Do kids need a designated shampoo?

Kids don’t necessarily need a designated shampoo, but there are many benefits to them having their own. Some adult shampoos contain many ingredients that may not be safe for a child’s hair, so it’s important to check for ingredients first. You also want to think about how shampoo for kids is designed tear-free, meaning if it gets in their eyes, it won’t cause any pain or tears. Adult shampoos may burn if it enters their eyes, so your best bet is to purchase kids' shampoo if possible.

When should I start washing my child's hair with child-specific shampoo?

When you have a newborn, many parents and caregivers use baby wash as shampoo. This typically stays the same until they enter their toddler years and possibly pre-school since baby wash is usually great for all skin types. After about a year old, a child’s skin becomes less irritable, and you’re bathing them more often, so that’s a great time to transition. It really depends on your child and how much hair they have. If they have a lot of hair, consider transitioning to a kid’s shampoo to ensure their hair is getting the nutrients it needs.

The 10 Best Shampoos for Kids of 2023

Whether your kid’s hair is short, long, curly, straight, thick, or thin, every kid needs a shampoo that meets their unique needs based on their hair texture, scalp health, and even what activities they’re involved in. Shampoos for kids come in various designs, like 2-in-1 or 3-in-1, meaning they double or triple as a shampoo, conditioner, and sometimes body wash.

Read over the ingredients label to avoid harmful ingredients, such as ammonium lauryl sulfate, and look for safe ingredients, like coconut oil. Moreover, most shampoos aim to clean hair and keep it healthy, but some shampoos are designed for a different purpose, like preventing lice.

We researched more than 20 options to select the best shampoos for kids that are free of harsh chemicals and work for various hair types. We reviewed guidance from the American Academy of Dermatology Association on how often parents and caregivers should wash their child’s hair. When reviewing products, we carefully considered purpose, ingredients, hair textures, design, and value. A board-certified pediatrician on our Review Board also reviewed this article for medical accuracy and integrity around shampoos for kids and the importance of safe ingredients.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

The Mane Choice Fruit Medley Kids Hydrating Shampoo at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Organic:

Hello Bello Kid’s Shampoo & Body Wash at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Subscription:

Mini Bloom Fresh N' Clean 2-in-1 Hair + Body Wash at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Kinky Curls:

SheaMoisture Kids Shampoo at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Lice Treatment:

Fairy Tales Lice Shampoo & Conditioner at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for After Swimming:

SoCozy Swim 3-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best 2-in-1:

Fresh Monster Kids Shampoo & Conditioner at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Babies:

Mustela Gentle Baby Shampoo & Detangler at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Big Kids:

Fairy Tales TBH Kids Shampoo at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Tear-Free:

Johnson's Baby Kids’ Shampoo at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected the Best Shampoos for Kids
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Family

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Themanechoice.com

Pros

Works on all hair textures
Smells good
Free of harsh chemicals

Cons

Smell is strong

The Mane Choice Fruit Medley Kids Hydrating Shampoo is our top pick because it's safe to use on all hair textures and does more than clean hair. We love how this shampoo strengthens and detangles kids' hair, leaving it smelling wonderful thanks to the orange-infused formula.

We appreciate the safe ingredients that are free of parabens, sulfates, and other harsh chemicals. Instead, you'll find multiple vitamins in the shampoo's formula to minimize and protect breakage and split ends, promote growth, hydrate the hair, and keep the scalp clean and clear. Fun fact? The Mane Choice was founded by a registered nurse who used her scientific knowledge to create a shampoo safe for all ages.

Price at time of publication: $17

^{Key Specs:
Product Form: Liquid | Hair Type: All}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Hellobello.com

Pros

2-in-1 design
Free of common food allergens
Three scents

Cons

Difficult to pump with wet hands

Hello Bello, founded by husband-wife celebrity duo Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard, is well-known for its plant-based baby products, including its 2-in-1 shampoo and body wash. Its ingredients include marshmallow root, coconut, and aloe extract, and it’s free of common food allergens, including peanuts, dairy, soy, and gluten. We appreciate that the organic kids' shampoo works with all hair types and is safe for sensitive skin, making it a great option for anyone in the family.

After using Hello Bello shampoo, expect nothing less than shiny, smooth, and healthy hair that smells like one of three scent options—coconut, watermelon, or berry lemonade. An extra bonus is that this delightfully sweet-smelling shampoo can double as a body wash.

