10 Best Crayons For Toddlers in 2026

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The best crayons for toddlers need to be safe, durable, and easy for small hands to hold. Our Best Overall pick is the Crayola Large Egg Crayons, which fit a toddler’s palm perfectly and are washable from skin and clothing. For a classic jumbo stick, the Crayola MyFirst Jumbo Crayons are a great choice, while the Jar Melo TwistJoy Jumbo Crayons offer a break-resistant twist-up design.

The biggest challenge for parents is finding a crayon that won’t snap in half, is non-toxic, and cleans up easily when it inevitably ends up on the wall. Many standard crayons are too thin and brittle for the grip strength of a one or two-year-old.

This guide is built on research into specifications, manufacturer safety data, and patterns in owner feedback. We focus on the features that matter most for toddlers: safety, durability, grip, and washability. Here are the ten best options to help your little artist get started.

Top 10 Crayons For Toddlers in the Market

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The Best Crayons For Toddlers, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Crayola Large Egg Crayons

Crayola Large Egg Crayons
ShapeEgg-shaped palm grasp
Count12 crayons
WashableYes, from skin and most washable clothing
LongevityEach equals 14 regular crayons
Age rangeAges 1+
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What We Like

  • Egg shape fits toddler palms
  • Washable from skin and clothing
  • Each crayon lasts as long as 14 regular ones
  • Designed for adaptive and sensory needs

Trade-offs

  • Only 12 colors limits variety for older toddlers
  • Egg shape cannot be sharpened like stick crayons

Each egg-shaped crayon packs the coloring power of 14 regular crayons, which means fewer replacements and less frustration when a toddler drops or chews one. The ergonomic palm-grasp design is built for tiny hands still learning to grip, so first marks come naturally without forcing a tripod hold. Crayola’s washable formula cleans off skin and most washable clothing with ease, making this a low-stress choice for parents and preschool teachers who want creativity without permanent stains. For children ages one and up, these giant eggs offer a forgiving, long-lasting start to art.

Each giant crayon packs the power of 14 regular crayons, so these egg-shaped crayons last far longer than typical toddler crayons. The ergonomic design fits toddlers’ palms, making it easy for little hands to make their first marks. For classrooms or parents of very young children, the washable formula cleans up from skin and most washable clothing without scrubbing.

Best for: Toddlers and preschoolers who need a comfortable, long-lasting, washable first crayon that fits their whole palm. Not ideal for families wanting many color options or a crayon that works with standard sharpeners.
#2Best Classic Jumbo

Crayola MyFirst Jumbo Crayons

Crayola MyFirst Jumbo Crayons
Count8 crayons
ShapeJumbo, easy-grip
Age range12+ months
SafetyNon-toxic
Break resistanceFar less breakable
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What We Like

  • Jumbo size fits toddler palms
  • Far less breakable than standard crayons
  • Non-toxic for safe play
  • Introduces color exploration and skill building

Trade-offs

  • Only 8 colors limits variety
  • Far less breakable but still not unbreakable

Eight jumbo crayons sized to fill a toddler’s palm mean little hands can grip and scribble without frustration. Crayola designed these to be far less breakable than typical crayons, so a dropped crayon or a determined squeeze won’t leave you picking up crumbs. Non-toxic and aimed at children 12 months and up, they focus on first marks and color exploration while also supporting physical and thinking skills. That makes them a straightforward, no-fuss starter set for parents who want a classic shape that just works.

Eight colors is a modest palette, which feels limited next to the 12-count options from brands like Honeysticks or Jar Melo. Still, for a first crayon that prioritizes grip and durability over quantity, this set delivers exactly what the name promises.

Best for: Parents seeking a durable, easy-grip first crayon for toddlers 12 months and up who are just starting to scribble. Not ideal for families wanting a wider color range or washable crayons.
#3Best Twist-Up Design

Jar Melo TwistJoy Jumbo Crayons

Jar Melo TwistJoy Jumbo Crayons
Number of Colors12
Crayon TypeTwist-Up
WashableYes
Safety CertificationsASTM, CPC
Bonus ItemPDF Coloring Book
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What We Like

  • Twist-up shell prevents breakage
  • Non-toxic, ASTM and CPC certified
  • Washable on skin, clothes, furniture
  • Includes bonus PDF coloring book

Trade-offs

  • Only 12 colors in the set
  • Requires QR code scan for coloring book
  • Twist mechanism adds moving parts

The twist-up shell design protects these crayons from breaking, so little hands can press hard without ruining the tool. The non-toxic glycerin formula is gentle on skin, and the water-soluble marks wash off skin, clothes, and furniture easily, making cleanup simple. The set includes a bonus PDF coloring book accessed via a QR code on the packaging, offering seven themes for learning and practice. This crayon is designed for toddlers who need a durable, easy-to-hold option with minimal mess.

