The 2025 Best Non Toxic Toothpaste Guide

Maia James
The 2025 Best Non Toxic Toothpaste Guide
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Best Toothpaste

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1. Essential Oxygen

2. Earthpaste

3. Weleda

4. Wellnesse

5. RiseWell

6. Jack N’ Jill

7. Attitude

8. Tanitabs

9. Radius

10. Canary Clean

11. Poofy

12. Attitude with Flouride

13. Bite

14. Davids

15. Dr. Bronner’s

16. Jason

17. Weleda Children's

It’s one of those everyday essentials–and one that goes in our mouths–so I’m not surprised that so many of you are interested in finding the best non-toxic toothpaste.

Finding a truly safe toothpaste goes far beyond looking for a “fluoride-free” label. (And while this recent ruling has cemented our position on fluoride in drinking water, some of you may want it in toothpaste!).

Many toothpastes—both natural and conventional, for adults and kids–include a lot of ingredients, many of which are sneaky or bad. I guess that’s what happens when we expect a product to do a lot of things, like look appetizing, taste good, feel sudsy in our mouth, whiten our teeth, prevent cavities, and leave us with a “fresh” feeling.

Read on to learn what’s unsavory about most toothpaste, and how to find the best non-toxic, natural toothpaste for adults, kids, and even babies.

Best Stuff

Earthpaste Natural Toothpaste

Earthpaste is a clay-based toothpaste with only four or five ingredients: purified water, food-grade bentonite clay, sea salt, essential oils, and xylitol. For those of you concerned about xylitol, the spearmint flavor is xylitol-free. It’s safe for all ages and the lemon flavor is particularly popular with kids.

Ingredients: cinnamon water, bentonite clay, non-GMO xylitol, nano silver solution, cinnamon leaf, sea salt, cinnamon bark essential oil, tea tree essential oil peppermint water, bentonite clay, non-GMO xylitol, nano silver solution, sea salt, peppermint essential oil, menthol, tea tree essential oil lemon water, bentonite clay, non-GMO xylitol, nano silver solution, lemon essential oil, sea salt, tangerine essential oil, lime essential oil, lemon verbena essential oil wintergreen water, bentonite clay, non-GMO xylitol, nano silver solution, sea salt, wintergreen essential oil, menthol, tea tree essential oil spearmint water, bentonite clay, nano silver solution, sea salt, spearmint essential oil, menthol, tea tree essential oil

Price per ounce: $2.10 (the most affordable Best Stuff!)

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Earthpaste Natural Toothpaste

Essential Oxygen Organic BR Toothpaste

This natural toothpaste gets extra points for being organic, and is free of glycerin, sodium lauryl sulfate, and fluoride. It contains hydrogen peroxide for whitening, and is low-abrasion. It contains aloe vera and a blend of essential oils for a pleasant, minty flavor. My husband prefers this one over Earthpaste.

Ingredients: Active Ingredients: Hydrogen peroxide, food grade 1.5% Inactive Ingredients: Aloe vera solution, deionized purified water, guar gum, calcium phosphate, coconut flour, peppermint oil, spearmint oil, stevia, clove oil, lemon oil, rosemary oil, cinnamon oil, witergreen oil, eucalyptus oil, frankincense oil, coconut oil.

Price per ounce: $2.25

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Essential Oxygen Organic BR Toothpaste

Poofy Organics Toothpaste

Poofy Organics toothpastes are unique because they’re entirely organic. Poofy’s adult toothpaste and tooth powder are for ages five and up. (The tooth powder is also clay free in case you’re not as comfortable as I am with responsibly sourced clay. Poofy gets theirs from Living Clay because they test it thoroughly.)

Poofy also makes an organic baby/toddler toothpaste that I like, but I’m listing it under Good Stuff because it contains glycerin.

Ingredients: Distilled Water, Organic Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Organic Maranta Arundinacea (Arrowroot) Powder, Bentonite Clay, Aluminum-Free Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda), Organic Erythritol, Organic Menthol Crystals (crystals produced from cornmint (Metha arvensis) essential oil extraction), Organic Peppermint Essential Oil, Organic Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Essential Oil, Organic Eucalyptus Globulus (Eucalyptus) Essential Oil, Organic Elettaria Cardamomum (Cardamom) Essential Oil, Organic Cinnamomum Zeylanicum (Cinnamon) Essential Oil

Use code: MAIAJAMES for 10% off

Price per ounce: $2.43

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Poofy Organics Toothpaste

RiseWell Natural Toothpaste

RiseWell remineralizing toothpaste contains hydroxapatite in place of fluoride (you can read about this natural toothpaste ingredient above). RiseWell is flavored with only essential oils, and free of surfactants of concern. And those of you who have tried it say it’s incredible! Use code GIMME10 to get 10% off everything on Risewell’s site. 

My thoughts on the Risewell lawsuit: In June 2024, a class-action lawsuit was filed against the parent company of Risewell Kids Mineral toothpaste, claiming that the product contained PFAS. However, the case was dismissed, likely because the allegations were based on a single test sample. Risewell has tested every batch of their toothpaste for PFAS contamination over the past three years, and have not found evidence of PFAS. If you have a tube of Risewell and want to see the lab results for your specific batch, you can email them at hi@risewell.com. For these reasons still consider Risewell toothpaste to be Best Stuff. 

