Image: MomJunction Design Team
Keep your child’s skin soft and nourished with our list of the best soaps for kids. These tried-and-tested soaps help get rid of dirt and germs, maintain hydration, and restore optimal pH levels. They also help strengthen the skin barrier, keeping your child safe and fresh. These soaps are free of harmful chemicals, making them suitable for your child’s sensitive skin. With various options available, choosing the right soap could be challenging. So, explore our list to learn more and make your child’s bath time fun.
Top Picks
10 Best Soaps For Kids
1. Best Paraben-Free: Everyone 3-in-1 Kids Soap
Everyone offers a 3-in-1 formula that can be used as shampoo, body wash, or bubble bath soap for kids. The blend of davana, orange, and lavender essential oils with sweet berry extracts gives a fresh scent making their bathtime a relaxing experience. This gentle, dye-free soap contains aloe vera, calendula, chamomile, and white tea extracts that clean, hydrate, and soften your little one’s skin. It also has vitamin E and B5 that soothe the skin and provide it with much-needed nourishment, making it one of the best soaps for children’s skin. The EWG-verified soap offers three flavors and comes in 100% recyclable bottles. With over 10,800 rave reviews on Amazon, this can be an impressive choice.
https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/organic-baby-soaps
Pros
- Includes natural and organic ingredients
- GMO- and cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Synthetic-free fragrance
- Soothing and nourishing
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
- May leave a strong fragrance
"What I like about this soap is its gentle, soothing effect on my baby's delicate skin. The pump mechanism offers convenience, and I would give it an extra point for its pleasing scent."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It's no wonder that this quality product has earned over 804 positive reviews on Amazon.
2. Best Calming: Southern Natural Lavender Goat Milk Soap
Southern Natural’s milk soap bar contains trusted ingredients such as olive oil, coconut oil, and goat milk, suitable for all skin types. The key ingredient, goat milk, contains fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals that keep your kid’s skin soft and supple while reducing inflammation and irritation. The extra-gentle soap has cold-pressed olive, coconut, and palm oils to lather up, moisturize, and soothe your little one’s skin. This natural product is ideal for cleansing the face, hands, and body, and all age groups, as indicated by close to 2,000 reviews on Amazon.
Pros
- Treats eczema
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Cold-pressed oils
- Handmade soap
- Calming and moisturizing properties
- Kids feel fresh and clean
Cons
- May dry out the skin
- May leave a strong fragrance
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 797 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
3. Best Sulfate-Free: Moneysworth& Best Funhouse Foam Soap
Moneysworth&Best offers gentle kids foam soap in eight fruity fragrances. The moisturizing soap for kids is infused with sweet fruit extracts and is free from CFCs, sulfates, parabens, and phthalates. Its flexible foam can make cute shapes and sculptures or bounce and float in water. According to the label and over 1,400 reviewers on Amazon, the sulfate-free kid’s body wash is suitable for bathtub, kiddie pool, and shower. Although a gentle and mild formula, it should be used only as a body wash.
Pros
- Great colors
- Fun for kids
- Lasts a longer time
- Gentle on skin
Cons
- Leaves a residue
- Fragrance may be strong
"Bath times are now super fun and clean, thanks to this foamy soap! It comes in bright colors and awesome smells that is a hit with kids all around. It's great for getting little ones into the bath and teaching them how to wash their bodies. Just a tip: make sure to clean up quickly to avoid any stains sticking around."
Everyone 3-in-1 Kids Soap Best Paraben-Free | Southern Natural Lavender Goat Milk Soap Best Calming | Moneysworth& Best Funhouse Foam Soap Best Sulfate-Free | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | All, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | - |
| Dimensions | 7.63 x 4.13 x 9.88 inches | - | - |
| Weight | 4.96 Pounds. | - | - |
| Color | - | - | Multi |
| Weight | - | - | 1 Pounds |
| Dimensions LxWxH | - | - | 8.5 x 4.4 x 4.4 inches |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 804 | 797 | 261 |
| Price | $22.95 | $21.99 | $21.48 |
4. Best Moisturizing: Natrulo Oatmeal Honey Goat Milk Soap
Natrulo’s soap bar contains a blend of goat milk, powdered cactus honey, and colloidal oatmeal, which are safe and gentle on kids’ skin. Powdered cactus honey, rich in antioxidants and nutrients, helps reduce inflammation, irritation, and itchiness and repairs damaged skin. The colloidal oatmeal in these pH-balanced soaps helps soothe and calm your little one’s skin. Besides these essential ingredients, this kids’ bar soap also has patchouli, sandalwood, and vanilla oils that provide a rejuvenating spa experience. These handmade bar soaps are suitable for all skin types and may help treat acne-prone skin, making it a trusted choice.
