Standing in the baby aisle staring at ingredient lists can feel like taking a chemistry exam you didn’t study for. With warnings about toxins everywhere, picking a simple bottle of soap feels surprisingly high-stakes.
Newborn skin is incredibly delicate, and frankly, it smells amazing on its own. But whether you are dealing with cradle cap, baby acne, or just want to keep that peach fuzz clean, you need a product that protects while it cleans.
We’ve done the heavy lifting for you. After researching hundreds of formulations and listening to real parents, we found the best baby bath products to keep your little one squeaky clean and irritation-free.
- 93% natural
- Will not dry out baby’s skin
- Tear-free formula
- Dermatologist tested
- Hypoallergenic
- Contains soothing calendula
- Comes in a convenient pump bottle
- Rinses easily
- Contains irritation-soothing ingredients
- With oat extract to calm skin
- Does not contain soap
- Cleans body and hair
- Organic ingredients
- Not tested on animals
- Has a thick foam
- Comes with 5 trial products
- Pediatrician tested
- Hypoallergenic
- Budget-friendly set
- Tear-free shampoo
- Tested by dermatologists
How Frequently Should You Bathe Your Baby?
While a nightly bath sounds like a dreamy routine, experts actually advise against frequent bathing.
For the first month, a simple wipe-down with a washcloth and warm water every few days is plenty. Once they are a bit older, you can start bathing them in a tub or sink, but stick to about three times a week (1).
If your little one has eczema, the rules change slightly. Dermatologists often recommend the “Soak and Seal” method:
- Soak: Let your baby sit in a lukewarm bath (water only, no soap) for about 10 minutes.
- Seal: Pat the skin dry gently and immediately apply a moisturizer to lock that water in (2).
Babies don’t really get dirty in the traditional sense. As long as you keep the diaper area fresh and clean the “trap zones” (like neck folds), you don’t need to bathe babies daily.
How to Choose Baby Shampoo
Here is what matters most when scanning labels for the perfect shampoo or wash.
Hypoallergenic
“Hypoallergenic” isn’t a strictly regulated term, but it usually means the brand formulated the product without common irritants. It’s a solid starting point for minimizing reactions. However, always double-check the back label if your family has specific sensitivities.
Fragrance-Free
Synthetic fragrances are a leading cause of skin dermatitis. Plus, they mask that intoxicating natural baby smell. We generally recommend fragrance-free options, but if you love a scented bath, look for products derived from natural essential oils rather than mystery “parfum” ingredients (3).
Non-Drying Formulas
Baby skin loses moisture much faster than adult skin. Look for pH-balanced cleansers that support the skin barrier rather than stripping it. Also, don’t fear “tear-free” labels; they aren’t magic chemicals. They just use larger molecules that can’t penetrate the eye tissues, or pH levels that match the human eye, making them painless if a splash occurs.
Product Reviews
We tested the suds, checked the scents, and analyzed the ingredients to find these top performers for every skin type.
Original Sprout Hair and Body Babywash
Best Baby Shampoo for Dry Hair and Dandruff
Original Sprout formulated this wash with a specific pH level (6.0-7.0) to mirror your baby’s skin environment, preventing the dryness that leads to irritation. It features rosemary extract to help stimulate circulation and organic calendula to calm inflammation.
This is a heavy hitter for skin issues. It is gentle enough to help manage eczema, acne, cradle cap, and excessive dryness. The formula is vegan, organic, and free from hormone-disrupting parabens.
It leaves hair incredibly soft and smooth, and the tear-free formula means bath time won’t end in a crying session. It is on the pricier side, but a little goes a long way.
Pros
- Contains soothing organic ingredients.
- Vegan formula is extra-gentle.
- pH balanced specifically for babies.
Cons
- It does not explicitly state fragrance-free.
- Higher price point than drugstore brands.
- The plastic spout can be fragile.
Our Ratings
Puracy Natural Baby Shampoo & Body Wash
Best All Natural Baby Wash
Developed by a team of Ph.D. chemists and doctors, Puracy is a massive favorite for parents seeking clean ingredients. It uses a coconut-based cleanser rather than harsh sulfates. It also features sea salt, which naturally hydrates and balances the skin.
While it has a faint, pleasant scent, it comes from pink grapefruit and citrus essential oils, not synthetic fragrances. The formula is pH-balanced and verified safe for sensitive skin.
