Don’t you just love it when you can purchase one item and use it for all sorts of things? I know I do. Not only does it cut down on the amount of stuff I have in my house, but it makes me feel like it’s very useful and beneficial to our family.
Bentonite clay is one of those things. It’s an amazing substance, and it has a lot of uses.
If you don’t already know much about bentonite clay, check out this post I wrote last year on my friend Lauren’s blog, Empowered Sustenance, called Bentonite Clay 101 + 15 Head-to-Toe Uses. In this post, I discuss what it is, what it does, what the different varieties mean, how to find a good quality of clay, concerns when using it, and of course… 15 ways to use it.
Okay, so like I said, I use it a lot, but today I’m gonna share 4 ways I use it with my kids. Keep in mind that there are so many more ways to use it than these… especially when you consider using it for adults and all its great household uses.
4 Ways I Use Bentonite Clay With My Kids
Homemade Toothpaste
I love using bentonite clay in our homemade toothpaste. I’ve shared two versions of homemade toothpaste here on the blog. One is a homemade coconut oil toothpaste, and the other is a homemade remineralizing toothpaste. We love them both, and my kids will use each of these consistently! The bentonite helps to thicken the toothpaste and because it’s clay, it helps to polish the teeth gently as well.
Looking for an easy DIY toothpaste recipe. Check out this YouTube video I made a LONG time ago featuring one of my favorite homemade toothpaste recipes.
Detox Baths
Detox baths aren’t super common here in our house, but whenever sickness is visiting us I do use these.
All I do is add in about 1-2 cups of bentonite clay to my kid’s bath as it fills. I swish the water around to get it to mix in as much as possible and to soak up the water which will cause the bentonite clay to swell. When it’s time for my sick little one to get it, we play “mud bath” which they love (hey, they’re boys!). They scoop up the “mud” from the bottom of the tub and smear it all over themselves. This is a great game to play to get them to put the bentonite clay on their body which will help it draw the toxins out of their body especially if you can encourage them to put it on areas where their lymph nodes are. Below you can see the common pathways for lymph nodes as found in The Merck Manual of Medical information-Home Edition.
As you can see, clusters of lymph nodes are gathered in the sides of the neck, under the armpits, and in between the legs in the groin area. Our lymph nodes play a vital role in protecting the body and keeping it healthy. The lymph nodes play several important roles in our body’s health, but one of the main things they do is filter bacteria, viruses, and fungi from our bodies to keep everything healthy and in balance. (Source) This is why detox baths can be so beneficial… especially with bentonite clay as it draws the toxins out of the body and to it like a magnet.
While I’ve not found any scientific evidence that supports the use of bentonite clay baths to help detox the body, I do use them from time to time based on their traditional use.
Detox Smoothies
Another way I sometimes use bentonite clay with my kids when they’re sick or if I feel like they need a nice gentle detox is to put it in their smoothies. A little goes a long way so I’m sure not to overdo it. I usually add in 2 TBSP to our whole smoothie mix in my Vita-Mix which gives us about 4 – 8 oz. smoothies. If I’m making single-serving smoothies in my Magic Bullet, then I use around 2 tsp. of clay for each smoothie.
Bentonite clay can be mixed straight with water or juice and drank, but it’s very difficult to get kids to take it this way as it can taste nasty to them. I’ve found that using it in smoothies masks the flavor well.
Drawing Clay
When I was running my Etsy shop, I used to sell a bentonite/herb powder mixture I called “Herbal Drawing Clay,” and it was one of my best sellers.
You can use it on everything, but I primarily use it with my kids for first aid type things such as itchy rashes, splinters, and bug bites. It works wonders! Not only does the bentonite help to draw toxins, poisons, or embedded things out of the skin, but the herbs help in their own way as well. My next Ultimate How-To Herbal Guide will use this drawing clay blend in one of the exclusive recipes in the guide, so if you wanna know how to make it, you’ll have to check it out there!
Where To Get Quality Bentonite Clay
I LOVE Redmond Clay’s bentonite clay! It’s a go-to source for a high-quality product. You can find it in many local health food stores or you can buy it right here on Amazon.
I hope you’ve enjoyed seeing how I use this great product on my kiddos, and I certainly hope it’s given you some ideas for ways you can use it on yours!
Do you have any additional uses when it comes to bentonite and your kids? Share with me in the comments below so I can try them out!
This post was underwritten by Redmond Trading Company. All opinions are mine. Redmond Trading is your go-to source for bentonite clay products, real salt blends, clay toothpaste, mineral bath salts, and electrolyte replacement supplements. Redmond Trading products are sold in the US as well as internationally. Many of their products can be found in local stores as well as online, and they all have MANY different healthy, all-natural uses. Connect with them on Facebook and share why you love Redmond products so much!