The trade-off is color variety: with only 12 shades, you’ll have fewer options than some other sets on the market. That said, the twist mechanism means no paper to peel, making it a cleaner, more durable choice for the youngest artists. If your toddler tends to break standard crayons, this design helps prevent that.

Best for: Toddlers who need a break-resistant, mess-free crayon with easy cleanup. Not ideal for kids who want a very wide range of colors right out of the box.

Product photos

#4Best Natural Beeswax

Honeysticks Pure Beeswax Crayons

Honeysticks Pure Beeswax Crayons
Material100% pure beeswax, food-grade colors
Dimensions2.2 inches long, 0.8 inches diameter
Count12 colors
OriginHandmade in New Zealand
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What We Like

  • Non-toxic beeswax and food-grade colors
  • Chubby shape resists breaking
  • Pleasant natural beeswax scent
  • Plastic-free and sustainable

Trade-offs

  • Not labeled as washable for easy cleanup
  • Only 12 colors in the set

A 100% pure beeswax formula with food-grade colors means these crayons are safe enough for a one-year-old who still puts everything in their mouth. The chubby shape, 2.2 inches long and 0.8 inches thick, is easy for tiny fingers to grip and tough enough that preschoolers have tried and failed to snap them. For parents who want the purest possible material for a first drawing tool, this is the natural choice.

The purity of these crayons is their strongest selling point: made in New Zealand from natural beeswax and food-grade colors, they contain none of the petroleum-based paraffin wax or nasty fillers found in many other crayons. That means no waxy residue and no chemical smell, just a natural beeswax scent that reviewers say kids love. The chubby shape is 2.2 inches long and 0.8 inches in diameter, so small hands can grip them easily. They’ve been tested in preschools where children couldn’t break them. With 12 bright colors, the set covers the basics for imaginative drawing, though you won’t get the huge variety of some larger packs.

Best for: Parents seeking the safest, most natural first crayon for toddlers 1-3 years old. Not ideal for families who need washable crayons for easy cleanup from walls or furniture.
#5Best Large Color Set

TinyGeeks Jumbo Crayons

TinyGeeks Jumbo Crayons
Colors18
Length4.1 inches
Diameter0.55 inches
MaterialNatural waxes
WashableYes
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What We Like

  • 18 vibrant colors with word labels
  • Non-toxic natural waxes, no asbestos or lead
  • Washable from skin, clothes, and walls
  • Portable container for travel

Trade-offs

  • Requires supervision for children under 3
  • Not suitable for children who prefer egg-shaped crayons

An 18-color set gives toddlers a broad palette to explore, and each crayon doubles as a learning tool with its own word label. Made from natural waxes and free of asbestos and lead, these are a safe pick for parents who want worry-free coloring time. The jumbo size and rounded shape make them easy for tiny hands to grip and control, so little artists can focus on creating rather than struggling to hold on.

The 0.55-inch diameter makes these crayons easy for tiny hands to grip and control, so toddlers can scribble without frustration. The washable formula wipes off skin, clothes, and walls with mild soap and warm water, saving parents from scrubbing stains. A sturdy portable container keeps the 18 colors organized for travel, and each crayon’s label teaches a new word while kids color.

Best for: Parents seeking a large, safe, and educational crayon set with easy cleanup for toddlers who love variety. Supervision is recommended for children under 3 during use.

Product photos

#6Best Storage Solution

JUPITEARTH Twist Crayons with Bucket

JUPITEARTH Twist Crayons with Bucket
Colors12
Dimensions3.4 x 3.4 x 6.2 in
Weight0.6 lb
SafetyASTM F963-16/17, EN71-3
Bonus120 coloring pages + stickers
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What We Like

  • Storage bucket with carry handle
  • Twist mechanism keeps hands clean
  • Washable from skin, walls, and clothing

Trade-offs

  • Only 12 colors, fewer than some sets
  • Bucket adds bulk for tiny backpacks

A built-in storage bucket with a carry handle means this set is ready to grab and go, no loose crayons rolling under the couch. The 12 twist-up crayons keep hands clean, and the rocket-shaped design turns coloring into a playful conversation starter about space and science. For parents who want a tidy, portable solution that also sparks early STEM interest, this is a smart pick.