You won’t find sulfates, parabens, petroleum, or dyes here. It is certified vegan, cruelty-free, and proudly manufactured in the U.S.
Pros
- Formula is 99.95% natural.
- Developed by doctors and chemists.
- Citrus scent is light and refreshing.
Cons
- Large bottle is a commitment if you don’t like it.
- Pump mechanism can sometimes stick.
- Consistency is thinner than standard gels.
Our Ratings
Mustela Gentle Cleansing Gel
Best Baby Shampoo for Cradle Cap
Mustela is a French staple known for stringent safety standards. This gel is specifically designed to reinforce the skin barrier, making it excellent for preventing or managing cradle cap.
The star ingredient is Avocado Perseose, a patented natural ingredient that protects the skin’s cellular richness. It effectively cleanses without stripping natural oils, thanks to the addition of Vitamin B5.
It is composed of 93% natural ingredients and is entirely soap-free. The biodegradable formula is safe for the environment and gentle on eyes. Note that it does have a distinct “Mustela scent” (powdery and floral) which most parents love, but some find strong.
Pros
- Contains patented Avocado Perseose.
- Soap-free prevents drying.
- Rigorous dermatologist testing.
Cons
- Does not create a massive lather.
- Scent is distinct (love it or hate it).
- Bottle is not easily recyclable in all areas.
Our Ratings
Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo with Organic Calendula
Best Baby Wash for Sensitive Skin
Cetaphil is a brand synonymous with gentle skincare, and their baby line lives up to the reputation. This wash uses organic calendula extract derived from marigold flowers to soothe inflammation and calm itchy skin.
It is paraben-free, colorant-free, and mineral oil-free. Unlike some gentle cleansers that feel like water, this one creates a rich, creamy lather that makes washing hair easier.
While it is hypoallergenic, it does have a fresh, floral scent. Most babies tolerate it well, but if you need zero fragrance, you might want to patch-test first.
Pros
- Rich lather despite being gentle.
- Hypoallergenic formula.
- Contains soothing organic calendula.
Cons
- Contains added fragrance.
- Squeeze bottle can get messy.
- Not a strictly “all-natural” product.
Our Ratings
Eucerin Baby Wash & Shampoo
Best Fragrance-Free Baby Wash
If you want a no-nonsense, effective cleanser, Eucerin is the way to go. It is enriched with Pro-Vitamin B5 and natural Shea Butter to leave skin soft rather than tight.
This is a true 2-in-1 that works well on fine baby hair and delicate skin. It is free of soap, fragrances, parabens, and dyes. This makes it a top choice for parents who suspect fragrance allergies.
While it claims to be tear-free, user reports are mixed, so be careful around the eyes. The scent is neutral, it smells like the ingredients, which some parents describe as slightly medicinal, but it fades instantly after rinsing.
Pros
- Completely fragrance-free.
- Contains Shea Butter for moisture.
- Soap-free formula.
Cons
- Can sting eyes despite claims.
- “Unscented” smell is slightly medicinal.
- Ingredients are not organic.
Our Ratings
Aquaphor Baby Wash & Shampoo
Best Baby Wash for Baby Acne
Aquaphor is a pediatrician favorite for a reason. This wash is enriched with chamomile essence and provitamin B5 to soothe skin that might be red or irritated from acne or drool rash.
The lather is light, which is actually a good sign, it means it rinses away quickly and doesn’t leave a residue. It is preservative-free and fragrance-free, removing two of the biggest triggers for sensitive skin.
The pump bottle is a huge plus for safety, allowing you to keep one hand on your slippery baby while dispensing soap with the other.
Pros
- Convenient pump dispenser.
- Rinses clean with no residue.
- Chamomile helps soothe irritation.
Cons
- Pump mechanism can be fragile.
- Contains synthetic ingredients.
- Very mild scent isn’t for everyone.
Our Ratings
Aveeno Baby Gentle Wash & Shampoo
Best Baby Wash for Eczema and Dry Skin
Aveeno relies on natural oat extract, which is clinically proven to soothe dry, irritated skin. This formula is soap-free, so it cleanses without the harsh drying effects of traditional detergents.
It has a light, fresh fragrance. While pleasant, parents of babies with severe eczema might prefer the Aveeno Baby Cleansing Therapy wash instead, which is fragrance-free and has the National Eczema Association seal of acceptance.
