How to Assemble a Graco Benton Crib

On this page (7 sections)

1. What should you check before assembling a Graco Benton crib?
2. How do you assemble the Graco Benton crib?
3. How do you check the crib before putting in a mattress?
4. What should you know about converting the Benton later?
5. Which cribs might suit a different nursery setup?
6. What should you do if a part is missing or the crib feels unstable?
7. What is the safest way to finish Graco Benton crib assembly?

Assemble a Graco Benton crib with the instructions for your exact model, using only the supplied parts and hardware. Sort the pieces first, build the frame in the stated order, set the mattress support, and check every connection before use.

The Benton is a 5-in-1 crib with 4 mattress support height options. Assembly is required, and the crib fits a standard full-size crib mattress sold separately.

What should you check before assembling a Graco Benton crib?

Before starting, confirm you have the correct instructions, all parts, and the required hardware. Keep children away from the work area and choose a clear, level floor where you can lay out the frame pieces.

Identify the crib model and compare the parts with the instructions. If any piece is missing, damaged, or hard to identify, pause and contact Graco rather than substituting a part from another crib.

Set the hardware aside in the order shown in the instructions. Keep small parts away from children, and don't discard packaging until you have checked that the assembly is complete.

The Benton is made with pine wood, engineered wood, and wood composites. Handle the pieces carefully to avoid scratching them or putting pressure on a joint before it is secured.

How do you assemble the Graco Benton crib?

Follow the exact order in the Benton instructions and use each fastener where the diagrams show it. The steps below are a planning guide, not a substitute for the model-specific instructions.

1. Lay out the parts and match each one to the diagrams.
2. Assemble the main frame components in the stated order.
3. Attach the fixed rails and other pieces as directed.
4. Install the mattress support at the chosen height.
5. Tighten each connection as instructed, then check the whole frame.

If you need a second person to hold a piece steady, ask for help. Don't force parts together or tighten one side fully while a connection on the other side is still misaligned.

The Benton product information doesn't give a tool list or detailed assembly steps. Use the instructions that came with your crib, or contact Graco for the correct guidance if yours are missing.

Where does the mattress support go during assembly?

The mattress support attaches at one of the 4 height positions shown in the instructions. Choose the position suited to your child's stage, and make sure the support is attached evenly and securely on every side.

A higher setting can make reaching a young baby easier. As your child grows and becomes more active, lower the support according to the instructions; don't wait until your child can climb out.

The crib should no longer be used once a child can easily climb out or is taller than 35 in. Follow the product instructions and safety guidance for the transition.

How do you check the crib before putting in a mattress?

Before use, check that the crib is stable, square, and fully secured. Confirm that all fasteners are installed and tightened as directed, and that the mattress support is level and locked into place.

Look for gaps, loose joints, damaged parts, or edges that don't align. Stop if anything shifts or feels unstable, and contact Graco before placing a baby in the crib.

Use a standard full-size crib mattress that fits the crib. The mattress is sold separately, and the correct fit matters, so follow Graco's instructions for checking fit and using the crib safely.

The Benton is GREENGUARD Gold certified and JPMA certified. Those certifications don't replace careful assembly or the need to follow the crib's instructions.

What should you know about converting the Benton later?

The Benton converts from a crib to a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed. The toddler guardrail and full-size conversion kit are sold separately, so check which parts are needed before planning a conversion.

For toddler-bed use, Graco specifies its Universal Toddler Safety Guardrail Kit (01340-60x Series). Follow the crib instructions for the conversion and don't use an improvised rail.

For full-size-bed use, Graco's full-size bed conversion kit is sold separately. Keep the instructions and any unused parts together so they're available when you change the setup.

If you're comparing models before buying, our guides to the best Graco 4 in 1 convertible crib, the best Graco 5 in 1 convertible crib, and Graco Olivia crib reviews cover other Graco options.

Which cribs might suit a different nursery setup?

A full-size convertible crib is one option, but the right setup depends on the space and the conversion stages you want. These products offer different features to compare.

The Graco Benton 5-in-1 Convertible Crib offers four mattress height positions and converts to a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed. Its toddler guardrail and full-size conversion kit are sold separately.

The Dream On Me Synergy 5-in-1 Baby Crib converts to a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed with or without a footboard. Its conversion parts are sold separately.

The Dream On Me Jayden 4-in-1 Convertible Mini combines a mini crib, changing station, and three drawers. It converts to a mini daybed and then a twin-size bed, with bed rails sold separately.

For another step-by-step crib guide, see how to assemble a DaVinci Roxanne crib. If you're choosing between Graco models, browse the best Graco convertible crib.

What should you do if a part is missing or the crib feels unstable?

Pause assembly if any part is missing, damaged, or doesn't fit as shown. Contact Graco for model-specific help, and don't substitute hardware or keep using a crib with an unstable frame.

If the instructions are missing, request the correct version for your exact crib rather than relying on a similar model's guide. Small differences can affect where parts and fasteners belong.

After assembly, follow the instructions for checking and maintaining the crib. Recheck connections as directed, especially after changing the mattress support or converting the crib.

What is the safest way to finish Graco Benton crib assembly?

Finish by confirming the correct mattress support height, a secure frame, and a properly fitted mattress. Use the Benton instructions for every assembly and conversion step, and contact Graco if a part or step remains unclear.

Choose the Benton if you want a full-size crib with four mattress support heights and several conversion stages. Compare it with the other Graco models if you need a different configuration or want to review how each crib converts.

Frequently asked questions

Can I assemble a Graco Benton crib without its instructions?

Use the instructions for your exact Benton model and version. If they’re missing or unclear, contact Graco for a replacement before assembling, since a similar-looking crib may use different parts or steps.

Don’t guess at hardware placement or use instructions for another crib.

What tools do I need to assemble a Graco Benton crib?

Check the instructions and hardware supplied with your crib for the tools required. The Benton product information confirms that assembly is required but doesn’t specify the tool list, so don’t assume a tool or substitute fastener is suitable.

Contact Graco if the instructions are missing.

How many mattress height settings does the Graco Benton have?

The Benton has 4 mattress support height options. Set the support at the position directed by the instructions, then lower it as your child grows and becomes more mobile.

Graco says the crib should no longer be used once a child can easily climb out or is taller than 35 in.

Can I use the Benton as a toddler bed after assembly?

Yes, the Benton converts to a toddler bed, but the Graco Universal Toddler Safety Guardrail Kit (01340-60x Series) is sold separately. Follow the Benton instructions for the conversion and use the specified guardrail.

The crib also converts to a daybed and full-size bed with separately sold parts.