Preparing for a new arrival is a whirlwind of joy, anticipation, and a seemingly endless checklist. As we began designing our nursery, we quickly realized that a dresser is far more than just a place to store tiny onesies and diapers. It’s the command center of the room—a changing station, a storage hub, and a piece of furniture that needs to be both beautiful and uncompromisingly safe. The search felt daunting. We wanted something that wouldn’t fill the air with harmful chemicals, would stand up to years of use, and, most importantly, wouldn’t pose a tipping hazard to a curious toddler. The fear of choosing the wrong piece—one that’s flimsy, off-gasses fumes, or has drawers that slam on little fingers—is a real concern for any parent. This search for the perfect blend of style, safety, and functionality is what led us to the Graco Teddi 6 Drawer Double Dresser.
- GREENGUARD GOLD CERTIFIED: GREENGUARD Gold certified products are screened for more than 10,000 chemicals and VOCs known to pollute...
- PRE-INSTALLED DRAWER TRACKS FOR EASIER ASSEMBLY: Conveniently equipped with pre-installed drawer tracks (we did the work for you!) for...
What to Consider Before Buying a Double Dresser for Your Nursery
A nursery dresser is a foundational investment. It’s a key solution for organizing the beautiful chaos that comes with a baby, keeping everything from clothing and bedding to changing supplies neatly tucked away. Beyond mere storage, it often serves as a changing table, saving space and creating an efficient, all-in-one station for daily routines. A well-chosen dresser grows with your child, transitioning from a nursery staple to a big-kid bedroom fixture. The benefits are clear: streamlined organization, enhanced room safety, and a lasting piece of furniture that defines the room’s aesthetic.
The ideal customer for a product like the Graco Teddi is a parent or guardian who prioritizes safety certifications (like GREENGUARD Gold) and innovative safety features above all else. They appreciate a timeless design that can adapt to evolving decor and are willing to invest time in assembly for a sturdy, long-term piece. This type of dresser might not be suitable for someone in a temporary living situation or those who need an ultra-lightweight, easily movable storage unit. For those scenarios, fabric storage towers or modular plastic drawers might be a more practical, albeit less permanent, alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Measure your nursery space meticulously before you even start browsing. Consider not just the dresser’s footprint, but also the clearance needed to open drawers fully and walk around it comfortably. The Graco Teddi is a “double dresser,” meaning it’s wider and offers more surface area, making it ideal for use as a changing station, but ensure it doesn’t overwhelm a smaller room.
- Storage Capacity & Drawer Function: Six drawers offer significant storage, but look at the drawer depth and mechanism. The Graco Teddi uses Euro-glide drawers, known for their steady movement. Think about what you’ll be storing—bulky blankets require deeper drawers than stacks of diapers. The functionality of the drawers, including their smoothness and noise level, impacts daily use, especially during late-night changes.
- Materials & Durability: Nursery furniture sees a lot of action. The Graco Teddi uses a combination of wood framing and wood composites, a common construction method that balances durability with cost. Solid wood is the most durable but also the most expensive and heavy. Engineered wood or MDF can be sturdy and look great but may be more susceptible to damage from moisture or impact. Always check for safety certifications that screen for harmful chemicals in these materials.
- Safety & Assembly: This is non-negotiable for a child’s room. Look for anti-tip kits, which should be considered mandatory. Innovative features like the Graco Teddi’s interlocking drawer system, which prevents multiple drawers from being opened at once, are a huge plus. Also, consider the assembly. While many, including this specific model, require self-assembly, features like pre-installed drawer tracks can simplify the process, though it’s crucial they are aligned correctly from the factory.
Choosing the right dresser sets the tone for the entire nursery. It’s a decision that balances practicality with peace of mind.
While the Graco Teddi 6 Drawer Double Dresser is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
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First Impressions: Unboxing the Olive Green Beauty
The Graco Teddi 6 Drawer Double Dresser arrived in a single, very heavy box—definitely a two-person lift, as many users have noted. Upon opening it, we were immediately impressed by the deep, sophisticated Olive finish. It’s a color that feels both modern and timeless, a perfect neutral that moves beyond the typical white or grey without being overwhelming. The pieces were well-packed, though we did a thorough inspection for any shipping damage, a common concern with flat-pack furniture. The inclusion of two sets of knobs (a matching painted olive and a contrasting driftwood) was a thoughtful touch we appreciated right away, offering instant customization. The most intriguing feature out of the box was the pre-installed drawer tracks on the main frame pieces. In theory, this is a brilliant time-saver, and it immediately set our expectations high for a streamlined assembly process. The materials felt substantial—a mix of wood and composites that gave the components a reassuring heft. You can see its full feature set and specifications online, but holding the pieces in hand gave us confidence in its potential sturdiness.
