Grab the top rail of the crib and shake it vigorously. There should be zero rattles, wobbles, or squeaks. If there is movement, check your barrel nuts.
The official manual shows you where parts go, but it doesn't teach you how to tighten them without stripping the wood.
Do not dive straight into screwing legs together. Bonavita (owned by Million Dollar Baby) uses high-quality materials, but damage can occur in transit.
Step 1: Inventory Check Open the box and lay out all parts against the manual. Pay special attention to the Mattress Support Board. It is heavy and has specific high/low orientations.
Step 2: Locate the "Hidden" Hardware Bonavita often hides the hardware pack inside a cardboard cutout taped to the inside of the headboard panel. Do not throw away the box until you find the small, sealed bag containing the cam locks, dowels, bolts, and the spring washer (crucial for the conversion kit later).
Step 3: The 24-Hour Wait (Important) If you live in a humid environment, let the wood panels acclimate to your nursery’s room temperature for 24 hours before assembly. This prevents wood expansion from cracking the pre-drilled holes.