How do you get it to stay on your kids when you are trying to draw out a bug bite poison or splinter? A paste stays on while it is wet, but then falls off and makes a mess.
I usually cover the paste up with a bandage Janell because you’re right… it will fall off without something over it.
FYI= I order my redmonds clay thru AzureStandards website, and save like 60% Amazing savings!!
WOW! Good to know! I seriously need to look into whether I can ship their stuff to my location. Don’t they only ship to certain places or something along those lines?
Did anybody else noticed that the Redmond toothpaste contains lead? It on the package you receive once you purchase which if I would have known before hand, I would have not purchase, I can’t have my girls brush with this!! . Lead 5 times stronger than you should consume. Confused here. There are other brand that avoid lead.
Thanks for your patience while I gathered up info on this Ty and answered it. Here’s a blog post I wrote about why I’m not stressing about lead in bentonite clay toothpastes and why I still stand behind Earthpaste. Hope it helps answer your questions.
Azure ships to all western states and is moving east. Since they are in OR and I in WA that isn’t a problem. Also, they add a surcharge to the states further away. They are much cheaper on Redmond products.
Oh good to know. I’ll have to look into it again! Thanks!
My son developed slight excema in his chest two weeks ago. Other than obviously adjusting his diet, I was thinking about trying mud baths! But is it possible to make a topical paste with it too? Maybe in some coconut oil?
You can definitely make a topical paste with it too… it’s just like the detox bath. When you mix water with the clay, the clay swells and forms a paste that is great for drawing things out of the skin. I’m not sure if it would work as well with the coconut oil as the water actually seeps into the clay… I don’t know that the oil will do that, but I’ve never tried it either. I’m also not sure how it will work for eczema. It may sooth it then again, it may dry it out and make it itchy. I’d suggest moisturizing the area with the coconut oil afterwards though. Good luck. I’d love to know how it works out for you!
WILL THEY CLAY HARDEN IN COLD SMOOTHIES OR WILL IT EVENLY DISTRIBUTE ITSELF AND STAY THAT WAY. THEN WILL I NEED TO GIVE THE KIDS PLENTY OF FLUIDS THROUGHOUT THE DAY
I’ve never had my clay “harden” in a smoothie. I sprinkle it in slowly as the smoothie is blending. That helps to keep it from clumping and to mix smoothly into the mixture so it can be drank. It is a good idea to drink it fairly quickly. I wouldn’t let it sit around for a while… it may thicken up that way. And yes, definitely drink lots of extra liquids throughout the day when using clay internally… it will constipate you if you don’t.
I am wondering if a clay bath or making a smoothie w/ it in, which is more beneficial. My 3 yr. old fractured his arm and has had to have several x rays and I would like to detox him and read clay is the best detox. Just wondering if the bath or taking internally would be better?? Thanks, Stacy
I found this article on natural remedies for radiation from Global Healing Center Stacy. They suggest bentonite clay (among several other clays) as well as activated charcoal as well as some foods, healthy oils, and other supplements. I’d definitely try these things after something like x-rays. Also, medicinal mushrooms are supposed to be great for cleaning up toxins like radiation as well. You can get them in pill or liquid forms as well. This post talks more about the health benefits of mushrooms, and BHS is a great place to get bentonite clay and activated charcoal. And yes, my guess is that taking it all internally is much better than externally although you could definitely do both. Playing in mud baths never hurt anyone! 😉
hello,
Is this safe for a 2 1/2 year old?
I use the toothpaste, detox baths, and drawing clay on my 2 yr. old, but I’m not sure about the smoothies. I can’t remember him really ever needing one of those. From my understanding, it’s not harmful as long as you only give them a small amount and encourage them to keep drinking during the day. Hope that answers your question!
Have you had plumbing problems as a result of using bentonite clay for soaking baths? I’m thinking of the problems of buildup in the pipes and joints. Thank you.
Not that I’ve noticed Retha. We use it as a toothpaste mostly, but it is so little at one time that I don’t think it’s causing any problems. As far as the baths go, I get the kids out of the bath, let the clay settle to the bottom, then try to scoop out as much as possible before incorporating the clay back into the water and draining it all. I always try to run a good bit of water through the pipes afterwards as well to flush them out. It seems to be working because we haven’t personally had any problems, and I don’t think I’ve heard anyone else complain of problems either.
Wouldn’t it deactivate if you put it in a blender. You should not use metal. I use a plastic or wooden spoon to mix mine.
