1. Dr. Bronner’s / 2. Babo Botanicals / 3. Carina Organic / 4. Paleo Skincare / 5. Honest
Written by Maia, President
UPDATED: January 2018
Guess what–you probably don’t even need a non-toxic, natural baby wash. There is no reason you can’t use a non-toxic shampoo on your baby’s body as well as his head, and most products are labeled for use as shampoo and as baby body wash.
That said, shampoos, even the ones I consider Good Stuff, generally has more ingredients than a simple bar of natural soap, so I prefer the latter for babies.
Some companies do make a separate natural baby wash that doesn’t double as shampoo. This Safe Product Guide gives you the run-down of the best and worst of these, plus recommends some great bar soaps (which, by the way, can be used on your little one’s hair, too!) and bubble baths, which I use every night for my boys just because they love it.
My Top Pick for Best Natural Baby Wash
I love Dr. Bronner’s 4-in-1 Organic Baby Sugar Soap because it lacks any sneaky ingredients and can be used on their body as well as hair.
Ingredients to Avoid in Baby Soap
When it comes to soap for your baby’s body, the biggies to stay away from are fragrance, anything ending in “paraben,” and all the obviously chemically-sounding names (like PEG-40).
Adult soaps and shower gels often include harsh petroleum-based detergents, but baby wash does tend to be gentler, if not necessarily safer. Ideally, you should choose a baby wash or bubble bath that specifies 100% natural ingredients; choosing organic baby wash is an even bigger plus.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Is Ok…Sort of
One soap ingredient that has stirred a lot of controversy is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).
After lots of research, I’ve decided that while I’m okay using products that contain SLS to wash clothing or dishes, I don’t want it in anything that I rub directly onto my kids’ skin because it can be irritating.
Fortunately, most natural baby wash doesn’t contain SLS. Note that sodium laureth sulfate–often found in natural baby wash–is a different ingredient all together, and one that should always be avoided as it is often contaminated with carcinogenic 1-4, dioxane.
(Here’s more on the differences between these two ingredients.)
Now that you have some basic info on what you should stay away from, here is my roundup of Good, Bad, and Sneaky body washes, bar soaps, and bubble baths for babies and kids. I hope this makes picking a natural baby wash much easier, and feel free to post questions in the comments section below.
The Good Stuff
Dr. Bronner’s 4-in-1 Organic Natural Baby Wash
This unique product is a shampoo, body wash, hand product, and also gentle enough to use on your own face. This unscented sugar soap contains no questionable ingredients, and is great for those of you who want zero scent in anything you put on your baby. It is my favorite natural baby wash.
Babo Botanicals Bubble Bath & Natural Baby Wash
Babo’s line, all produced on an organic farm in upstate New York, boasts a clean ingredients list and yummy scent, without any synthetic fragrances.
My kids enjoy nightly bubble baths in Babo’s lavender formula, which doubles as a shampoo.
Please note that we are no longer carrying Babo’s Moisturizing Oatmilk/Calendula Bubble Bath & Wash in our online store because they added sodium benzoate to the formula (read more on this below in the box titled “Some Okay Stuff”).
$15.99 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now
Carina Organics Baby Tear-Free Bubble Bath
Scented with the essence of the sweet pea flower, this is an extra gentle and tear-free bubble bath formulated with certified organic plant, vegetable, flower and tree extracts. This formula lathers less, rinses easily, and leaves no irritating residue, making it gentle enough for even a newborn’s delicate skin. Perfect for infants, babies, and children.
$10.99 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now
Lafe’s Organic Baby Foaming Shampoo & Body Wash
If you want a very pure, basic fragrance-free liquid soap/shampoo for your baby, this is a good bet, although I don’t love the way it smells (a sort of castile soap smell).
Lafe’s wash is 100% organic, with hydrating saponified oils of sunflower seed, coconut, olive, and palm. You can buy it on Amazon for around $13. Like I said, this is a safe natural baby wash, but not my favorite in terms of performance.
Farmaesthetics Fine Herbal Cleanser & Natural Baby Wash
This is the best of the best if you’re in search of a natural baby wash for a newborn. I originally bought it to use as a facial cleanser for myself, and then began using it on my kids as well. (Parenting.com calls it one of only three cleansers they “…would ever recommend using on a child.”)
The simple ingredients list includes witch hazel, vegetable glycerin, and essential oils of geranium and lavender. Note that is won’t work as a bubble bath.
$42.00 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now
Farmaesthetics Homemade Bath Bars
If you love bar soaps, try Farmaesthetics Rainwater Bath Bars, which are gentle enough for babies and kids, and made of organic ingredients. I often prefer a simple bar soap to natural baby wash when I bathe my kids.
The soap ingredients are basic: just purified rain water, olive, palm, and coconut oils, and various herbs, flowers, and essential oils. You’ll pay $12 per long-lasting bar, and you can buy these pretty soaps from the Good Stuff Store.
$12.99 — or subscribe and save up to 5%Buy Now
MADE OF Baby Shampoo & Body Wash
Made’s Of’s Baby Shampoo & Body Wash is a great gentle soap option for kids– it’s free of synthetic fragrances and problematic surfactants.
Paleo Skincare Tallow & Herb Soap for Babies
I am not a Paleo momma (in fact, I barely eat meat), but I love this soap!
It’s mild, unscented, and made with a variety of seasonal herbs, which are gathered in the wild or grown by the soapmaker herself.
This soap–like the rest of the Paleo Skincare line, is beef-tallow-based, which means it yields a rich, moisturizing lather and lasts longer than vegetable-based soaps.
If you’re looking for the most environmentally friendly, natural baby wash on this list, Paleo Skincare’s tallow soap is for you.