Key Benefits
- Superior safety features including an interlocking drawer system and anti-tip kit.
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified for low chemical emissions and healthier indoor air.
- Includes two sets of knobs (painted and driftwood) for easy personalization.
- Timeless, transitional design with a beautiful and unique Olive finish.
- Sturdy construction with spacious drawers for ample storage.
Potential Drawbacks
- Assembly instructions can be confusing and time-consuming.
- Reports of quality control issues, such as misaligned pre-installed tracks or cosmetic damage.
- Euro-glide drawers can be noisy compared to higher-end ball-bearing systems.
A Deep Dive into the Graco Teddi 6 Drawer Double Dresser’s Performance
After assembling, living with, and putting the Graco Teddi through the rigors of daily nursery life, we have a comprehensive understanding of where it excels and where it has room for improvement. This isn’t just a piece of furniture; it’s a daily workhorse, and its performance in key areas is what truly matters.
The Assembly Gauntlet: A Story of Patience and Precision
Let’s be upfront: assembling the Graco Teddi 6 Drawer Double Dresser is a project. We strongly agree with the manufacturer’s recommendation of two people and would block out a solid 2-3 hours. Our experience mirrored that of many users who found the instructions a bit challenging. As one user noted, they “tend to jump to a million steps all at once after one easy step.” The diagrams require careful study, and there are moments where you’ll need to pause and use some common sense to decipher the next move. All the hardware was present and well-labeled in our kit, which was a relief. The most critical part of the assembly involves the pre-installed drawer tracks. This is where the dresser’s quality control is truly tested. We were fortunate that our unit’s tracks were perfectly aligned, resulting in drawers that fit correctly. However, we must acknowledge the significant frustration reported by some users who received units with misaligned tracks, rendering drawers non-functional without a lengthy customer service process to get replacement parts. Similarly, we’ve seen feedback about the finish being prone to chipping during assembly. We were extra careful, building on a soft rug, and managed to avoid any major scuffs, but it’s clear the finish requires a gentle touch. Once fully assembled, the unit feels impressively solid and sturdy, with very little wobble. The final product feels worth the effort, but prospective buyers should be prepared for a potentially trying assembly process.
Safety First: Where the Graco Teddi Truly Shines
For any parent, safety is the paramount concern, and this is the area where the Graco Teddi 6 Drawer Double Dresser truly earns its place in a nursery. The first layer of reassurance comes from its GREENGUARD Gold Certification. Knowing that the dresser has been screened for over 10,000 chemicals and VOCs that pollute indoor air provides immense peace of mind. In a small, enclosed nursery where a baby spends so much time, clean air is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. The second, and perhaps most innovative, feature is the interlocking drawer system. We tested this extensively. True to its promise, you can only open one drawer in any vertical column at a time. Trying to pull a second one results in a firm stop. This is a brilliant and effective mechanism to prevent the dresser from becoming top-heavy and tipping over if a child decides to use open drawers as a ladder. It’s a safety feature we haven’t seen on many other dressers in this price range, and a feature that really sets it apart. Of course, this system works in tandem with the included furniture tip-over restraint kit. We cannot stress this enough: you must anchor this dresser to the wall. The combination of the interlocking drawers and the wall anchor creates a formidable defense against tip-over accidents, making us feel incredibly secure.
Day-to-Day Use: Storage, Style, and Sound
Living with the Graco Teddi has been a pleasure. The six drawers are spacious and deep, easily accommodating stacks of clothing, swaddles, and boxes of diapers. The double-wide design provides a generous top surface, perfect for a changing pad with ample room left over for a wipe dispenser and diaper caddy. The aesthetic is exactly what we hoped for. The Olive finish is stunning, and the simple routing details on the drawer panels give it a classic, elevated look that feels far more expensive than it is. We initially installed the matching olive knobs for a chic, monochrome look, but knowing we can switch to the driftwood knobs later to create a two-tone style adds to the product’s longevity and versatility. The one persistent critique we have, which is echoed in user feedback, is the noise of the drawers. The Euro-glide mechanism is functional but not silent. Opening and closing drawers produces a distinct “shushing” or scraping sound that, while not loud, is noticeable in a quiet room. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it stands in contrast to the silent, buttery-smooth glide of more expensive ball-bearing slides. For us, the unparalleled safety features and beautiful design far outweigh the minor inconvenience of the drawer noise, but it is an important factor to consider if you or your baby are particularly sensitive to sound.
What Other Users Are Saying
After diving deep into feedback from other parents and caregivers, a clear picture of the Graco Teddi 6 Drawer Double Dresser emerges, aligning closely with our own findings. Positively, the praise is consistent. Users frequently describe it as “sturdy and pretty” and a “beautiful dresser” once assembled. The safety features are a huge hit, with one parent specifically loving that “you can only have one drawer open at a time.” The size is also a common point of praise, noted as being “perfect for a small room” while still offering “ample storage inside each drawer.”
