The Short Answer
Tom's of Maine Kids Toothpaste is a strict avoid. Despite its legacy as a pioneer in natural personal care, the brand's pediatric formulas are plagued by severe safety concerns and outdated ingredients.
In November 2024, the FDA issued a scathing warning letter after finding drug-resistant bacteria and mold in the facility where the toothpaste is made. Even if we ignore the massive contamination scandal, the ingredient label itself is full of red flags.
Why This Matters
Tom's of Maine is practically synonymous with the natural health movement. But today, the brand is wholly owned by the Colgate-Palmolive conglomerate. Is Colgate Safe
In late 2024, the FDA released a warning letter to Tom's of Maine after inspecting their manufacturing facility. Inspectors found drug-resistant bacteria in the water used to make the toothpaste.
If that wasn't enough, the FDA also noted a "black mold-like substance" near product-contact equipment. This resulted in multiple consumer class-action lawsuits stretching into 2025.
Even if you ignore the severe manufacturing violations, the actual formula is outdated. Tom's of Maine Kids still relies on Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), a harsh foaming agent. Is Sls In Toothpaste Bad
They also use carrageenan to thicken the paste, which is a controversial seaweed derivative heavily linked to digestive inflammation. Is Carrageenan In Toothpaste Safe
What's Actually In Tom's of Maine Kids Toothpaste
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) — This harsh detergent is what makes the toothpaste foam, but it's known to strip the oral mucosa and trigger canker sores. Is Sls In Toothpaste Bad
- Carrageenan — A natural thickener derived from red seaweed that has been linked to gastrointestinal inflammation. Is Carrageenan In Toothpaste Safe
- Hydrated Silica — An abrasive used to scrub stains off teeth, which can be too harsh for delicate toddler enamel.
- Sodium Monofluorophosphate — The active ingredient in their fluoride versions, which requires strict dosing to avoid fluorosis if swallowed. How Much Fluoride For Kids
- Natural Flavors — A proprietary blend of fruit juices and extracts that mask the taste of the chemical base.
What to Look For
Green Flags:
- Hydroxyapatite — This non-toxic mineral remineralizes teeth safely, even if your toddler swallows the whole tube. Is Hydroxyapatite As Good As Fluoride
- Clean manufacturing — Brands should have transparent, impeccable facility records free from FDA warnings.
Red Flags:
- Bacterial contamination — Any brand cited for water system failures and mold belongs in the trash.
- Harsh surfactants — Kids' mouths are sensitive, and SLS has no place in pediatric dental care.
The Best Options
You don't have to settle for contaminated or outdated formulas. There are far better pediatric options on the market today. Safest Kids Toothpaste
| Brand | Product | Verdict | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| RiseWell | Kids Mineral Toothpaste | ✅ | Swaps fluoride and SLS for safe, effective hydroxyapatite. |
| Boka | Kids Toothpaste | ✅ | Clean, n-Ha powered formula with great kid-friendly flavors. |
| Tom's of Maine | Silly Strawberry | 🚫 | Cited for dangerous bacteria and formulated with outdated ingredients. |
The Bottom Line
1. Throw away any existing tubes. The risk of exposing your child to drug-resistant bacteria simply isn't worth it.
2. Read the ingredient labels. Don't assume a product is safe just because it features a cartoon strawberry and says "natural."
3. Upgrade to hydroxyapatite. Modern pediatric formulas offer excellent cavity protection without the toxicity risks. Is Risewell Kids Toothpaste Good
FAQ
Did Tom's of Maine have a recall?
While they didn't issue a voluntary recall immediately, the FDA hit them with a severe warning letter in November 2024. Inspectors found multiple strains of dangerous bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in the water used to manufacture the toothpaste.
Does Tom's of Maine Kids have fluoride?
The brand sells both fluoride and fluoride-free versions of their kids' toothpaste. If you opt for the fluoride-free "Silly Strawberry" version, you are getting zero cavity-preventing active ingredients. Fluoride Vs Fluoride Free For Kids
Who owns Tom's of Maine?
Despite the indie, small-town branding, Tom's of Maine is owned by Colgate-Palmolive. The corporate giant purchased the natural brand back in 2006. Is Colgate Safe
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