This crib rail assembly from regalo is a much better thought out than what I grew up with. Firstly, I strongly recommend using the instructions for assembly. The reason, while overall simple to put together, there are specific steps to take in certain order. When putting the rods together, there was some minor difficulty properly fitting the rods together or even into their plastic joints. I used a small rubber mallet to help seat the rods into place and their is a spring loaded but to snap in place once seated. I found it simpler to arrange the rail with the under bar and straps facing away from me.
Upon completion of the assembly, use a measuring tape in order to know how much length of adjuster strap you will be using for your particular mattress width. This saves you the time of repeatedly removing the mattress when installing the rail under your mattress. Extend the straps three to four inches further than the width of the mattress as you can adjust them back and forth later. After you place mattress over the under bar and straps, then familiarize yourself with the action of raising the rail up and down with the locking tabs. One of my tabs was difficult to lock in place and I added a dab of vaseline for lubricating the plastic pieces. The only reason I see for unlocking, might be when changing sheets for cleaning, otherwise the rail should be upright at all times.
Pros .............Assembly instructions very friendly
Sturdy construction and child friendly appearance
Appears very safe
Cons............. The length of the rail seems too short for some cribs
(note: buyer should know the size of their crib before purchasing)
