How to Use Micellar Water

Between blowouts, sticky hands, snack-covered cheeks, and bedtime meltdowns, bath time doesn't always happen exactly when we want it to. Enter: micellar water. If you’ve never used it for your baby, you might recognize it from your own skincare routine—micellar water is a gentle, no-rinse cleanser that’s great for removing dirt, oil and even makeup. And yes, it’s totally something you can share with your little one. This multitasking hero is perfect for babies, toddlers, and kids with sensitive skin.

At Tubby Todd, we created our Micellar Water No Rinse Cleanser as a quick, calming way to cleanse and refresh your little one when a full bath just isn't in the cards. Whether you're in the middle of a messy diaper change or cleaning up after lunch at the park, micellar water is a low-effort, high-reward solution that makes everyday parenting just a little bit easier.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to use micellar water, what’s actually in it, and why we made one just for the tiniest (and messiest) members of your fam.

What is micellar water, anyway?

Micellar water is a gentle cleansing solution made with micelles—tiny cleansing molecules suspended in soft water.* Those micelles act like magnets, attracting dirt, oil, and impurities and lifting them from the skin without the need to rinse. It was originally made for makeup removal and facial cleansing, but more recently, micellar water has become a go-to option for baby care and quick, on-the-go cleanups.

Unlike traditional cleansers that can strip or dry out skin, micellar water is often soap-free, fragrance-free, and made to leave skin feeling soft, hydrated, and fresh.**

Is micellar water safe for babies?

Great question, mama. Not all micellar waters are created with babies in mind. Some drugstore versions are designed for adult skin and may contain added fragrances, alcohol, or harsh preservatives.

That’s why we made our Micellar Water specifically for babies and kids. It’s dermatologist tested, made with clean ingredients, and gentle on sensitive skin from head to toe. It’s formulated with little ones in mind—and we use it daily on our own kids.

How to use micellar water for babies and kids

Here’s where micellar water really shines: everyday messes. Think of it as your backup plan, your car seat lifesaver, your diaper bag must-have. You can use it in place of a full bath, in between baths, or any time you just need a quick refresh.

Some of our favorite ways to use micellar water:

Messy diaper changes: Great for wiping down baby’s bum after diaper wipes and before applying Diaper Paste, Diaper Spray or All Over Ointment
After meals: Gently clean sticky fingers, cheeks, and chins
Pre-bed wind down: Wipe down sweaty foreheads, neck rolls, and little feet
On the go: Park outings, road trips, and airport changes just got easier
Post-activity refresh: For toddlers and big kids after gymnastics, dance, sports practice or daycare

To use, just saturate a soft cotton pad or reusable cloth with micellar water and gently swipe across the area you want to clean. No need to rinse. No need to follow up. It’s as simple as splash, swipe, done.

You can keep it next to your changing table or in your car. And if you’re stocking up for sweaty summertime adventures, we recommend grabbing the Quick + Dirty Duo.

Why busy parents love micellar water

We get it—there are days when the bath doesn’t happen. Whether you skipped it last night or you’re just trying to make it to bedtime without one more thing on your list, micellar water is here for you.

No rinse, no stress: It cleans without needing to rinse or lather
Fast and portable: It fits in a diaper caddy, purse, or backpack
Soothes sensitive skin: Great for baby acne, dry patches, or in between treatments like All Over Ointment
Mom-tested and approved: Created with and for real families (ours included!)

It’s one of those products you don’t realize you need—until it saves your day (and your shirt).

Micellar water ingredients: what’s inside (and what’s not)

We kept our ingredient list short, gentle, and purposeful. Here’s a look at a few of the key players:

Micelles: These tiny cleansing molecules do the heavy lifting to remove dirt and oil
Aloe vera: Soothes and hydrates dry or irritated skin
Glycerin: A humectant that draws in moisture to keep skin soft and smooth
Cucumber extract: Naturally refreshing and calming

What you won’t find: artificial fragrance, alcohol, parabens, sulfates, or synthetic dyes.

Our formula is clean, calming, and just what you want when you’re caring for baby skin. It’s great on its own or as the first step before applying AOO to clean, prepped skin.

When to reach for micellar water (instead of a bath)

Think of micellar water as your "doing my best" option. It’s not a replacement for a full bath every night, but it’s perfect for the in-between moments—when life gets messy, time gets tight, or your baby just needs a gentle refresh without the full tub routine.

Nights when everyone is too tired
Travel days with no tub in sight
Midday messes you didn’t see coming

Add Micellar Water to your rhythm

Whether you keep it next to your wipes or toss it in your diaper bag, micellar water is one of those little upgrades that simplifies your everyday. We designed ours to support your rhythm—not to replace bath time, but to give you more ways to care for your little one on your terms.

Use it once a day or once a week. Use it during diaper changes or after preschool pickup. Just know that whenever you reach for it, you’re doing something good for your baby’s skin—and your peace of mind.

Grab it in the Changing Station Bundle or shop Micellar Water on its own—your new favorite little bottle of calm.