Both Joy and I chose secondhand cribs for our little ones—a very green but actually controversial decision. Many safety experts warn new parents to never, ever, ever use a previously-owned crib. You could lose the directions, assemble it wrong, or inadvertently buy a recalled product. After weighing the options, we felt fine about our secondhand cribs, which we discuss in more detail in our upcoming book, The Eco-nomical Baby Guide.
However, we realize that some people do want to buy a new crib—and they want something “green.” A green crib should use earth-friendly materials that don’t contain noxious glues or paints that can damage baby’s little respiratory system. We found a few options that range from affordable to . . . well, not-so-affordable. But the best part is, you don’t necessarily need to pay more than you would for a conventional crib.
DaVinci Alpha Mini Rocking Crib $149
A mini-crib made from sustainable pine. Formaldehyde- and BPA-free.
Graco Eco-Friendly Dakota Classic 4 in 1 Convertible Crib $200
Our bargain find! For only $200 you can snag this crib made from woods certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Finishes are water-based and packaging is from recycled materials. Converts to toddler and day bed for extended use.
Atlantic Furniture Eco-Friendly Richmond Convertible Crib $400
Transitions from a crib to a toddler bed to a daybed to a platform bed for your teenager! Made out of eco-friendly hardwood.
Babi Italia Eco-Friendly Baby Crib $600
This FSC-certified crib is an oval shape, “providing a 360-degree view” of your baby’s room.
Hiya Crib $675-925
These cribs are stylish, and that comes at a price. They use low-VOC non-toxic paints and MDF made from recycled/reclaimed materials.
If any of you have purchased one of these cribs, please chime in with your reviews! And for those of you still on the hunt for the perfect crib, here’s the place to discuss the options with other green-minded parents. Stay tuned for affordable organic crib mattress options!
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December 28th, 2009 at 6:37 am
I really like the modern look of the Hiya crib and the Babi Italia crib. Both are very cute!
January 1st, 2010 at 7:49 pm
What about IKEA cribs? The SNIGLAR crib is 80 bucks, is made of Solid beech, and coverts to a toddler bed, so you get more wear out of it. Plus, with the money you are saving, you can get organic cotton sheets
January 16th, 2010 at 6:26 pm
I have the Dakota crib from Wal Mart, it is really good quality, especially for the price. We are very happy with it. I also have a solid wood IKEA crib – it pales in comparison in quality to the Graco crib (which is made by the makers of Bonavita/Babi Italia).
We also have an LA Baby organic mattress from Costco for ~$100 that has two sides – firmer for babies and softer for toddlers that we love and would recommend. Costco also sells an LA Baby soy foam mattess that is nice for around the same price.
January 24th, 2010 at 7:06 pm
I just purchased the Babi Italia Eco-Friendly Crib from Babies r Us. I was very happy with the purchase, especially since I found it on your list of eco friendly cribs.
I did however, look it up on Amazon.com, and for some reason, it lists a California Proposition 65 warning. I am going to assume that Amazon.com has made an error.