Bath time is one of the simplest ways you can care for your baby while building calm routines and healthy skin. Choosing the right shampoo matters because a gentle formula can reduce irritation, prevent dryness and cradle-cap, and keep eye stinging to a minimum. In this guide you’ll find carefully selected options that focus on mild ingredients, tear-free formulas, and targeted benefits so you can pick a product that fits your baby’s needs and your parenting priorities.
Top Picks
| Category | Product | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Best for Sensitive Skin | Eucerin Baby | 95/100 |
| 🎯 Best for Newborns | Noodle & Boo | 93/100 |
| 🌿 Best Plant-Based | Burt’s Bees | 90/100 |
| 💧 Best for Dry Skin | Aveeno Baby | 89/100 |
| 💰 Best Budget | Johnson’s Gold | 86/100 |
| ⭐ Best Calendula Care | Cetaphil Baby | 85/100 |
How We Picked These Shampoos
You want a baby shampoo that cleans gently and leaves skin comfortable. We evaluated formulas based on: ingredient safety (no harsh sulfates, parabens, or unnecessary fragrances), clinical endorsements (dermatologist- or pediatrician-tested), tear-free performance, scent and sensitivity considerations, moisture and conditioning benefits, size/value for money, and real-user feedback on irritation, cradle-cap and eye stinging. We also weighed packaging and practicality for bath-time use, such as pump bottles and usable volumes.
Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo
You’ll notice this one feels familiar and uncomplicated — a gentle wash-and-shampoo that uses organic calendula and sunflower seed oil to clean without stripping moisture. It foams enough to get hair and body clean, rinses easily, and is designed to be tear-free so bath time is less fuss. The formula is pH-friendly and hypoallergenic, so you can reach for it on everyday washes, after messy play, or when you want hair to feel soft for photos or visits.
If you want a reliable, easy-to-use product that covers both body and hair without a lot of perfume or harsh ingredients, this is a solid pick.
What People Say
People often praise how gentle the wash feels and that it doesn’t irritate sensitive skin, with many noting the mild, pleasant scent. Parents frequently mention it lathers and rinses well, leaves hair soft, and is useful both as a daily wash and for sweatier, messier days. A small number of shoppers report concerns about product authenticity or dilution when bought from third-party sellers.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Health Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Mild, non-irritating cleanse | Cleans skin and hair without stripping natural oils, suitable for babies with normal to sensitive skin. |
| Hydration support | Sunflower seed oil and glycerin help retain moisture so skin and scalp feel softer after bathing. |
| Low irritation risk | Hypoallergenic formulation and skin-friendly pH reduce the chance of irritation for sensitive scalps. |
Versatility
You can use it from head to toe — it doubles as a body wash and shampoo so you don’t need multiple bottles at bath time. It’s handy for everyday cleaning, after outdoor play, or when you want a quick tidy-up before heading out.
Child Friendliness
The tear-free formula and gentle pH make this a good option for kids who dislike water near their eyes. Still, keep it out of the eyes and rinse if contact happens; for very reactive eczema, patch-test or check with your pediatrician.
Key Benefits
- Gentle cleansing for skin and hair
- Tear-free formula for calmer baths
- Contains organic calendula and sunflower seed oil
- Hypoallergenic and skin-friendly pH
- Helps keep scalp hydrated
Rating: 4.6 (total: 45+)
Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Wash & Shampoo
You’ll find this one feels soft and familiar — a head-to-toe wash that leans on oat extract to calm and hydrate delicate skin. It’s tear- and soap-free, hypoallergenic, and designed to rinse easily so bath time stays quick and low-fuss.
Use it for everyday baths, after a sweaty day of play, or when you want your baby’s skin to look extra soft for family photos. If you want a dependable, mild option that won’t strip moisture, this is a comfortable, easy pick.
What People Say
You’ll notice most parents praise how gentle it is and that it doesn’t dry out sensitive skin, with many saying it helps keep dryness and itchiness in check. People also like that it foams enough to get hair and skin clean and rinses away without leaving a heavy scent.
A few shoppers mention packaging issues like leaks or missing pumps and that the fragrance can feel a little artificial to some.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Health Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Soothing for sensitive skin | Oat extract helps calm irritation and supports the skin’s natural barrier, making it a good option for mild sensitivity. |
| Non-drying cleanse | Soap-free and formulated to clean without stripping natural oils, helping skin stay hydrated after a bath. |
| Low irritation risk | Hypoallergenic formulation and tear-free design reduce the chance of eye stinging or skin reactions for many babies. |
Versatility
This doubles as a shampoo and body wash, so you can keep one bottle by the tub for everyday use, quick rinses after messy play, or gentler baths when your child’s skin needs extra care. You can pour it onto a washcloth, into your hand, or a little into bath water depending on what’s easiest.
