As parents, we’re always looking for the safest and most effective products for our little ones, and their haircare routine is no exception! Navigating the world of kids’ shampoos and conditioners can feel like a jungle, especially when you’re aiming for natural, gentle formulas. You want something that cleans effectively without harsh chemicals, keeps their delicate hair healthy, and ideally, makes bath time a breeze (goodbye, tears!).
That’s why we’ve rounded up the best natural shampoo and conditioner for kids that truly stand out. These picks are designed with your child’s sensitive skin and developing hair in mind, using natural ingredients to cleanse, nourish, and detangle. We’re talking gentle power, tear-free formulas, and ingredients you can actually feel good about. Let’s dive into our top choices to help you find the perfect match for your family!
Our Top Picks for Natural Kids’ Haircare
Here are our detailed reviews of the 10 best natural shampoo and conditioner for kids:
1. Shea Moisture Mango & Carrot Kids, Extra-Nourishing Shampoo & Conditioner
Shea Moisture is a trusted name for natural haircare, and their Mango & Carrot Kids line truly shines for its extra-nourishing properties. This duo gently cleanses while infusing your child’s strands with a rich blend of natural oils and organic shea butter. If your little one has dry, brittle, or frizz-prone hair, this set is designed to fortify and protect, leaving their locks soft, smooth, and much easier to manage.
Key Features:
- Extra-nourishing formula with coconut oil, olive oil, and certified organic shea butter.
- Enriched with Mango Butter & Carrot Oil to provide moisture and promote healthy hair growth.
- Contains Vitamins B-5 and E to strengthen and protect against breakage.
- Free from parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, and sulfates.
- Cruelty-free and uses fair-trade ingredients.
Pros:
- Provides intense hydration and nourishment, especially for dry hair.
- Helps detangle knots and reduces breakage.
- Promotes healthy new hair growth.
- Made with certified organic and fair-trade ingredients.
- Free from many harsh chemicals.
Cons:
- The rich formula might be too heavy for very fine or oily hair types.
- The distinct mango and carrot scent may not appeal to everyone.
User Impressions: Parents frequently rave about how soft and manageable this set makes their children’s hair. Many noted a visible reduction in frizz and an improvement in overall hair health, especially for kids with curly or textured hair. The pleasant, fruity scent is also a big hit!
2. Fairy Tales Daily Cleanse Everyday Kids Shampoo + Conditioner
For everyday clean that’s light yet luxurious, the Fairy Tales Daily Cleanse set is a fantastic choice. This natural shampoo and conditioner for kids offers a gentle, hydrating experience, akin to salon-quality products but formulated specifically for children. It’s perfect for families seeking a truly clean product that avoids common allergens while keeping hair healthy and happy.
Key Features:
- Lightweight and gentle formula suitable for daily use.
- Made with natural ingredients like quinoa protein for strength and murumuru butter and avocado butter for moisture.
- Free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, gluten, soy, dairy, and nuts.
- Features a natural papaya and pear fragrance.
- Suitable for all hair types – curly, frizzy, straight.
Pros:
- Extremely gentle and safe for kids with sensitive skin or allergies.
- Strengthens hair and helps prevent breakage.
- Leaves hair soft, manageable, and easy to comb through.
- Pleasant, natural fruit scent.
Cons:
- Might not provide enough intensive detangling for extremely knotted hair if used alone.
- Some might prefer a stronger lather for a “deep clean” feel.
User Impressions: Many parents appreciate this set for its light feel and effective, gentle cleansing. It’s a popular choice for kids with sensitivities, and the natural fruit scent often receives compliments for being subtle and refreshing.
3. Fairy Tales Tangle Tamer Detangling Shampoo and Conditioner
If bath time often turns into a wrestling match with knots and snarls, the Fairy Tales Tangle Tamer set is your new secret weapon. Specifically designed to tackle unruly knots and curly tops, this shampoo and conditioner duo transforms hair into soft, silky perfection. It’s safe for toddlers and makes combing through even the most stubborn tangles a breeze.
Key Features:
- Ultimate detangling and smoothing solution for knots and curly hair.
- Enriched with Panthenol, Vitamin E, Keratin, and Vitamin B to strengthen and moisturize.
- Helps eliminate frizz and improves manageability.
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, and nut-free.
- Safe for the whole family, including toddlers.
