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I’ve used countless store-bought natural deodorants, and they always leave me stinky and sweaty. In 2011, I decided to make my own homemade deodorant recipe. After a few tweaks, I have created the best natural diy recipe that smells great, works wonders and I’ve used for 13 years now. I’ve shared this recipe with thousands of others— and I can’t wait for you to join my diy deodorant party.
Why I Use Natural Deodorant
Making your own deodorant saves money, is healthier for your body, and actually stops sweating and body odor. Seriously, jump on this bandwagon ASAP!
In 2011, I went on a journey and started making homemade granola bars, natural cold and flu remedies like ginger lemon honey tea, elderberry syrup, homemade lip scrubs, and even went 10 days without shampoo (I don’t recommend that last one).
It was during this time that I began questioning all the things I was putting in and on my body.
Most store-bought deodorants contain chemicals like parabens and aluminum, which I wanted to avoid. Why use those when you can create the best natural deodorants with safer, more effective active ingredients? Even newer products with labels like organic deodorant often include ambiguous ingredients like “fragrance.”
To me, that’s reason enough to ditch commercial deodorants and make my own. I’ve been using the same recipe for over 13 years now, and I absolutely love it and use it every day. The only thing I change up is the essential oils I use, depending on what scent I feel like that season.
The Best Natural Deodorant Recipe
No joke—you can put this deodorant on at 5AM, run a few miles, blend the world’s Best Green Smoothie, throw on some work clothes, work an 8-hour shift and come home smelling good.
At first, my husband and I were baffled by how well this DIY deodorant worked. We would smell each other’s armpits just to brag. Then we decided to push the boundaries and slathered it on before a long day of helping friends move. We sweated all day and still came home smelling good!
It’s important to note that this is not an antiperspirant deodorant. We are meant to sweat, it’s natural. The harmful chemicals in conventional deodorants to stop the body’s natural need to sweat is not something I want to use (and you prob don’t either).
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need four ingredients to make your own all-natural deodorant. Chances are you probably have at least half of them already. You can buy arrowroot powder in the baking section of most natural food stores or online.
- Baking soda: Absorbs moisture to keep you dry and helps neutralize odor (feel free to use less if you’ve got sensitive skin and notice irritation in your underarm area). Opt for aluminum-free baking soda, as it’s gentler and free from unnecessary additives.
- Non-GMO arrowroot powder: A better choice than traditional cornstarch, arrowroot powder helps absorb moisture to keep you dry. You can easily find it in health food stores or online.
- Organic unrefined coconut oil: Provides a moisturizing base and has natural antibacterial properties that help combat odor-causing bacteria. You can find this in most grocery or health food stores.
- Essential oils: Grapefruit oil, tea tree oil, spruce oil, and sweet orange oil are my favorites for their refreshing scents and antibacterial properties. They add fragrance while also helping to fight odor naturally.
How to Make Homemade Deodorant
This DIY deodorant recipe is super quick to whip up with just four ingredients. If you’ve ever wondered how to make deodorant at home, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Just follow these 4 simple steps:
- Mix the arrowroot powder and baking soda together. I use my Kitchenaid Stand Mixer.
- Add the coconut oil and your favorite essential oils, like grapefruit or tea tree, to the mixture. You can adjust the consistency by adding more coconut oil if needed.
- Pour into a small glass jar (I like pint-size mason jar) and store at room temperature. Homemade deodorant will last up to two years in an airtight container.
- Use a popsicle stick to get the deodorant out of the container and transfer to your finger. Make sure you use enough under your arms to keep you “sure” all day long. A pea-size amount is usually good.
Application Tip
If you’d prefer to have it in a traditional “stick form,” melt 1 tbsp of beeswax and 1 tbsp of shea butter right into the recipe. Pour into a reusable deodorant containers and store in refrigerator until solid.
Tips for Switching to Natural Deodorant
- When you initially make the switch, you may experience an itchy rash, red bumps, or increased sweat and odor when transitioning to a homemade deodorant. Don’t let this stop you!
- Drinking plenty of water and dry brushing are two awesome ways to assist your body as it adjusts away from the chemical-laden deodorants you used to use. My #1 recommendation (drumroll, please!) is to detox your armpits. Sounds weird, I know! But it’ll help speed up your body’s adjustment period to this natural homemade deodorant.
