When it comes to kids, bath time is equal parts chaos, cuddles, and foam-covered giggles. But when you're staring down an aisle of options or clicking through pages of bubbly promises, figuring out what shampoo is actually best for your little one can feel more confusing than it needs to be.

Let’s change that! Whether you’re caring for baby’s very first fuzzy hairs, toddler curls that tangle like it’s their job, or big-kid locks that need a little more love, here’s everything you need to know about choosing the right children's shampoo, and why we kept it simple on purpose.

What to look for in a kids shampoo

First things first: kids don’t need complicated products. What they do need is something that keeps their hair and scalp healthy without irritating sensitive skin or drying things out. Using a gentle shampoo for kids not only helps remove dirt and oil, it can also support scalp balance, reduce buildup, and keep their hair soft and manageable. And as kids start to explore more of the world (and more messes), having a shampoo you trust means one less thing to think about.

A great shampoo for kids should check a few key boxes:

• Gentle, plant-based ingredients: Avoid sulfates, synthetic fragrances, and heavy detergents. Look for coconut-based cleansers and botanical extracts.

• Hydrating: Even fine baby hair and toddler curls can get dry. Glycerin, aloe, and light oils can help.

• Dermatologist tested: A solid reassurance for sensitive skin.

• Multi-use if possible: Especially in early stages, a good 2-in-1 can simplify bath time a lot.
  

Why Tubby Todd Hair + Body Wash works for all ages

We created our Hair + Body Wash to be a safe, simple solution for the whole fam. It’s gentle enough for baby’s first bath and effective enough for big kid (or parent!) hair. It lathers softly, rinses easily, and leaves skin and hair feeling clean without any residue or dryness. It’s also a favorite for kids with sensitive skin, thanks to its hydrating formula and soothing ingredients.

Whether you’re squeezing in a quick bath before school or winding down with a longer evening soak, it’s one less thing to overthink. One pump is all you need for a head-to-toe clean, and it’s just as great for everyday use as it is for those “we got sand in everything” kind of days.

What makes it different:

• Coconut-based cleansers that clean without stripping

• Aloe, honeysuckle, and green tea to calm and soothe

• Light, fresh scent that doesn’t overpower

• Safe for newborns, toddlers, and the whole fam
  

Parenting is tricky enough. We think bath time should be a little simpler, and that means less bottles, fewer decisions, and more flexibility in your routine. That’s why our Hair + Body Wash is a true 2-in-1: one bottle, all-over clean.

When to add a conditioner (and which one to try)

As your little one’s hair gets longer, thicker, or curlier, you might find that shampoo alone just isn’t enough. Enter: the conditioner step.

Our Hair Conditioner is lightweight but nourishing—perfect for toddler tangles, big kid braids, and everything in between. It smooths strands without weighing them down and is easy to rinse out (because no one wants a 10-minute comb-through session).

We recommend adding it when:

• Hair starts tangling or matting after baths

• You’re seeing frizz or dryness at the ends

• Your little one has curls or waves that need a little extra moisture
  

Pair it with our Hair + Body Wash for a routine that still keeps your shelf uncluttered and your routine low-stress.

What about detangling spray?

Sometimes conditioner isn’t quite enough, especially for extra curly hair, long locks, or bedhead that means business. That’s where our Detangler Spray comes in. It softens and smooths strands for easy brushing, without any greasiness or buildup. It’s made with lightweight ingredients that help separate and smooth knots without leaving residue, and it’s safe for daily use on wet or dry hair.

Many parents tell us they keep one bottle in the bathroom and another in the diaper bag or car—because tangles don’t always wait until you’re home. It’s a great option for school mornings, playdate prep, or anytime your little one needs a refresh. Plus, the scent is light, fresh, and just sweet enough to make hair care feel like a treat (not a chore).

You can use it:

• After towel-drying hair post-bath
  

• On dry hair in the morning

• Before styling or brushing out braids or buns
  

It’s a great way to make hair care feel less like a battle and more like part of your daily rhythm.

One bottle or a full routine?

If you're the "less is more" type, Hair + Body Wash might be all you need. But if your child’s hair needs a little more support (and you want to keep things streamlined), try The Hair Duo: Hair + Body Wash and Conditioner or the Hair Bundle: Wash, Conditioner and Detangler.

These kits are great for trying out what works best for your fam, without overthinking it.

What to avoid in a kid shampoo

Not all children’s shampoos are created equal. Many drugstore options contain sulfates, parabens, or synthetic fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin or cause buildup over time. It’s worth flipping the bottle over and checking the label, especially if your little one has sensitive skin, allergies, or just needs a gentler option.

Look for formulas that skip the harsh stuff and stick to ingredients you recognize (and feel good about). 

A quick note on safety and sensitivity

All Tubby Todd hair products are dermatologist tested, and made for sensitive skin. While our Hair + Body Wash is a great choice for baby’s first bath, it’s also a smart pick for toddlers and older kids with drier scalps, textured hair, or eczema-prone skin. We keep our ingredient lists gentle, and clean so you can focus on enjoying bath time (instead of double-checking every label).

Making bath time a little easier

Picking the right kid shampoo doesn’t have to be another overwhelming parenting task. The right product can turn a stressful moment into a calming routine, one that helps your child feel cared for, clean, and confident. Look for simple, gentle formulas that work for your child’s hair and your real-life routine.

Tubby Todd’s Hair + Body Wash is an easy place to start. Whether you're bathing your baby for the first time, dealing with post-playground sweat, or trying to tame toddler tangles before school, we've got a formula (and a bundle) that helps make it all feel manageable, and maybe even a little bit fun. The fewer products you need, the less you have to juggle, and we’re all about those small wins.

Shop Hair Care to find your perfect match.