Pros
- Relieves itchy and irritated skin
- Cleanser and moisturizer
- All-natural ingredients
- Spa-like experience
- No animal testing
Cons
- Overpowering fragrance
"The way this soap gently lathers over my child's skin and offers a good cleansing is just great. The herbal scent is not overpowering, and I like that it has moisturizing properties and is suitable for adults, too."
Everyone 3-in-1 Kids Soap Best Paraben-Free | Southern Natural Lavender Goat Milk Soap Best Calming | Moneysworth& Best Funhouse Foam Soap Best Sulfate-Free | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | All, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | - |
| Dimensions | 7.63 x 4.13 x 9.88 inches | - | - |
| Weight | 4.96 Pounds. | - | - |
| Color | - | - | Multi |
| Weight | - | - | 1 Pounds |
| Dimensions LxWxH | - | - | 8.5 x 4.4 x 4.4 inches |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 804 | 797 | 261 |
| Price | $22.95 | $21.99 | $21.48 |
5. Best Vanilla-Scented: Alex Bath Jellie Pops Kids Bath Soap Kit
Turn your little one’s bath time into a fun activity with the DIY jellie pops kids’ bath soap kit. The kit comes with three plastic push-up pop containers, three packs of jelly powder, a measuring cup, a body wash, and a stand. To create this unique kids’ body wash, you will have to mix multiple jelly powder colors and the body wash and pour it into the containers. Then, place the mesh bath pouf onto each pop container, push the handle and release the body wash.
Pros
- Vanilla-scented
- Easy to make
- Kid-friendly
- Suitable for six-year-old kids and above
Cons
- Colors are murky and dull
"I tried out this spa kit and immediately realized why my little one enjoys it so much. It's soft, engaging, and feels refreshing. Just be patient with the setup, and it will reward you with a relaxing experience."
Caution6. Best Bath Bomb: I Am Happy Unicorn Bath Bomb
This bath bomb is a perfect way to surprise your little ones and have more fun with them during their bath time. The 5 oz pink and purple swirl bomb does not stain the tub, which saves you from the hassle of cleaning the tub after bathing your toddler. It is formulated with natural and vegan ingredients and makes for a great option for cleansing your kids’ skin, as it is free of parabens, phthalates, and sulfates.
Pros
- Comes with a surprise necklace
- Does not leave an oily residue
- Safe ingredients
- 100% handmade
Cons
- May dissolve too quickly
"Bath Times have become more fun with the delightful fizz and scent. Despite occasional mishaps like lingering residue or tangled chains, these bath bombs deliver delight with their fizz and jewel surprises. Overall, a lovely gift choice for unicorn fans."
7. Best Cruelty-Free: Zaaina Kids Soap Bar
The adorable animal soap bars from Zaaina are handcrafted by combining 100% natural ingredients, including canola, coconut, lavender, lemon, olive oil, and shea and cocoa butter. These premium ingredients create a rich, creamy lather that cleans, hydrates, moisturizes, and softens skin. It is 100% safe on kids’ delicate skin, free from harsh chemicals, preservatives, artificial fragrances and ingredients. The soap comes in multiple animal shapes, making them one among the best soaps for 10-year-old girls and boys.
Pros
- Adorable animal shapes and colors
- Skin-friendly
- Eco-friendly packaging
- Fun time for kids
- Vegan- and cruelty-free
Cons
- Some scents may be overpowering
"These soaps with adorable shapes captivate children. The mild scent is pleasant, and the gentle soap creates a creamy lather. If you want to create a playful bathtime for your kids, I suggest you pick this one."
Point to consider8. Best Handmade:Nectar Bath Treats Mini Soaps
Make bathtime fun and hassle-free by getting the bear, pretzel, or heart-shaped soaps by Nectar Bath Treats. Infused with the goodness of coconut oil and other natural moisturizing ingredients, these soaps offer a gentle cleansing experience and can keep your little one’s skin hydrated throughout the day. Each of its soaps contains the sweet aroma of cranberry to refresh your child’s mood. Moreover, these handmade soaps could be one of the best soaps for toddlers as they are free of drying agents such as sulfate, paraben, and SLS.
Pros
- Vegan-friendly
- Cruelty-free
- Vibrant color
- Creates a luxurious lather
- Ideal for gifting
Cons
- Some might find it smaller than expected
- Some may not like its smell
"My little one gets super excited every time I take these fruity-scented, bear-shaped soaps out for bathtime. They're skin-friendly and super fun for the little ones. I use these to encourage good hygiene habits for my kids, but due to their small size, these may not be a practical choice for adults."
9. Best Nourishing: Relaxcation Soap Bar
Relaxcation offers a soap bar with a sea animal toy for kids aged three years and above. These sea animal toys, embedded within the soap, are taken out when the soap dissolves completely. Besides making bathtime fun, you can use these soap bars for cleansing the hands, body, and face. Being infused with natural ingredients, vitamins, and minerals makes this one of the best kids’ soap out there.