- In addition to detoxing your armpits, you may also want to consider detoxing your whole body. All the processed foods we eat contain chemicals that end up affecting the way we smell when we sweat. Try out a seasonal cleanse to get started on a whole-body detox.
- These cleanses are super easy to follow and use only whole, plant-based foods (no expensive supplements!) to gently clear your body of unwanted toxins.
Common Questions
Making your own deodorant at home is easy with just a few simple ingredients like baking soda, arrowroot powder, coconut oil, and essential oils. It’s a natural, effective way to stay fresh without any harsh chemicals. Once you gather your ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up a batch quickly and enjoy the benefits of homemade, toxin-free deodorant.
To extend the effectiveness of homemade deodorant, apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin. Storing it in a cool, dry place will prevent melting or spoilage, while absorbent ingredients like arrowroot powder can help increase its longevity by controlling moisture and odor.
Yes, coconut oil is a key ingredient in my homemade deodorant recipe. Its natural antibacterial properties help fight odor while keeping your skin moisturized.
Leave a rating and review to let me know how this diy deodorant recipe works for you! As you can tell by the over 200+ reviews so far, this is a recipe you must try.
Best Homemade Deodorant
Ingredients
- ½ cup baking soda use 1/4 cup if have sensitive skin
- ½ cup arrowroot powder or cornstarch
- 5 tbsp coconut oil melted or softened
- 20 drops essential oil grapefruit, tea tree oil, etc
Instructions
- Mix baking soda and arrowroot together.
- Add the coconut oil and essential oils. Mix well.
- Pour into a clean, air-tight jar and store at room temperature.
- Use a popsicle stick to get the deodorant out of the container and transfer to your finger. Use a pea-sized amount to apply under your arms.
Equipment
Notes
- Consistency: This deodorant changes consistency depending on the temperature. In cold climates, it can be pretty hard to get out. If that’s the case for you, I recommend storing it by the shower and allowing the steam to warm it before applying. If you live in a warm climate and the deodorant is too liquidy, store it in a cool cupboard to thicken it up.
- Technique: For the past couple of years, I stopped using the popsicle stick and actually just use my fingers and dip them in the jar.
Hi, I tried your deodorant and it works well, the only thing is when I’ve done it the coconut oil was totally liquide and when the mixture got solid all the powder seemed to sink straight in the bottom so the top layer of the deodorant seemed to be just coconut oil.
Do you know why and what can I do to fix that ?
Thanks a lot
Julie, I was having the same problem and I think Jen made this suggestion a few years ago- keep your jar of deodorant in the shower. The warmth and humidity will soften up the mixture and make it easier to spread so you can apply it after you get out and dry off. When I’m having issues with the mixture separating, I’ll use my finger and stir it a little after it’s melted/softened up. Because this deodorant has only a few ingredients, and they are all natural (no chemicals, etc.), it will sometimes separate. Now that I keep my jar of deodorant in the shower, I rarely have this problem anymore. Give this a try and let me know if it helps!
It does really work!! thanks a lot
I know! I’ve been making and using this deodorant almost exclusively for over five years and I love it. So glad you do, too!
I originally used a slight variation of your recipe, but came across yours – works wonderfully!
I reuse deodorant stick containers. Turn the dial so the pusher goes back to the bottom of the When the homemade deodorant is warmed slightly to thick liquid, I pour in the container to fill. Doesn’t take long to let it set up and solidify again. Turn the dial to advance the ‘stick’ and works perfectly. A less messy option for application. People would be surprised how much longer the homemade lasts from that stick compared to mass produced brand name.
Note- I didn’t use quite as many drops of essential oil, but about another teaspoon of coconut oil to make up the liquid difference.
That’s a great tip, Angela! Thanks for sharing. 🙂
This sounds so good…. Now starting to go natural so I am excited to say this will be what I will be trying to start my journey… Thanks for that… Grapefruit sounds amazing….
Monica, I make this deodorant exclusively with grapefruit essential oil and I *love* it.
Your deodorant is incredible!! I have used it and even my kids love it! It works so well. Thank you for this amazing recipe:)
It is awesome! Glad you like it. 🙂
Hello, I had made a recipe before coming across your recipy. I mixed equal parts of coconut oil and baking soda but they dont mix, I live in hot weather so the coconut oil is liquid most of the time. What can I do the mix those two?