However, for general dry skin or mild eczema, this standard wash is affordable, effective, and widely available.
Pros
- Oat extract calms itchy skin.
- Soap-free formula prevents drying.
- Genuine tear-free performance.
Cons
- Contains fragrance (potential irritant).
- Lather is minimal compared to others.
- Severe eczema may require the medicated version.
Our Ratings
Babyganics Baby Shampoo & Body Wash
Best Organic Baby Wash
Babyganics solves the problem of “natural products don’t lather” by using a clever self-foaming pump. You get instant, airy foam that is easy to spread and rinse, making it perfect for squirmy newborns.
The formula excludes sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and synthetic dyes. It features their “NeoNourish Seed Oil Blend,” a mix of tomato, sunflower, cranberry, black cumin, and raspberry seed oils designed to support healthy skin development.
It is plant-based and not tested on animals. Note that while the brand name implies it, not every single ingredient is certified organic, though many are.
Pros
- Instant foam is easy to apply.
- Cruelty-free and plant-based.
- Contains antioxidant seed oils.
Cons
- Not 100% certified organic ingredients.
- Foam runs out faster than gel.
- Some sensitive skin types reacted to it.
Our Ratings
Burt's Bees Skin Care Gift Set
Best Baby Wash Gift Set
This set is the ultimate “Welcome Baby” gift. It includes trial sizes of baby lotion, shampoo & wash, cream-to-powder, baby oil, and buttermilk soap.
It’s also a smart buy for parents who want to test the brand without buying huge bottles. Burt’s Bees products are pediatrician-tested and avoid phthalates, parabens, and petrolatum.
The scent is naturally sweet (like honey and apricot), which most people adore, though it can be strong for super-sensitive noses. The buttermilk soap creates a creamy lather that feels luxurious on sensitive skin.
Pros
- Great variety for testing the brand.
- Perfect baby shower gift.
- Natural, recognizable ingredients.
Cons
- Bottles are quite small.
- Scent is strong for some.
- Price per ounce is higher in this kit.
Our Ratings
Johnson & Johnson Travel Kit
Best Travel Size Baby Wash Kit
This convenient pack includes Johnson’s Baby Lotion, Head-to-Toe Wash, and Desitin for diaper rashes. It covers cleaning, moisturizing, and protection in one box.
Johnson’s reformulated their entire line a few years ago to remove dyes and sulfates, making them much gentler than the versions you might remember from your own childhood. The Head-to-Toe wash is hypoallergenic and truly tear-free.
The bottles are small, refillable, and durable enough to toss in a diaper bag without leaking.
Pros
- TSA-compliant sizes.
- Includes Desitin for rash emergencies.
- Budget-friendly travel solution.
Cons
- Very small bottles run out fast.
- Packaging can sometimes arrive damaged.
- Basic formulas lack fancy organic oils.
Our Ratings
FAQs
How Long Should a Newborn Bath Last?
Keep it short and sweet, about 5 to 10 minutes max. Water cools down quickly, and prolonged exposure can strip natural oils from your newborn’s skin.
What Time of Day Is Best to Bathe a Newborn?
There is no “perfect” time, but pick a moment when your baby is awake and content, not starving or exhausted. Many parents use a bath to signal bedtime, but a morning wash is just as effective if that fits your schedule better.
Why Shouldn’t You Bathe a Baby After a Feed?
All that jostling and warm water can upset a full tummy. Bathing immediately after a feed often leads to spit-ups (or worse), so try to wait at least 30 minutes after eating.
What Should You Never Do When Bathing a Baby?
Rule number one: Never take your hands off the baby or leave the room. Infants can slip underwater in silence in seconds. Also, avoid putting the baby in the tub while the water is still running, as temperatures can fluctuate dangerously.
What Ingredients Should I Avoid in Baby Wash?
Try to steer clear of sulfates (SLS and SLES), which create foam but can irritate skin. Also avoid parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde-releasers. If your baby has sensitive skin, skip the synthetic dyes and fragrances, too.
Can I Use Regular Bar Soap on My Baby?
It is not recommended. Traditional bar soaps usually have a high pH (around 9 or 10), which is too alkaline for a baby’s skin (which is around 5.5). This can strip the protective acid mantle and lead to dryness and irritation. Stick to pH-balanced baby cleansers.
