Painting is a magical activity for kids – it sparks creativity, helps develop fine motor skills, and provides a fantastic outlet for self-expression. But let’s be honest, for parents and educators, the thought of paint often comes with a side of dread: the mess. Sticky fingers, stained clothes, and splattered tabletops can quickly turn a fun art session into a cleanup nightmare.
Fear not, fellow guardians of budding artists! Choosing the right art supplies makes all the difference. We’ve rounded up the best paints for kids that prioritize safety, vibrant colors, and, most importantly, easy cleanup. So, get ready to dive into a world where your little ones can create masterpieces, and you can breathe easy.
What Makes a Great Paint for Kids?
Before we jump into our top picks, here’s what we looked for in the ultimate kid-friendly paints:
- Washability: This is probably the number one concern for most parents. We want paints that easily wash off skin, clothing, and surfaces.
- Non-Toxic & Safe: Absolutely essential. All paints reviewed here are non-toxic, making them safe for children to use.
- Vibrant Colors: Bright, bold hues encourage engagement and help bring children’s imaginations to life.
- Ease of Use: Whether it’s squeeze bottles or mess-free sticks, the paint should be easy for little hands to manage.
- Versatility: Can it be used on different surfaces? Is it good for various craft projects?
Ready to discover the best paints for kids for your next art adventure? Let’s get started!
Our Top 7 Best Paints for Kids Reviews
1. Crayola Washable Kids Paint (6ct), Essential Preschool…
Crayola is a name synonymous with childhood creativity, and their Washable Kids Paint lives up to the reputation. This 6-count set is a fantastic starting point for preschoolers and young artists, offering a classic painting experience with the peace of mind that comes from easy cleanup. The colors are bold and mix beautifully, encouraging kids to experiment with color theory without the fuss. It’s truly a staple for any home or classroom looking for reliable, fun, and washable art supplies.
Key Features:
- 6 bold, vibrant colors: Yellow, Green, Yellow Orange, Red Orange, Fuchsia, Teal, Blue Violet.
- Smooth, creamy formula blends easily.
- Resealable caps keep paint fresh.
- Washes from skin and most washable clothing.
- Safe and non-toxic, ideal for ages 3 and up.
- Great for preschool, school projects, and everyday crafts.
Pros:
- Excellent washability – a parent’s dream!
- Vibrant colors that are easy to mix.
- Trusted brand for safety and quality.
- Perfect starter set for young children.
Cons:
- Only 6 colors, which might be limiting for more advanced projects.
- Smaller quantity compared to bulk options.
User Impressions: Parents consistently rave about how truly washable these paints are, often calling them their go-to for toddler paint and beginner art projects. Teachers appreciate them for classroom use due to their reliability and safety.
2. Crayola Washable Paint for Kids (12ct), Teacher Classroom…
If you’re looking to stock up or need a wider range of colors, this 12-count set of Crayola Washable Paint is a fantastic choice. Each bottle is a generous 16 ounces, ensuring that you won’t run out mid-project. It’s the same trusted washable, non-toxic formula, but with double the color options, making it ideal for everything from large classroom art projects to an ambitious home craft station. The vibrant hues are perfect for teaching color recognition and expanding creative possibilities.
Key Features:
- Includes 12 different vibrant colors in 16-ounce, easy-squeeze bottles.
- Colors include Green, Yellow, White, Red, Magenta, Turquoise, Violet, Brown, Blue, Peach, Orange, and Black.
- Perfect for school art projects, birthday parties, and everyday arts and crafts.
- Long-lasting, richly pigmented hues.
- Washes from skin and most washable clothing.
- Bulk classroom supplies, great for teachers.
Pros:
- Extensive color palette encourages creativity.
- Large 16oz bottles offer great value and longevity.
- Reliably washable and non-toxic.
- Ideal for group activities and classrooms.
Cons:
- The large quantity might be more than a single family needs unless they paint frequently.
- Still requires brushes and water, leading to a traditional paint setup.
User Impressions: This set is a hit with teachers and families with multiple children or frequent craft sessions. Users love the lasting power of the large bottles and the wide array of colors that stay true to Crayola’s quality.
3. Ooly Chunkies 12 Mess Free Paint Sticks For Kids, Tempera…
For those who cringe at the thought of traditional paint mess, Ooly Chunkies Paint Sticks are a game-changer. These tempera paint sticks offer all the vibrancy of paint without the need for water, brushes, or the dreaded drying time. They glide smoothly like lipstick and dry almost instantly, making them perfect for toddlers and kids who love to explore without making a colossal mess. It’s truly one of the best paints for kids when you prioritize convenience and cleanliness.