Earth Mama Angel Baby Bath Blossoms
Earth Mama offers another safe bar soap option. With some slightly more interesting ingredients than most natural bar soaps—such as oats, cabbage rose, and lemon balm–this pleasant smelling soap is available on Amazon for $5.
Looks like this product is discontinued, Earth Mama’s Baby Wash & Shampoo is Good Stuff!
Beautycounter Kids Body Wash
I am normally not a fan of direct sales companies (Arbonne, Ava Anderson, etc.), but there are some exceptions.
Beautycounter is one of the companies that is genuinely committed to bringing safe products to market.
The only caveat here is that their stuff is definitely NOT all natural or organic–but they do choose all ingredients that EWG has rated as low concern–and conduct their own research to boot.
Beautycounter’s body wash for kids has a pleasant smell (and doesn’t contain any undisclosed chemical fragrances), and is free of sodium lauryl and laureth sulfates. It also doesn’t contain sodium benzoate. You’ll pay $18 for a 10-ounce bottle.
Honest Bubble Bath
While not 100% natural or organic, the bubble bath by The Honest Company is a safe option from a fairly reliable company (there are just a few of their products that I wouldn’t recommend–the majority are non-toxic).
You’ll pay around $12 for the 12-ounce bottle, and the bubble wand they include is a fun touch. Honest Bubble Bath is now available on Amazon.
Dr. Bronner’s Baby Unscented Pure-Castile Liquid Soap
This very basic soap contains only a few organic ingredients, but one of them is potassium hydroxide, which some readers have been concerned about (it gets a 3 from Skin Deep). Otherwise known as lye, potassium hydroxide is a caustic agent used to turn the coconut oil in Bronner’s soap into, well, soap. Fortunately, none remains in the finished product, and therefore, I consider this Good Stuff.
This is a solid natural baby wash choice, and you can use it for general household cleaning as well.
Seventh Generation Coconut Care Foaming Shampoo & Wash
There is nothing bad or sneaky in this product, but there are a large number of synthetic ingredients. This isn’t a natural baby wash, but I do believe it’s a safe baby wash.
Baby Mantra Natural Baby Wash, Shampoo & Bubble Bath
Baby Mantra is another brand that makes a nice, safe bubble bath (although it does contain potassium sorbate for those of you wanting to avoid that).
Baby Mantra sent me a free bottle of this natural baby wash to try, but of course this review is my own.
Baja Baby’s Bubble Bath, Shampoo & Body Wash
This natural baby wash and shampoo gets extra points for no icky presevatives and for being organic. I haven’t tried it, so I can’t speak to how it performs.
Tom’s of Maine Natural Baby Wash & Shampoo
Other than not being organic, I can’t say anything bad about Tom’s of Maine natural baby wash and shampoo.
It’s unscented and reasonably priced.
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The Okay Stuff
The following products are not quite Good Stuff because they contain sodium benzoate, an ingredient that Skin Deep rates a 3 and about which I have some concerns.
Beautycounter Baby Gentle All Over Wash
Despite the small amount of sodium benzoate it contains, I would feel comfortable using this wash on my own kids, as it has a short ingredients list and Beautycounter is committed to testing all their products for purity.
It’s not a natural baby wash, since nothing from Beautycounter is 100% natural, but it is safe.
California Baby Bubble Bath & Natural Baby Wash
California Baby products are widely available and people ask about them all the time.
Despite a recent change in their formula (now containing sodium benzoate), I would be okay using this bubble bath.
Babo Botanicals Moisturizing Oatmilk & Calendula
Bubble Bath & Natural Baby Wash
As I mentioned above, we are no longer carrying this variety of Babo’s bubble bath in our store since they added sodium benzoate to their formula.
If you want a Babo bubble bath, choose their Lavender Bubble Bath, which does not contain this questionable preservative.
In a pinch, however, any of this Okay Stuff is fine.
Weleda Calendula Cream Bath
Weleda is a tough one. It’s one of those companies whose ingredients are all natural, just as they claim; unfortunately, some of the oils (limonene, geraniol, etc.) that make up Weleda’s fragrance are rated poorly by Skin Deep/EWG. So I can’t call Weleda Good Stuff.
But, strictly speaking, this is a 100% natural baby wash, and it smells incredible.
The Bad Stuff
Fisher-Price not only makes toxic plastic toys, but also toxic bubble baths and baby washes, complete with synthetic fragrances and PEG chemicals galore.
Johnson’s tops the gross list, since most of their baby washes and soaps include fragrance, parabens, and artificial coloring. Johnson’s has, however, recently launched a natural line that is free of phthalates, parabens, artificial fragrances, and dyes (although none of it is organic).
Mustela, a high-end but noxious baby product line, makes several formulations of baby wash and bubble bath, full of fragrances and PEG chemicals.
Aquaphor’s Gentle Wash & Shampoo throws chamomile in their formula and hopes you won’t notice the PEG chemicals.
The Sneaky Stuff
Burt’s Bee’s Bubble Bath contains synthetic fragrance (which can be home to dozens of undisclosed chemicals).
Earth’s Best Soothing Bubble Bath contains a host of concerning natural ingredients, such a linalool and limonene (both linked with immunotoxicity), as well as benzyl alcohol.
Gaia Natural Baby Bath & Body Wash contains the scary formaldehyde-releasing sodium hydroxymethylglycinate. I don’t know how they get away with calling this a “natural baby wash.” Oh wait, yes I do: total lack of regulation over this terms.
Gentle Naturals Eczema Baby Wash is not particularly gentle nor natural, with phenoxyethanol and several PEG chemicals among its ingredients.
Aveeno Baby Calming Comfort Bath contains synthetic fragrance and immunotoxic cocamidopropyl betaine, plus a range of PEG chemicals.
