Oil Paints for Kids That Are Safe and Fun
For most children, the best choice is the Creativity Street Washable Oil Pastels, which offer a safe and mess-free introduction to oil-based art. They are ideal for kids aged 4 and up because they are non-toxic and easily wash from skin and most fabrics. The main limitation is that they are pastels, not true liquid oil paints, so they lack the blendable, creamy texture of traditional oils.
Oil painting is a beloved art form, but traditional oil paints contain solvents and pigments that are not safe for young children. Fortunately, several brands have created kid-friendly alternatives that mimic the look and feel of oil paints without the hazards.
This roundup highlights the best options available on Amazon, from washable pastels to water-mixable oil paints that are safer for kids. We focus on products that are non-toxic, easy to clean, and provide a satisfying painting experience for budding artists.
Our top picks
Creativity Street Washable Oil Pastels
These oil pastels are a top pick for young children due to their safe, non-toxic formula and easy washability. They glide smoothly on paper and provide vibrant colors, making them a favorite among parents and teachers. The set includes a variety of colors and is designed to be mess-free, as they do not require solvents or brushes.
Pros
- Non-toxic and safe for young children
- Washable from skin and clothing
- Smooth application with minimal smudging
Cons
- Not true oil paints, so no blending with brushes
- Pastels can break if dropped
Crayola Oil Pastels
Crayola is a trusted name in children’s art supplies, and their oil pastels are no exception. They offer a wide range of bright, bold colors that encourage creativity. The pastels are designed to be durable and easy to grip, making them suitable for kids aged 5 and up. They are also non-toxic and washable, ensuring a safe and easy cleanup.
Pros
- Vibrant and varied color selection
- Durable tips resist breaking
- Trusted brand with quality assurance
Cons
- Slightly waxy texture may be less creamy
- Some users report smudging on paper
Ohuhu Oil Pastels
Ohuhu offers an impressive set of 52 oil pastels at an affordable price, making it a great entry point for kids exploring oil-based art. The pastels are soft and blendable, allowing for smooth color transitions. They include a pastel holder and a sharpener, adding convenience. The set is non-toxic and safe for kids, though it may require a bit more cleanup than washable varieties.
Pros
- Excellent value with many colors
- Soft and blendable texture
- Comes with useful accessories
Cons
- Not washable, may stain clothes
- Some colors are less pigmented
Mont Marte Oil Pastels
Mont Marte oil pastels are known for their high-quality pigment and creamy consistency. They are a bit more expensive but offer a superior painting experience. The set includes a wide range of colors and is non-toxic, making it suitable for older kids and teens. They blend beautifully and are less likely to break, but they are not washable, so supervision is advised.
Pros
- High pigment concentration for rich colors
- Smooth and creamy application
- Durable and resistant to breaking
Cons
- Not washable, can be messy
- Higher price point
Sakura Cray-Pas Oil Pastels
Sakura Cray-Pas are a favorite among art educators for their superior blendability and rich, buttery texture. They are perfect for kids who want to learn oil pastel techniques like layering and mixing. The set includes a variety of colors and is non-toxic. While they are more expensive, their quality justifies the cost for serious young artists.
Pros
- Exceptional blending capabilities
- Buttery smooth texture
- Trusted by art educators
Cons
- Limited color count for the price
- Can be messy if not handled carefully
Himi Oil Paint Set for Kids
Himi offers a water-mixable oil paint set that is safer for kids because it can be thinned and cleaned with water instead of harsh solvents. This set includes 24 vibrant colors and is non-toxic, making it a good transition for teens who want to experience genuine oil painting. However, it still requires more cleanup and supervision than pastels, and the paints are not washable from clothing.
Pros
- Real oil paint experience
- No harsh solvents required
- Good color selection
Cons
- Not washable, may stain
- Requires brushes and canvas separately
Sax Arts & Crafts Oil Pastels
Sax Arts & Crafts oil pastels are designed for educational settings, offering a durable and affordable option for classrooms. They come in a generous set of 24 colors and are non-toxic. They are not as creamy as premium brands but are reliable and easy to use. They are also washable, which is a bonus for parents.
Pros
- Affordable for bulk use
- Washable and kid-friendly
- Sturdy packaging
Cons
- Colors are less vibrant
- Texture is slightly dry
How to pick the right one
How they stack up
| # | Model | Type | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Creativity Street Washable Oil Pastels | Oil pastels | Toddlers and young kids (ages 4+) | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Crayola Oil Pastels | Oil pastels | School-age kids who want vibrant colors | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | Ohuhu Oil Pastels | Oil pastels | Budget-friendly choice for beginners | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | Mont Marte Oil Pastels | Oil pastels | Kids who want a professional feel | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | Sakura Cray-Pas Oil Pastels | Oil pastels | Aspiring young artists (ages 8+) | 8.9 | Check price |
| 6 | Himi Oil Paint Set for Kids | Water-mixable oil paints | Older kids (10+) who want real oil paints | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | Sax Arts & Crafts Oil Pastels | Oil pastels | Classroom and group use | 8.2 | Check price |
Questions worth asking
Are oil paints safe for kids?
Traditional oil paints contain toxic solvents like turpentine, but many kid-friendly options are non-toxic. Oil pastels and water-mixable oil paints are safer choices, as they do not require harsh solvents. Always check for non-toxic certification and choose products designed for children.
What is the difference between oil pastels and oil paints?
Oil pastels are solid sticks made of pigment and oil, used directly on paper without brushes or solvents. Oil paints are liquid in tubes, requiring brushes and thinners. Oil pastels are mess-free and easier for kids, while oil paints offer a more traditional painting experience.
Can oil pastels be washed off clothes?
Many oil pastels, especially those labeled washable, can be removed from clothing with soap and water or standard laundry detergent. However, some brands may leave stains, so it is best to treat them promptly with a stain remover.
What age is appropriate for oil paints?
For toddlers and young children (ages 3-5), washable oil pastels are safe and easy to use. For school-age kids (6-12), high-quality pastels or water-mixable oils under supervision are suitable. Teens can handle real oil paints with proper safety precautions.
Do oil pastels require a fixative?
Oil pastels do not dry completely and can smudge. A fixative spray can help protect the artwork, but many are toxic and should only be used by adults in a well-ventilated area. Alternatively, frame the art behind glass to prevent smudging.
How do you blend oil pastels?
Blending can be done directly on paper with fingers, cotton swabs, or blending stumps. You can also layer colors and use a solvent like baby oil for a smoother effect, but for kids, simple finger blending is effective and safe.
What surfaces work best with oil pastels?
Oil pastels work well on paper, cardstock, canvas, and even wood. Heavier paper with some tooth is ideal. Avoid glossy surfaces. For permanence, use a special pastel paper or prime the surface with gesso.
Are water-mixable oil paints good for kids?
Water-mixable oil paints are a safer alternative because they can be thinned and cleaned with water, eliminating toxic solvents. They are suitable for older kids and teens who want a real oil painting experience, but they still require supervision and are not washable from clothing.
The bottom line
For most kids, the Creativity Street Washable Oil Pastels are the clear winner because they combine safety, washability, and vibrant colors at an affordable price. If your child is older and shows serious interest in painting, consider the Sakura Cray-Pas for superior quality or the Himi water-mixable set for a true oil paint experience. Avoid traditional oil paints for young children due to solvent risks.