Color variety is a consideration here: with 12 shades, it offers fewer options than the 18-count TinyGeeks Jumbo Crayons, which may matter to kids who love a wide palette. But the bucket and twist mechanism make this set far easier to manage on outings and at home. If organization and mess-free fun are your priorities, this bucket delivers.

Best for: Parents who want a portable, mess-free crayon set with built-in storage and a playful STEM theme. Not ideal for families seeking a large color range.

Product photos

#7Best Ergonomic Grip

Momo & Nashi Jumbo Crayons

Momo & Nashi Jumbo Crayons
Count16 crayons
ShapeTriangular grip
SafetyNon-toxic, lead-free, ASTM D-4236 & F963
CleanupWashable from hands, skin, walls, fabrics
StorageDurable plastic bucket
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What We Like

  • Washable on hands, skin, walls, and fabrics
  • Includes printed sheets and 50 downloadable PDFs

Trade-offs

  • Plastic bucket adds bulk for very small bags
  • Not twistable like some competitor crayons.

Sixteen colors in a chunky, triangular crayon that stays put on a table instead of rolling away, that’s the core idea behind the Momo & Nashi Jumbo Crayons. The included printed sheets and 50 downloadable PDFs give extra mileage for quiet, screen-free time at home or on the go.

The included plastic bucket keeps all 16 crayons neatly organized for on-the-go use, making them easy to grab for a restaurant outing or a road trip. With 16 colors, this set offers double the variety of the 8-count Crayola MyFirst Jumbo Crayons, giving toddlers more options for screen-free creative drawing and coloring activities. The bucket is durable and child-friendly, so parents can simply toss it in a bag without worrying about loose crayons rolling around. Reviewers note the portability helps keep little ones engaged during travel, and the bucket also simplifies cleanup after playtime.

Best for: Caregivers who want a washable crayon with a triangular grip that is ideal for developing fine motor skills. Not ideal for children who prefer a round or egg-shaped crayon.

Product photos

#8Best Novelty Shape

YSNYSN Bottle-Shaped Baby Crayons

YSNYSN Bottle-Shaped Baby Crayons
ShapeBottle-shaped
Size2.2 x 1.1 inches
Colors8
SafetyASTM F963, CPSIA, CPC
WashableYes
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What We Like

  • Bottle shape for easy grip
  • Two drawing ends: tip and base
  • Washable from skin and surfaces
  • Non-toxic, safety-certified for ages 1+

Trade-offs

  • Only 8 colors limits variety
  • No twist-up mechanism; solid crayon wears down

A bottle-shaped crayon that measures 2.2 inches across means tiny fingers can wrap around it securely, making this a smart first crayon for a toddler who is still learning to grip. The dual-ended design lets a child draw fine lines with the rounded tip and then flip it over for broad, bold strokes with the wide base. Certified non-toxic under ASTM F963 and CPSIA, and fully washable from skin, tables, and clothes, it suits parents who want a safe, low-mess introduction to coloring for toddlers at home, daycare, or preschool.

You only get eight colors here, which is fewer than some other sets in this guide. Options like Crayola MyFirst Jumbo Crayons offer the same count, while larger packs provide a dozen or more shades. For a child just starting out, the simple grip and cleanup convenience outweigh that limit. But if you want a broader palette from the start, you might look at a set with more colors.

Best for: Parents of toddlers ages 1-3 who want a safe, washable, and easy-to-hold first crayon with a fun shape. Not ideal for families needing a wide range of colors or a crayon that stays put on a flat surface.

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#9Best Large Color Selection

NUSTAR Jumbo Silky Twist Crayons

NUSTAR Jumbo Silky Twist Crayons
Number of Colors36
Barrel TypeTwistable, jumbo
Safety CertificationsASTM D-4236, CPC
WashableYes
Included Extras100+ coloring pages, 3 stickers, bucket
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What We Like

  • 36 vibrant colors for variety
  • Twistable design, no sharpening needed
  • Break-resistant protective outer barrel
  • Washable from skin and smooth surfaces

Trade-offs

  • Twist mechanism adds complexity for some tiny hands
  • Not suitable for children under 2 years old

With 36 colors in a single set, this crayon pack gives toddlers the widest palette of any option in this guide. That many shades lets little ones explore color mixing, match what they see, and build confidence without needing multiple boxes. The jumbo twistable barrels are thick enough for small fists to grip securely, and the protective outer sleeve keeps the crayon core from snapping when dropped, a common frustration with standard crayons. The washable formula and included storage bucket make cleanup and organization straightforward for parents and teachers.