BabyGanics Bubble Bath is better than the other products listed in this Sneaky Stuff section–but I don’t like that it contains phenoxyethanol and sodium benzoate.
Dr. Brown’s Foaming Baby Wash claims to be a natural baby wash but definitely is not, and includes “fragrance” as an ingredient.
Yes to Baby Carrots Naturally Cleansing Bubble Bath contains retinyl acetate, which Skin Deep gives a 9 (out of 10) on their hazard scale.
Little Twig Organics Bubble Bath contains suspected immunotoxin cocamidopropyl betaine and sodium benzoate.
While in general I consider Shea Moisture products to be at least Okay Stuff, I don’t like their baby washes because they contain cocamidopropyl betaine, which is given a hazard score of 4 from EWG because of it’s immunotoxic properties.
It’s not that there is anything so terrible in the Tubby Todd products, but they are full of it with their 100% natural claims. There are plenty of synthetics in there.
So many of you have asked about Just Hatched brand, but it’s decidedly sneaky, with fragrance, cocamidopropyl betaine, and PEG chemicals.
Noodle & Boo is a Sneaky brand has phenoxyethanol, synthetic fragrance, and other questionable ingredients.
Read our Safe Bar Soap Guide for other great natural soap and organic soap options for kids and grownups alike.
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Vasu Dev says
These tips are full of insights and somehow these will gonna improve the babycare routine. One thing that is a must regarding baby wash that is one must have the best natural baby wash products to attain the best results. At last natural is the best a baby can have.
Thank you.
Vasu Dev says
I was searching for such a piece of good advice here and there now I am satisfied with your tips, thank you so much for sharing such good knowledge and helping me with the baby body wash.
Amy Smith says
Thanks for the nice blog. It was very useful for me.
Diane says
Please review Original Sprout. The label claims that it has no Parabens, pthalates or other “nasties”, however it smells really good which makes me suspicious. 🤞🏻 Thank you!
Nadia says
Any thoughts on Alaffia kids? I find it at Thrive Market and it’s significantly cheaper than Honest Co., so I was hoping it’s a 👍. Thanks!
Elis Natural says
A good soap for baby is goat’s milk with honey and buttermilk
Jenny says
Thoughts on the Hello Bello
Line? I love their collection and use everything from it.
Jennifer says
When at the hospital they ga e me a product called Lil’O’Blossom tender newborn wash . What are your thoughts on this ? Good bad or sneaky ?
Sarah says
Hello, do you have a review on dabble & dollop?
Jennifer Price says
I don’t see anything on Fove baby wash or lotions . Can you give me your opinion on it ?
Jennifer says
Sorry meant Dove
Mary says
Really great post thank you for writing this guide on baby safety products
Lori says
HI there!! Do you have any recommendations for cradle cap shampoo?
John Hamer says
If you’re so against “fragrance” being listed as an ingredient then how did Tom’s of Maine make the list?
Maria says
Great post. Thanks for sharing this with us.
Keep posted.
Swathi says
What do you think about attitude baby leaves 2 in 1 shampoo and body wash and also honest shampoo and body wash ??
Trisha Porter says
What do you think about the Puracy line at Target?
Thank you!
Nina says
Hi! You have listed that the Babo bubble bath contains “natural fragrance” – do you know what this is? Bc this seems like something you would not recommend. Also reviews on amazon say the formula has changed. Do you know if this is correct? Thanks!
Caitlyn says
What are your options on the wash with water line?
These are the ingredients for their 3 in 1 baby wash
Aqua, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionte, Coco Betaine, Coco-Glucoside, Glycerin, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Organic Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Organic Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Organic Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Organic Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Organic Molasses, Capryloyl Glycine, Organic Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Aroma, Organic Calendula Officinalis Oil, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Potassium Sorbate, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Aroma.
Alexandra says
can u please test baby bum products and dove baby products? those are my top 2!
Leanne Ao-yeong says
what about zoe organics?
Renee says
What about Wash With Water brand?
Angela Yount says
As always , love reading gimmethegoodstuff.org, the the only website I could go and trust, thank you for your great info!
I’m currently looking for wash since I need to buy more and also have baby coming in the next few weeks. I was looking into these two as well as MADE OF , what are your thoughts on those. thanks!
+Attitude 2-in-1 Natural Hair and Body Foaming Wash Baby, Fragrance Free
+Babo Botanicals Sensitive Baby Fragrance Free Shampoo and Wash (and they have the foaming option too)
Kelsey Sullivan says
Maia,
Do you have a recommendation for baby eczema wash?
Micki says
My son had a reaction to the Weleda. I didn’t even bother to read the ingredients and then I saw that it is made with almond oil and sesame oil, both of which my son is allergic to. Besides that though, it has carrageenan as a top 10 ingredient, which i know is linked to cancer. I can’t believe that they would put that in a baby product!
Priyanka Bansal says
Hi, I skimmed through the blog and found that some baby care companies use toxins and chemicals, but there are Babo Botanicals, Bella b which makes 100% natural and organic products. A lot of products are even EWG and Made Safe certified which ensures they are safe to use for kids and even their mama.
Erinn says
You haven’t actually addressed Tubby Todd’s ingredients. You’ve said they’re full of it with their 100% natural claims. That’s cool but is it actually safe to use on our babies? Is the synthetic ingredients they have at least okay to use? They seem pretty great to me. Would like to have a more in depth opinion from you. Thanks!
Kelly says
Hello! Thanks to you I found a love the Babo line. I ordered quite a bit a while back and honestly didn’t even look at the ingredients because I thought the whole line was “good stuff.” Then after reading on your guide that they added sodium benzoate I checked our Babo products to see if they contained it. They did not, but two products contained “natural fragrance.” What is your thought on this? I know I read once on your site only to trust fragrance that says it 100% essential oils. Thanks!