Child Friendliness
The tear-free formula and hypoallergenic claims make it a good choice for kids who don’t love water near their eyes. Still, avoid direct eye contact and patch-test if your child has active eczema or very reactive skin, and check with your paediatrician when in doubt.
Key Benefits
- Soothes and nourishes with natural oat extract
- Tear- and soap-free for gentler baths
- Hypoallergenic, formulated for sensitive skin
- Rinses clean without leaving residue
- Suitable for daily head-to-toe use
Rating: 4.7 (total: 3646+)
Johnson’s Baby Gold Shampoo
You’ll probably recognize this one — a tear-free, pH-balanced shampoo that’s been a go-to for parents for years. It’s pediatrician-tested, soap-free and formulated to clean hair and scalp gently while leaving strands soft, smooth and shiny. Use it for everyday baths, quick post-play rinses, or when you want your baby to look extra neat for photos or visits; the big 800 ml bottle means it lasts through lots of baths.
If you want a reliable, low-fuss shampoo that won’t sting eyes and is kind to delicate skin, this is an easy pick.
What People Say
Most parents praise how gentle it is and that it really lives up to the tear-free claim — bath time is less fuss. People often note hair comes out soft and manageable, and the large bottle is appreciated for lasting a long time.
A handful of shoppers mention the scent isn’t everyone’s favorite or that packaging sometimes has small issues, but overall feedback focuses on its mildness and effectiveness.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Health Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Gentle scalp care | Soap-free cleansing helps remove dirt without stripping natural oils, which supports a healthy, hydrated scalp. |
| Less eye irritation | NO MORE TEARS formulation reduces the chance of stinging during bath time, making washes calmer for many babies. |
| Lower irritation risk | Hypoallergenic and free from common irritants like parabens and sulfates, which can help reduce reactions for sensitive skin. |
Versatility
Primarily a shampoo, but its gentle, soap-free formula means you can use it for quick head-to-toe rinses or as a mild cleanser after messy play. The large size is handy for families who bathe frequently or prefer one reliable bottle for daily use and special occasions alike.
Child Friendliness
The tear-free, pediatrician-tested formula makes it a solid choice for babies and toddlers who dislike water near their eyes. Still, if your child has active eczema or very reactive skin, patch-test first and check with your pediatrician.
Key Benefits
- Tear-free formula to reduce eye stinging
- pH balanced and hypoallergenic for gentle cleansing
- No added parabens, phthalates, sulfates or dyes
- Leaves hair soft, smooth and shiny
- Pediatrician- and dermatologist-tested
Rating: 4.7 (total: 148+)
Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Shampoo and Wash
You get a plant-based, tear-free shampoo-and-body-wash that’s made to clean head-to-toe without being harsh. The formula is 98.7% natural origin and pediatrician-tested, so it’s a nice choice for everyday baths, post-play rinses, or when you want your little one to feel extra fresh for photos or visits. The pump-style 21 fluid ounce bottle is handy at the sink, it lathers up well, and the light, clean scent leaves baby smelling pleasant without overpowering the room.
If you want something gentle that still feels effective, this one checks a lot of boxes.
What People Say
Parents frequently praise how gentle it feels and that it really lives up to the tear-free promise, which makes bath time calmer. Many mention the natural-feeling formula and that hair and skin come out soft, while the pump bottle gets called convenient. A minority note packaging or shipping hiccups, and a few parents say the scent isn’t for everyone, but most feedback focuses on mildness and effectiveness.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Health Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Gentle cleansing | Plant-based mild surfactants clean skin and hair without stripping natural oils, helping keep baby’s skin soft and hydrated. |
| Reduced eye irritation | A tear-free formulation lowers the chance of stinging if suds get near the eyes, which can make washes less stressful. |
| Fewer harsh chemicals | Formulated without common irritants like parabens and phthalates, so exposure to potentially sensitizing ingredients is reduced. |
Versatility
This is a true 2-in-1: use it as a baby shampoo or a gentle body wash. It’s great for everyday bathing, quick clean-ups after messy play, and when you want your child to feel extra fresh for a special outing.
The larger pump bottle works well at the bath or sink for frequent use.
Child Friendliness
The tear-free, pediatrician-tested formula makes it well-suited for babies and toddlers who dislike water near their eyes. If your child has very reactive skin or active eczema, try a small patch test and check with your pediatrician before regular use.
