Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo Review

Product Overview

Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo has become one of the most trusted natural pet shampoos on the market. Designed specifically for pets with sensitive, itchy, or dry skin, this pH-balanced formula combines colloidal oatmeal and organic aloe vera to soothe and moisturize while cleaning effectively. After testing this shampoo on multiple dogs and cats with various coat types and skin sensitivities over several months, we've compiled this comprehensive review.

Ingredient Analysis

One of Earthbath's strongest selling points is its commitment to natural, safe ingredients. The formula is soap-free and contains no parabens, sulfates, phosphates, or dyes.

Key Active Ingredients:

• Colloidal Oatmeal: Proven to relieve itching and irritation, helps restore moisture to dry skin
• Organic Aloe Vera: Natural anti-inflammatory that soothes skin and promotes healing
• Vitamin E: Antioxidant that supports skin health and coat shine
• Coconut-Based Cleansers: Gentle, biodegradable cleaning agents derived from renewable sources

The formula is pH-balanced specifically for pets (unlike human shampoos), which is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and coat. It's also entirely biodegradable and safe for use on animals that will be swimming in lakes or rivers.

Performance Testing

We tested Earthbath shampoo on five different dogs over a 3-month period, including a Golden Retriever with allergies, a Labrador with oily coat, a Poodle with sensitive skin, and two mixed breeds with normal coats.

Cleaning Power

The shampoo produces a moderate lather - not as sudsy as some conventional shampoos, but adequate for thorough cleaning. It effectively removed dirt, odor, and light oils from all coat types tested. However, for extremely dirty or oily dogs, you may need to shampoo twice or use a degreasing shampoo first.

Skin Soothing Effects

The Golden Retriever with environmental allergies showed noticeable improvement in scratching behavior after switching to Earthbath. Within two weeks of regular use (weekly baths), red patches had calmed significantly and the dog seemed more comfortable. The oatmeal and aloe combination clearly provided relief from irritation.

Coat Condition

All dogs showed improved coat softness and shine after using Earthbath for a month. The Poodle's coat, which tends to get dry, maintained better moisture levels. The Labrador's coat had nice shine without looking greasy. The shampoo rinses out cleanly without leaving residue.

Pros and Cons

Value Analysis

At approximately $12.99 for 16 oz, Earthbath sits in the mid-to-premium price range for pet shampoos. However, the concentrated formula means you don't need to use much per bath. For a medium-sized dog, the 16 oz bottle typically provides 8-10 baths.

For dogs with skin sensitivities, the investment is worthwhile as it can reduce the need for veterinary visits and medicated treatments. The 1-gallon size offers the best value for multi-pet households or large dogs.

Best Practices for Use

• Wet coat thoroughly with warm water before applying shampoo
• Use a small amount - the formula is concentrated and a little goes a long way
• Massage into coat for 3-5 minutes to allow oatmeal to work
• Rinse extremely thoroughly - any residue can cause irritation
• For best results on sensitive skin, use weekly or bi-weekly
• Follow with Earthbath conditioner for extra softness and tangles
• Safe to use on puppies and kittens over 6 weeks old

Final Verdict