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A body wash for kids helps them stay clean while keeping the skin soft. You may want to invest in organic, vegan, and natural washes to prevent skin dryness and rashes. To provide you with the best picks, I have consulted Dr. Enrizza Factor, a clinical dermatologist, to choose the best kids’ body washes. This list contains products you and your child will love. The tried-and-tested products are free of artificial fragrances and chemicals and contain essential oils that help soothe the skin, prevent dryness and flaking, and do much more. Scientific evidence suggests potential benefits of certain plant oils such as olive oil, sunflower seed oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, chamomile oil, and shea butter. They have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and support skin barrier repair, thus contributing to improved skin health (1). Take a look at the list compiled for you.
Top Picks
19 Best Kids Body Washes
1. Best Hypoallergenic: Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo
Colorant-, paraben-, tear-, and allergen-free, this body wash for kids is ideal for babies and children with sensitive skin. This mom’s choice body wash gently cleanses the child’s delicate skin and moisturizes it for a long time.
The calendula from the marigold flower helps soothe the skin and leaves a fresh scent. It is tested by dermatologists, is easy to rinse off, and doesn’t irritate your baby’s skin (2). You can also use this clinically testediEvaluated by experts in a clinical setting product as a shampoo due to its novel two-in-one formula.
Pros
- HypoallergeniciLess likely to cause an allergic reaction
- Soap free
- Mineral oil freeiDoes not contain synthetic oils that can clog pores
- Suitable for daily use
- Lathers well
- Gentle and effective
Cons
- May not be tear-freeiGentle formulation that does not irritate the eyes as claimed
Review:
A user writes, “This Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo is a blessing for sensitive skin. Gentle, moisturizing, and pleasantly scented. While it’s effective for skin conditions, such as acne and eczema, the fragrance might bother some.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 19,922 satisfied customers have left positive reviews about the product on Amazon.
Quick fact2. Best Gel Wash:Childs Farm Kids Hair & Body Wash
Enriched with 97% natural origin ingredients, such as corn- and coconut-derived cleansers, this body wash cleanses the skin and hair without causing irritation. Its formula is free of parabens, phthalates, and artificial dyes and has been tested and approved by pediatricians and dermatologists. The wash has a soothing fragrance of blackberry and apple and is suitable for newborns and older children (3).
Pros
- Smooth gel texture
- Hydrates the skin
- Creates a rich lather
- Cruelty-freeiProducts are not tested on animals and veganiDoes not contain animal-derived ingredients
Cons
- Dispenser may not be durable
Review:
According to a user, “This is the only wash I use for my children. It cleanses all kinds of sticky messes and leaves their skin hydrated and shiny. The scent could have been milder, but my children don’t seem to mind.”
3. Best With A Fruity Scent:Attitude Shampoo And Body Wash For Kids
The Attitude Shampoo and Body Wash For Kids is formulated with 97.6% naturally sourced ingredients, including blueberry leaf and moringa seed extract, to cleanse, protect, and nourish the skin (4). It creates a creamy lather and makes bathtime fun, and the fruity scent helps keep the child fresh throughout the day. The wash is also dermatologically tested, making it ideal for a child’s sensitive skin.
Pros
- EWG-verifiediMeets Environmental Working Group’s standards on the ingredients used
- Hypoallergenic ingredients
- Multiple scent options
- Ideal for daily use
- Cruelty-free and vegan
Cons
- Some may find the scent mild
Review:
A user writes, “…the best part is that this wash and shampoo combo has clean ingredients. Its formula is very gentle on my baby’s sensitive skin, and just one pump of the wash is enough to wash my child.”
Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo Best Hypoallergenic | Childs Farm Kids Hair & Body Wash Best Gel Wash | Attitude Shampoo And Body Wash For Kids Best With A Fruity Scent | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 13.5 ounces | - | - |
| Dimensions | 7.48 x 3.34 x 1.89 inches | - | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 19,922 | - | - |
| Price | $19.98 | - | - |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best Fragrance-Free:Aquaphor Baby Wash and Shampoo
Aquaphor Baby Wash & Shampoo is enriched with the goodness of chamomile essence and provitamin B5 to cleanse your baby’s skin and hair without stripping the natural moisture content. It also rinses off easily without leaving a sticky residue. The wash is pediatrician recommended and is free of fragrance and preservatives (5). It comes packaged in a convenient pump bottle and is suitable for daily use.
Pros
- Clinically tested
- Tear-free formula
- Free of parabens
- Non-irritating
Cons
- May not lather well
Review:
A reviewer says, “The consistency of this wash and shampoo is perfect. A little goes a long way, and each bottle lasts longer than you might expect. The bottle could have been more lightweight.”