Julia Luna says
Hi! Thank you so much for your guises, it has made life much easier in finding safe products for my family.
What are your thoughts on the brand “Wash with Water”. They have a whole line of baby and kid products.
Sarah says
I am constantly eager to find out about new… I am taking in your blog… your blog is too great… however incorporate more points,your web journals is looking much good… for more points best soaps for baby please visit link I given below
Shannon says
Curious if you have reviewed California baby’s lotion and baby washes in the sensitive skin line (I see that you have the bubble bath). Appreciate all the work you do!
Paula says
Hi! Would love to hear your thoughts on the Puracy products.
Thanks for the comprehensive posting!
Evonne says
One of your top picks is the Babo Botanicals, 3 in 1: Shampoo, Bubble Bath & Wash, Lavender Meadowsweet. What about the Babo Botanicals, Sensitive Baby, Shampoo & Wash, Fragrance Free? Im deciding between the two.
Also what are your thoughts on Babo Botanicals, Sensitive Skin, Hydra Therapy Lotion, Fragrance Free?
Evonne says
Sorry I meant Babo Botanicals, Sensitive Baby, Daily Hydra Lotion, Fragrance Free and not the Babo Botanicals, Sensitive Skin, Hydra Therapy Lotion, Fragrance Free for adults.
Grandma Suggs says
Maia –
Thanks for maintaining such a useful site!
I recently read about potential endocrine disruption effects of essential oils, including lavender. I haven’t looked too deeply into this yet (not sure of concentration needed to cause alarm), but I thought I’d call this to your attention:
https://www.google.com/search?q=lavender+oil&source=lnms&tbm=nws&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi0lP2b0avaAhURMd8KHfaHCncQ_AUIDCgD&biw=1388&bih=908
Any thoughts on this? Does this change your opinion of the Babo Botanical and Baby Mantra products, both of which contain lavender?
Jackie says
Hello,
You say stay away from fragrance but one of the stuff you recommend and you use on your kids is the Babo bubble bath Lavender, where does the lavender come from?
thanks
Missy says
What do you think of Babyganics?
Ashley says
I thought Carrageenan was a bad ingredient but it is listed in the Babo bubble bath…?
Ashley says
Never mind! I see that you already responded to that 🙂
NK says
What are your thoughts on the Alaffia products? Also, Interested in your thoughts on ‘fair trade’ and how it relates to product safety. Thank you
mprichgels says
What are your thoughts about Little Seed Farm? They make organic bar soaps and baby balm and all other stuff for face.
NK says
Thank you for the updated list. What are your thoughts on the Alaffia products- body washes and lotions? Not sure how ‘fair trade’ translates to safety.
Maia James says
It doesn’t mean anything in terms of safety, but I’ll look into this brand!
Melissa Richgels says
Hello,
I saw Babyganics bubble bath in sneaky stuff but what about the Babyganics Foaming Shampoo and Body Wash Fragrance Free?
Thank you!
Melissa Richgels says
Hello Maia,
What do you think about Mamasuds body wash (for babies and adults). Ingredient is diluted saponified olive oil.
Thank you.
Maia James says
Yes! Totally safe!
ester says
Hi,
What do you think about PURA D’OR All-in-One Calming Baby Wash & Shampoo for Hair & Body?
Thanks,
New mommy says
I couldn’t find cetaphil in any of your categories. Do you have any information about the cetaphil baby washes?
Trinity says
What do you consider Babyganics shampoo+body wash chamomile verbena? TIA!!
Tobi says
What do you think of, Everyday Coconut Bubble Bath? I had been using Acure for my LO, but they stopped making so am searching for something new.
https://alaffia.com/babies-up-bubble-bath-coconut-chamomile/
Maia James says
I don’t love the Phenoxyethanol in that one…
Trinity says
What about Babyganics body wash+shampoo chamomile verbena?
Stephanie says
Hi, thanks for all the helpful lists! I am wondering about the Carina organics baby wash and lotion?
Maia James says
Yes, I consider Carina to be Good Stuff:).
Carrie says
I see you list California Baby Bubble Bath as okay stuff. What do you think of California Baby Calming Shampoo and Bodywash?
Maia James says
That’s also Okay Stuff:).
Sky says
Hi! First, let me say your site is awesome and I have been following for some quite time.
I recall you had Mambino face and body wash as a top pick along with Babo. I see Babo as number two on your list but no longer see Mambino on your updated list. Curious if there a particular reason why Mambino is no longer s top pick or even on any of the lists good or bad?
Thanks!
Sky
Grace says
Hi! We are big fans of the Dr. Bronner’s for hand soap, but I had never thought about using it for baths before. You mention that there are no questionable ingredients in the unscented baby soap, but are there problems with the scented ones? My kids are fragrance-free, but I’m tempted by the tea tree for myself!
Thank you! Grace
Megan says
Hi Maia,
Thanks for this information (as always!). I use Desert Essence Baby Oh So Clean on my littles and love it. I think it’s good stuff, but would love to know if you agree.
Joe says
Hi I see you wrote “Please note that we are no longer carrying Babo’s Moisturizing Oatmilk/Calendula Bubble Bath & Wash because they added sodium benzoate to the formula”
But what about the moisturizing baby shampoo and wash in the oat milk and calendula. I don’t see sodium benzoate on the ingredients so I assume it’s still good stuff. Thanks
Maia James says
Yes, still Good Stuff and no sodium benzoate in those:).
Aria says
Baby Mantra Calming Lotion with Shea Butter & Lavender Oil? And the bath wash?
Maia James says
Yes, I like Baby Mantra products.
patience says
What about pureen products
Paulette says
Hi! I noticed that you mentioned that the Johnson’s baby naturals line seems safe. Would you classify it as good stuff or okay stuff? Thanks!! 🙂
Maia James says
I’d go with Okay:).