Ingredients: Silica, Sorbitol, Glycerin, Xylitol, Hydroxyapatite, Calcium Carbonate, Propanediol, Potassium Cocoate, Stevia Rebaudiana Extract, Mentha Arvensis (Wild Mint) Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Cinnamomum Cassia (Cinnamon) Bark Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil, Cellulose Gum, Sodium Gluconate, Menthol, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Extract, Erythritol, Xanthan Gum, Eucalyptus Globulus Extract, Illicium Verum (Anise) Extract.

Price per ounce: $4.13

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RiseWell Natural Toothpaste

Tanitabs Natural Toothpaste Tablets

Tanitabs are toothpaste tablets that employ the cleaning power of charcoal. We love that these eco-friendly toothpaste products don’t require you to toss yet another non-recyclable toothpaste tube into a landfill when you’re done.  

Tanitabs are made with scientifically-backed ingredients like hydroxyapatite and xylitol. One order should last you for about two months, and the jar they come in is fully reusable or recyclable.

Use code GIMME at checkout for 20% off anything at Tanit.

Ingredients: Xylitol (35%), Calcium carbonate, Kaolin (White Clay), Hydroxyapatite (10%), Sodium cocoyl isethionate, Aloe barbadensis (Aloe Vera) leaf juice powder, Stevia, Natural flavor, Sodium Bicarbonate, Mentha virdis (Spearmint) extract, Camellia sinensis (Green Tea) extract, Senegalia senegal (Acacia) gum, Melaleuca alternafolia (Tea Tree) leaf oil, Citrus grandis (Grapefruit) seed extract

Price per gram: $0.12 per tablet with our discount code

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Tanitabs Natural Toothpaste Tablets

Wellnesse Natural Toothpaste

Wellnesse toothpaste has a clean list of ingredients, and their formula is fluoride and glycerin-free. Wellness uses hydroxyapatite for remineralization.

Ingredients: Calcium Carbonate, Sorbitol, Purified Water, Sodium Bicarbonate, Xylitol, Silica, Hydroxyapatite, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Flavor, Xanthan Gum, Stevia Rebaudiana Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta (Neem) Seed Oil, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract

Price per ounce $3.75

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Wellnesse Natural Toothpaste

Why Safe, Natural Toothpaste Matters

Choosing a non-toxic, natural toothpaste is important for both adults and kids. Because we use toothpaste multiples times a day, we have frequent exposure to the ingredients.

Also, toothpaste ingredients can be absorbed into the body through the lining of our mouths. And little kids, of course, end up swallowing more toothpaste than they spit out. (Can you blame them? Kids’ toothpastes come in flavors like bubble gum and strawberry!)

Many parents ask me, “Is it safe to swallow toothpaste?” The answer to that question depends entirely on the ingredients list. If you prioritize natural, clean foods, you should also prioritize natural toothpaste and oral hygiene products.

What’s Wrong with Conventional Toothpastes?

Most toothpastes are full of ingredients I wouldn’t want to put on my body, let alone in my mouth. I’m particularly disappointed to see how many kids’ toothpaste options contain bad stuff, given how much kids tend to swallow. Even many “safe to swallow” toddler or baby safe toothpastes have ingredients I wouldn’t consider edible. 

For instance, Colgate’s supposedly kid-friendly toothpastes contain concerning ingredients like propylene glycol (linked to cancer and reproductive damage), artificial colors (linked to ADHD), and PEG-12 (can be contaminated with toxic 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide).  

Toxic Ingredients in Toothpaste

Fluoride is the most controversial toothpaste ingredient, and I will get to that in a minute. Here’s what else you need to look for when reading a toothpaste label:

  • Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is used to make products foam. SLS can irritate the skin or lining of the mouth, and its cousin SLES (sodium laureth sulfate) is often contaminated with carcinogenic 1,4-dioxane. I don’t worry about SLS as much in soaps or shampoos, which we wash off, and I’m fine with it in household cleaners. Because toothpaste goes in our mouths where it can be absorbed and swallowed, SLS should be avoided in toothpaste.
  • Artificial preservatives such as parabens are everywhere, including in toothpastes. Parabens mimic estrogen and are implicated in breast cancer. No causal relationship has been proven, but because we’re exposed to parabens from many cosmetic sources, I recommend avoiding them wherever you can. 
  • Artificial colors, some of which are linked to ADHD, are used in many conventional toothpastes, especially kids’ gel formulas. White toothpastes usually get their squeaky clean look from coloring agents such as titanium dioxide. Titanium dioxide can be carcinogenic in nano-particle form, and nano-particles could be absorbed through the lining of the mouth.
  • Artificial sweeteners such as saccharin are often used to sweeten toothpaste. Saccharin has neurotoxic effects in some people who consume it in low-calorie or sugar-free foods. It’s a bad idea for kids’ toothpastes, given the potential for swallowing.
  • Propylene glycol is linked to cancer, reproductive damage, and extreme skin irritation, and is often used in toothpastes to give them a smooth texture.

One formerly common toothpaste ingredient you no longer need to worry about is triclosan. This antibacterial agent forms carcinogenic chloroform when it comes in contact with water that contains trace amounts of chlorine, and has been banned in soaps. At last it’s been phased out of all toothpastes sold in the United States–even Colgate Total!

What About Fluoride in Natural Toothpaste?

Fluoride is supposed to prevent tooth decay and cavities and help us have strong bones. But for decades, there was debate about whether fluoride is healthy and effective as an additive to drinking water and toothpaste.