Key Benefits
- Tear-free formula to minimize eye stinging
- 98.7% natural origin, plant-based cleansing complex
- Head-to-toe use for hair and body
- Pediatrician-tested and free from phthalates, parabens, petrolatum and SLS
- Convenient 21 fluid ounce pump bottle and mild fresh scent
Rating: 4.6 (total: 5522+)
Eucerin Baby Wash & Shampoo
You get a fragrance-free, 2-in-1 wash that cleans both hair and body without stripping moisture. The formula is enriched with Pro‑Vitamin B5 and shea butter to help soothe and hydrate sensitive skin, and it’s designed to be tear-free and hypoallergenic.
It works well for everyday baths, quick post-play rinses, and when you want baby’s skin to look and feel calm for photos or family visits. The pump bottle is handy during busy bath time, and if your little one has very reactive skin you can patch-test or pair it with a gentle lotion from the same line.
What People Say
You’ll often see parents say it’s reliably gentle on sensitive skin and that the unscented formula leaves skin soft without irritation. People like that it truly seems tear-free and that the pump is practical for bath time. A few shoppers report occasional confusion about pack size or packaging, but the common thread is that it’s a no-frills, soothing option for little ones.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Health Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Gentle cleansing | Mild surfactants clean hair and skin without stripping natural oils, helping maintain soft, hydrated baby skin. |
| Soothing and moisturizing | Pro‑Vitamin B5 and shea butter help calm and nourish delicate skin, reducing dryness after washing. |
| Reduced irritation risk | Hypoallergenic and free of fragrances, dyes, and drying alcohols, which lowers exposure to common irritants. |
| Less eye discomfort | Tear-free formulation minimizes stinging if suds reach the eyes, making baths less stressful for sensitive kids. |
Versatility
This is a true 2‑in‑1: use it as a daily shampoo or a gentle body wash. It’s handy for newborns, toddlers after messy play, and when you need a mild, unscented product for social outings or photos.
The pump bottle makes it easy to use at the tub or sink, and you can decant a travel size if you’re heading out.
Child Friendliness
The tear-free, fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formulation makes it a solid pick for babies and toddlers, especially if your child dislikes suds near their face. For very reactive eczema-prone skin, try a small patch test and check with your pediatrician before regular use.
Key Benefits
- 2‑in‑1 gentle shampoo and body wash for head-to-toe use
- Tear-free formulation to reduce eye stinging
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, free of dyes and drying alcohols
- Enriched with Pro‑Vitamin B5 and natural shea butter to nourish skin
- Dermatologist- and pediatrician-recommended formulation; convenient pump bottle
Rating: 4.8 (total: 4994+)
Noodle & Boo Extra Gentle Shampoo
You’ll notice this one feels like a careful, no-fuss option for everyday baths. It’s formulated with milk protein, provitamin B5 and vitamin E to add moisture without stripping natural oils, and it’s designed to be low-sudsing and tear-free. That makes it handy for newborns, toddlers with sensitive scalps, or anyone who prefers a gentler cleanse after messy play or before family photos. If your little one has very reactive skin, try a patch test first, but if you want a hydrating, mild shampoo with a light powdery scent, this is a solid pick for regular use.
What People Say
Most parents highlight how gentle and moisturizing the shampoo is — it cleans without leaving skin tight or hair dry. People often mention the low-suds formula and that it seems safe for sensitive or allergy-prone kids.
The scent gets mixed notes: many enjoy the soft, powdery aroma, while a few find it a bit strong. A couple of shoppers also wish larger bottles had pump tops for easier bath-time use.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Health Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Gentle cleansing | Mild surfactants and low-sud formulation remove dirt without stripping natural oils, helping keep delicate baby skin balanced. |
| Hydration and nourishment | Milk protein, Pro‑Vitamin B5 and Vitamin E help lock in moisture and support soft, smooth hair and scalp. |
| Lower irritation risk | Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested formulation reduces exposure to common irritants and is suitable for many sensitive scalps. |
| Less eye discomfort | Tear-free design minimizes stinging if product reaches the eyes, making baths calmer for babies who dislike splashes. |
Versatility
Use it as your everyday baby shampoo, a gentle body wash in a pinch, or a mild rinse after outdoor play. The low-sud and moisturizing profile also make it a good choice in dry climates or for babies with fine curls you don’t want to weigh down. Decanting to a pump bottle can make it easier during quick bath routines.
Child Friendliness
The tear-free, hypoallergenic formula makes this a reassuring pick for most babies and toddlers. If your child has severe eczema or extreme sensitivities, do a small patch test or check with your pediatrician before regular use, but many parents report it works well for newborns and sensitive scalps.