However, the critiques are just as consistent. The assembly process is the most common hurdle, with comments ranging from “instructions are a little jumbled” to needing “a little common sense” because the included manual was for a different product. The most serious complaints revolve around quality control. Several users reported receiving pieces with misaligned, pre-installed drawer tracks, leading to one stating, “the drawers in that side would not go in all the way.” Others noted cosmetic issues out of the box or that the finish “chips pretty easy.” This feedback underscores our conclusion: it’s a fantastic dresser when you get a good unit, but the path from box to finished product can have frustrating bumps.
How the Graco Teddi Stacks Up Against the Competition
The Graco Teddi 6 Drawer Double Dresser occupies a specific niche—a sturdy, safety-certified wooden dresser for nurseries. However, the market offers different solutions for various needs and budgets. Here’s how it compares to some popular alternatives.
1. Sorbus Pink Fabric Dresser Storage Tower
- 4-DRAWER NIGHTSTAND (PASTEL PINK) — Style meets function with our lightweight accent table, complete with a wood surface and storage...
- DISPLAY & DE-CLUTTER — Wood top provides hard surface for displaying lamps, alarm clocks, books, eyeglasses, charging station, and...
The Sorbus Storage Tower represents a completely different approach to bedroom storage. Constructed with a steel frame, a wood top, and lightweight fabric bins, it prioritizes portability, ease of assembly, and affordability. Someone might prefer the Sorbus if they are in a temporary living space like a dorm or apartment, or if they need a supplemental storage unit that can be moved easily. It lacks the permanence, sturdiness, and elevated aesthetic of the Graco Teddi. While the Graco is a long-term furniture investment, the Sorbus is a practical, short-term, or lightweight organization solution.
2. Sorbus 7-Drawer Fabric Dresser
- 7-DRAWER DRESSER (PASTEL) — Style meets function with this dresser chest, complete with a wood surface and colorful storage drawers...
- DISPLAY & DE-CLUTTER — Wood top provides hard surface for displaying books, lamps, alarm clocks, electronics, and more — Drawers...
This 7-drawer Sorbus model offers more organizational variety with its mix of small and large fabric drawers. Like its sibling, its primary advantages are its low weight, simple setup, and budget-friendly price point. This would be an ideal choice for a playroom or a child’s closet where the goal is to quickly organize toys, crafts, or clothes without the commitment of heavy wooden furniture. It cannot compete with the Graco Teddi 6 Drawer Double Dresser on durability, material quality, or the critical safety features like the interlocking drawer system and GREENGUARD Gold certification, which are paramount for a primary nursery dresser.
3. Sorbus 6-Drawer Fabric Dresser
- 6-DRAWER DRESSER (PINK) — Style meets function with this dresser chest, complete with a wood surface and colorful storage drawers —...
- DISPLAY & DE-CLUTTER — Wood top provides hard surface for displaying books, lamps, alarm clocks, electronics, and more — Drawers...
As a direct competitor in drawer count, the 6-drawer Sorbus offers a similar storage layout to the Graco Teddi but, again, in a completely different form factor. Choosing this Sorbus model would be a decision driven almost entirely by budget and the need for a non-permanent, lightweight piece. It’s a great option for adding storage to a hallway or closet. However, for a nursery centerpiece that will also serve as a changing station, the solid, stable, and safety-tested construction of the Graco Teddi is unequivocally the superior choice for parents prioritizing stability and long-term use.
The Final Word: Is the Graco Teddi 6 Drawer Double Dresser the Right Choice for Your Nursery?
After extensive hands-on testing and evaluation, our verdict on the Graco Teddi 6 Drawer Double Dresser is overwhelmingly positive, with a few important caveats. Its strengths are significant and directly address the core needs of parents: unparalleled safety features, GREENGUARD Gold certification for healthy air, and a beautiful, versatile design. The interlocking drawer system is a standout feature that provides genuine peace of mind, and the option to choose between two knob styles is a wonderful touch for personalization. This is a substantial, sturdy piece of furniture that feels built to last through the nursery years and beyond.
The primary drawbacks lie not in the design but in the execution of the flat-pack model—namely, the potential for a frustrating assembly and inconsistent quality control. While our unit was fine, the reports of misaligned tracks and cosmetic blemishes cannot be ignored. We recommend this dresser to parents who prioritize safety and style and are prepared to dedicate a few hours and a bit of patience to the assembly process. If you receive a well-made unit, the result is a high-quality, safe, and beautiful nursery centerpiece that offers exceptional value. For those ready to create a safe and stylish space for their little one, we believe the Graco Teddi is an excellent investment. You can check the latest price and color options available online and see if it’s the perfect fit for your family.
Last update on 2025-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API