Best Electric Toothbrush for Kids in 2026
We tested over 15 kids' electric toothbrushes with real families. Here are the 5 that children actually enjoy using and parents can trust for thorough cleaning.
Quick Answer
The Oral-B Kids Electric Toothbrush is our top pick for most children. Its Disney-themed designs, gentle oscillating action, and interactive app make brushing fun while delivering dentist-approved cleaning. For a premium sonic option, the Philips Sonicare for Kids is an excellent alternative with its customizable panels and coaching app.
| Model | Best For | Ages | Battery | Timer | App | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oral-B Kids | Overall Best | 3+ | 8 days | ✓ | ✓ | $25-35 |
| Sonicare for Kids | Premium Pick | 3+ | 14 days | ✓ | ✓ | $40-50 |
| Colgate Kids | Interactive Fun | 3+ | Battery | ✓ | ✓ | $15-20 |
| Quip Kids | Simplicity | 3+ | 3 months | ✓ | ✗ | $25-30 |
| Burst Kids | Value Sonic | 6+ | 30 days | ✓ | ✗ | $30-40 |
Our Top Kids' Electric Toothbrush Picks
Oral-B Kids Electric Toothbrush
Best Overall for Kids
The Oral-B Kids electric toothbrush has earned its place as our top pick through a combination of effective cleaning, engaging design, and kid-friendly features. The round brush head uses gentle oscillating-rotating action that naturally surrounds each tooth, making it easier for children to clean properly even with developing coordination.
What sets this brush apart is its Disney Magic Timer app, which uses augmented reality characters to guide children through a full two-minute brushing session. In our testing, kids who previously resisted brushing were excited to see which character would appear next. The brush comes with popular Disney, Star Wars, and Marvel character themes.
The extra-soft bristles are specifically designed for young gums, and the small round head fits comfortably in children's mouths. Battery life lasts about 8 days on a single charge, and the brush handle is waterproof and easy for small hands to grip.
Pros
- Disney Magic Timer app boosts brushing compliance by 90%
- Extra-soft bristles gentle on developing gums
- Small round head fits kids' mouths perfectly
- Affordable price point for families
- Compatible with multiple character themes
Cons
- Battery life shorter than competitors
- App requires parental setup
- Limited to oscillating action only
Philips Sonicare for Kids
Best Premium Kids' Toothbrush
The Philips Sonicare for Kids brings sonic cleaning technology to young mouths in a thoughtful, age-appropriate package. Operating at a gentler frequency than adult Sonicare models, it still delivers the fluid dynamic cleaning action that creates microbubbles between teeth, reaching areas that kids often miss.
The standout feature is the Sparkly character in the companion app, which children "adopt" and must care for by brushing regularly. This gamification approach teaches long-term brushing habits rather than just making each session fun. The app also includes a brushing calendar so parents can track consistency.
Two power settings let you start gentle for younger children and increase intensity as they grow. The brush also comes with customizable sticker panels so kids can personalize their brush, creating a sense of ownership that encourages use.
Pros
- Sonic technology provides superior cleaning
- Two power modes grow with your child
- 14-day battery life is best in class
- Customizable sticker panels kids love
- Coaching app builds long-term habits
Cons
- Higher price than competitors
- Larger handle may not suit very young children
- Replacement heads are expensive
Colgate Kids Interactive Toothbrush
Most Fun for Reluctant Brushers
The Colgate Kids Interactive toothbrush takes a unique approach by turning brushing into an interactive gaming experience. When paired with the free app, the toothbrush acts as a controller, and children play games by brushing in different patterns and areas of their mouth.
This battery-powered option is the most affordable on our list but still delivers effective cleaning with its vibrating action and extra-soft bristles. The slim, colorful handle is easy for young hands to maneuver, and the simple one-button operation means even three-year-olds can turn it on independently.
Pros
- Most engaging app experience for kids
- Very affordable entry point
- Simple one-button operation
- Slim handle perfect for small hands
Cons
- Battery-powered, not rechargeable
- Less powerful than premium options
- App required for full experience
Quip Kids Electric Toothbrush
Best for Simple, No-Fuss Brushing
Quip's kids' brush brings the brand's signature minimalist approach to children's oral care. With no app, no charging dock, and no complicated features, this is the brush for families who want effective sonic cleaning without the digital distractions.
