How To Wash Toddlers, Infants & Childrens' Hair

A good hair care routine should be established early, as this will help to create good habits in later life. Once children start school, and possibly other siblings arrive, time may be short, but ideally your children’s hair should be washed at least 2-3 times per week, (we recommend daily for adults if possible) and always after sport, especially swimming.

Always detangle long hair prior to washing, a comb is best, but if a brush is preferred, one with widely spaced, plastic prongs is much kinder to the hair than bristle such as the Philip Kingsley Grooming Brush or Philip Kingsley Paddle Brush. Start near the bottom of the hair, with downward strokes, gradually moving higher until the hair can be combed/brushed from root to tip without hitting any tangles.

How To Wash Toddlers, Infants & Childrens' Hair:

• As described for babies, ensure their hair is thoroughly wet before applying shampoo. Not only will this ensure effective lathering, it will also mean that less shampoo will be needed.
• Distribute a 50p size amount of shampoo between your hands and smooth this over their head. Lather using both hands in a gentle kneading motion, working from forehead to nape.
• Do not pile long hair up on top of their head, as this may lead to tangles. Simply allow the lather to run down.
• Rinse thoroughly.
• Conditioner should be applied to the mid-lengths and ends, just a little is all that is necessary. This should be rinsed out, but their hair should still feel a little slippery afterwards.
• Gently squeeze the moisture out with a towel, an absorbent microfibre one can really help speed this up. Never rub, as this could cause hair breakage.

A comb rather than a brush is kinder on wet hair, which is more vulnerable to damage. Ideally their hair should be left to dry naturally, but if blow dried, this should be on a low heat, ensuring the dryer is held at least 15cm away from their  hair.