5. Best Dermatologist-Recommended:Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Gentle Bath Wash
This bubble bath hair and body wash contains natural oat extracts that nourish the baby’s skin gently and also clean the hair and face. It has a subtle, fresh fragrance, and the product is pH-balanced and does not contain soap, sulfate, parabens, and phenoxyethanol. Offered by a trusted brand, it is dermatologist- and pediatrician-recommended, and the dispenser makes it easy to use (6).
Also Recommended By: The experts at Zigzac Mania think highly of Aveeno [1]10 Best body washes for kids, Zigzac Mania https://zigzacmania.com/top-10-body-washes-for-kids-in-indian-market/
Pros
- Tear-free
- Ideal for normal and sensitive skin
- Contains five vital elements—lipids, vitamins, proteins, enzymes, and antioxidants
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Might not have a good fragrance
Review:
A parent writes, “Aveeno baby wash and shampoo is gentle, leaving hair smooth without reactions. Although the bottle’s weight can be tricky, placing it properly avoids accidents. The mild fragrance and easy-to-use pump bottle make bath time enjoyable for my little one.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 14,398 reviews on Amazon.
Do remember6. Best Cruelty-Free:Everyone 3-In-1 Kids Wash
The 3-in-one soap can be used as a body wash, shampoo, or bubble bath (7). It contains aloe vera and coconut to gently cleanse and hydrate the whole body. The fragrance of this product is sweet yet uplifting and has a hint of lavender. It is free of gluten, GMO, and cruelty and comes packaged in a recyclable bottle.
Product Dimensions: 9.25 x 7.5 x 4 inches | Weight: 4.9 Pounds
Pros
- Does not contain parabens
- Free of synthetic fragrances
- Contains essential oils and botanical extracts that hydrate the skin
- Cruelty-free
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Might not be tear-free
Review:
A user writes, “With four kids, this soap’s lasting power and easy pump are lifesavers in summer. We enjoy its lovely scent and good bubbles, though the Orange Squeeze variant fell short.”
Quick tip7. Best Nourishing:Glimmer Wish Unicorn Kids Body Wash
This kid’s body wash has a soothing cotton candy scent. Its gentle foam cleanses the skin and leaves it soft, nourished, and hydrated after every wash. The formula is dermatologist-tested and free of parabens, mineral oil, and sulfates, making it ideal for sensitive skin (8). Plus, the wash comes in a cute unicorn-shaped bottle to make bathing less intimidating for little ones!
Pros
- Contains vegetable- and coconut-derived ingredients
- Toxin-free
- Thick consistency
- Long-lasting fragrance
Cons
- Some may find it expensive
Review:
A parent writes, “I really enjoy the sweet, cotton candy scent of the Glimmer Wish body wash. The bottle is adorable but hard to squeeze. Despite a little difficulty squeezing the bottle, I really enjoy the product and think it’s worth the price!”
8. Best For All Skin Types:Dial Kids 3-In-1 Body And Hair Wash
This 3-in-1 soap from Dial has a peach fragrance that your child will love. The body and hair wash comes in fun packaging and is suitable for children aged two years and above. It has been tested and pediatric- and dermatologically approved (9). The formulation does not contain harmful chemicals or toxic ingredients and is suitable for all skin and hair types.
Pros
- Free of synthetic fragrances
- Does not contain parabens, silicone, and dyes
- Tear-free and hypoallergenic
- pH balanced for children’s skin
- Gentle formula
- Recyclable bottle
Cons
- Some might find the fragrance unpleasant
Review:
A reviewer writes, “Discovering Dial Kids was a game changer. It swiftly resolved my child’s scalp and hair issues, leaving a delightful scent. It is ideal for sensitive skin, though the pump can be a bit finicky.“
9. Best To Moisturize Skin:The Honest Company Shampoo And Body Wash
The shampoo-cum-body wash by Honest is made of natural ingredients that moisturize the skin, leaving both the hair and skin soft. These natural ingredients include aloe, chamomile, calendula, coconut oil, jojoba protein, and quinoa extracts. Its pleasant fragrance is offered by a unique blend of sweet vanilla and orange. Moreover, this product has been tested by dermatologists (10).
The 2-in-1 formula is gentle on children’s sensitive skin and hair and leaves the whole body and scalp clean. Further, it is free of parabens, dyes, and synthetic ingredients.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle formula
- Tear-free
Cons
- Container may not be user-friendly
Review:
A parent writes, “My kids have sensitive skin, but The Honest Company Shampoo And Body Wash causes no irritation, is tearless, and that Creamsicle scent is delightful. The only drawback is the faulty pump bottle, but the results are worth it.”
