Convertible cribs help save parents money by serving as a traditional infant crib, a toddler bed or day bed, and a full-size bed. When babies outgrow their cribs and toddlers outgrow their beds, parents can just reconfigure the crib to turn it into a bigger bed without having to buy a new piece of furniture. To convert the crib, parents just need a pair of conversion rails and a full-size mattress. To be safe, however, always purchase a new convertible crib from a store -- not a used one from a yard sale or relative. Additionally, check for any recent recalls of specific convertible crib brands.
Clear a space where you will put the new bed. A full-size bed is 53 inches wide and about 75 inches long.
Remove the front and back rails of the crib using the manufacturer's instructions. Typically, this will involve removing screws or bolts with either an Allen wrench or screwdriver. Some cribs may also feature supporting brackets that must be removed.
Set up the back rail where you want the head of the bed to be.
Secure the brackets for the conversion rails to what is now the headboard using either an Allen wrench or screwdriver. Attach the conversion rails to the brackets. The procedure for each conversion kit may vary, so follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Attach support brackets to the foot board, which was previously the front rail of the crib. Use the same procedure as was used for the headboard to attach the conversion rails to the foot board.
Push the bed frame into position against the wall.
Add a full-size box spring and mattress to the frame.
Tips
Be sure your bed is in the right position before adding the mattress and box spring. Once the bed is fully assembled, it will be more difficult to move.
Warnings
Make sure your child is ready for a full-sized bed before making the transition. Some mattress sets can make the bed very high for small children, which could increase their risk of injury, if they fall out of bed.