Best Non Toxic Crayons for Toddlers
The best non toxic crayons for toddlers are made with safer ingredients, vibrant pigments, and durable waxes that hold up to little hands. If you’re looking for non toxic crayons for toddlers that are easy to grip and safe for curious kids who still put things in their mouths, these are my favorite options.
When my boys were toddlers, crayons seemed to end up everywhere except the paper. I found them under the couch, tucked into toy bins, and once even discovered a blue crayon that had somehow made its way through the washing machine. Toddlers are curious little people, and if they can draw with something, there’s a good chance they’ll also try tasting it at least once. Oops.
That’s exactly why I started paying closer attention to the art supplies we brought into our home. While no crayon is meant to be eaten, I felt better choosing products made with safer ingredients and fewer questionable chemicals. The truth is, toddlers spend a lot of time with crayons in their hands, on their clothes, and sometimes near their mouths.
If you’re looking for the best non-toxic crayons for toddlers, you’re in the right place. I’ve rounded up the options that are safer, durable enough to survive toddler life, and actually fun for little hands to use. Whether you’re raising a budding artist or just trying to keep your kitchen table covered in colorful masterpieces, these crayons are worth a look.
Coloring is also one of the easiest ways to support early hand strength and coordination. These simple activities can help boost your child’s fine motor skills while they play.
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Quick Comparison Of The Best Non Toxic Crayons For Toddlers
| Crayon Brand | Best For | Wax Type | Price Range | Washable | Recommended Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honeysticks | Young Toddlers | 100% Beeswax | $$ | No | 1+ |
| Crayola Ultra Clean | Easy Cleanup | Traditional Wax | $ | Yes | 2+ |
| Filana Beeswax Crayons | Natural Ingredients | Organic Beeswax | $$ | No | 2+ |
| Ooly Chunkies | Easy Grip | Beeswax Blend | $$ | No | 2+ |
| Crayon Rocks | Fine Motor Development | Soy Wax | $$ | No | 3+ |
| Wee Can Too | Food-Grade Ingredients | Food-Grade Wax Blend | $$ | No | 2+ |
| Lebze Beeswax Crayons | Chunky Grip | Beeswax | $$ | No | 2+ |
| Faber-Castell Beeswax Crayons | Durability | Beeswax | $ | No | 3+ |
Price Guide: $ = Under $10 | $$ = $10–20 | $$$ = Over $20
How I Chose These Non-Toxic Crayons
As a mom of three, I’ve gone through more boxes of crayons than I can count. When choosing non-toxic crayons for toddlers, I focused on products made with safer ingredients, designed for little hands, and durable enough for everyday use. I looked at ingredient information, age recommendations, ease of cleaning, overall quality, and feedback from parents who have used these crayons with young children. My goal was to find options that help toddlers explore creativity while giving parents a little extra peace of mind.
What Makes A Crayon Non Toxic?
As a mom of three, I’ve had more crayons in my house than I can count. Like most toddlers, my kids spent just as much time tasting crayons as coloring with them. That’s what pushed me to look more closely at ingredient lists and safety certifications before bringing art supplies into our home.
The term gets thrown around constantly, but not all crayons claiming safety standards are created equal. True non toxic crayons for kids should meet a basic set of criteria:
- Made from food-grade or naturally derived ingredients. Beeswax, soy wax, and vegetable pigments are ideal.
- Certified by credible safety organizations. ASTM D-4236 is the U.S. standard, but additional certifications offer even more reassurance.
- Free from heavy metals, paraffin, and artificial fragrances. Many parents prefer beeswax and soy-based crayons because they use simpler, naturally derived ingredients.
- Safe if mouthed or accidentally ingested in tiny amounts. No parent wants to panic over a toddler bite mark on a crayon.
Understanding these basics makes it far easier to choose crayons that truly support healthy, joyful play.
Benefits of Choosing Non Toxic Crayons for Kids
Parents often assume crayons are harmless by default, but switching to non toxic crayons for kids comes with surprisingly big benefits.
- Cleaner ingredients. Natural waxes are smoother, sturdier, and far less likely to trigger irritation.
- Better color payoff. High-quality beeswax crayons offer rich, buttery pigment kids love.
- Stronger durability. Natural blends break less easily, saving both money and frustration.
- Reduced exposure to additives. Especially helpful for toddlers still exploring objects orally.
- Eco-conscious manufacturing. Many non-toxic crayon brands use renewable, biodegradable materials.
Crayons also encourage open-ended creativity, making them a perfect companion to these imagination games for toddlers. Many parents pair coloring time with read-aloud sessions using these fairy books that spark imagination to encourage creative thinking.
Best Non Toxic Crayons By Age
12-24 Months
Chunky beeswax crayons are often the easiest option for young toddlers who are just beginning to scribble.
Ages 2-3
Washable crayons can help reduce messes while encouraging creativity and early drawing skills.
Ages 4-5
Triangular crayons support proper pencil grip development as children prepare for kindergarten and early writing activities.
The Best Non Toxic Crayons for Kids
If you’re ready to swap out old supplies, these standout brands prioritize safety, durability, and beautiful color experience. Each one aligns with the standards parents look for when shopping for non toxic crayons for kids.