Key Features:
- No mess: Requires no water and dries quickly.
- Twistable design, easy for all ages to hold and use.
- Can be used on construction paper, sketch pads, and more.
- Easier to use than acrylic paint for beginners.
- Safe & non-toxic art supplies.
- A great alternative to paint markers and traditional paint sets.
Pros:
- Virtually mess-free – no spills, no brushes, no water.
- Quick-drying, preventing smudges and ruined artwork.
- Easy for small hands to grip and control.
- Vibrant colors that are fun to use.
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer the traditional “wet paint” experience.
- Might be harder to blend colors seamlessly compared to liquid paint.
User Impressions: Parents consistently praise these paint sticks for their incredible convenience and lack of mess. They’re a top choice for on-the-go art or quick bursts of creativity without the full setup and cleanup of traditional paint.
4. Cra-Z-art Washable Classic Paint Bulk Pack 8ct, Assorted…
Cra-Z-art delivers a solid, reliable option with their Washable Classic Paint Bulk Pack. This 8-count set provides a good range of primary and secondary colors in a convenient Amazon bundle, making it an excellent choice for birthday parties, holiday gifts, or just stocking up for endless craft time. Made in the USA, these paints are non-toxic and washable, offering peace of mind while inspiring creativity and self-expression in children of all ages.
Key Features:
- 8 beautiful, vibrant classic colors: Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple, White, and Black.
- Exclusive Amazon Bundle, ideal for parties and gifts.
- Washable formula for easy cleanup.
- Non-toxic and safe for kids.
- Reliable, quality paint made in the USA.
Pros:
- Good variety of essential colors.
- Great value in a bulk pack.
- Trusted for washability and safety.
- Made in the USA, assuring quality standards.
Cons:
- Standard paint, so brushes and water are still required.
- Packaging is basic, but functional.
User Impressions: Users find these paints to be a great, budget-friendly option for general craft use. They appreciate the vibrant colors and consistent washability, making them a go-to for classroom and home art projects.
5. Kids Painting Set, Washable Paint for Kids 6 Colors, 7…
Why buy just paint when you can get a whole art studio in one go? This Kids Painting Set is a fantastic bundle that includes 6 Crayola washable paints, a set of 7 quality paintbrushes, and a mixing palette. It’s the ultimate starter kit for any child eager to explore the world of color and brushstrokes. The included brushes offer a variety of sizes for different techniques, and the sturdy palette encourages color mixing, making this one of the best paints for kids bundles for aspiring artists.
Key Features:
- Complete bundle: 6 Crayola washable kids paints, 7 quality paintbrushes, and 1 paint palette.
- 6 primary washable paint colors: Red, Yellow, Orange, Green, Blue, and Purple.
- Non-toxic water-based paints that easily wash off skin and surfaces.
- 7 different size paintbrushes for various strokes and details.
- Sturdy plastic paint tray palette with 10 wells.
Pros:
- All-in-one kit – perfect for gifting or starting out.
- High-quality brushes included, offering great value.
- Crayola’s trusted washable and non-toxic formula.
- Palette encourages color mixing and experimentation.
Cons:
- Only 6 paint colors, though the palette allows for mixing.
- Paint quantities are standard size, not bulk.
User Impressions: Customers love the convenience of this complete set, often highlighting it as an excellent gift option. The quality of the brushes and the ease of cleanup for the paints receive high marks.
6. TBC The Best Crafts Paint Sticks,12 Classic Colors,…
Joining the mess-free revolution, TBC The Best Crafts Paint Sticks offer another excellent option for clean creative fun. These 12 vibrant, washable paint sticks glide smoothly thanks to a beeswax base, feeling like “silk and lady’s lipstick” on paper. They dry quickly and permanently, preventing smudges, and their telescopic, twistable design means no wasted paint and no dirty hands. Compatible with various surfaces, these paint sticks are a brilliant alternative for stress-free art time, especially with toddlers.
Key Features:
- 12 vibrant, washable classic colors.
- Contains beeswax for smooth, silk-like gliding.
- Quick-drying and permanent to protect artwork.
- Telescopic, rotating design prevents mess and waste.
- Suitable for different surfaces: paper, wood, poster card, etc.
- Non-toxic and easily cleaned with wet paper towels or water.
Pros:
- Super convenient and mess-free – no water or brushes needed.
- Quick-drying prevents smudging and allows for layering.
- Smooth application that’s fun and easy for kids.
- Versatile for use on multiple surfaces.
Cons:
- Similar to other paint sticks, it lacks the traditional liquid paint feel.
- Some fine details might be harder to achieve compared to brushes.