I have long been against fluoride in drinking water. The Harvard School of Public Health reported that fluoride “adversely affect[s] cognitive development in children,” causing as much as a 7-point lower IQ. There is also persistent concern that fluoride can cause reproductive damage in high enough doses. Most recently, a federal court in California passed a ruling against the EPA, highlighting concerns about fluoride levels in drinking water.

If you’re worried that skipping fluoride means inviting a mouth of rotten teeth, there is evidence that vitamin D may help prevent cavities.

For these and other reasons, I recommend filtering fluoride out of drinking water–but if you have a cavity-prone child like I do, you might decide to use a natural toothpaste with fluoride.

Is Hydroxyapatite a Safe Alternative to Fluoride?

Hydroxyapatite, a naturally occurring mineral and the main component of tooth enamel, has gained recognition for its role in oral care products, including toothpaste. As an ingredient in toothpaste, hydroxyapatite has shown promise in remineralizing tooth enamel. Its ability to form a protective layer on the tooth surface helps repair microscopic enamel damage, contributing to improved overall oral health.

What (Else) Is Wrong with Natural Toothpaste?

For most people, I recommend choosing fluoride-free toothpaste. And yet toothpaste has to be more than fluoride-free in order to be safe.

Unfortunately, many “natural” toothpaste contain concerning ingredients similar to what’s found in conventional toothpastes, such as:

  • Surfactants, usually coconut-derived substitutes for sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), are popular ingredients in many “SLS-free” toothpastes. I’m concerned about some of these SLS alternatives in natural toothpaste because of the delicate and absorbent lining of the mouth. Examples of these kinds of surfactants are sodium coco-sulfate, sodium cocoyl glutamate, potassium cocoate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, and sodium methyl cocoyl taurate. It’s confusing, though, because when you look at each of these SLS substitutes one by one, some really do appear to be benign. For instance, sodium cocoyl glutamate and potassium cocoate each gets only a 1 from EWG, and they seem like a great substitute for SLS/SLES. Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, on the other hand, gets as high as a 5 from EWG, so I recommend avoiding toothpastes that contain it. It may, however, be okay as a foaming agent in products that you do not put in your mouth–such as shampoo.
  • Preservatives will show up in paraben-free toothpastes, and they still worry me. Sodium benzoate is suspected to cause damage to mitochondrial DNA, and is a persistently controversial ingredient. More research (especially long-term studies) is needed, but for now, this ingredient knocks brands out of our Best Stuff category, though they may still be Good Stuff. Potassium sorbate and sorbic acid have raised concerns due to mild allergic reactions in some users, but you will find these in brands we call Best Stuff.
  • Carrageenan, derived from seaweed, is a common thickening agent in toothpaste. Animal studies suggest that it leads to intestinal inflammation and colon tumors. It’s probably fine in toothpaste for adults, but I’d avoid it in products used by swallowing-prone kids.

Natural Toothpaste Ingredients I'm NOT Worried About

There are several controversial ingredients that I’m not so worried about in natural toothpastes. These include:

  • Glycerin. There’s a small but heated debate about whether glycerin, a very common ingredient in both conventional and natural toothpastes, is healthy for teeth. Some people claim that glycerin in toothpaste coats the teeth, blocking their ability to re-mineralize (or repair themselves with minerals from our saliva). It’s true that re-mineralization is crucial to the health of our teeth. It’s not clear, however, that glycerin-based toothpastes seriously interfere with this process. Honestly, I’m on the fence about this, so I’m giving the Okay Stuff label to otherwise safe toothpastes that are glycerin-based. (See Good Stuff for glycerin-free toothpastes).
  • Clays are a potentially problematic ingredient in natural toothpaste because they can contain trace amounts of lead. After lots of research and digging into the independent testing of the bentonite clay used in Earthpaste, I’m convinced that it’s safe. The amount of lead in clay is much less than the naturally occurring amounts found in food like spinach or sweet potatoes. Also, the lead in clay doesn’t seem to be bio-available (meaning your body won’t absorb it even when it is present). Even better, there is compelling evidence that bentonite clay might actually RID the body of lead. You should always do your own research, but this is where ours has lead me, and I feel confident calling Earthpaste Good Stuff.
  • Sugar alcohols like xylitol, sorbitol and erythritol are used in toothpastes for sweetness and anti-cavity benefits. When consumed in high enough amounts (usually as sugar replacements in food and beverages), they can cause digestive upset in some people. As a result, many parents ask me for recommendations of xylitol free toothpaste. Ultimately, I think this is more or less unnecessary. I don’t think they’re harmful in the small amounts found in toothpaste, and I like that xylitol and erythritol have anti-cavity benefits. The bottom line here is that there’s no need to go out of your way to choose a non toxic kids toothpaste without xylitol or sorbitol. (If you’re concerned about sugar alcohols, Earthpaste’s peppermint flavor is xylitol free, as are Tooth Soap’s products.)
  • Essential oils are used in some natural toothpastes in place of artificial or natural flavors, and sometimes for added anti-cavity/pro-mouth benefits. Some people don’t like the idea of using essential oils in ingestible products, and some people have sensitivities to specific oils. I think that high-quality essential oils like the ones in the Good Stuff are safe in the amounts found in toothpaste, but if you want to avoid them, check out Poofy Organic’s toddler tooth gel, Jack n’ Jill’s toothpastes, and some of the Tooth Soap products (all Best or Good Stuff). Limonene, in particular, is found in various cosmetics, many of which are natural and organic. EWG considers limonene a definite skin and respiratory irritant, with potential carcinogenic properties. But there are different forms of limonene, and some research suggests that it has antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. Confusing? Yes. Deadly in toothpaste? Probably not, especially if you’re not guzzling it by the tube.

