what to do if you cant find crib replacement parts, you’re not alone. Missing screws, bolts, mattress supports, or brackets are one of the most common problems parents face when assembling a crib that’s been moved, stored, or passed down. The good news is that there are safe, practical steps you can take to identify what’s missing, explore legitimate replacement options, and decide when a crib can — or should not — be used.

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What to Do If You Cant Find Crib Replacement Parts: Start by Identifying What’s Missing

When crib replacement parts can’t be found, the first and most important step is figuring out exactly what’s missing. Many cribs use multiple screw lengths, unique brackets, or model-specific mattress support hardware that can look similar at first glance but function very differently once installed. Knowing what to do if you cant find crib replacement parts helps parents avoid unsafe fixes and make better decisions.

Check the original instruction manual if you still have it, or look for a manufacturer label on the crib frame that lists the brand, model number, and manufacturing date. This information makes it much easier to narrow down compatible replacement parts.

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Why Generic Hardware Store Parts Often Don’t Work

Many parents wonder whether hardware store screws or bolts can be used when original crib parts are missing. While this may seem like a quick solution, crib hardware is often designed with specific thread types, load ratings, and head shapes that standard hardware store fasteners don’t match.

Using the wrong hardware can lead to loose joints, uneven mattress support, or parts that don’t fully tighten — issues that may not be obvious right away but can worsen over time.

If you’re considering this route, it helps to understand why most crib screws are not interchangeable. This detailed guide explains what determines compatibility and why crib screws are rarely universal: Are crib screws universal?

Check Brand-Specific Crib Parts Pages First

If the crib brand is known, brand-specific crib parts pages are often the fastest way to find accurate replacement hardware or guidance on discontinued models. These pages typically include common part names, photos, and request options for hard-to-find pieces.

For example, if you’re working with a popular brand, these pages can help narrow your search:

• Delta crib replacement parts
• Graco crib parts and hardware
• Simmons crib parts help

What to Do If the Crib Is Discontinued

Discontinued cribs are one of the most common reasons parents can’t find replacement parts. In these cases, manufacturers may no longer supply hardware kits or support older models.

If official parts are unavailable, many parents choose to:

If you are unsure what to do if you cant find crib replacement parts for an older or discontinued model, stay calm... frustration often leads to rushed decisions. Taking a pause to confirm whether safe replacements exist — or whether replacement is the better option — can help prevent wasted time, unnecessary spending, and potential safety concerns later on.

• Search for third-party replacement kits made for specific crib brands or styles
• Look for salvaged parts from the same model crib
• Decide whether replacing the crib entirely is the safer long-term option

This is also a good time to consider whether the crib can be safely used at all if essential structural parts are missing. This guide walks through those considerations in more detail: Can you use a crib with missing parts?

Mattress Support and Frame Parts Need Extra Care

Missing mattress support frames, springs, or brackets deserve special attention. These components carry the baby’s full weight and are critical for keeping the mattress level and secure.

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If mattress support parts can’t be replaced with the correct components, many parents decide that replacing the crib is the safest path forward rather than attempting modifications.

When Replacing the Crib May Be the Better Choice

Sometimes the most practical solution is to stop searching for parts and move on. This is often the case when:

• Multiple structural parts are missing
• The crib is very old or lacks clear model information
• Replacement hardware cannot be verified for compatibility

In these situations, choosing a new crib that meets current safety standards can provide peace of mind and reduce long-term frustration.

Helpful Safety Reminder

Cribs are designed and tested as complete systems. When parts are missing or replaced with non-original hardware, the crib may no longer perform as intended. If you’re unsure about a replacement option or can’t confirm compatibility, consulting the manufacturer or replacing the crib may be the safest choice.

For additional guidance on crib safety and current standards, you can also review crib safety information provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission at cpsc.gov.

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.