User Impressions: Users are impressed by the rich colors and the effortless, mess-free application. They’re particularly popular for younger children and for those times when a quick, clean art activity is desired.
7. Colorations – SWT16 Simply Washable Tempera Paints, 16 fl…
Colorations takes pride in delivering truly washable tempera paints, and their 11-count, 16 oz set certainly delivers. These paints are creamy, opaque, and designed for endless creativity on a variety of non-greasy, absorbent surfaces. What truly sets them apart is their commitment to safety, being free from most common allergens like latex, dairy, gluten, and nuts. Made in the USA, these paints dry to a vivid matte finish that resists cracking, ensuring your kids’ masterpieces look great for longer. This commitment to safety and quality makes them one of the best paints for kids for both home and classroom use.
Key Features:
- 11 vibrant, creamy, and opaque colors in 16 fl oz bottles.
- Colors include black, blue, brown, green, magenta, orange, purple, red, white, turquoise, and yellow.
- Designed for versatility on surfaces like construction paper, cardboard, papier-mâché.
- Truly washable formula, designed to wash from most surfaces easily.
- Dries to a vivid matte finish and resists cracking.
- Safe (ASTM-D4236, AP Seal) and free from most common allergens.
- Made in the USA.
Pros:
- Exceptional washability, even from stubborn surfaces.
- Large 16oz bottles offer great value and longevity.
- Allergen-free formulation makes them ideal for sensitive children.
- Vibrant, opaque colors that dry without cracking.
Cons:
- Standard liquid paint requires traditional setup and cleanup.
- The 11-count might be overkill for a single occasional user.
User Impressions: Parents and teachers love the vibrant colors and, most importantly, the reliable washability and allergen-free formula. Many consider them a top choice for schools and daycares due to their safety and quality.
Finding the Best Paints for Kids: A Quick Recap
Choosing the right paint for your child means balancing vibrant colors with practical considerations like safety and ease of cleanup. Whether you opt for the classic, reliable washability of Crayola, the mess-free magic of paint sticks like Ooly or TBC, or a comprehensive kit like the Kids Painting Set, there’s a perfect option out there to foster your child’s artistic journey. Remember, the goal is to encourage creativity, not create stress!
FAQ: All Your Questions About Kids’ Paints Answered
Q1: What are the safest paints for kids?
A1: The safest paints for kids are those explicitly labeled as “non-toxic” and typically conform to ASTM D-4236 standards. All paints reviewed in this article meet these safety standards. Some, like Colorations, even go a step further to be allergen-free.
Q2: Are washable paints really washable?
A2: For the most part, yes! Most washable paints for kids are designed to come off skin and most washable fabrics with soap and water. However, it’s always best to clean spills immediately and test a small, inconspicuous area of fabric if you’re concerned. Textured or very absorbent surfaces might hold onto color more stubbornly.
Q3: What’s the difference between tempera and acrylic paint for kids?
A3: Tempera paint is water-based, non-toxic, opaque, and dries to a matte finish. It’s easily washable (especially “washable tempera”) and a go-to for kids’ crafts. Acrylic paint is also water-based but dries to a permanent, often glossy, finish and is generally not washable from clothing once dry. Acrylics are better for older children or projects requiring a durable, lasting finish. For younger kids and easy cleanup, tempera is usually preferred.
Q4: How old should a child be to start painting?
A4: Children can start exploring paint as early as 12-18 months with supervision, often using finger paints or paint sticks designed for toddlers. For brush painting, around 2-3 years old is a good starting point, as they develop better fine motor skills. Always ensure paints are non-toxic and supervise young children to prevent ingestion.
Q5: How can I make cleanup easier after a painting session?
A5: Here are some tips for easy cleanup:
* Prepare: Lay down newspapers, old towels, or a plastic tablecloth.
* Dress for mess: Use old clothes or an art smock.
* Contain: Use deep paint cups to prevent spills.
* Wet Wipes: Keep a stack of wet wipes or a damp cloth handy for quick hand and surface cleanups.
* Prompt Cleaning: Clean brushes, palettes, and spills immediately with warm water and soap before paint dries.
Q6: Can kids paint on surfaces other than paper?
A6: Absolutely! Many kids’ paints, especially tempera, work well on various absorbent surfaces like cardboard, wood, rocks, plaster of Paris, and even some fabrics (though they might not be permanent on fabric unless specified). Paint sticks, like Ooly and TBC, are also great for multi-surface fun.
Q7: Are paint sticks a good choice for toddlers?
A7: Yes, paint sticks are an excellent choice for toddlers! They are largely mess-free, require no water or brushes, dry quickly, and are easy for small hands to grip and control. This makes them less frustrating for young children and much less stressful for parents to clean up.