For many toddlers, hair washing is the worst part of bath time. It usually comes down to one thing: water running into their eyes and over their face. Keep that from happening, give them a bit of control, and most toddlers relax.
1. Tilt the head back
Water runs away from the face when the head tilts back. Ask your toddler to look up at the ceiling. A sticker on the ceiling or a toy held up high gives them something to look at.
2. Pour from the forehead back
Hold a hand or a folded washcloth along their hairline like a visor, and pour behind it so the water runs backward. Use a cup or small watering can for a gentle, controlled flow.
3. Turn rinsing into play
Pouring water is already a favorite game at this age, so use it. The Flower water wheel comes with a little watering can, and the Duck version with a scoop. Let your toddler water the flower first, then "water" their own hair. The Dino waterfall also runs on poured water, so a scoop or two keeps them busy while you rinse.
4. Give them some control
- Let them hold the washcloth over their eyes.
- Let them choose: "Two scoops or three?"
- Count out loud so they know when it will end.
5. Keep it quick
Have everything ready before you start. Wet, lather and rinse in one smooth go. Toddlers usually don't need their hair washed every bath. A couple of times a week is plenty for many.
6. Use a gentle shampoo, and not much of it
A mild, tear-free style shampoo and a small amount means less to rinse and less stinging if a drop gets through.
7. Wrap them up straight away
A warm towel ends things on a good note. A hooded towel like the Puddle towel covers a wet head as soon as they're out. Keep the hood off their face while you pat them dry.
Stay safe while you wash
- Stay within arm's reach the whole time, even when you reach for the shampoo.
- Keep the water shallow and warm, not hot.
- A suction bath mat helps if they like to stand up. The Lagoon bath mat grips smooth tub floors.
More in our toddler bath safety rules.
Questions parents ask
How often should I wash my toddler's hair?
For many toddlers, a couple of times a week is enough. Wash more often if their hair gets sticky or sandy.
Why does my toddler hate hair washing?
Usually water or soap in their eyes, feeling cold, or not knowing when it will end. Tilting the head back and counting helps with all three.
Can I wash my toddler's hair outside the bath?
Yes. Some toddlers prefer lying back on a towel at the edge of the tub while you rinse with a cup.
Keep them fresh with our guide on how to clean bath toys.
For more bath time fun, see our best bath toys for toddlers.