10. Best Tear-Free: Dove Foaming Body Wash For Kids
The hypoallergenic body washes with a berry smoothie scent gently cleanses your child’s body safely. Formulated with 100% skin-natural nutrients, this body wash is tear-free, dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested, and free of sulfate, paraben, and phthalate (11). This pack of four baby-friendly body washes contains a 13.5oz net quantity each.
Pros
- Pleasant fragrance
- Leaves skin soft and smooth
- Forms rich lather
- Ideal for sensitive skin
Cons
- Might be a little watery
- Might not moisturize the skin well
Review:
A user writes, “This Dove body wash pleasantly surprised me. Its foamy texture is gentle on my little one’s sensitive skin. Although the cotton candy smell is subtle, the foaming aspect greatly aids her ease of use.”
11. Best Hydrating:Fairy Tales Daily Cleanse Kids Body Wash
Give your child a refreshing bath with this body wash for hydrated skin. Enriched with murumuru butter, quinoa, and avocado butter, it nourishes and softens the hair and skin (12). The wash cleanses gently and creates a rich lather, which can make bath time enjoyable for your child. Free of parabens, phthalates, and other harsh chemicals, this wash is suitable for all skin types.
Pros
- Creates a rich lather
- Prevents hair breakage
- Ideal for daily use
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Some may find the scent strong
Review:
A reviewer says, “I’m so glad I gave this body wash a try! The pear and papaya scent is absolutely lovely—fruity and fresh. The lather is super smooth, and a little bit goes a long way.”
12. Best Natural Exfoliation:TBH Kids Body Wash
The Kids’ body wash by TBH is formulated with natural ingredients including lemon, cedar bark, cucumber, nettle, cedar bark, and citrus extracts, which gently exfoliate, invigorate and hydrate the skin (13). This natural body wash for kids removes impurities and leaves the skin clean and fresh.
Pros
- Free of BPA, sulfates, and parabens
- Has a subtle fragrance
- Anti-bacterial body wash
- Anti-acne formula
Cons
- Might not be tear-free
Review:
A parent writes, “The TBH Kids Body Wash transformed our family routine. It effectively addresses various skin issues such as odors, oiliness, and dryness.”
13. Best Paraben-Free:Triswim Kids Scented Body Wash
This body wash by Triswim is gluten- and paraben-free and has a light playful scent. It is specifically formulated to neutralize the effects of hard water minerals, saltwater, bromine, and chlorine after swimming. The baby-friendly product leaves the skin refreshed and prevents pool rashes, eczema, and prickly dots (14).
Pros
- Contains essential vitamins such as vitamin E and ProVitamin B5
- Removes chemical odor from the skin
- Strengthens and repairs skin
- Hydrates the skin deeply
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Might not be great at removing chlorine
Review:
A reviewer says, “Triswim Kids Scented Body Wash is ideal for my granddaughter’s post-swim routine. It lathers up nicely and carries a pleasant fragrance. Dealing with heavy chlorine might require an extra application, but it’s a solid choice overall.”
14. Best Relief For Dry Skin:Ecolove Moisturizing Body Wash
Ecolove’s moisturizing body wash contains 95% natural ingredients, including herbs, essential oils, plant extracts, and Dead Sea minerals. The body wash refreshes, hydrates, and gently cleanses the skin and gives the body a relaxing feel. It is also helpful in relieving dry and itchy skin.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Has a light and a subtle fragrance
- Contains no petrochemicals and parabens
- Vegan product
Cons
- Fragrance might be overpowering for some
Review:
According to a tester, “Ecolove Moisturizing Body Wash is gentle and effective for my kids. It smells great and lathers well when used with a puff. Overall, I would recommend this body wash to other parents looking for a gentle, affordable option for their kids.”
15. Best Multi-Use Formula:Dr Teal`s Kids 3-In-1 Body Wash
This three-in-one product by Dr Teal’s is a gentle formula that works as a bubble bath, body wash, and shampoo. It is infused with melatoniniA natural hormone that helps regulate the sleep cycle and essential oils to help your child relax after a long day (15). Its fragrance is also rejuvenating, and the hypoallergenic formula is free of harsh chemicals and dye, making it one of the gentlest options for cleaning your child’s skin and hair.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Creates a rich lather
- Soothing effect
- Moisturizes the skin
Cons
- May not create dense bubbles
Review:
A user writes, “The soothing scent of this product helps my kids unwind during their bedtime baths. It creates a nice lather, but unfortunately, the bubbles didn’t last as long as I had hoped. Besides that, the product has been a time-saving addition to our routine.”