You’re right… bentonite clay isn’t supposed to come into contact with metal, but when I’m referring to mixing it in smoothies, that contact time is VERY short. The smoothie is blended first, and I blend the clay in at the very end so that the powder is completely mixed in the smoothie and not clumpy. I tried mixing it in with a spoon, but we were drinking clumps of clay and my kids were not going for it so in my mind it was better to quickly add it at the end of blending and immediately pour it up into glasses then have them not drink it at all. Plus, seeing as how it’s mixed in with the smoothie, I’m not sure how much actually come in contact with the metal blades anyway. No matter, I think it’s best to do whatever works for you and your family. Maybe I just need to do a better job at mixing it! Thanks for your comment Sue!
Mix the clay and water in a jar with plastic lid and shake it until the mixture is smooth and no lumps, then add to your smoothie and stir with plastic or wood spoon, problem solved
I’ll give that a try the next time I use bentonite in a smoothie Sharon. Thanks for the tip!
I have Yerba Prima Great Plains Liquid Bentonite Clay which i have used internally…..wondering if it will work with my 4.5 yo son who has a stomach bug. Thought about putting a small amount in a drink,. but worried that he wouldn’t drink enough water….any thoughts?
It should work on kids too although I’m not familiar with that brand so I can’t speak for it. As far as getting him to drink water, you could reward him in some way for drinking cups of water throughout the day because he will need to drink water when taking clay internally. Maybe extra play time, TV time, or even a small bit of money for each glass. Just thoughts of course. You can also use activated charcoal for stomach bugs. I don’t think it has the water issues like clay does, but you still want to increase water intake with it too… it’s just not as much. Hope that helps!
Hi,
When making a detox bath for your child, I assume they clay you use is ok to drink? My son is 17 months and occasionally drinks the bath water. I am looking for a product that is good for baths but also ok if some of the bath water is swallowed. Also, is it true you need to give your child electrolytes after having one of these baths? I have seen on other sites that you are meant to replenish what is lost during the soaking process. Thanks!
I’m not sure about all bentonite clays Nina, but I use Redmond Trading bentonite clay (Bulk Herb Store carries that brand) and it is approved for internal use. So yes, it would be okay if your kiddo drank some of the water.
As far as electrolyte replacement goes, I’ve never heard that detox baths using clays cause one to lose electrolytes. They mainly help with drawing toxins from the body. I can see how a hot steam bath or a sauna would do that as it makes you sweat… or even detoxing by drinking lots of fluids, but I’m not sure how clay detox baths would do that. I’ll have to look into that more thought as it could be something I’ve never heard of before.
Detoxing is a tricky subject altogether though, and there’s not a lot of solid science behind it. Detox baths are not the primary way I would go about cleansing my kid’s body anyway, but I do think they’re helpful if your kid has been sick. Hope that helps some, and thanks for your comment!
What is your go to detox then, can you help a infant detox after vaccines? Would you recommend a clay bath for them? Thanks!
My go-to detox would be in the form of an age-appropriate herbal liver cleanser and an herbal lymphatic along with some bentonite clay in a smoothie. For adults, I’d add in regular dry brushing as well. I’ve cut back on clay detox baths for my kids. I’ve found that it’s hard to keep the clay on them since they like to play in the water, and it washes off.
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge.
We have had a recent pinworm issue (gag) and I’m trying to get some insight on a treatment plan. We have three young boys (two confirmed with PWorms), but treating the entire family. We’ve done the Reese’s pinworm treatment (CVS) and plan on repeating in two weeks.
Luckily I already had Redmonds B Clay and started giving it to them as soon as I knew. I’m giving 1/2 tsp in a smoothie. Would you suggest more (they are 3,6,8)?
I also read about including psyllium to flush them out. We are also trying to eat foods high in garlic, vinegar, cloves…and keeping sugar to a minimum.
Just wondering if you have any suggestions…I would be Super appreciated!!!
Humm. I don’t know anything about the Reese’s pinworm treatment, Melanie, but I definitely think the extra herbs and other antihelmintic remedies are beneficial (just be careful not to give them something to strong for their little bodies). I’ve also found that doctors are really easy to work with you on doing this sort of thing naturally since pinworms don’t really affect the child’s health, so if you’re concerned about a natural remedy being too strong, you can always check with your doctor. From my understanding, it can take a while of consistently taking them to see good results. If getting raw garlic into your kids diet is difficult you can try the garlic syrup from this post. If I make it sweeter, rather than stronger, my kids take it like a champ. You can also spread this on bread with some butter and that works well too!
As for the bentonite, I’ve always understood it to be more for metal detoxes and not really for parasites, but I could be wrong. Perhaps I haven’t come across that information. I’ll have to look into it. Anyway, I definitely recommend the increase in fiber (psyllium) so that once they die they are flushed out of the body on a regular basis.
I know it’s gross mama, but stay consistent and they’ll go away. It may be a lot of laundry, a lot of inspection, and a lot of convincing kids to take herbs, but in the end, it’s worth it! Best of luck! I’d love to know how it goes for you.