What Is the Best Non Toxic Baby Toothpaste?

Many kids’ toothpastes are officially for ages two and up. So what about younger toddlers and babies?

Teaching little ones to brush and getting them used to the tickling sensation of bristles is definitely important, but all you really need to use is water plus a soft-bristled brush or silicone toothbrush beginning with their earliest teeth.

You can hold off on toothpaste until they’re toddlers, or later. (Toothpaste isn’t actually essential to oral health—the brushing action of the toothbrush is. Flossing and a healthy diet are crucial, too, of course.)

If you feel compelled to use more than water (and/or kid’s your doc or dentist says you need to), try some of the Best or Good Stuff from this guide.

Our Top Pick: Best Natural Toothpaste (Adults)

Essential Oxygen Organic Natural Toothpaste

If you’re looking for a natural toothpaste that tastes and feels like the old ones you used to brush with, you’ll want to try Essential Oxygen. It’s minty, foamy, and non-gritty, all with completely safe ingredients.

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Our Top Pick: Best Natural Toothpaste (Adults)

Our Top Pick: Best Natural Toothpaste (Kids)

Jack N’ Jill Natural Calendula Toothpaste


This natural toothpaste comes in nine fruity flavors and is safe for babies as young as six months. Xylitol, which has anti-cavity benefits, is the primary ingredient. All flavors are free of fluoride.

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Our Top Pick: Best Natural Toothpaste (Kids)

Best Natural Toothpaste with Fluoride

Attitude Natural Toothpaste

My pick for those of you looking for a natural toothpaste with fluoride is Attitude–they have formulas with fluoride for adults and kids. The only downside (besides the fluoride!) is the inclusion of sodium benzoate in Attitude’s toothpaste. Otherwise, the clean ingredient list is about as good as you can get.

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Best Natural Toothpaste with Fluoride

PS: A little more about my thoughts on fluoride here:

Good Stuff

More Natural Toothpaste options

Attitude Natural Toothpaste

We had to downgrade Attitude to the Good Stuff because this toothpaste does include SLS and sodium benzoate on the ingredients list. We are leaving it as Good rather than Okay because we believe it is the best natural toothpaste with fluoride for those of you in search of that. This product is EWG verified.

Ingredients: Active ingredient: Sodium fluoride (0,243 % p/p) Use: Anti-cavities. Inactive ingredients: sorbitol, aqua, glycerin, hydrated silica, sodium sorbitol, aqua, glycerin, hydrated silica, sodium lauryl sulfate,  mentha piperita (peppermint/menthe poivrée) oil*,  xanthan gum, citric acid, stevia rebaudiana leaf / stem extract, sodium benzoate, carica papaya leaf extract, camellia sinensis (green tea) leaf extract, titanium dioxide, potassium sorbate, hydroxyapatite. Naturally contains: D-limonene.

Price per ounce $2.85

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Attitude Natural Toothpaste

Bite Toothpaste Bits

This is another tube-free toothpaste alternative that comes in reusable or recyclable packaging. We like that these as an eco-friendly option for those who want a fluoride-free toothpaste. Instead, Bite contains hydroxyapatite, the non-toxic fluoride alternative we mentioned above. There are no preservatives, artificial flavors, or sulfates on the Bite ingredients list. Bite also offers a version with fluoride for those with cavity concerns. Note that Bite contains zinc citrate, which EWG considers moderately toxin.

Ingredients: Erythritol, Xylitol, Calcium Carbonate, Natural Flavor (peppermint), Hydroxyapatite (nano), Sodium Bicarbonate, Guar Gum, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Zinc Citrate, Silicon Dioxide, Menthol

Price per tablet: $0.24

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Bite Toothpaste Bits

Canary Clean Toothpaste

Canary toothpaste tablets are environmentally-friendly, and free from harsh surfactants, concerning preservatives, artificial sweeteners, colors, and parabens. Instead, they use gentle, effective ingredients like nano-hydroxyapatite for remineralization and sugar alcohols like xylitol and erythritol, which have cavity-fighting benefits and are safe in the small amounts found in toothpaste. The only reason Canary doesn’t make our Best Stuff list is the inclusion of sodium cocoyl isethionate, but this is a mild surfactant that I feel good about.

Cost per tablet: $0.12

Purchase in our store or from Canary Clean -Use code: GIMMETHEGOODSTUF25

Ingredients: Xylitol, Erythritol, Sorbitol, Xanthan Gum, Calcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Natural Bubblegum Flavor, Magnesium Stearate, Nano-Hydroxyapatite, Calcium Bentonite, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate

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Canary Clean Toothpaste

David’s Premium Natural Toothpaste

I am not worried about the carrageenan in there if this is used by adults, but I know it’s something a lot of people want to avoid. If you can overlook it, you might love the fresh, all-natural citrus flavor, which is surprisingly refreshing and leaves your mouth feeling clean.

Ingredients: calcium carbonate (limestone abrasive), vegetable glycerin, purified water, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), xylitol (birch derived), hydrated silica, sodium cocoyl glutamate, carrageenan (seaweed derived), mentha piperita (peppermint) oil, menthol, elettaria cardamomum seed oil, illicium verum (anise) fruit oil, eucalyptus globulus leaf oil, citrus aurantium amara (orange) peel oil, eugenia caryophyllus (clove) flower oil, citrus limon (lemon) fruit oil, cinnamomum zeylanicum bark oil, capsicum frutescens (cayenne), stevia (leaf extract).