With 36 choices, the variety can be distracting for a very young child who just wants to scribble. For a toddler just starting out, a smaller set may feel less overwhelming. But for preschoolers and older toddlers who are ready to name colors and pick favorites, this set offers real room to grow. The twist mechanism is easy to use, though some very young children may need help turning it at first. Overall, this is a generous, durable option for families who want one kit that lasts through multiple skill stages.

Best for: Parents or teachers who want a broad, long-lasting color selection for toddlers ages 2-5 who are ready to explore beyond the basics. Not ideal for the youngest beginners (12-18 months) who may be overwhelmed by 36 colors or need a simpler, no-twist design.

Product photos

#10Best Licensed Character

Sesame Street Washable Jumbo Crayons

Sesame Street Washable Jumbo Crayons
Count12 crayons
Barrel shapeThick, easy-to-grip jumbo
SafetyNon-toxic
WashabilityWashable
Dimensions7.0 x 5.5 x 1.0 inches
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What We Like

  • Thick barrel for easy toddler grip
  • Non-toxic materials for safe use
  • Vibrant colors inspired by Sesame Street

Trade-offs

  • Not designed for fine detail work
  • Too large for detailed or intricate coloring

The thick, easy-to-grip barrel is the first thing that stands out here, it’s sized so little hands can hold and scribble without frustration, which is exactly what a toddler crayon should do. Pair that with non-toxic materials, and you’ve got a set that lets kids explore freely while parents stay calm about messes. The Sesame Street branding adds a layer of playful familiarity that can make coloring feel more like playtime with old friends, especially for children who already love the characters.

The color count here is 12 crayons, giving you a solid range of bright basics but not the variety you’d find in larger sets like Crayola MyFirst Jumbo Crayons, which also offer jumbo barrels. For a toddler just starting out, 12 colors are plenty, they’re more likely to grab the red or blue than hunt for a specific shade. The real strength is the easy-grip design, which helps little hands control the crayon without frustration.

Best for: Toddlers who need an easy-grip, non-toxic crayon for safe first coloring adventures. Not ideal for older kids who want a wider color selection for detailed artwork.

How We Evaluated Crayons For Toddlers

To find the best crayons for toddlers, we started by analyzing manufacturer specifications and safety certifications. We looked at materials, dimensions, and age recommendations for dozens of products. We then cross-referenced these details with expert round-ups and patterns in owner feedback to understand what works in real homes.

The four most important criteria for this category were safety (non-toxic materials and certifications), durability (how well the crayon resists breaking), ergonomics (the shape and size for a toddler’s grip), and washability (how easily marks come off skin, clothing, and walls). A crayon that fails on any of these points is not suitable for a young child.

Our guide is based on documented product information and the collective experience of thousands of families. This approach gives you a clear, objective framework for choosing the right crayon without needing to buy and try them all yourself.

What To Look For In Crayons For Toddlers

Choosing the right crayon for a toddler means focusing on safety, ease of use, and cleanup. Here are the key criteria to consider before you buy.

Look for non-toxic, certified crayons that are thick enough for a toddler’s palm. Prioritize break-resistant designs and washable formulas to make cleanup from skin, clothes, and walls as easy as possible.

Safety and Non-Toxic Materials

The most important factor is safety. Toddlers explore with their mouths, so crayons must be made from non-toxic materials. Look for certifications like ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) or CPC (Children’s Product Certificate) which indicate the product has been tested for safety. Many natural crayons use beeswax or food-grade pigments, while standard options are paraffin-based. Always check the label to ensure the crayon is safe for children under three.

Durability and Break Resistance

Standard crayons snap easily under a toddler’s grip. A durable crayon is essential to avoid frustration and mess. Look for jumbo or egg-shaped crayons that are thicker than standard sticks. Twist-up crayons with a plastic shell are also very break-resistant because the crayon core is protected. Beeswax crayons are naturally more flexible and less prone to snapping than paraffin wax versions.