Mary says
Wondering about Tubby Todd products.
Lindsey says
What about shea moisture lotion for babies?
Maia James says
Yes, that’s good stuff:)
Lisa Stone says
Hi Maia,
I noticed that some of the Babo products contain carrageenan. I thought this was an ingredient to avoid?
Thank you!
Maia James says
Yes, that’s good stuff:)
Maia James says
Sorry, my comment was for a different post! Re carrageenan–this for me falls under the try to avoid eating it but okay with it being in skincare category:).
Mekia says
Hi Maia,
Thank you so much for creating this site. I am looking into safe, organic body soaps for me and my toddler that has eczema. I’ve been doing a lot of research on “Soap for Goodness Sake” organic soap bars. Have you tried this? Do you recommend it? Thanks.
Maia James says
I will add to our list! Have you seen this post: https://gimmethegoodstuff.org/natural-eczema-treatment-for-babies-kids/
nataliya says
Hi Maia,
My family and I have relied on your site for many of our purchases – thank you for doing the heavy lifting on research! I just wanted to give you a heads up that Babo Botanicals Natural Lavender Meadowsweet 3 in 1 Baby Bubble Bath now has 2 concerning ingredients:
Polysorbate 20
Natural Flavor Aroma
So frustrating that they add this stuff in, forcing us to recheck ingredients before repurchasing.
Lee says
How about Dr. Fischer?
Krystle says
How’s Cetaphil Baby Wash and Shampoo?
Samantha says
What are your thoughts on bubble and Bee Organics?
Samantha says
Or the baby Acure with fragrance?
Ellen Edelman says
Hello! Are you familiar with Young Living products? They sell a baby bath gel, and I wondered if you could tell me how safe the ingredient list looks:
Deionized water, Decly Polyglucose, Vegetable Glycerin, Sorbitol, Dimethyl Sulfone, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, PG-Hydroxyethylcellulose Cocodimonium Chloride, Echinacea Purpurea Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract, Saponaria Officinalis Extract, Aleurites Moluccana (Kiwi) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Orbignya Oleifera Seed Oil, Dimethicone PEG-8 Meadowfoamate, Cedrus Atlantica (Cedarwood) Bark Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Linoleic Acid, and Linolenic Acid.
Dasia Russell says
Hi! I just bought Babyganics night time wash, & California Baby Calendula Shampoo & Body wash, how are these??? I bought both at a panic 10:00pm run to the store after I threw out all my Johnson & Johnson products! I actually am getting ready to buy the Babo Botanicals line, but these were “all I could find” products, HELP!!!
Robin J says
Maia,
On the topic of bathing our little ones, I was curious if anyone has ever asked about safer baby bathtubs? Knowing that plastic can leach harmful chemicals, especially when heated, I wonder about the safety of my little guy sitting in a plastic tub filled with warm water. Do you think this poses a safety concern and if so, are there are any safer alternatives or tubs that you would recommend for infant/baby use?
Thanks!
Maia James says
Good question, Robin. Honestly, I think the risk of this exposure is negligible, mostly because of the fact that most baby tubs are made from polypropylene, a safe plastic. Here’s one I like: http://amzn.to/2qRRWr3
Robin J says
Thank you Maia!!! I cannot say enough how much I appreciate all you do for so many mommas!
Beth Bishop says
EWG provides information on personal care product ingredients from the published scientific literature, to supplement incomplete data available from companies and the government. The ratings below indicate the relative level of concern posed by exposure to the ingredients in this product – not the product itself – compared to other product formulations. The ratings reflect potential health hazards but do not account for the level of exposure or individual susceptibility, factors which determine actual health risks, if any.
Cassie says
Hello! I am curious about the new Dove baby wash? Also, what about Dove Sensitive?
Cassie says
Nevermind. Found the ingredients online and definitely bad stuff.
Maia James says
yes, unfortunately.
Laura says
What do you think about the “100% Pure” brand’s line of baby products? Thanks!
Maia James says
For the most part, this brand is Good or at least Okay Stuff.
Julianna says
Have you heard of moogoo? Their milk wash?
Maia James says
I haven’t! Will add to my list for a future investigation.
Julia says
Have you looked in to Baby Mantra?? They seem to have all natural ingredients and EWG Verified. Thanks for doing what you do!
Maia James says
Yes, Baby Mantra looks like Good Stuff:).
Kara says
Hello:) Neat site but is it okay to use soaps with essential oils on babies? I had always heard that babies under two should stay away from essential oils. Thanks!
Lillian says
Not sure if anyone has asked this yet but what do you think of EVERYONE kids soaps and baby soaps and lotion?
Maia James says
Meh, not a big fan. Somewhere between Sneaky and Okay Stuff.
Caitlin says
Has anyone every looked at Babyganics? I’ve been using their Bubble Bath but now am questioning if I felt for a marketing ploy with their name!?!
https://www.amazon.com/Babyganics-Bubble-Chamomile-Verbena-Bottle/dp/B00IBLVWYS/ref=sr_1_11_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1488461762&sr=8-11&keywords=babyganics%2Bshampoo&th=1
Caitlin says
nevermind just saw it in the sneaky stuff! Sigh.
Leona says
This list is great, I have not tried the Babo product line but will definitely check them out. We have been using and absolutely love Eco Chic Movement products, especially their baby wash and shampoo. My 2 and 4 year old love that they can use the pump bottle themselves!
http://ecochicmovement.com/collections/frontpage/products/baby-shampoo-body-wash
Alecia Wimer says
Do you reccomend all of the Babo products?
Maia James says
Yes I like their whole line (but some products do contain sodium benzoate).
Alecia says
Do you reccomend all of the Babo products?
Maia James says
Yes, I like Babo’s whole line.
