The 11 Best Non-Toxic Cribs of 2024 | GREENGUARD Gold Certified

What toxic chemicals are hiding in cribs?

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Found in wood materials, paints, finishes, and adhesives. Health issues in infants include respiratory irritation, headaches, and other health issues.
• Formaldehyde: Found in particleboard, MDF, and other composite wood. Health issues in infants include eye, nose, and throat irritation, and cancer (long-term).
• Lead: Found in paints, and finishes (older cribs). Health issues in infants include developmental issues and other serious health problems.
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Found in plastic components and coverings. Health issues in infants include harmful VOCs, developmental issues, and damage to body systems.
• Flame Retardants: Found in crib materials. Health issues in infants include learning disabilities, hormone disruption, and potential cancer risks.
• Polyurethane Foam: Found in crib components and mattresses (less common). Health issues in infants include off-gassing VOCs and flame retardant use.
• Phthalates: Found in plastic components and decorative elements. Health issues in infants include reproductive issues and developmental problems.
• Arsenic: Found in wood treatments (less common). Health issues in infants include skin cancer and respiratory issues.
• Antimony: Found in flame retardants. Health issues in infants include respiratory problems and skin irritation.

Why are non-toxic cribs essential for your baby’s health? 

Infants are particularly susceptible to the harmful chemicals often found in baby cribs due to several factors:

• Sleep Duration: Newborns sleep an average of 13-16 hours per day, with toddlers sleeping 11-14 hours. This means they spend a significant portion of their early life in close contact with their crib materials.
• Increased Exposure: Babies’ bodies are much closer to the mattress surface than adults, increasing their exposure to off-gassing chemicals. Compared to adults, infants’ higher respiratory rates mean they inhale more air, potentially exposing them to greater levels of toxins in the environment.

What key things should I consider when shopping for non-toxic cribs?

Materials: Prioritize cribs made from solid wood, such as sustainably sourced pine, beech, or maple. Avoid cribs made with engineered wood products like particleboard, MDF, or plywood, as these may contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde.

Finishes: Look for cribs with non-toxic, water-based, or low-VOC finishes. If possible, choose an unfinished solid wood crib or one treated with natural oils like linseed oil. Avoid cribs with conventional paints or finishes that may off-gas harmful chemicals.

Certifications: Check for certifications such as GREENGUARD Gold, OEKO-TEX Standard 100, FSC, and ASTM International, which indicate that the crib has been independently tested and meets rigorous safety and non-toxic standards.

Manufacturer Transparency: Choose cribs from manufacturers that are transparent about their materials, production processes, and commitment to creating non-toxic products. Look for companies that openly disclose information about their cribs and are responsive to customer inquiries.

Convertibility & Adaptability: Consider cribs that can convert into toddler beds or daybeds, as this can extend the use of the non-toxic crib and provide a safe sleep environment for your child as they grow.

Check For Recalls: Before making a purchase, check if the crib model has any active recalls by visiting the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website (www.cpsc.gov). This can help you avoid cribs with known safety issues.

Crib certifications to look for:

Important Certifications To Look For

GREENGUARD Gold: This stringent certification ensures that the crib has been tested for over 10,000 chemical emissions and VOCs, meeting the highest standards for indoor air quality. These cribs have been shown to significantly reduce indoor air pollution and chemical exposure risks for infants.

ASTM International: This certification focuses on the overall safety and structural integrity of the crib, ensuring that it meets rigorous standards for durability, materials safety, and potential toxicity of finishes. ASTM compliance is mandatory for all cribs sold in the United States.

OEKO-TEX Standard 100: A crib with this certification has been thoroughly tested to ensure that all materials used in its production, from fabrics to finishes, are 100% safe for babies and free from harmful substances. OEKO-TEX is one of the most rigorous textile safety certifications available.

FSC Certification: The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification guarantees that the wood used in the crib comes from responsibly managed forests that meet strict environmental, social, and economic standards. 

JPMA Certification: While not all manufacturers pursue this certification, it indicates that the crib has been independently tested and meets safety requirements set by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association.

TSCA Compliance: The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) regulates chemical substances, and TSCA-compliant wood products meet strict formaldehyde emission standards. This certification is particularly important for cribs using engineered wood components.