Grip and Ergonomic Design

A toddler’s fine motor skills are still developing. A crayon should fit comfortably in a small palm and encourage a proper grip. Egg, triangle, and bottle shapes can help guide little fingers into a good hold. Jumbo sticks that are at least as thick as a marker are easier to grasp than thin crayons. Some designs also feature textured surfaces for extra grip.

  • Check that the crayon is at least the thickness of a standard marker.
  • Look for non-round shapes like triangles or eggs that encourage a tripod grip.
  • Consider the weight: a crayon that is too heavy can be tiring for a small hand.
  • For younger toddlers (12-18 months), egg shapes that fill the whole palm are ideal.
  • Verify that the crayon is long enough to hold but not so long it becomes unwieldy.

A good rule of thumb is that if you can easily wrap your fingers around the crayon, it is likely too thin for a toddler.

Crayons For Toddlers Compared

The table below compares the key features of our top ten picks, helping you see at a glance which crayon set best fits your toddler’s needs.

ProductCountShapeWashableSafety
Crayola Large Egg Crayons12 crayonsEgg-shaped palm graspYesN/A
Crayola MyFirst Jumbo Crayons8 crayonsJumbo, easy-gripN/ANon-toxic
Jar Melo TwistJoy Jumbo Crayons12 colorsTwist-UpYesASTM, CPC
Honeysticks Pure Beeswax Crayons12 colorsChubby shapeN/ANon-Toxic
TinyGeeks Jumbo Crayons18 colorsRounded shapeYesNon-Toxic
JUPITEARTH Twist Crayons with Bucket12 colorsRocket-shapedYesASTM F963-16/17, EN71-3
Momo & Nashi Jumbo Crayons16 crayonsTriangular gripYesNon-toxic, lead-free, ASTM D-4236 & F963
YSNYSN Bottle-Shaped Baby Crayons8 colorsBottle-shapedYesASTM F963, CPSIA, CPC
NUSTAR Jumbo Silky Twist Crayons36 colorsTwistable, jumboYesASTM D-4236, CPC
Sesame Street Washable Jumbo Crayons12 crayonsThick, easy-to-grip jumboYesNon-toxic

Frequently Asked Questions

What age can a toddler start using crayons?

Most experts agree that toddlers can start supervised scribbling around 12 months old. At this age, look for large, egg-shaped or jumbo crayons that are easy to grasp and non-toxic in case they go in the mouth. Always supervise use until the child understands that crayons are for paper.

Are washable crayons really washable?

Yes, most washable crayons are designed to come off skin, clothing, and smooth walls with just soap and water or a mild cleaner. However, results can vary depending on the surface and how long the mark has set. For best results, clean marks as soon as possible. Some natural beeswax crayons are not labeled as washable, so check the packaging.

What is the safest crayon material for a toddler?

Non-toxic paraffin wax and beeswax are both considered safe for toddlers. Beeswax crayons are often preferred by parents who want a completely natural, plastic-free option. Always look for crayons that are certified non-toxic and free from known harmful substances like lead and asbestos, regardless of the material.

How many colors should a toddler crayon set have?

For young toddlers just starting out, a set of 8 to 12 colors is usually plenty. Too many colors can be overwhelming and lead to decision fatigue. As the child gets older and more interested in detailed coloring, larger sets with 18 to 36 colors can encourage more creative expression.

What is the difference between jumbo and egg-shaped crayons?

Jumbo crayons are thick stick crayons that are easy for small hands to hold and are less likely to break than standard crayons. Egg-shaped crayons are designed to fill the entire palm, making them ideal for the youngest toddlers who have not yet developed a pincer grip. Egg shapes cannot be sharpened, while jumbo sticks often can be.

The Bottom Line

For most families, the Crayola Large Egg Crayons are the best choice for a first crayon. Their egg shape is perfectly suited for a toddler’s palm, they are washable, and each crayon lasts a long time. This is the set to buy if you want a no-fuss, safe, and comfortable introduction to coloring for a child aged 12 months and up.

If you prefer a more traditional stick crayon that is still very durable, the Crayola MyFirst Jumbo Crayons are a fantastic and affordable option. For parents who want the broadest color selection, the NUSTAR Jumbo Silky Twist Crayons offer 36 colors in a break-resistant, twistable design that is great for slightly older toddlers.

The single most important factor when buying crayons for a toddler is choosing a design that is thick enough to grip comfortably and durable enough to survive their enthusiasm. Prioritize safety certifications and washability, and you will set your little artist up for happy, messy success.