Pros:
- Exceptional at detangling and smoothing hair.
- Strengthens strands and reduces frizz.
- Gentle and free from a wide range of common irritants.
- Ideal for kids with long, thick, or curly hair prone to tangles.
Cons:
- May require an accompanying detangling spray for extremely severe knots.
- For those without tangle issues, its specialized focus might be overkill.
User Impressions: This product is a lifesaver for parents dealing with daily tangles. Reviewers consistently praise its ability to make hair soft, smooth, and easy to comb, significantly reducing bath-time battles.
4. Fairy Tales Swim Shampoo & Conditioner for Kids
Summertime fun shouldn’t mean damaged hair! The Fairy Tales Sun & Swim line is a must-have for active kids who spend time in the pool, at the beach, or simply under the sun. This specialized duo gently clarifies to remove chlorine, sea salts, and minerals that can dry out and damage hair, preventing that dreaded green tint. It’s a true summer savior for healthy hair.
Key Features:
- Specially formulated for post-swim/sun haircare.
- Gently clarifies with natural ingredients like grapefruit peel oil, orange flower extract, and pineapple fruit extract.
- Removes chlorine green, sea salts, and mineral buildup.
- Conditioner replenishes moisture with aloe, wild cherry bark, jojoba, vitamin B, and calendula extracts.
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, and nut-free.
- Color-safe and suitable for the whole family.
Pros:
- Highly effective at removing chlorine and preventing green hair.
- Deeply hydrates and conditions hair damaged by sun and water.
- Uses natural clarifying ingredients.
- Safe for sensitive skin and hair, including mom’s color-treated hair.
Cons:
- Its specialized nature means it might not be a daily, year-round shampoo for all users.
- The citrusy scent might not be preferred by everyone, though it helps neutralize pool smells.
User Impressions: This set is a clear winner for swim season, with parents reporting that it effectively removes chlorine residue and keeps hair soft and free from the “green tint.” Many love that it’s safe for the whole family to use.
5. Fresh Monster 2-in-1 Kids Shampoo & Conditioner, Watermelon
Fresh Monster offers a fantastic, budget-friendly option for families seeking a truly toxin-free, plant-based 2-in-1 solution. This shampoo and conditioner combo is designed to make bath time quick and easy, leaving kids’ hair clean, shiny, and soft. Plus, it’s tear-free and features a fun, natural watermelon scent that kids adore, encouraging them to take charge of their own bath routine!
Key Features:
- First affordable, 100% toxin-free, plant-based 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner for kids.
- Tear-free formula, gentle on eyes.
- Scented with all-natural fruit and botanical extracts (Watermelon).
- PETA certified Cruelty-Free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, sulfate-free, and dye-free.
- Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin.
- Kid-friendly bottle design.
Pros:
- Convenient 2-in-1 formula simplifies bath time.
- Truly toxin-free and plant-based at an accessible price point.
- Tear-free and gentle for sensitive eyes and skin.
- Fun, natural watermelon scent and appealing packaging for kids.
Cons:
- A 2-in-1 might not provide enough intensive conditioning for very dry, thick, or curly hair types.
- The specific watermelon scent might not be universally loved.
User Impressions: Parents frequently highlight the amazing, natural scent and how gentle this product is. They appreciate the toxin-free formula and the fact that it’s easy for kids to use independently.
6. Clean Kids Naturally Tropical Shampoo – EWG Verified
For parents who prioritize the cleanest possible ingredients, Clean Kids Naturally Tropical Shampoo is a stellar choice. Being EWG Verified means it meets the Environmental Working Group’s strict health standards, offering peace of mind. This shampoo focuses on being incredibly pure, free from a vast array of common irritants and harsh chemicals, making it ideal for the most sensitive scalps.
Key Features:
- EWG Verified, ensuring high standards for health and safety.
- Completely free of Gluten, Sulfates, Parabens, Phthalates, Fluoride/Glycol, Lanolin, Petrolatum, Mineral Oils, Artificial Colors.
- “Tropical” scent, though specific ingredients aren’t detailed in this snippet.
Pros:
- Outstandingly clean ingredient profile, excellent for extremely sensitive or allergy-prone kids.
- EWG verification provides extra assurance of safety.
- Avoids a very long list of undesirable chemicals and additives.
Cons:
- This listing is specifically for the shampoo; a separate conditioner would be needed for a full routine.