Kacy says
What about Noodle & Boo products? Thanks!
Katelyn says
How about Eucerin? Thank you! Love this site
Amaryllis says
Hi Maia!
First of all I’d like to say THANK YOU for all this amazing information!! Super helpful!
Wondering if you’ve had a chance to review Tubby Todd products?
Maia James says
We haven’t yet but it’s on our list!
Marta says
Hello. I was wondering if you have heard of and reviewed Noodle and Boo newborn 2 in 1 hair and body wash? Also their lotion. It’s a pretty expensive product and I was given as a gift by someone who is very health/toxic consious but I’m not finding too much information on it. Thank you in advance!
Maia James says
I consider this brand Sneaky Stuff. It has phenoxyethanol, synthetic fragrance, and other questionable ingredients.
Aaliyah Johnson says
It was such a wonderful article dear and from my side I want to say that i am using bubble bath body wash from long and its really effective. Our multi-purpose bubble bath and body wash gently cleanses the skin, while relaxing the senses.
Holly says
First of all, thanks for this site! I have been referring to it so often since I had my little one! In the comments above you mentioned sodium benzoate isn’t great. It’s in one of the top EWG recommended baby shampoo/body washes from Attitude. What do you think of their products? They claim to be made with “worry free ingredients”.
Astha says
Which is better earth mama or honest company for body wash and shampoo?
Are all products of earth mama good like body oil, lotion, nipple balm etc? Or should I go for musteal for oil and lotion
Maia James says
My preference would be Earth Mama. I’m not a fan of Mustela.
Noele says
Any reviews on Thinkbaby Shampoo & Body Wash? Seems like good stuff, I just found it recently.
http://shop.gothinkbaby.com/Thinkbaby-Shampoo-Body-Wash-16oz_p_269.html
Maia James says
I don’t think it’s Sneaky per se, but I do think other brands are better.
Becca says
What are the concerns you have with the ThinkBaby line of products?
Maia James says
They have a lot of synthetics and some preservatives I don’t love.
Kristina says
Hi Maia,
Wanted to start off by saying THANK YOU for what you do! I think you make a big difference in people’s lives! Also what are your thoughts on Potassium Sorbate (EWG rating of 3) and Vegitable Gycerin (which I been told is really Palm Oil) – both found in Babi Shampoo and Wash. Thank You.
Maia James says
I am actually okay with potassium sorbate (although I avoid it in food–it is a food-grade preservative). I’m also not worried about palm oil in skin or haircare products, although again, ideally you avoid this in food.
Amy says
How would the new line of products by Seventh Generation rate? Seventh Generation Coconut Care Foaming Shampoo and Wash and also the Seventh Generation Coconut Care Lotion? Thanks so much!
Annie says
Thank you for asking!! I want to know too 🙂 I was eligible for a free trial of the products, just waiting for them in the mail!
Maia James says
The 7th Gen coconut care is Okay Stuff.
Jan says
I looked on Babo Botanicals and do not see that they added sodium benzoate to Moisturizing Oatmilk & Calendula Bubble Bath & Wash.
Is there another name for sodium benzoate ?
Maia James says
No–are you looking at an old bottle perhaps?
Annie says
Do you know anything about the brand “Everyone (EO)”… lotion and body wash.?
Thanks,
Annie
Maia James says
Yes I know this brand, and mostly I consider it Good or Okay Stuff:).
Annie says
Thanks!! Also wondering about Dr. Brown’s foaming baby wash.
-Annie
Maia James says
I’m not into it. It claims to be all-natural, but definitely is not, and even includes “fragrance” as an ingredient.
Kara Duncan says
Hi Maia and friends! I am trying to order some safe baby products for my little one arriving soon and I ran across the company Wash With Water organic. Have you heard about their products? What do you think? Any red flags? Also, do you know anything about Tubby Todd or Neal’s Yard Organic baby products?
Thanks so much!!
Kara says
Hi Maia and friends! I am trying to order some safe baby products for my little one arriving soon and I ran across the company Wash With Water organic. Have you heard about their products? What do you think? Any red flags? Also, do you know anything about Tubby Todd or Neal’s Yard Organic baby products?
Thanks so much!!
Maia James says
No red flags in Wash with Water. It isn’t totally natural (with things like Sodium Cocoamphoacetate in it), but nothing in their products are established toxins:). I don’t know about the other two brands but will check them out!
Suzanne says
The farm aesthetics herbal cleanser, is that okay to wash an infants hair with?
same question for their bar soaps.
thanks!
Maia James says
Yes, I have used these products on my own babies:)
Natalie says
What do you think of Deep Steep products? https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EPANKC6/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A1GH23F95UU2VV
The ingredients list looks ok?
Maia James says
I agree! The ingredients look fine.
Rachel says
What are your thoughts on the Zoe Organics line? I’ve heard wonderful things about them, but only just generally, nothing specific about their ingredients other than that they claim to be 100% organic (which doesn’t always mean it’s 100% good)
Maia James says
I don’t know that line, but will look into it!
Rose Collett says
Hi can you please give me your take on the Just Hatched line of baby wash and lotion? It’s sold on Amazon and claims “no yucky stuff”.
Maia James says
I will have to look into this brand!
Kar-Lyn Scholz says
I am curious about this brand as well – I’m pregnant with baby number 3 and would like to use safer products! Any thoughts on this newer Just Hatched line??
Babyoye says
Wow great post, thanks for sharing
Tiffanni Reidy says
Since you mention sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) vs. sodium laureth sulfate can you speak to whether Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate is bad stuff as well? It’s in the Shea Moisture MANUKA HONEY & PROVENCE LAVENDER BABY NIGHTTIME SOOTHING SHAMPOO & BATH MILK.