Price per ounce: $1.89

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David’s Premium Natural Toothpaste

Dr. Bronner’s All-One Toothpaste

We love Bronner’s, and my parents have been using their products since the 1970s. I consider this natural toothpaste a safe option, but we put it in Good Stuff because of the glycerin that some of you may be seeking to avoid.

Ingredients: Organic Glycerin, Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hydrated Silica, Calcium Carbonate, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda), Potassium Cocoate (made with Organic Coconut Oil), Organic Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Organic Mentha Arvensis (Menthol) Crystals, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Flour, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Tocopherol, Citric Acid, Organic Stevia Rebaudiana Leaf / Stem Extract

Price per ounce: $1.02

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Dr. Bronner’s All-One Toothpaste

Jack N’ Jill Natural Toothpaste

Jack N’ Jill Natural Toothpaste is a xylitol- and glycerin-based toothpaste for babies and toddlers (six months and up). Even picky kids are likely to find a favorite among one of their nine different fruit flavors. Xylitol, which has anti-cavity benefits, is the primary ingredient.

This is a good option if you’re concerned about using essential oils in an ingestible product. This is what my kids use and love! (And like I say above, I’m not worried about the glycerin.)

Ingredients: Flavor Free: Xylitol, Purified Water, Vegetable Glycerin (Coconut derived), Silica, Xanthan Gum, Potassium Sorbate (Naturally derived), Citric Acid.

Price per ounce: $0.25

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Jack N’ Jill Natural Toothpaste

Jason Sea Fresh Adult Toothpaste

Jason Sea Fresh Toothpaste avoids many of the worst offenders—like harsh surfactants, parabens, artificial colors, and preservatives. It does contain carrageenan, which is fine for adult toothpaste that isn’t swallowed. Overall, it’s a decent option for adults, but not quite good enough for our Best Stuff list.

Ingredients: Calcium Carbonate, Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Carrageenan, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Certified Organic Ingredient), Bambusa Arundinacea Stem Powder, Carum Petroselinum (Parsley) Extract, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Chlorella Pyrenoidosa Extract, Perilla Ocymoides Seed Extract, Stevia Rebaudiana Leaf/Stem Extract, Silica, Sodium Bicarbonate (Certified Organic Ingredient).

Price per ounce: $3.00

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Jason Sea Fresh Adult Toothpaste

Poofy Organics Cheery Cherry Toddler Toothpaste

Poofy Organics Cheery Cherry Toddler Toothpaste is unique because it’s organic. It can be used as soon as baby’s first teeth emerge. I like that it only has a handful of organic ingredients: arrowroot powder, glycerin, erythritol (a sugar alcohol with properties similar to xylitol), bentonite clay, and cherry flavor (organic vegetable oil plus natural flavors). If you’re concerned about using essential oils in an ingestible product, this is a good option.

Ingredients: Distilled Water, Organic Arrowroot Powder, Organic Glycerin (soybean, maize or mustard), Organic Erythritol, Bentonite Clay, Organic Cherry Flavor Oil (organic sunflower oil, natural flavors)

Use code: MAIAJAMES for 10% off

Price per ounce: $0.41

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Poofy Organics Cheery Cherry Toddler Toothpaste

Radius Natural Toothpaste

Radius Toothpastes contain glycerin, which I feel fine about but which some of you might avoid. None of the other ingredients is concerning.

My kids love the dragon fruit gel, and I like their whitening formula. Perhaps my favorite product from the Radius line is their dental floss –which contains no gross PFOAs or nylon. I’m also a fan of their eco-friendly toothbrushes.

Ingredients Dragon Fruit: Water, Glycerin*, Erythritol*, Chamomile Flower Extract*, Organic Flavors*, Guar Gum *, Aloe Vera Leaf Juice*, Neem Leaf Extract*, Coconut Water Concentrate*, Tapioca Maltodextrin*, Quillaja Saponaria Wood Extract*, Citric Acid, Hibiscus Flower Extract*, Holy Basil Leaf Extract*, Rose Flower Extract*, Radish Root Extract, Maltodextrin, Xanthan Gum *certified organic

Price per ounce: $3.30

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Radius Natural Toothpaste

Weleda Natural Toothpaste

Weleda Children’s Tooth Gel is a glycerin-based formula. It gets an EWG score of 2, but their calculation doesn’t include limonene.

The ingredients I’m not crazy about include the limonene and the “flavor.” The flavor is derived from essential oils, so skip this product if you’re worried about oral ingestion of essential oils.

I do like that this formula is relatively easy to find at brick-and-mortar stores and is pretty simple, with only 9 ingredients (including the limonene, which is part of the oils used in the flavoring).

Ingredients: Glycerin, water, silica , sodium alginate, calendula flower extract, sweet almond oil, esculin, aroma, limonene

Price per ounce $3.95

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Weleda Natural Toothpaste

Okay Stuff

Not Our Favorite Toothpaste Brands

Boka Ela Mint

The combo of glycerin, sodium benzoate, and sodium lauryl sarcosinate lands Boka Ela in Okay rather than Good Stuff, but overall this is a decent choice for a hydroxyapatite-based natural toothpaste. 