Thanks for sharing you recipe, I can’t wait to use it.
Nadezhda, it’s tough when you live in a warm climate. I would suggest stirring it with your finger before you apply it each time. When I travel to warm places, that’s what I do and it works well.
Hi there –
Just made this, this morning. Is it equal parts Arrow Root to Equal Parts Baking Soda?
A 1/2 Cup of Arrow Root Powder measure in grams is actually 64 Grams – and 1/2 cup of Baking Soda is – 115 grams.
I’ve always used precise measurements with a food scale while baking or making products.
Was just curious if you just meant equal parts or exact measurements.
Thanks
Matt, I believe it’s meant to be made with equal parts. That’s how I make it and it turns out great.
Hello!
I just made it and can’t wait to use it. I added a little amount of vanilla to make it smell good. Is vanilla a nice choice?
Hey Sarya, the scent is really a personal preference. I know some people who like to use a citrus blend essential oil that contains a hint of vanilla. I’d suggest giving it a try and see what you think!
Hello!
I’m really interested in making this! Just a couple of questions…
After applying it, do we rinse it off or leave it on? Also, does it stain the clothes especially white coloured tops.
Thanks!
Lynn, you leave it on, the same as you would with traditional deodorant. I’ve been using it for many years and I don’t find that it stains any of my clothes. In contrast, I have had many tops ruined by stains from store-bought deodorant.
Hi, i am definitely going to try this recipe, lots of great comments. However. regarding the coconut oil, I bought 1 lt of fractionated coconut oil recently. Would you think this can work on this recipe? or does it work better with the harden coconut oil? Thanks
Monica, I think it would work best with the traditional coconut oil that hardens below 76 degrees F. That makes it easy to spread the final product on your underarms. 🙂
Just found this recipe and want to try it. I was wondering about making a stick too. Have you tried that?
Thanks!
Wendy, you should definitely give it a try! I keep my homemade deodorant in a small mason jar in the shower and I really like using it that way so I haven’t really missed having a deodorant stick.
Hi there,
I have been using your recipe for approx 4 months now. I love it. I’ve made it for some of my family members as well, and they love it! My question is do you have a recipe for a deodorant stick? I was thinking perhaps adding beeswax to the mix.
Have you ever made a stick?
Thanks for your time.
Hi Susy, so glad you like the recipe! I make this recipe and use it, also. I’ve been using it for over five years and I’ll never go back to store-bought deodorant. We don’t have a recipe for a stick but that’s an interesting idea!
Hi jen, I have just ordered a product similar to this which made me want to look up a natural deodorant recipe.
Really thrilled with your recipe. I will be making it. I live in two places so I will keep yours in one and the bought product in the other.
Looking forward to making it.
Thank you.
Barbara
Barbara, I love this deodorant! I have been making and using it for over five years. If you’ve already made it, what do you think?
Do I have to use baking soda? I’ve been using this recipe for over a month and just now starting to break out on my left underarm. It works super amazingly too!!!
It does work great, doesn’t it? Sometimes if I use it right after I shave my armpits, I get a little rash. Could that be it? You can also def decrease the amount of baking soda or leave it out if you think that’s the cause of your breakout.
This made a burn under my arms. This deo is great I haven’t had any odor problems since starting about 3-4months ago. One thing I will say is that I have noticed my skin shedding under my arms and it would occasionally become raw. I figured it was because I was using to much so I cut back of the amount applied. I use only once a day and sometimes once every other day. My armpits are now dark and shiny as if I had gotten a burn. Can baking soda be replaced with something else?
I’m sorry that happened! I wouldn’t replace the baking soda, maybe try making some deodorant and leaving out the baking soda to see if that helps. Your skin may also be having a reaction to the type and/or amount of essential oils you are using.
I made this today…. Hoping it will help.
I’ve been suffering from itchy armpits and a rash. I initially thought I had a shaving rash but I’ve switched to waxing and I still itch.
My next thought is maybe it’s my current deodorant but I’ve been using the same brand for over a year so doubt it. So I’ve made this today – im sure the coconut oil and the lavender will soothe and moisturize. Fingers crossed
I hope it helps, also! My skin gets more dry + sensitive in the winter, could it be that?