- The specific “tropical” scent details are not provided, so personal preference may vary.
User Impressions: Customers love the peace of mind that comes with the EWG verification and the extensive “free from” list. It’s highly recommended for children with allergies, eczema, or very delicate scalps who react to other products.
7. SoCozy 3 in 1 Kids Shampoo + Conditioner + Body Wash
If convenience is key, the SoCozy 3-in-1 is a game-changer for bath time. This all-in-one product gently cleanses, conditions hair, and washes the body, making the routine quick and efficient. Enriched with nourishing ingredients like Keratin, Vitamin B5, and Kiwi Extract, it’s designed to be gentle on both skin and hair, leaving your child clean from head to toe.
Key Features:
- Convenient 3-in-1 formula: shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
- Enriched with Keratin, Vitamin B5, and Kiwi Extract for gentle, nourishing care.
- Helps detangle knots for easier hair management.
- Cruelty-free and free from Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates, Formaldehyde, Synthetic Colors or Dyes, Propylene Glycol, Gluten, Wheat, & Nuts.
- Salon-quality haircare from a brand with over 20 years of expertise.
Pros:
- Ultimate convenience for a quick and easy bath routine.
- Gentle and nourishing for both hair and sensitive skin.
- Effectively cleanses and conditions while detangling.
- Free from a comprehensive list of common irritants and allergens.
Cons:
- A 3-in-1 product might not provide sufficient conditioning for very dry or extremely curly hair types.
- The specific scent profile isn’t detailed, so it’s a matter of preference.
User Impressions: Parents adore the simplicity and effectiveness of this 3-in-1. They note how well it cleanses without drying and appreciate the detangling benefits, making it a staple for busy families.
8. Evereden Kids Shampoo and Conditioner 2 in 1: Cool Peach
Evereden brings a doctor-created, dermatologist-tested solution to kids’ haircare with their 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner. This premium product features a MegaVitamin Complex for strength and a gentle, yet deep cleanse with botanical extracts. It’s designed to leave hair feeling soft, smooth, and shiny, all wrapped up in a delightful cool peach scent.
Key Features:
- 2-in-1 formula with a multi-vitamin strength MegaVitamin Complex (omegas, amino acids, vitamins).
- Gentle cleansing powered by non-toxic ingredients like maiden hair fern and wild thyme extracts.
- Deep conditioning with biotin and amino acids to strengthen and smooth hair.
- Cool Peach scent with notes of anis, peach, violet, and darjeeling tea.
- Doctor-created, dermatologist-tested, non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and Made in USA.
Pros:
- Expertly formulated for safety and effectiveness, ideal for sensitive skin.
- Strengthens and deeply conditions hair, promoting shine and smoothness.
- Unique and pleasant “Cool Peach” natural fragrance.
- Effectively cleanses without stripping natural oils.
Cons:
- May be at a higher price point compared to some other kids’ haircare brands.
- As a 2-in-1, it might require additional conditioning for extremely dry or very thick hair.
User Impressions: Reviewers love the luxurious feel and natural scent of this product. Many parents trust its doctor-formulated, clean ingredients and report excellent results for their children’s hair, leaving it soft and manageable.
9. Aussie Kids Hair Care Bundle Set Including: Shampoo (16 oz), Conditioner (16 oz)
Aussie Kids offers a fantastic bundle to kickstart a healthy haircare routine for your child. Designed to prevent tangles and keep hair healthy, this set is gentle on young hair and suitable for all hair types—curly, straight, or wavy. It focuses on making hair manageable and tangle-free, boosting confidence in their natural beauty without the fuss.
Key Features:
- Complete shampoo and conditioner bundle for a comprehensive hair care routine.
- Specially formulated to prevent tangles and keep hair healthy.
- Gentle formulas suitable for all hair types.
- PETA-certified cruelty-free.
- Aims to make hair manageable for effortless styling and boost confidence.
Pros:
- Effective at tackling tangles and improving manageability.
- Versatile for all hair types, simplifying choice for families.
- Promotes healthy hair and helps children love their natural look.
- Cruelty-free and focuses on gentle care.
Cons:
- While focused on gentle care, the “natural” ingredient claims are less emphasized compared to other brands in this list.
- Specific ingredient details for natural components are not explicitly listed in the provided feature set.