Try diatomaceous earth for parasites, worms, etc,
Hi thanks for sharing your info.
Just wondering if bentonite detox baths are fine for babies (4mths) as well as toddlers?
Also would it be safe to use/take myself whilst breastfeeding?
Thanks.
I would not recommend doing any sort of detoxing on an infant. Most of the time, babies don’t need that, and if, for some reason, they did, I’d prefer to work with someone experienced in that area and use gentle cleansing herbs myself and have them get it through breastmilk. Also, I would not do any sort of detoxing while nursing as the toxins that are released can come through your breast milk and be passed on to baby. Hope that helps Maxine.
I have a 3 yr old and 4 yr old with swollen lymph nodes. It didn’t happen until I enrolled them in daycare and now they are constantly sick. I took them to the doc and the doc ran tests that I asked, which was a total blood count because cancer runs in my family. I want to do a detox for them, since they’ve been around nothing but sick kids and plus all the toxins from vaccinations. Would you recommend a topical paste to put on their neck? That’s what I”m thinking. Thanks in advance.
That would be a great way to use bentonite with kids. Just mix the clay with water and rub it on all areas that have lymph nodes (under arms, neck, groin, etc.). Let them “play in the mud” to make it fun. I’d personally combine it with other detox methods that are safe for kids. I have a post coming out in the next couple of weeks on how to detox your kids with herbs so stay tuned for that.
I have a 11-month-old and I have the Aztec bentonite clay. Is that safe to use in a bath for him? He’s feeling a bit warm and has a slight runny nose. Also can I mix this with the baking soda and epsom salt 1/4c each ?
Yes, Maggie. Those ingredients should be totally fine to combine and put in his bath water. I hope he starts feeling better soon!
I didn’t read through all of these comments so I’m not sure if anyone’s mentioned this. Bentonite clay can not come in contact with metal. When you blend that in your blender you’re essentially taking away the charge in it. It renders it not effective.
You’re right, Liz. I have addressed this in a previous comment. See my response to Sue. Thanks for your comment!
Hello!
I want to detox my child from vaccines. Is it safe to do clay baths and have my child drink clay as well? Should I be giving the child any additional things to make the clay safe or are the other things optional? is Redmond clay safe for external and internal use? How about livingclay, do you recommend? Thanks so much! ?
I’d suggest you contact the customer service department for the brand of clay you’re considering using and speak to them about internal use. They can give you more info on what minerals their clay contains and common ways it can be used. As far as using clay internally goes, the only other additional thing I know of, which I think I mentioned in this post, is to drink a lot of water when taking it internally in order to avoid constipation. As far as detoxing after vaccines go, there may be some other ways to go about it, in place of or in addition to using clay, that can help. I’m sure a quick Google search can help with research in that area. Hope that helps!
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Can it be used as a toothpaste for a 2 year old ? Of course they don’t spit out and will ingest it. So is it safe and recommended? Also how much quantity if yes, a day – a pinch, 1 gram ??
Here’s a recipe for a kid-friendly clay toothpaste, but I’d leave out the essential oils if your child isn’t old enough to spit the paste out. You should also read this article about small amounts of non-bioavailable lead in the clay as well, just so you’re aware of it and can make a better decision for your family.
Do you recommend a substitute for coconut oil in your kid-friendly toothpaste recipe? My toddler is allergic to coconut.
Sure thing, Jennifer. Here’s a recipe for a homemade toothpaste that doesn’t contain coconut oil (https://growingupherbal.com/herbal-remineralizing-toothpaste-recipe/) and here’s another one for a tooth oil that is my favorite (https://growingupherbal.com/diy-tooth-oil)!!
How early can i start with the bath for a 7 month old baby? She had a head CT last week and I’m freaking out about the radiation I put her through.
You can add bentonite clay to bath water at any age. If you rub the clay on baby’s body, just be sure the room and water are warm so she doesn’t get too cold.
Which guide has the bentonite and herb recipe for cuts etc?
If you’re looking for the drawing salve recipe that uses bentonite, activated charcoal, and herbs, it’s in my Ointments, Salves, and Balms ebook.
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Have you ever used the mask on a baby’s face? I was going to try the detox bath but the area of concern is on his face. None of my other holistic approaches have worked and doctors keep prescribing steroids, bacterial creams, fungal creams, and nothing has worked so far. He is only 6 months old but his poor face needs relief.
I haven’t, Laura. It sounds like you’re talking about your little guy having eczema on his face. Detox baths are really focused on the lymphatic system support and cleansing, and eczema is more gut related so I’m not sure a face mask would be an appropriate use there. Definitely, do some more research on natural ways to get some gut/liver support as those two areas are linked with skin issues. Best of luck, mama!!
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