Maia James says
So far, there is no evidence of toxicity of sodium lauroyl lactylate. That said, there really aren’t good studies on the safety of this ingredient. So, while I am okay with products that contain this ingredient for now, I can’t give any confident assurances that at some point we will find out it’s not so great. Sorry I can’t be more helpful!
Terri-Lynn says
Two companies I am interested in that claim to be organic are penny lane and shoosha baby. Are they good stuff?
Maia James says
A perfunctory glance at both of these brands suggests they are Good Stuff:)
Brie says
Thoughts on Whole Foods 365 baby line? Shampoo, body wash and lotion??
Maia James says
In general, the Whole Foods line is okay. They leave out some of the worst stuff, but it isn’t organic or all-natural, so wouldn’t be my go-to.
Posh says
Hi,
Just wondering if you have researched on Buds and another brand named MooGoo?
The good stuff that you mentioned are not quite available here where I stay.
Thank you.
Maia James says
Not yet, but will add to list!
LaurenL says
I would love to know how the Toms of Maine line stacks up. We’ve been using Tubby Todd for our baby and have loved it, but recently bought some Toms. I think the shampoo and wash is a new product but I’d love to see a review of both.
Thanks for this great info!
Maia James says
Sure thing! I’ll add to the list.
Tigist mekonene says
Hi I’m having beby soon so I’m looking good brand shampo & body wash which one you recommend me? tnx!
Maia James says
Anything listed above comes highly recommended. My favorite is the Babo Botanicals.
Nikki B says
I was wondering if you could tell me if you have any reviews for the brand Tubby Todd?
Maia James says
Not yet! Will look into them.
Carly says
You mention you don’t like direct sales brands such as Arbonne. Arbonne is in fact the company that first got me second guessing and scrutinizing my products and ingredients. Are there questionable ingredients in Arbonne or do you just not like the way it is sold?
Maia James says
Both. In general, the multi-level marketing thing just sort of turns me off, but more than that, it’s REALLY hard to get Arbonne to tell you what’s in their stuff, and the little that has been disclosed has concerned me.
Miss G says
Thanks for this list! I’m on the hunt for a new gentle (and preferably nice smelling) baby wash now that I’ve determined Baby Bee Shampoo and Wash is what’s exacerbating my son’s diaper rash.
Allison says
Hello,
Just wondering if you’ve ever researched Poofy Organics? Why don’t you include them in any of your lists? Thx!
Maia James says
Poofy’s is Good Stuff. I’ll make a point to add it to some future Safe Product Guides.
Posh says
Your site is really good stuff! =)
Do you have any comments on Buds and MooGoo?
Mili says
Would you recommend anything by Weleda?
Maia James says
Weleda is a tough one. It’s one of those companies whose ingredients *are* natural; unfortunately, some of the oils (limonene, geraniol, etc.) that make up Weleda’s fragrance are rated poorly by Skin Deep/EWG. So I can’t call Weleda Good Stuff…that said, I personally feel okay using it on occasion in my own household.
maia says
don’t know that brand, but will look into it:).
Alisa says
Thanks, Maia! Let us know your verdict 🙂
Beth says
Hey I am wondering if you’ve looked into tubby todd products yet?
Maia James says
Not yet–thanks for your patience as we make our way through the long list of wonderful reader suggestions!
Sarah says
I agree, would love to hear your thoughts on Tubby Todd. They’re not on the EWG site and I tried creating my own report, but would love someone’s input who is more knowledgable in this arena.
Maia James says
This company is okay–nothing terrible in there, but they are full of it with their 100% natural claims…plenty of synthetics in there.
Alisa says
Love the site! Have you looked into Tubby Todd’s line of bath products? Good stuff or sneaky stuff? Thanks for your help!
Robin says
Maia, is your research Babo adding sodium benzoate to the Oatmilk wash only relative to their ‘Bubble bath & wash’ or the ‘shampoo & wash’ too? I have the latter and don’t see this in the ingredient list but not sure if it will be impacted.
Thanks!
Robin
Maia says
Just the bubble bath–the shampoo doesn’t contain it!
Robin J says
Thanks Maia!
So appreciative of this site and your willingness to help, as always!
Melissa says
Maia,
I just wanted to say you totally changed my life the day I came across your blog post a few months back on baby formula (I now use Lebenswert/Holle products exclusively) and I didn’t stop reading there lol. You’ve inspired me to keep researching and make huge lifestyle changes for the good of my family, so thank you so much for all the time and dedication you spend on exposing companies and what they honesty put in their products, good or bad. It’s about time they are held accountable for misleading consumers with their claims of being natural/organic/non-toxic. Of course the fda isn’t helping by being less than reliable at ensuring safe standards in our country. I hope one day soon more people’s minds will be opened to the ugly reality they are living in so that we can work together to change the ridiculous standards business are held to by our own government.
Please don’t ever stop the wonderful work you do, you truly are making a difference in the world!
Melissa
Maia says
Oh, you’re so sweet, Melissa! This comment just made my day:) Thank you!
Danielle Leahy says
Thank you for your post. I love your blog! Do you know if Baja Baby Citrus Shampoo and Body Wash is safe? I found it on Amazon, but haven’t seen much else written about it. Would love your input. I hope it is safe. I love it!
Maia says
I dont know that brand, but will look into it!
Danielle Leahy says
Thank you! I love your site! I have recommended it to all of my mommy meeting groups!
Annie says
Have you researched Baby Mantra Newborn shampoo+body wash? Their label claims non-toxic and I haven’t seen any ingredients on the label that you mention in your “bad stuff” section.
Maia says
Hi there! I looked into their products years ago after they sent me samples and my recollection is that yes, they were Good Stuff:). However, it’s possible they’ve changed their formula, so I will add them to my list of things to check out again!