Pros
- No parabens and sulfates
- Safe for delicate and sensitive skin
- Nourishes and softens the skin
- Pleasant and soft fragrance
Cons
- Toy may not be of good quality
Pro Tip10. Best Hypoallergenic: NevskayaCosmetica Kids Soap
The soap pack from NevskayaCosmetica contains four soap bars suitable for kids. These soap bars, made from high-quality ingredients, including glycerin and mink oil, are safe on sensitive skin. Mink oil helps improve skin tone and elasticity, and its penetrating ability hydrates the baby’s skin. This soap for toddlers also does not contain any scents and color additives.
Pros
- No irritation or dryness
- Cleanses and softens the skin
- Relieves itching and inflammation
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Kids may not like the plain soap
How To Choose The Right Soap For Kids?
Here are some factors to keep in mind while buying soap for kids.
- Ingredients: Check the ingredients list before buying soaps for children. If it includes harsh chemicals, such as sulfates, parabens, and alcohol, avoid buying it. You may buy soaps made from natural and high-quality natural or plant-based ingredients, including coconut oil, honey, cocoa butter, etc.
- Gentle formula: Babies have delicate and sensitive skin compared to adults. It is essential to buy baby-specific, non-toxic soaps with chemical- and tear-free formula.
- Hypoallergenic soaps: If your baby has sensitive skin, allergies, or skin problems such as eczema, look for hypoallergenic body washes and soaps.
- Fragrance-free: Be it synthetic fragrances or natural scents, they can sometimes be overpowering for little kids and are linked with skin irritation, allergies, and other health issues. Besides, soaps use harsh chemicals to provide fragrance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a soap bar on a kid’s face?
Yes, you can use a soap bar on a child’s face only if it has a non-irritating formula free of nasty chemicals. However, it should be kept out of the child’s eyes to prevent burning and itching. Moreover, if your baby has certain skin conditions, such as sensitivity, eczema, and dryness, you need to consult a dermatologist to pick the right soap bar.
2. Should I moisturize my kid’s skin after using a soap bar?
If your little one has dry skin, it is essential to follow a hydrating skincare regimen. Otherwise, you can switch to soap bars that moisturize the skin.
3. Is bathing soap ideal for daily use?
Bathing soaps that provide good hydration without causing itching or altering the natural moisture barrier are ideal for daily use. If your little one’s skin is sensitive, you can opt for mild and expert-approved toddler soaps.
4. Why do kids need different soaps?
Children have delicate skin in comparison to adult skin. They need special attention to keep the skin healthy. So you should use soaps that are formulated especially for them.
5. Is antibacterial soap good for kids?
Since antibacterial soaps have chemicals like triclosan, which is not ideal for delicate skin, you might want to avoid using such soaps. Therefore, it is best to use regular soap to get rid of germs or opt for a dermatologist-tested soap.
6. Is there a difference between a regular soap and an antibacterial soap?
Antibacterial soaps have certain chemicals that are not found in plain soaps. However, there is no evidence that antibacterial soaps are better than plain soaps (1). In addition, antibacterial soaps are not ideal for long-term use, especially for children.
7. Which soap kills the most bacteria?
Soaps don’t kill bacteria. Instead, they are removed from your body with the help of water (2).
Why Trust MomJunction?
Finding a child-friendly soap that gently cleanses and moisturizes your child’s skin can be confusing, given the wide range available. So our experienced skin care product writer, Poulami Nag, brings you a well-researched list of the best soaps for kids. These soaps are made of natural ingredients that gently cleanse and nourish your child’s skin. Poulami selected each product based on carefully comparing several kids’ soaps available online. So, go through each soaps’ features with its pros and cons and take your pick.
The Bottom Line
The best soaps for babies listed here are formulated with natural and safe ingredients, and each bar of soap is gentle, non-irritating, and fragrance-free. These tried-and-tested soaps help eliminate germs and grime effectively and also lather well and make bath time more fun for children. When choosing a soap bar for your little one, make sure it is free of parabens and alcohol and is hypoallergenic. Further, the bay-friendly soap should be gentle on the skin and help nourish it. We recommend trying the versatile Everyone 3-in-1 Kids Soap, which is mild and has organic ingredients, and the Southern Natural Lavender Goat Milk Soap, which suits all skin types.
Infographic: What Ingredients To Avoid When Getting Soaps For Children?
There are multiple things to consider when getting soaps for children, as their skin is thinner and more delicate than adults. Besides being hydrating, nourishing, soothing, and tear-free, they should also be free of toxic ingredients to keep the little one from developing rashes and allergies. The infographic lists some ingredients to avoid when choosing a soap for your child.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Frequent Questions About Hand Hygiene
https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/faqs.html - The handiwork of good health
https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/The_handiwork_of_good_health - The pH of antiseptic cleansers
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3921871/
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