Ingredients: Water, Vegetable Glycerin, Hydrated Silica, Sorbitol Powder, Silica, Nano-hydroxyapatite, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Mentha Piperita Essential (Peppermint) Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Oil, Illicium Verum (Star Anise) Oil, Gaultheria Procumberis (Wintergreen) Oil, Xylitol, Xanthan Gum, Stevia Rebaudiana Extract Powder, Methylsulfonylmethane, Aloe Barbadensis (aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Sodium Bicarbonate, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Menthol, Elettaria Cardamomum Miniscula Seed (Cardamom), Potassium Chloride.

Price per ounce: $1.89

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Boka Ela Mint

Theodent Natural Toothpaste

Theodent stands out because of one unique ingredient, rennou. This is an all-natural compound that remineralizes the teeth. In other words, it naturally strengthens your tooth enamel to eliminate sensitivity over time.  

We looked into rennou, and it’s a safe-to-swallow ingredient. Interestingly, its most active compound, theobromine, is derived from the cacao plant. If you want a flouride-free product, this one is worth a a shot. We are calling this one Okay Stuff because it contains sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, which we prefer you avoid in general.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Hydrated Silica, Sorbitol, Xylitol, Glycerin, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Xanthan Gum, Titanium Dioxide, Citric Acid, Spearmint Oil, Sodium Benzoate, Stevia Extract, Sodium Bicarbonate, And Sugar-Free Vanilla Extract., Rennou(Tm) Theobromine, Calcium Acetate, And Sodium Hydrogen Phosphate

Price per ounce $4.70

Buy from Amazon
Theodent Natural Toothpaste

Trader Joe’s Anticavity Peppermint Toothpaste

Not a bad option for a fluoride toothpaste, but it does contain carrageenan. All said, it is probably the most natural toothpaste you can pick up during an everyday grocery run. The convenience might be worth it!

Ingredients: Calcium carbonate, water, glycerin, xylitol, sodium cocoyl glutamate, foeniculum vulgar (fennel) oil, commiphora myrrh (myrrh) resin, hydrated silica.

Price per ounce: $1.19

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Trader Joe’s Anticavity Peppermint Toothpaste

Bad Stuff

Big Name Toothpastes to Avoid

The worst of the bad—thanks to the fact that they’re kids’ toothpastes that are supposedly “safe to swallow”—are Orajel’s toddler toothpastes. Even the ingredients in their fluoride-free toothpastes are awful, including propylene glycol, methylparaben and propylparaben, saccharin, potassium sorbate, and unspecified “flavor.” Orajel’s claim that they’re the “#1 pediatrician recommended brand for infants and toddlers” is baffling!

Otherwise, pick any mainstream toothpaste brand, and you’ll find at least a handful of concerning ingredients on the label. For example, Crest uses parabens and other concerning preservatives, cocamidopropyl betaine, artificial colors, PEG-6, PEG-8, PEG-12, and a bunch of other stuff you don’t want in your mouth. 

Bottom line: When it comes to toothpaste, conventional brands you remember from the 1990s are Bad Stuff.

Sneaky Stuff

Greenwashed Natural Toothpastes

Most of Tom’s of Maine toothpastes have sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)—even the children’s formula. Tom’s admirably defends their use of SLS, but because there are SLS-free toothpastes available, I say skip it—especially for kids.

Tate’s The Natural Miracle Toothpaste (which I used to use and love!), for adults, has several concerning ingredients, including PEG-6 (can be contaminated with yucky stuff like1,4-dioxane), saccharin (can have neurotoxic effects in some people), and clove stem (natural, but a possible immune system toxicant).

Spry’s kid formula uses grapefruit seed extract, which sounds nice, but can be contaminated with scary stuff like triclosan. Even The Honest Company’s toothpastes—both the adult and kid formulas—have sodium lauroyl sarcosinate. Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate is also used in Nature’s Gate Natural Toothpaste for Kids.

Carrageenan is a potentially problematic ingredient in kids’ toothpastes, thanks to the potential for swallowing. You’ll find carrageenan in The Honest Company’s Strawberry Blast, Kiss My Face Berry Smart Obsessively Kids Toothpaste, Xyliwhite Orange Splash Toothpaste Gel for Kids, and Tom’s of Maine fluoride-free toothpastes for kids and toddlers.

You’ll find sodium benzoate in the tooth wipes Spiffies, and I say skip this one for the tiniest teeth.

I hope this updated toothpaste shopping guide makes finding the best natural toothpaste a little bit easier. Please comment with brands you’d like us to include in the next update!

Stay sane,

Author's Signature

Maia, Founder & CEO

Note: This article contains affiliate links or sponsored content, which means that if you make a purchase, we may earn a commission. We only recommend products that meet our strict standards for non-toxicity and that we use (or want to use!) ourselves. Thank you so much for supporting the brands that make Good Stuff! 

Tags:Bath & Body Guides

170 comments

Maggie

On the updated guide, the KMF toothpaste is your recommendation for fluoridated toothpaste but it also appears to be listed under your Sneaky Stuff. Is this the same product or a different version!

Jen

Do you know anything about The Natural Dentist toothpaste with Flouride?

Daniel McMahon

As parents, it is really important to know the ingredients of the product that your kids use to ensure that the ingredients used can’t harm them. It is applicable not just for the toothpaste but all the products that they use often.

Suzanne Weaver-Goss

We haven’t researched Uncle Harry’s toothpaste but I just looked at it and at first glance it looks like Good Stuff!