16. Best With Vitamins:Noodle & Boo Soothing Body Wash
The Noodle & Boo Soothing Baby Body Wash contains allantoin to soothe, and provitamin B and vitamin E to condition and hydrate the skin. It also helps rebalance the skin’s pH (16). Free of parabens, sulfates, and dyes, it does not irritate delicate skin. The gentle and nourishing soap-free wash is also hypoallergenic and pediatrician- and dermatologist-tested, making it suitable for all skin types.
Pros
- Tear-free
- Plant-based formula
- Forms a creamy lather
- Can be used daily
Cons
- Some may find it expensive
Review:
A parent writes, “The Noodle & Boo body wash has been fantastic for keeping my baby’s skin soft. Its scent is soft and lasts the whole day. The pump bottle is convenient, but it would be great if it came in larger sizes for better value.”
17. Best Peachy Freshness:Evereden Kids Body Wash
The Evereden Kids’ Body Wash is an extra-gentle foaming cleanser with a fresh peach scent. It contains glycerine, sunflower seed oil, ascorbic acid, and niacinamide to cleanse and hydrate the skin. The body wash is ideal for growing skin and balances the pH level of the skin. Its gentle formula has a 100% natural scent with base notes of sweet Darjeeling tea to keep children refreshed all day long (17).
Pros
- Non-toxic and hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Contains 12 amino acids and essential vitamins such as B7 and C
- Contains probiotics that are good for the skin
Cons
- Might not lather well
Review:
A reviewer says, “I love how Evereden Kids Body Wash transformed my children’s hair and skin. My daughter’s hair looks voluminous, and her scalp issues have greatly improved. The gentle scent is just right. The only setback is the pump’s durability.”
18. Best With Natural Fragrance:Roe Wellness Toddler & Baby Body Wash & Shampoo
Roe Wellness Baby Body Wash is free of harsh chemicals, artificial colors, and fragrances. It has a natural vanilla scent and gently cleanses the skin without causing irritation or redness. Infused with natural ingredients like vanilla, coconut, rosemary, and lemon, this kid’s wash conditions, hydrates, leaves the skin soft and nourished, and helps protect against free radicals, making it ideal for daily use (18).
Pros
- Antioxidant-rich
- Creates a rich lather
- Helps maintain natural moisture levels
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May not be tear-free
Review:
According to a reviewer, “I love its natural vanilla scent and how it leaves my baby’s skin feeling soft. While it’s not exactly tear-free, it certainly makes bath time more comfortable and nourishing.”
19. Best Phthalate-Free:Hello Bello Kid’s Shampoo & Body Wash
Available in a pack of two, this kids’ body wash and shampoo does not have an overpowering fragrance but just a light, natural scent of watermelon that lingers on for hours after a bath. It is suitable for sensitive skin and all hair types. Aloe root extracts, coconut, and marshmallow root have also been added to the product to soften, nourish, and moisturize the skin. The mommy-approved body wash is specifically formulated for babies and is ultra-gentle on the skin.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Free of synthetic fragrances
- Entirely plant-based
- Maintains the pH balance of the skin
Cons
- Pump may not be durable
Review:
A parent writes, “I adore this product! My daughter’s sensitive skin used to suffer, but Hello Bello solved it. Hair tangles are history, and the gentle scent is delightful. However, I do need to pump quite a bit for sufficient lather.”
Disclaimer: The information given in this section has been taken from manufacturers’ sources. MomJunction is not responsible for any of the claims made here. We recommend readers’ discretion.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Kids’ Body Wash
Consider the following features before buying a body wash for kids.
- Ingredients: Always read the label, and ensure you buy a product with natural and organic ingredients that are gentle on the child’s skin. Moreover, do a patch test to prevent allergic reactions.
- Fragrances: Know your child’s choice of fragrance. Some children may like strong fragrances, while others may like products with subtle fragrances.
- Tear-free: You do not want bath time to be a crying session for your child. Choose a body wash with a pediatrician-recommended tear-free formula so that your child can enjoy bathing.
- Versatility: Most body washes can also be used as face wash and shampoo. This not only saves money but also saves time.
Dr. Enrizza Factor, a board-certified dermatologist, says, “Kids’ body washes are available in various formulations. Always read the label before making any purchase, and ensure that the product has natural, vegan, and organic ingredients. It should also be hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and dermatologically tested.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do natural body washes for kids sometimes have fragrances?
Fragrances in natural body washes generally come from the naturally scented essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, and chamomile. They help enrich the overall formula and are good alternatives to synthetic fragrances.