Price at time of publication: $7

^{Key Specs:
Product Form: Liquid | Hair Type: All}

Courtesy of Amazon

View On Amazon View On Anthropologie View On Minibloom.com

Pros

No synthetic or added fragrances
12-month freshness seal when opened
Pump locks

Cons

Pump accidentally locks when pushed down sometimes

Save yourself a trip to the grocery store (and avoid scanning the shelves for way too long) and subscribe to the Mini Bloom Fresh N’ Clean 2-in-1 Hair + Body Wash. The sulfate-free kids' shampoo cleanses bodies from head to toe with safe ingredients like chamomile extract, aloe leaf, and lavender, which can arrive at your door every 30, 60, or 90 days and save you 15% on your overall total.

After one of our writers received a sample of the hair and body wash from the company, we can proudly confirm it leaves hair and skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. The formula has no added or synthetic fragrances, so it’s great for kids with sensitive skin. The company says all products are good to use for up to two years when unopened and have a 12-month freshness seal once you do open the bottle. One of our favorite features? Turning the pump in one direction locks it, keeping it fresh longer and preventing tiny hands from exploring.

Bonus: The Mini Bloom Knots Be Gone Hair Detangling Treatment pairs nicely with the shampoo to rule out any knots left behind. Whether you purchase it separately or with the shampoo, both options allow you the chance to subscribe and save.

Price at time of publication: $25

^{Key Specs:
Product Form: Liquid | Hair Types: All}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Detangles hair
Enhances curls
Organic ingredients

Cons

Small size

Kids with natural kinky curls need a shampoo that works with their luscious locks. The SheaMoisture Mango & Carrots Kids Extra Nourishing Shampoo is free of harsh chemicals for safe use, enhances curls, and leaves hair hydrated and strong with help from vitamins B5 and E.

We love the mango butter, carrot and coconut oil, and organic shea butter ingredients to moisturize, smooth, and soften brittle, dry, or damaged hair. Plus, it helps detangle hair in the process—a huge bonus to help prevent knots in curly hair. Although be aware that despite organic ingredients, the company doesn’t say their formula is tear-free.

Price at time of publication: $10

^{Key Specs:
Product Form: Liquid | Hair Type: Fine and delicate}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Buybuy BABY

Pros

Helps prevent lice
Safe for everyday use
No toxic ingredients

Cons

Doesn't treat lice

No one wants to think about it, but at some point, your child may be exposed to lice. The Fairy Tales Rosemary Repel Lice Shampoo and Conditioner work to prevent lice outbreaks with their special formulas—a priceless feature we think parents and caregivers will appreciate. Ingredients like organic rosemary, citronella, tea tree oil, and geranium oil help repel lice and make your child's head an unappealing landing pad.

This lice shampoo is great for everyday use thanks to zero parabens, sulfates, and other toxins. It’s even gluten, soy, dairy, and nut-free, allowing anyone in the fam to use it without worrying about an allergic reaction.

Price at time of publication: $24

^{Key Specs:
Product Form: Liquid | Hair Type: Not listed}

Courtesy of Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart

Pros

3-in-1 design
No harsh chemicals
Shines and smooths hair

Cons

Doesn't remove all green for some kids

Chlorine, salt water, and sunlight can do a number on the hair, so if your kiddo loves to be in the water, check out the SoCozy Swim 3-in-1 Shampoo, Conditioner, and Wash. We love that it combats the green tones from pool chemicals, calcium salt, and chlorine build-up (and general dryness that comes with swimming) with activated charcoal. Even better, it’s a three-in-one product that serves as a shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.

Ingredients like jojoba oil work to smooth, protect, and shine hair, while coffee seed extract smooths and softens strands. While there are harsh chemicals found in pools, we feel at ease knowing you won’t find any in this kids' swim shampoo—it’s free from synthetic colors or dyes, parabens, sulfates, and more.

Price at time of publication: $11

^{Key Specs:
Product Form: Cream | Hair Type: Not listed}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart

Pros

Non-toxic formula
Smells great
Gentle on the eyes

Cons

Conditioner could be better

To make bath time easier, wash your kiddo's hair in one step with the Fresh Monster 2-in-1 Kids Shampoo and Conditioner. We’re thankful for the product's safe formula that’s free of toxic and harmful chemicals and dyes. The watermelon scent smells delicious while putting it on and once the hair is dry. While we love that it leaves hair shiny, soft, and clean, we really love that it’s gentle on the eyes and serves as a detangler.

Price at time of publication: $16

^{Key Specs:
Product Form: Liquid | Hair Type: All}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Mustelausa.com

Pros

Chemical-free formula
Tear-free
Doesn't strip away natural oils

Cons

Strong scent

Babies have sensitive skin, so finding a shampoo that meets their delicate skin needs is essential. We applaud the Mustela Gentle Baby Shampoo and Detangler chemical-free formula, which is safe for all ages. The stand-out ingredient Avocado Perseose is unique to Mustela products and helps to strengthen the skin's barrier functions by beefing up its natural proteins and lipids.