Griselda

I am so grateful for all your guides! I find myself visiting your site first when looking into trying new healthy products. Thank you, all your information and time is highly appreciated. One question, what do you think of Uncle Harry’s Toothpaste?

Myriam

Hello,
I am wondering what are your thoughts about Silca Herbal flouride free toothpaste. I have been using it for over a year now but I am now wondering about the silica and hydrated silica included, not to mention the SLS etc.
Thanks

Joy Butler

Hi Maia, I’d like to thank you for your explanation about getting a fluoride-free toothpaste for my kids. I had no idea that it can cause reproductive damage with its high doses. Once we do our weekly grocery, I will look for a fluoride-free product. More power!

Maia James

Hi Howard, The Earthpaste spearmint does not have Xylitol because it is unsweetened. Hope you buy from us!!!

Raymond Hague

Thank you for sharing to us some of the tips on choosing the right toothpaste for our kids.

Howard Sample

You mentioned that Earthpaste Spearmint does not have xylitol, but the detail information on Amazon says xylitol is added ingredient. Which is correct, please? I cannot have xylitol.

Katherine Pirzadeh

Have you ever heard of radius brand organic coconut oil toothpaste? I just got some at whole foods and it looks like it might be OK?

Maia James

I’m fine with potassium sorbate as a (food-grade) preservative.

Maia James

Hi! No, the amount a toddler might smaller is definitely not a large quantity. (You should only be using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, no matter the brand, for a child that age.)

Jennifer Schaperow

Thank you for this list. Is Xylitol safe for toddlers considering that they swallow toothpaste? I looked online and there is a lot of negative about it in large quantities. If it’s the first ingredient in toothpaste does that mean it’s in a large quantity? I’m considering using Jack And Jill toothpaste for my 2 year old. Thank you!

Madelyn

Hi there. Jack n Jill toothpaste have reformulated and added “potassium sorbate (naturally derived)” as their last ingredient. What are your thoughts on this?

Annmarie Zuluaga Yafrate

Why do you pick Kiss My Face Berry Smart Obsessively Kids Toothpaste over Tom’s of Maine for Flouride toothpaste? I’ve been using a rice sized spec of Tom’s of Maine with my LO (who is now 2.5 years old) for a while now but I’m starting to get concerned that many others use flouride free toothpaste. My pediatric dentist of course recommends the flouride toothpaste (twice a day), our pediatrician once a day. What to do what to do?

lee

I’m curious about this one too!

Vanessa

Sorry I should have added that this is green beaver toothpaste from r others who may be interested – but only their frosty mint flavour as I thought some of the others had more questionable ingredients.
Thanks!

Vanessa

Sound ok for toothpaste?
Thank you!

Calcium carbonate, sorbitol, aqua, glycerin, sodium bicarbonate, silica, xylitol, mentha piperita (peppermint) oil, citrus medica limonum (lemon) extract, calcium ascorbate, melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) leaf oil, menthol, sclerotium gum, coco glucoside, xanthan gum

Em

Oh found your comments about earth paste with lead. Still concerning to me so I guess I am back to looking for a more comfortable option.

Em

Redmond Earthpaste – On the toothpaste tube, it says Warning as it contains LEAD and may not be safe for children and pregnant women. How can it claim to be natural and safe? Got me worried there… Any thoughts?

Thank you!

Karen

Would you still ok using Earthpaste while pregnant? Are you aware of anyone who has checked lead levels before and after use?

I’m interested in Nelson Naturals toothpastes. Ingredients: Calcium Carbonate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Colloidal Silver, Sea Salt, Xylitol, Castile Soap, Trace Mineral Concentrate, Essential Oil (Flavourings). A little iffy about the Colloidal Silver and exactly what the trace minerals are.

Emily

Hello! Thank you for all of the great research! I have been using Jack n Jill toothpaste for my 20 month old, but saw that Hello Organic Apple tooth paste have been doing a lot better in reviews on Amazon. The ingredients are as follows: Vegetable Glycerin (Soothes and Moisturizes), Sorbitol (Humectant), Purified Water, Aloe Vera Gel (Soothes and Moisturizes), Hydrated Silica (Thickener), Xylitol (Sweetener), Erythritol (Sweetener), Xanthan Gum (Thickener), Flavor* (Yum), Calcium Glycerophosphate (Mineral), Potassium Sorbate (Maintains Stability), and Stevia Rebaudiana Leaf Extract (Sweetener). *Certified Organic

What do you think! The cost is 1/2 of Jack n Jills so thought if this one seems as good as Jack n Jills, I should go with this one :)

JC Farmer

CA Prop 65 warning label (LEAD traces) does more to scare people than it does to inform people. This toothpaste has bentonite clay in it, which calls for the Prop 65 warning. long story short: carrots, potatoes, and turnips (root vegetables) are just as likely to contain higher amounts of lead than this product, along with many other products that carry the Prop 65 warning label.

Ivy

I saw on the earthpaste packaging, it said California Resident Proposition 65 warning. What is it about and should we be worrying about it? It said "This product contains a chemical known to the state of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. This product may not be appropriate for consumption by children or pregnant women.

Lauren Young

Looking at trying to find something with fluoride to supplement a good toothpaste and came across the Natural Dentist Flouride Rinse. Is this a good addition for someone looking for Flouride but none of the other bad stuff?

Purified water, vegetable glycerin, aloe Vera gel, sodium phosphate monobasic, xylitol, natural flavors, polysofbate 80, citric acid, grapefruit seed extract, menthol.

