A simple guide for Australian parents who want safe, gentle, non-toxic hair and body care for their babies and little kids - without the guesswork on the ingredient label.

If you have ever stood in a pharmacy aisle squinting at the back of a baby shampoo bottle, you are not alone. More and more Australian parents are choosing clean, plant-based products and skipping ingredients like sulphates, parabens and synthetic fragrance. Original Sprout is one of the most trusted names in that world - a vegan, family-friendly range made for delicate skin, and now available in Australia at Cuddles & Co.

Quick answer: What is Original Sprout?

Original Sprout is a 100% vegan hair, body and skin care brand founded in 2003 in Santa Barbara, California, by a new mum and professional hairstylist who wanted products safe enough for her own baby. Every product is made in California and clinically tested in the USA, formulated without parabens, phthalates or sulphates. The range is gentle enough for newborns and effective enough for the whole family, which is why it is a favourite among parents looking for natural baby hair care in Australia.

Why Australian parents choose non-toxic baby hair care

A baby's skin is thinner and more absorbent than an adult's, which means it can take in more of whatever you put on it - and react more easily to irritants. That is why many experts recommend keeping a baby's routine simple and free from harsh chemicals. The most common ingredients parents look to avoid are sulphates (which strip natural oils), parabens and phthalates (preservatives and fragrance carriers people increasingly want to skip), and synthetic fragrance, a frequent trigger for sensitive skin.

Original Sprout was built around exactly these concerns. The range is clinically tested in the USA, allergen free, and free from gluten, honey, peanuts and dairy - reassuring for families managing allergies.

The Original Sprout range, explained for parents

Here is what each part of the collection does, so you can match it to your child's hair and skin.

Hair & Body Babywash - the everyday hero

An award-winning two-in-one wash that cleans hair and body in a single step. It is gentle, low-irritant, and designed for daily use from the very first bath. If you only buy one product to start, this is it. New parents often begin with the Baby's First Bath Kit, which bundles the essentials together and makes a popular baby-shower or newborn gift.

Classic Shampoo & Deep Conditioner - for growing hair

As your toddler's hair gets longer and thicker, a dedicated shampoo and conditioner help with softness and tangles. The Classic Shampoo cleans gently without stripping, and the Deep Conditioner can also be used as a leave-in to make combing after the bath far less of a battle.

Curl Calmer & styling - for curls and fly-aways

Got a curly, frizzy or unruly-haired little one? The Curl Calmer defines and smooths curls, while the gentle Classic Hair Gel and Styling Balm tame flyaways for daycare photos and special occasions - without anything harsh.

What is actually in it? The good ingredients

Instead of fillers, Original Sprout leans on plant botanicals that are gentle but functional:

  • Aloe vera - soothes and moisturises the scalp.
  • Cranberry - rich in vitamins A and C to support healthy skin and hair.
  • Calendula and rosemary - soothe the scalp, and are traditionally known to help repel head lice (handy once daycare and school start).
  • Apricot and argan oil - nourish with vitamins A and E for soft, manageable hair.

Is Original Sprout tear-free and safe for newborns?

Original Sprout is formulated to be gentle, low-irritant and safe for use from a baby's first bath, which is why it sits in the babycare range at Cuddles & Co. As with any product near the eyes, take normal care during rinsing. If your baby has a diagnosed skin condition or known allergies, it is always sensible to check with your GP first and patch test a new product.

Where to buy Original Sprout in Australia

You can shop the full Original Sprout range in Australia at Cuddles & Co, a Melbourne-based clean-beauty store that curates non-toxic, globally trusted brands for babies, kids and parents. Browse the Babycare collection to start your little one's routine, with free shipping on orders over $100 and gift wrapping available.

Frequently asked questions

Is Original Sprout safe for babies?

Yes. Original Sprout is clinically tested in the USA and free from parabens, phthalates and sulphates. It is designed to be gentle enough for a baby's first bath and is used by families for newborns through to adults.

Is Original Sprout vegan and cruelty-free?

Yes. Original Sprout is 100% vegan and cruelty-free (Leaping Bunny recognised), and it is made in California, USA.

Does Original Sprout help with sensitive skin?

Many parents choose Original Sprout because it is free from common irritants like sulphates and synthetic fragrance and is allergen free, gluten free, honey free, peanut free and dairy free. Many parents have reported that the gentle Hair & Body Babywash and Baby Cream suit sensitive skin, but always patch test and consult your doctor for a diagnosed skin condition.

What is the best Original Sprout product to start with?

For newborns and babies, start with the Hair & Body Babywash or the Baby's First Bath Kit. For toddlers with longer hair, add the Classic Shampoo and Deep Conditioner.

Where can I buy Original Sprout in Australia?

Original Sprout is available in Australia at Cuddles & Co (cuddlesandco.com.au), with Australia-wide shipping and free delivery on orders over $100.

Ready to simplify your little one's routine? Shop the Original Sprout range at Cuddles & Co.