CradleSafe: This certification program focuses specifically on crib safety, evaluating structural integrity, potential hazards, design elements, and chemical safety. Although less common than some other certifications, CradleSafe provides an additional layer of assurance.

U.S. CPSC Safety Standards: All cribs sold in the United States must comply with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) safety standards, which cover essential aspects like mattress support, hardware, and overall structural integrity. CPSC standards form the foundation of crib safety regulations in the U.S.

Are non-toxic cribs worth the investment?

Yes! Non-toxic cribs are definitely a worthwhile investment! Here’s why:

• Baby’s Health: Babies spend a significant amount of time in their cribs (11-16 hours a day). Non-toxic cribs are made with materials that are free from harmful chemicals, reducing the risk of exposure to toxins that could potentially affect their health.   
• Long-Term Use: Many non-toxic cribs are convertible, allowing them to grow with your child. This can save you money in the long run.   
• Peace Of Mind: Knowing that your baby is sleeping in a safe and healthy environment can provide significant peace of mind.

Can a crib be both stylish and chemical-free?

Absolutely! There are many cribs on the market that are both stylish and chemical-free.

Many manufacturers now prioritize using non-toxic materials and finishes while still offering a variety of designs to suit different aesthetics.

When looking for a stylish and chemical-free crib, here are some things to consider:

Materials

• Solid Wood: Opt for cribs made from solid wood like New Zealand pine, beech wood, or maple.  Solid wood is generally more durable and less likely to contain harmful chemicals than composite wood.
• Non-Toxic Finishes: Ensure the crib is finished with non-toxic paints, stains, or lacquers. Look for certifications like GREENGUARD Gold or low-VOC finishes.

Construction

• Simple Design: Cribs with a simple, minimalist design often have fewer components and joints, reducing the potential for hidden chemicals or toxins in adhesives.
• Rounded Corners: Rounded corners can help prevent injuries and are generally a safer design choice.

Features

• Convertible Options: Cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or full-size bed can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
• Adjustable Mattress Support: A crib with adjustable mattress support allows you to adjust the mattress height as your baby grows, ensuring their safety.

How long do non-toxic cribs typically last?

Non-toxic cribs can typically last for many years. If well-made and cared for, they can often be passed down through generations.

• Cribs made from solid wood, such as pine or maple, are generally more durable than those made from particleboard or MDF.
• Cribs with sturdy construction and high-quality hardware are more likely to withstand regular use and last longer.
• Proper care, such as cleaning and maintenance, can help extend the lifespan of a crib.
• Convertible cribs that can be transformed into toddler beds or full-size beds can be used for many years, making them a cost-effective investment.

What is the best way to care for non-toxic cribs?

Regular Cleaning

• Wipe Down Regularly: Use a damp cloth with mild soap to clean the crib’s surfaces at least once a week.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the crib’s finish and potentially release harmful substances.
• Clean The Mattress: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning the crib mattress.

Maintenance

• Check For Loose Screws/Bolts: Periodically check the crib for loose screws or bolts and tighten them as needed.  
• Inspect For Damage: Regularly inspect the crib for any signs of damage, such as cracks or splinters. If you find any damage, repair it immediately or contact the manufacturer for assistance.

Additional Tips

• Keep the Crib Away from Heat Sources: Exposure to excessive heat can damage the crib’s finish and potentially release harmful chemicals.
• Avoid Using Harsh Cleaners: Avoid using harsh cleaners, such as bleach or ammonia, as they can damage the crib’s finish.
• Consider a Crib Mattress Protector: A crib mattress protector can help protect the mattress from spills and stains.

Are all wooden cribs non-toxic?

Not all wooden cribs are non-toxic. While wood itself is generally considered safe, the finishes, paints, and adhesives used on wooden cribs can contain harmful chemicals.   

To ensure your crib is non-toxic, look for the following:

• Certifications: Cribs with certifications like GREENGUARD Gold or low-VOC finishes are typically made with non-toxic materials.
• Finishes: Choose cribs with water-based paints or non-toxic finishes.
• Materials: Avoid cribs made with particle board, as these materials can release harmful chemicals.