User Impressions: Parents appreciate the effectiveness of Aussie Kids in detangling and making hair manageable. It’s a popular choice for its ability to reduce knots and simplify hair styling for active kids.
10. Aveeno Kids 2-in-1 Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner
From a pediatrician- and dermatologist-recommended brand, the Aveeno Kids 2-in-1 Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner is a gentle powerhouse for children’s developing hair. With oat extract and a mild scent, this tear-free formula is clinically shown to be gentle on sensitive skin and scalp, making it an excellent choice for everyday use. It effectively cleanses, conditions, and detangles in one easy step.
Key Features:
- 2-in-1 hydrating shampoo and conditioner with oat extract and a gentle scent.
- Designed for kids’ developing hair and gentle on sensitive skin and scalp.
- Tear-free formula that helps remove knots and detangles hair.
- Hypoallergenic and formulated without parabens, phthalates, sulfates, dyes, and phenoxyethanol.
- Pediatrician- and dermatologist-recommended brand.
Pros:
- Highly recommended by medical professionals for sensitive skin and scalps.
- Tear-free and very gentle, ideal for young children.
- Effectively detangles and leaves hair soft and smooth.
- Free from many common harsh chemicals.
Cons:
- As a 2-in-1, very thick or extremely dry hair might benefit from a separate, more intensive conditioner.
- The “mild” scent might be too subtle for those who prefer a more noticeable fragrance.
User Impressions: Aveeno Kids is a go-to for many parents, especially those with children prone to skin sensitivities or allergies. Its gentle nature, tear-free promise, and effective detangling receive consistent praise.
FAQs About Natural Shampoo and Conditioner for Kids
Q1: Why should I choose natural shampoo and conditioner for my kids?
A: Choosing natural products minimizes exposure to harsh chemicals like sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances, which can irritate sensitive skin, cause dryness, or even disrupt hormones. Natural formulas often use plant-based ingredients that are gentler and more nourishing for delicate hair and scalps.
Q2: What ingredients should I avoid in kids’ hair products?
A: Look out for ingredients such as sulfates (SLS, SLES), parabens, phthalates, synthetic dyes, artificial fragrances, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, mineral oil, and silicones. These can strip natural oils, cause irritation, or build up on hair.
Q3: Are “tear-free” formulas always natural?
A: Not necessarily. While many natural brands offer tear-free formulas, some conventional “tear-free” products achieve this by using numbing agents, which aren’t natural. Always check the ingredient list to ensure it aligns with your preference for natural and gentle components.
Q4: How often should I wash my child’s hair with natural shampoo?
A: The frequency depends on your child’s hair type and activity level. Generally, 2-3 times a week is sufficient for most children. For very oily hair or after swimming/playing, more frequent washing might be needed. Natural shampoos are gentle enough for daily use if necessary.
Q5: What’s the difference between a 2-in-1 and separate shampoo/conditioner?
A: A 2-in-1 combines cleansing and conditioning in one step, offering convenience. Separate shampoo and conditioner products allow for a more targeted approach: shampoo cleanses, and conditioner provides deeper hydration and detangling. For very dry, curly, or tangled hair, separate products often provide better results.
Q6: Are these natural products suitable for kids with eczema or sensitive scalps?
A: Yes, many natural shampoos and conditioners are excellent for children with eczema or sensitive scalps because they avoid common irritants. Look for products labeled “hypoallergenic,” “fragrance-free,” or specifically designed for sensitive skin, often containing soothing ingredients like oat extract or aloe vera. Always patch test first if your child has severe sensitivities.
Q7: How do I naturally deal with tangled hair?
A: Use a good detangling natural shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for knots (like Fairy Tales Tangle Tamer). After washing, gently comb through wet hair with a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends and working your way up. A leave-in detangling spray can also be a huge help.
Q8: Can adults use kids’ natural shampoos and conditioners?
A: Absolutely! Many adults with sensitive scalps, allergies, or who simply prefer gentle, chemical-free products enjoy using natural kids’ shampoos and conditioners. They often offer a milder cleanse and a refreshing, light scent that appeals to adults too.
Finding the best natural shampoo and conditioner for kids doesn’t have to be a chore. With these fantastic options, you can give your children the gentle, effective haircare they deserve, ensuring their delicate strands stay healthy, shiny, and tangle-free. Happy washing!