This tear-free baby shampoo is hypoallergenic and detangles tiny strands while hydrating and protecting dry scalps without stripping away natural oils.

Price at time of publication: $24

^{Key Specs:
Product Form: Liquid | Hair Types: All}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Trendy design
Leaves hair soft/smooth
Shampoo and conditioner in one

Cons

Doesn't control oily hair

Bigger kids are more active, so they need a shampoo that will work a little harder to cleanse their hair and scalps of dirt and sweat. The TBH Shampoo does just that thanks to ingredients like nettle, meadowsweet, and plant proteins that combat buildup.

We praise how hair is left feeling smooth and soft, and the shampoo even helps prevent acne breakouts along the hairline. It’s also free of toxic and harmful ingredients, works as a shampoo and conditioner in one, and smells delightful.

Price at time of publication: $11

^{Key Specs:
Product Form: Liquid | Hair Type: All}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Gopuff.com

Pros

Smells good
Tear-free
Kid-safe ingredients

Cons

Scent too strong for some

The Johnson's Baby Ultra-Hydrating Tear-Free Kids' Shampoo is hypoallergenic, free of toxic and harmful chemicals, and is as gentle as water on the eyes. Its kid-safe formula hydrates, nourishes, strengthens, and cleans all hair types, particularly delicate and fine hair. While it is a moisturizing shampoo, the manufacturer recommends also using the hydrating conditioner for optimal results.

Price at time of publication: $5

^{Key Specs:
Product Form: Liquid | Hair Type: All}

How We Selected the Best Shampoos for Kids

In order to select the best shampoos for kids, we studied the design and features of more than 20 kids’ shampoos available on the market. We also monitored shopping trends to bring you the best and most up-to-date offerings. Additionally, we reviewed guidance from the American Academy of Dermatology Association on how often parents and caregivers should wash their child’s hair.

We carefully considered ingredients, hair types, product form, age recommendations, skin types, purpose, and value when reviewing products. We chose shampoos for kids that are free of harsh chemicals, available at a variety of budgets, and work with all hair types.

What to Look for in a Shampoo for Kids

Ingredients

Make sure you read the ingredients label to ensure you’re not exposing your child to any harmful chemicals. Opt for brands that use natural ingredients and be mindful of allergies or sensitivities to fragrances.

You also want to ensure the ingredients in your child’s shampoo will clean their hair efficiently of any odor or buildup. Some shampoos contain more than a dozen ingredients, and while you may not have time to look them all up, you do want to ensure what you’re putting onto your child’s body is safe and effective.

Purpose

Before purchasing shampoo for your child, consider what the shampoo is needed for. While most shampoos are aimed at cleaning hair and keeping it healthy, there are also other shampoos that treat lice removal or cradle cap.

Check the label of the shampoo you’re picking out to determine what its purpose is. If you need a lice treatment shampoo, look for shampoos that specifically target lice prevention and treatment, like Fairy Tales Rosemary Repel Lice Shampoo. Determining a purpose will help your child’s scalp stay healthy because you’re then able to pick out a shampoo for their exact needs.

Hair Texture

It’s no secret that all hair types and textures are not the same, so finding the right shampoo for your child’s hair is key. There are four main hair types: curly, straight, wavy, and coils, with those then breaking down into fine, medium, or thick hair. Some kids are in between types and textures, while others are simply one category.

For example, if your child has curly hair, you will want a shampoo specifically designed for curly hair. These will contain ingredients that keep your child’s curls healthy and intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do kids need a designated shampoo?

Kids don’t necessarily need a designated shampoo, but there are many benefits to them having their own. Some adult shampoos contain many ingredients that may not be safe for a child’s hair, so it’s important to check for ingredients first.
You also want to think about how shampoo for kids is designed tear-free, meaning if it gets in their eyes, it won’t cause any pain or tears. Adult shampoos may burn if it enters their eyes, so your best bet is to purchase kids' shampoo if possible.
When should I start washing my child's hair with child-specific shampoo?

When you have a newborn, many parents and caregivers use baby wash as shampoo. This typically stays the same until they enter their toddler years and possibly pre-school since baby wash is usually great for all skin types.
After about a year old, a child’s skin becomes less irritable, and you’re bathing them more often, so that’s a great time to transition. It really depends on your child and how much hair they have. If they have a lot of hair, consider transitioning to a kid’s shampoo to ensure their hair is getting the nutrients it needs.

Why Trust Verywell Family

Ashley Ziegler is a full-time parenting writer, mom to a 1 and a 4-year-old, and she has personal experience in researching kid’s shampoos and trying different brands out on her two daughters (both with very different hair textures). Key considerations she focused on when selecting these products include personal experience, ingredients, and user reviews.