2. When should I upgrade from combination formulas to a separate body wash and shampoo for my kids?
You should consider using a separate hair shampoo and body wash when your child begins to grow thick hair, and this usually happens when the child is around eight to ten years old. If you feel your child is old enough to use a hair shampoo without letting the contents come in contact with the eyes, it is the right time to switch to a safe and effective product.
3. Are bubble baths safe for kids?
Bubble baths are fun but can pose a risk to your child’s sensitive skin, especially if your child is below three years of age. Thus, opt for a mom-approved or kid-friendly body wash to keep your child clean and fresh. However, if your child is interested in having a bubble bath, they can do so once or twice a week.
Why Trust MomJunction?
When choosing a skincare product for your little ones, you must be mindful and pick natural and child-friendly items. Vibha Navarathna, our in-house writer and reviewer of children’s skincare and hair care products, has curated this list of the best body washes available for kids that help maintain smooth, rash-free, and nourished skin. She has also included a buying guide and answered some FAQs to help you choose the right body wash for your child.
The Bottom Line
When looking for the best hair and skin products for your children, you want to ensure they are safety-tested. The same applies to body washes, which are excellent alternatives to soap bars as they don’t dry out the skin or cause rashes but leave it feeling nourished and hydrated. Body washes formulated for children are tear-free, gentle on the skin, free of artificial fragrances, and infused with kid-friendly and soothing essential oils and natural or organic ingredients. Our recommendations include the soothing Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo and the Childs Farm Kids Hair & Body Wash with 97% natural origin ingredients. The fragrance-free Aquaphor Baby Wash and Shampoo could also be an apt choice. Selecting a versatile body wash that doubles as a shampoo and face wash can also make it hassle-free to bathe the little one.
Infographic: Ingredients To Look For In A Children’s Body Wash
When selecting a body wash for children, it’s essential to consider their sensitive skin and choose gentle and hypoallergenic products. The infographic below includes a list of ingredients to look for when purchasing a body wash for your child. Keep this information in mind the next time you shop for a body wash for your little one to ensure that you choose a safe and suitable product for their delicate skin. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Tzu-Kai Lin et al.; (2017); Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5796020/ - Baby Gentle Wash with Organic Calendula
https://www.cetaphil.in/baby-skincare/baby-gentle-wash-with-organic-calendula/IN_7640203241843.html - Childs Farm hair & body wash
https://www.childsfarm.com/collections/hair-and-body?srsltid=AfmBOoo2OGnJj7BSMD3K_nvnP4–v79tVGstwoqbG3I6_cbKktodiyKf - Attitude 2-in-1 shampoo and body wash
https://attitudeliving.com/products/shampoo-and-body-wash-2-in-1-for-kids-little-leaves?variant=46393478906169 - Aquaphor® Baby Wash & Shampoo (25.4 fl oz.)
https://www.aquaphorus.com/products/baby-care/baby-wash-shampoo-25-4-fl-oz - Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Wash & Shampoo.
https://www.aveeno.in/products/baby/baby-daily-moisturising-wash-and-shampoo - Orange Squeeze Kids 3in1 Soap.
https://www.eoproducts.com/products/everyone-orange-squeeze-kids-3-in-1-soap - Unicorn Body Wash
https://glimmerwish.com/products/unicorn-body-wash - Lavender Scent Body Wash.
https://www.dialsoap.com/products/body-wash/kids/lavender-3-in-1-body-plus-hair-plus-bubble-bath.html - Baby Shampoo + Body Wash.
https://www.honest.com/baby-shampoo-and-body-wash/two-in-one-shampoo-and-body-wash.html - Kids Care Foaming Body Wash Cotton Candy.
https://www.dove.com/us/en/p/kids-care-foaming-body-wash-cotton-candy.html/00011111028005 - Daily Cleanse Kids Everyday Body Wash
https://fairytaleshaircare.com/products/daily-cleanse-everyday-body-wash?_pos=1&_sid=d0b49ef40&_ss=r - tbh® kids body wash
https://tbhkids.com/products/body-wash - TRISWIM Kids Chlorine Removal Body Wash
https://triswim.au/products/triswim-kids-chlorine-removal-body-wash - Kids 3-in-1 Sleep Bath with Melatonin & Essential Oil
https://www.drteals.com/products/?product-type=kids - Soothing Baby Body Wash
https://www.noodleandboo.com/products/soothing-body-wash - Kids Multi-Vitamin Body Wash.
https://www.ever-eden.com/products/kids-multi-vitamin-body-wash - Hair & Body Wash
https://www.roewellness.com/collections/for-baby/products/hair-body-wash
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