Key Benefits
- Extra gentle, low-sud formula for sensitive scalps
- Moisturizing blend with milk protein, Pro‑Vitamin B5 and Vitamin E
- Tear-free and hypoallergenic; pediatrician- and dermatologist-tested
- Plant-based formulation free from Parabens, Phthalates, Sulfates, PPGs and Dyes
- Light, long-lasting powdery aroma many parents like
Rating: 4.8 (total: 1427+)
FAQ
How Do I Choose the Right Baby Shampoo For Sensitive Skin Or Eczema?
You should pick a formula that says hypoallergenic or is specifically made for sensitive skin and avoid strong fragrances, sulfates and drying alcohols. Look for soothing ingredients such as oat extract, calendula, sunflower seed oil, shea butter or Pro‑Vitamin B5 and consider brands that are pediatrician- or dermatologist‑recommended.
Try a patch test on a small area of your baby’s arm and wait 24 hours before regular use, and if your baby has moderate to severe eczema check with your pediatrician before switching products.
How Often Should You Use Baby Shampoo And What Is The Best Way To Use It?
Frequency depends on your baby’s age and activity: newborns often need washing only a few times a week, while older babies who get sweaty or messy may need a gentle wash more often. Use a small amount of shampoo, lather it in your hands first, then gently massage the scalp and hair and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water that you’ve tested on the inside of your wrist. Keep the shampoo out of your baby’s eyes, rinse away all residue, dry gently with a soft towel and, for cradle cap, gently massage the scalp and follow with a mild emollient if recommended by your pediatrician.
Are Tear‑Free, Scented Or 2‑In‑1 Shampoos Safe And How Do You Avoid Counterfeit Products?
Tear-free and 2‑in‑1 formulas can be safe and convenient because they use milder surfactants, but they’re not automatically the best choice for every baby; if your baby has very sensitive skin or fragrance reactions choose a fragrance-free option and check the ingredient list. To avoid counterfeit products buy from reputable sellers or authorized retailers, confirm the manufacturer and product identifiers (such as ASIN or batch code), inspect seals and expiry dates, compare packaging with the brand’s official images and be wary of unusually altered packaging, odd smells or unexpectedly low-quality texture; if something seems off, return the item and contact the seller or manufacturer.
Parents Top Picks
You gravitate toward Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo, Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Wash & Shampoo, and Johnsons Baby Gold Shampoo because parents want ultra-gentle, tear-free cleansers that moisturize without irritating sensitive skin. When choosing between them you typically weigh fragrance (fragrance-free vs classic baby scent), the level of moisturizing for dry or eczema-prone skin, and whether the formula is dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, and easy to rinse.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right baby shampoo makes bath time gentler for your little one and easier for you. If your priority is sensitive or eczema-prone skin, Eucerin Baby stands out for its fragrance-free, dermatologist-backed formula.
If you’re caring for a newborn, Noodle & Boo offers low-suds, mild cleansing designed for daily use. For parents who prefer plant-based ingredients, Burt’s Bees delivers a natural option.
Aveeno Baby is a strong pick when dryness is the main concern, while Johnson’s Gold gives you a large, inexpensive bottle if you want reliable performance on a budget. Cetaphil Baby is a good everyday choice when you want the calming benefits of calendula. Think about your baby’s skin type, scent preferences, and how much product you’ll use, and you’ll be able to pick the right shampoo with confidence.
| Product | Image | Rating | Product Benefits | Scent | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cetaphil Baby Wash & Shampoo with Organic Calendula and Sunflower Seed Oil 400ml |  | 4.6/5 (45 reviews) | Gentle cleansing, Hypoallergenic, Nutrient-rich formula | Floral | 400 Milliliters |
| Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Wash & Shampoo, 532ml |  | 4.7/5 (3,646 reviews) | Nourishing and soothing for sensitive skin, Hypoallergenic | Unscented | 532 Millilitres |
| Johnson’s Baby Gold Shampoo, 800ml |  | 4.7/5 (148 reviews) | Gently cleanses and nourishes, Hypoallergenic | Fresh | 800 Millilitres |
| Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Shampoo and Wash Original for Kids 21 oz |  | 4.6/5 (5,522 reviews) | Tear-free formula, Plant-based, Hydrating | Original | 21 Fluid Ounces |
| Eucerin Baby Wash & Shampoo – 2 in 1 Tear Free Formula |  | 4.8/5 (4,994 reviews) | Gentle on skin and eyes, Suitable for sensitive skin | Unscented | 13.5 Fluid Ounces |
| Noodle and Boo Baby Extra Gentle Shampoo for Sensitive Skin, 16 Fl Oz |  | 4.8/5 (1,427 reviews) | Tear-free, Non-toxic, Hypoallergenic | Crème Douce | 16 Fluid Ounces |
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