1. Honeysticks 100% Pure Beeswax Crayons (Best Overall)
These hand-poured New Zealand crayons are a favorite for toddlers thanks to their chunky shape and all-natural formula. Made with food-grade pigments and pure beeswax, they’re safe enough for the most enthusiastic little artists.
2. Crayola Ultra-Clean Washable Crayons (Best Washable)
Crayola is already known for its rigorous safety standards. The Ultra-Clean line offers a washable, non-toxic option that’s great for preschoolers who adore big, bold color. ASTM D-4236 certified and free from the major concerning additives.
3. Filana Organic Beeswax Crayons (Best For Pencil Grip)
Filana’s crayons are beautifully smooth, richly pigmented, and made with organic beeswax. Their triangular crayons are especially great for improving pencil grip.
4. Ooly Natural Beeswax Crayons (Best Color Selection)
Ooly blends beeswax and plant-based waxes for vibrant, non toxic crayons for kids that glide easily across paper. Their sets come in unique color palettes that spark creativity.
5. Crayon Rocks
Crayon Rocks are made from soy wax and natural mineral pigments, making them a popular choice for parents looking for a non-toxic coloring option. Their unique pebble shape encourages proper pencil grip development while helping toddlers build fine motor skills.
6. Lebze Beeswax Crayons
Lebze beeswax crayons are crafted from natural beeswax and feature vibrant colors that glide smoothly across paper. Their chunky design makes them easy for small hands to hold and use independently.
7. Faber-Castell Beeswax Crayons
Faber-Castell beeswax crayons combine the trusted quality of a well-known art brand with ingredients that parents can feel good about. These crayons deliver rich color, durability, and a comfortable grip for young artists.
What to Look For When Shopping for Non Toxic Crayons for Kids
Not all crayon labels tell the full story. Here are the markers of high-quality non toxic crayons for kids worth checking before you buy.
- Ingredient transparency. Brands should clearly list wax sources and pigments.
- Wax type. Beeswax and soy wax are more durable and safer than paraffin.
- Shape and grip. Chunky crayons for toddlers, triangular for preschoolers learning proper hand positioning.
- Washability. Kid-friendly art supplies should come off walls and skin easily.
- Certifications. ASTM, CPSIA, and EN-71 compliance signal stricter testing.
Parents who want a simpler, cleaner art setup often pair non-toxic crayons with natural markers, beeswax modeling clay, and washable finger paints to extend safety across every creative tool. You can also combine coloring with these STEM activities for toddlers to create fun learning opportunities at home.
These early drawing skills often carry over into hands-on learning with affordable STEM toys for young children.
FAQ Non Toxic Crayons for Kids
Last Updated: June 2026
Are non toxic crayons really safer for toddlers?
Yes. They’re made with natural waxes and pigments that minimize exposure to additives. They’re also safer if mouthed, bitten, or accidentally ingested in tiny amounts.
What crayons are safest for toddlers?
The safest crayons for toddlers are labeled non toxic and meet recognized safety standards such as ASTM D-4236. Many parents prefer chunky beeswax crayons because they are easier for little hands to hold and are often made with simple, natural ingredients. Regardless of the brand, adult supervision is always recommended since toddlers may still put crayons in their mouths.
Are Crayola crayons non toxic?
Yes, Crayola crayons are labeled non toxic and are designed for children’s use.
What are beeswax crayons made from?
Beeswax crayons are typically made from natural beeswax combined with food-grade or non toxic pigments for color. Many parents appreciate beeswax crayons because they often contain fewer synthetic ingredients than traditional crayons. They also tend to have a pleasant natural scent and a smooth coloring texture.
Can toddlers use crayons at 12 months old?
Many toddlers can begin exploring crayons around 12 months of age when closely supervised. Large, chunky crayons designed specifically for young children are usually the best choice because they are easier to grasp and less likely to break. At this age, the focus should be on sensory exploration and developing fine motor skills rather than creating detailed artwork.
Can babies use non toxic crayons?
As long as the crayons are labeled safe for ages 12 months+ and made from food-grade or natural materials, babies can safely explore scribbling.
Are beeswax crayons better than soy crayons?
Both are excellent options. Beeswax is firmer and delivers richer color, while soy crayons are softer and glide smoothly.
Do non toxic crayons stain walls or clothes?
Some natural crayons stain more easily because they use real pigments. Washable options like Crayola Ultra-Clean are great backups for messy artists.
How long do non toxic crayons for kids last?
Beeswax crayons last significantly longer than paraffin ones because they don’t snap as easily and create less crumbling.
Can older kids use non toxic crayons too?
Absolutely. Many brands create thinner, more sophisticated crayons that suit elementary-aged and tween artists too.
Are non toxic crayons more expensive?
They often cost more up front, but their durability and safety make them a worthwhile upgrade.
Do non toxic crayons melt easily?
Beeswax-based crayons soften faster in heat, so keep them away from car interiors and sunny windows.
What’s the safest crayon brand overall?
Honeysticks, Filana, and Ooly consistently rank among the safest, most transparent brands available.
The Bottom Line
Finding the best non toxic crayons for toddlers doesn’t have to be complicated. Look for crayons that meet recognized safety standards, use simple ingredients, and are designed for little hands. Whether you choose Honeysticks, Crayola, Filana, or Ooly, you’ll be giving your child a fun way to build creativity, strengthen fine motor skills, and enjoy screen-free play.