Thanks-
M
Ally says
Most Shea Moisture products contain Japanese Honeysuckle, which acts as an endocrine disruptor. :/
Lauren says
Hi! Thanks for this! I’ve been looking for other baby washes to try. Can you tell me your thoughts on pure by sheshe ?
It seems like it’s good, but was hoping you could check it out and share your thoughts. http://www.purebysheshe.com
Shifu says
How about anakku brand ??
Maia James says
Don’t know it, but will add it to the list! 🙂
Maia James says
Just looked into it, and it’s Bad Stuff, unfortunately.
Tatiana says
What about Burts bees. I’m not planning on buying guide any I’m planning on using Dr bronners organic baby soap, and even then diluting it in a foam pump. However, I did get a 1.8oz sample of Burts bees in the mail today. Is it safe, what’s the bad? Will it be different if I dilute with foam bottle?
Maia James says
Hi Tatiana-
The shampoo/wash has sodium benzoate, so I would say it’s not quite Good Stuff, but still okay (and I would be fine using it in a pinch on my baby, personally).
Katie says
You mention that there are a couple of Honest Company products that you wouldn’t recommend, can you elaborate? Specifically interested in/about their body wash/shampoo
Maia James says
Hi there-
SNEAKY: Honest Hand Wash contains phenoxyethanol. This isn’t the very worst ingredient, but not the Good Stuff. Honest Dish Soap contains cocamidopropyl betaine, phenoxyethanol, and methylisothiazolinone.
MAYBE SNEAKY: Honest Laundry Detergent contains “100% biodegradable anionic coconut kernel-oil based surfactant” and the Honest Auto Dishwasher Gel contains “biodegradable low foam surfactant.” No one at the company can tell us any more detail about what these ingredients are, other than that they are “corn-based.” We’ve called several times.
Otherwise, most of the Honest line of products are Good Stuff:)
haley_808 says
Thanks for the info! I am planning on switching to Honest Company for my babies skin care products and our cleaning products. Great to have a place I can come to for great information on safe products for my house!
Alexis says
What soap do you recommend for babies with eczema?
Maia James says
Hi! This soap is safe, although I cannot speak to its effectiveness: http://amzn.to/1pzod1j
katie says
How do you feel about Vermont soap for babies? They have a liquid and bar soap. Thanks!
Wendi says
Ekkkk! I have been using mustela (cleaner, bath milk, lotion) on my precious eczema stricken 6 month old for months! EWG ranked it a low hazard and pediatrician recommended it. I have tried to be so careful with everything I put on my baby and this just makes me mad now! Why do companies feel the need to put all this crap in their products?! Anyway, thanks for the updates! I find myself always checking your site for references on ‘good stuff’! Keep up the good work as it really makes a difference to us!
Maia James says
Thanks for the kind words, Wendy, and I’m glad the site has been helpful. Don’t panic re Mustela–they have removed some of the worst ingredients, but I still think there is better stuff out there!
Michelle says
What about using Dr. Bronner’s organic castille soap for babies?
Maia James says
yes! that would be Good Stuff:)
Amy says
I’ve always used everyday Shea for my kids shampoo/wash/bubbles/condish. I would love to see a review on that as well.
Thank you for your site. It is so great!
Maia says
Thanks, Amy! Shea seems like the Good Stuff:)
Mika says
I am a big Shea Moisture fan. I use the head-to-toe soap on my 2 girls all the time. Seems to me to be better than California Baby which I find to be quite expensive to have a lot of ingredients listed on the bottle. Curious to know your thoughts on the Shea Moisture brand??
Maia James says
Hi!
We haven’t yet reviewed Shea Moisture yet (although I see it everywhere), but will add them to our list of products to review in the coming weeks/months/ If you would like a faster response, you can always use our Pick My Brain service: https://gimmethegoodstuff.org/pick-my-brain
Otherwise, if you’re on our mailing list, you’ll know as soon as we review this!
Stephanie Mackey says
Was California Baby mentioned in this Safe Baby Wash, Bubble Bath & Soap Guide? I didn’t see it. I found an old post from 2013 that calls into question its authenticity as a “natural” company. Has it become an untrustworthy company? Is it Bad Stuff or Sneaky Stuff?
Samina says
I remember seeing California Baby too and am curious what happened to the recommendation.
Also, I have a ton of Noodle & Boo stuff- any thoughts on that brand?
michelle says
I have this one Raw Shea Chamomile & Argan Oil Baby. It looks like it doesn’t have the SLS, the palmitate or the benzaote in it. Is this one as safe/good as the Head to Toe? Target doesn’t carry the Head to Toe one so we’ve been using the above.
And why is sodium benzoate bad? The She Manuka Honey and Milk for Baby his it.
Vanessa says
What about Shea Moisture products? Are the safe?
Emily says
What about shampoo bars? Are they safe for babies?
Maia James says
Yup! As long as it’s a safe, nontoxic brand:).
Maia James says
Hi! We haven’t done a comprehensive Safe Body Wash Guide yet, but you’ll find some Good Stuff approved brands here: https://gimmethegoodstuff.org/store/category/for-me/body/hand-body-soaps/
olivia says
How about organic body wash for adult? which brands are good stuff? Thanks
olivia says
how about adult body wash? what are the best organic/essential oils brands you recommend?Thanks
Melissa says
I’ve been using the Acure line thanks to your site. They have a great range of adult and kid products that get nearly perfect customer reviews. So if your looking for a safe company for adult needs as well then I highly recommend Acure Organics, Btw I often use thrive because of the amazing discounts they offer plus they carry many of these products.
If you want to make your own I highly recommend Dr Bronners castle soaps and Sal suds. Their website has all the 18+ ways to use their soaps for all your diy needs. I’m making my own laundry detergent and hand soaps now, way cheaper and healthier?? Who knew…..