Mandy

Hi, I know this is about a year after most of the comments, so fingers crossed that you see this! But my 18 month old son has sensitive skin and I was told to get a non flavored toothpaste for him. Do you know of any toothpastes that are non flavored and don’t have any of the bad ingredients in them?

jessie reece

I’ve read reviews that say Earthoaste turns your teeth a dullish color (from the clay base); that their teeth take on the color of the earthpaste. Have you had this issue?

Aimee Rivello

Hi Maia,
Thank you as always for all of your great info!! I was wondering about Trader Joe’s floride free toothpaste?? I’ve been using it for years for me and my kids. My hubby refuses to change his toothpaste!! Hoping I get good news!! Thanks so much!!

Darshana Maya Greenfield

Personally I gave up using ANY toothpaste years ago, when my hygienist was worrying I was wearing the dentin off my teeth, and my dentist pointed out that toothpastes are abrasive – he said to just use the brush!

I was thrilled, and so enjoy not having any tastes in my mouth after I brush – which I can now do at my desk, in my car, wherever I am, as I just rinse and swallow pure filtered water after! I also get rave reports at my checkups – no issues, and I don’t even floss – though I do use tiny brushes or tiny toothpicks to clean between my teeth, every day or so. Glad you mentioned, near the end, that toothpaste is not essential – it is the brushing that is important! Hubby is not so happy with no toothpaste, so I found this one to substitute for the toxic one he used to use: https://www.vitacost.com/coral-llc-coral-white-toothpaste-mint I was particularly concerned with avoiding glycerin, as you mentioned. He’s pretty happy with it. And it leaves his breath less toxic than when he used Listerine or Colgate eek!

Sara A Goegeline

I have dry mouth. I would love to find a toothpast and mouthwash that accommodate my problem and are safe-ish but, most importantly, cruelty-free. I’m an adult past child-bearing years, so I’m not as worried about certain contaminants as some of you are.
I also have an interest in ayurvedic dental hygiene products.

Denise

I read this article about toothpaste. It said that Earthpaste has lead in it.

Emily

What do you think about Uncle Harry’s toothpaste? This is the ingredient list:

Bentonite clay, calcium carbonate, Purified, deionized, microfiltered water and ten parts per million of silver mineral (99.000% pure), sea salt, ionic minerals, mustard seed, essential oils of peppermint, eucalyptus, clove, wintergreen, and oregano.

Hasan

What are your opinions on the toothpastes were currently using?
For me it’s this one http://www.naturesanswer.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=2748 (PerioBrite Natural Toothpaste Coolmint).

My brother uses this one: https://www.hello-products.com/product/kids-fluoride-free-toothpaste-natural-watermelon/ (natural watermelon fluoride free toothpaste).

Kmie

What about doterra on guard toothpaste ?

Stacia

Sorry- that posted too quick! What are your thoughts on Radius organic coconut oil toothpaste? Just came across it at Wegmans and wanted your opinion before I buy.

Melissa

I’d love to know the answer to this, as well.

Stacia

Hi, what are your thoughts on Radiis organic coconut oil toothpaste? Just came across it at Wegmans and wanted your opinion before I buy.

Court

Hi Maia – any thoughts on the below opposing argument on lead/clay?

http://tamararubin.com/2017/02/earthpaste/#navigation

Estefany

I believe HELLO has two SLS free toothpastes; the kids watermelon and the adult sensitivity. I would also like to know you’re opinion on this toothpaste brand, as I’m in transition to cruelty free toothpaste and of course not filled with bad stuff. My family is so stuck on there old usual drug store brands, and I’ve heard good “tasting” reviews, as that has been a huge problem in trying to get my family to switch. I hope to hear from you!

Karen

Found my answer further up in the feed. Thanks :)

Karen

I planned to order Earthpaste. However, the website I was using had a customer warning as per California Residents Prop 65; advised it contains trace amounts of naturally occurring lead. Are you still using this product? Is it still recommended?

Sara

Jack N Jill recently changed their formation to add potassium sorbate and citric acid. What’s your take on these ingredients?

Amber

Hello! Have you looked at Young Living KidScents Slique Tooth Paste? I’m trying to decide if this is a sneaky product or not. It does contain Glycerin. My daughter really likes it, and I would like to stick with it, if it turns out to be an okay product. Any insight would be appreciated. In the meantime, I’m going to try out Earth Paste for myself. Thank you for posting.

Rachel

Jack n Jill has grabbed my attention. I was using dr. Brown tooth wipes and switched to j&j. What are your thoughts on their toothpaste? Thank you for all of your hard work and advice!

Maia James

Sniglar is a great option! you can get it completely unfinished:)

Maia James

We actually have a tube of this now because my son loves it, but I’m not a huge fan—it’s got SLS, for one.

taylor

What are your opinions on Hello Toothpaste?

Virginia

Oh and a section on nursery playroom items like a toddler kids table please would be great. Or just an opinion or feedback with your personal choice would be stellar. Thank you so much!

Virginia

Hi ladies, thank you so much for all of he research you have done and advice you have given. I’m looking for a non toxic crib and wish you could give me options that make your list of good stuff and the bad stuff. Currently thinking about the IKEA sniglar crib but have to check with them if their mattress board is from solid wood or plywood. Please let me know if any cribs that you think are the safest and non toxic but don’t cost more than $ 2-300.

Thank you!!!!

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