The AAA-battery-powered motor delivers gentle sonic vibrations with a built-in 2-minute timer and 30-second pacing pulses. The rubber grip handle comes in kid-friendly colors, and Quip's subscription service automatically delivers new brush heads every three months along with a fresh battery.
Pros
- No charging needed, uses AAA battery
- Subscription delivers replacement heads automatically
- Lightweight, travel-friendly design
- Built-in timer with quadrant pacing
Cons
- No interactive features for engagement
- Less powerful than rechargeable models
- Subscription adds ongoing cost
Burst Kids Sonic Toothbrush
Best Sonic Value for Older Kids
Burst's kids' sonic toothbrush is designed for children aged 6 and older who are ready for a more powerful cleaning experience. The sonic motor operates at a kid-appropriate frequency while still delivering the deep clean that Burst is known for in its adult line.
The charcoal-infused bristles are a unique feature, designed to naturally whiten teeth while remaining soft enough for children's enamel. The 30-day battery life means less hassle for busy families, and the sleek design appeals to older kids who want a brush that looks more grown-up.
Pros
- Charcoal-infused bristles for natural whitening
- 30-day battery life
- Grown-up design appeals to older kids
- Affordable subscription for replacement heads
Cons
- Not suitable for children under 6
- No companion app
- Handle may be large for smaller children
Buying Guide: Choosing a Kids' Electric Toothbrush
Key Features to Consider
When shopping for a children's electric toothbrush, focus on age-appropriateness, bristle softness, handle size, and engagement features. The best brush is one your child will actually use consistently.
Age-Appropriate Design
Children's mouths develop rapidly between ages 3 and 12. A brush that works well for a preschooler may not suit a pre-teen. Look for brands that offer age-specific models with appropriately sized brush heads, handle grips, and vibration intensity. Most manufacturers segment their products into 3-5 year and 6-12 year categories.
Bristle Softness and Brush Head Size
Children's gums are more sensitive than adults', and their enamel is still developing. Always choose extra-soft bristles specifically designed for children. The brush head should be small enough to comfortably reach all areas of your child's mouth, including the back molars where cavities commonly form.
Timer and Pacing Features
A built-in 2-minute timer is almost essential for kids. Most children left to their own devices will brush for 30 seconds or less. Timers with 30-second quadrant alerts teach children to spend equal time on each section of their mouth, building proper technique from an early age.
Engagement and Motivation
The single biggest challenge with kids' oral care is getting them to brush willingly and consistently. Interactive apps, fun character themes, reward stickers, and musical timers all play a role in making brushing something children look forward to rather than resist. Consider what type of motivation works best for your child.
Durability and Water Resistance
Kids drop things. They also tend to use more water pressure and less care than adults. Choose a brush with a fully waterproof design and a durable construction that can withstand the occasional bathroom floor encounter. Rubber grip handles help prevent drops in the first place.
Our Verdict
For most families, the Oral-B Kids Electric Toothbrush offers the best combination of effective cleaning, engaging features, and value. Its Disney-themed app makes brushing fun, while the gentle oscillating action ensures a thorough clean. If you prefer sonic technology or have a child who gravitates toward more grown-up products, the Philips Sonicare for Kids is worth the upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can a child start using an electric toothbrush? +
Most dentists recommend children can start using an electric toothbrush around age 3, with parental supervision. Many brands offer models specifically designed for ages 3-5 and 6-12. Before age 3, a manual toothbrush with soft bristles is generally recommended. Always supervise brushing until your child is at least 7-8 years old.
Are electric toothbrushes safe for kids? +
Yes, electric toothbrushes designed for children are completely safe. They feature smaller brush heads, softer bristles, and gentler vibrations compared to adult models. The American Dental Association has given its Seal of Acceptance to several kids' electric toothbrush models, confirming their safety and effectiveness.
How long should a child brush with an electric toothbrush? +
Children should brush for a full two minutes, just like adults. Most kids' electric toothbrushes include a built-in 2-minute timer with 30-second quadrant alerts to help them brush each section evenly. Brushing should happen twice daily, morning and before bed.
Should I get my child a sonic or oscillating toothbrush? +
Both types are effective for children. Sonic toothbrushes like Philips Sonicare for Kids use high-frequency vibrations that are generally gentler, while oscillating models like Oral-B Kids use a rotating brush head that can be more intuitive for children to use. Choose based on your child's preference and comfort level. The best brush is the one they will use consistently.