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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.
Table of Contents
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.
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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.
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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 21-Day 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 250+ 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 tablespoon coconut oil, unrefined melted or softened
- 20 drop 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.
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.
I made this and it does work really well. I was very pleasantly surprised after a hard workout then a 4 mile walk no smell. NONE!! Thank you LOVE IT!!
Is there a good substitute for coconut oil? I’m allergic 🙁
Hey Hannah – great question! I would recommend trying shea butter. I would start with using the same measurement and adding more as needed to reach the desired consistency. 🙂
Absolutely the best recipe EVER! Some how I already had the ingredients. I had to put about 2-3 more table spoons of coconut oil in…Then whipped it up so smooth. I used the big jar of coconut oil from Costco. I’m telling you, I put this on with a stick and I never ever have body odor. I keep checking all day long plus when I go to bed. LOL its like there is nothing on. Now I’m looking for hand cream to make. FYI my sister is coming to visit today and I told her bring a jar and will make some more.
Hi. Why does it have to be unrefined coconut oil. I have a huge gallon of refined that I’d like to use for this.
Thanks
Hi Lynn! That’s a great question. My number 1 reason for using unrefined coconut oil is that it’s not as processed. It also has a more fragrant coconut aroma, which totally works for deodorant. You can totally also used refined coconut oil for this recipe!
Made some, yay, it smells lovely. Just worried it might be a bit oily leaving a mark on clothes? Any tips for avoiding this?
Hi Hazel, It shouldn’t leave any oil marks on your shirts, but if it does just let some baking soda sit on the affected area for awhile and then wash in hot water.
Just wondering, might the baking soda ingredient cause dark clothes to bleach around the armpit area?
Hi Hazel,
That’s a great question! Baking soda won’t bleach your clothes, but it could leave a white or residue or look a little streaky. I would recommend using less than the recommended amount in the recipe, so maybe 1/4 cup (instead of a 1/2 cup) to start and if you notice any light streaking in the underarm areas of your dark clothing, you should just be able to wipe it away with a damp towel. So, no permanent damage! 🙂
I like the recipe , but I am allergic to coconut oil. What can I use in place of it?
Hi Cheryl – You could try shea butter or cocoa butter!
Just curious, why arrowroot powder over corn starch?
Bethany, that’s a great question. Arrowroot powder is typically less irritating than cornstarch, yet they can both be used.
I made this and it is really runny, what can i do to thicken it?
Hey T,
Yes! This deodorant recipe does react to environmental temperatures. It can get to liquid-y if it’s in a warm environment like Florida, near a heat source like hot running water, near a window that gets a lot of sun or in a heated house. Try to store it in a cooler place. Maybe even the fridge? I feel like applying a cold deodorant could feel really good (I live in Florida- haha!)
You could also try adding a pinch more of the baking soda and/or arrowroot powder.
Let us know what you try and what works for you!
Do you use solid coconut oil or can you use liquid?
I’ve used the solid so that’s what I’d def recommend.
Follow up question, i made the deodorant with reg coconut oil (not the liquid) it is really liquified. What can I add to thicken it up? I do live in Arizona so i know the temp will be a factor but it isn’t that hot yet
I’m in AZ too. My “solid” coconut oil is liquid from pretty much March/April to Oct/Nov since coconut oil melts at 76*.
I add a TBSP or two of the refined (white) beeswax pellets to the mix. (don’t use the natural brown beeswax straight from the honey farm – that does stain over time!)
That’s a great tip to use white beeswax pellets to firm up your deodorant in a warmer climate, thanks Red-hot!
Hi. Can you use cassava flour instead of the arrowroot powder?
I’m so excited to try this.
Yes, you should be able to sub it in and see what you think. Let us know how it goes!
I had tried a store bought natural deodorant which would still leave me a bit stinky by the end of the day so thought I’d give this a go. I am amazed at how effective this is. Even after a day working in a kitchen on the hottest day of the year my armpits smelled as fresh as they had in the morning! I have just made up my second batch (I have been halving the recipe) and used lemongrass essential oil and it smells amazing. No more store bought deodorants for me, thank you
Hi, I made the deodorant and it turned out just like the picture. My only concern is when I try to apply the deodorant with my finger or when using a popsicle stick it leaves smudges and cakes a bit. Then I see these small specks of the deodorant on the floor or so. What would work to avoid caking when applied. Would beeswax or shea butter work?
If you’re storing it in a container with an airtight seal, try warming it up by running the container under some warm water or if you’re taking a shower, leave the container near a hot shower so it gets warmed up by the steam. This can help make it less flaky.
I develop a rash when using baking soda. Can I use diatomaceous earth in it’s place? And keep everything else the same?
Yes, diatomaceous earth is a great swap for baking soda. It’s made mostly of silica and is helpful for those with more sensitive skin. Plus it’s a great odor reducer!
Try also less bicarbonate of soda, for 8 years I use the proportion of 27grams of bicarbonate of soda to 40grams of arrowroot or cornflour. Hope this help anyone.
Ok either I’m doing this wrong or something but did exactly what it said I mixed it with a spatula and it’s all powder. Not creamy at all.
Oh no, I bet it’s a simple tweak. Maybe you could try adding a smidge more coconut oil to your mix. Also, I would def heat the coconut oil before adding so that it’s liquified. This should help dilute some of the powder and make a more even mixture.
I’ve been making this recipe for a few years and living in a hot dry climate, mine is typically runny. It’s THE best deodorant ever! I just dip my fingers in the jar and apply to my pits.
I can’t believe how well this worked. I have already gone through the “detox” process in making the switch to natural deodorants, but this is my first time trying a homemade version. To anyone that says they are getting a crumbly mess instead of the smooth result pictured: You have got to WORK this stuff. Since the coconut oil is solidified, and if it is at all cold, will be quite hard, it takes a minute to get it smooth. For me, it required kneading it with clean hands to finally get the nice results shown in the photograph. I am so happy with this and it leaves my armpits feeling clean and silky smooth! 🙂
This is AMAZING feedback, Libby! Thank you so much! Glad you’re enjoying those super smooth pits.
Hello!
I’ve been mixing and mixing with an egg beater electric powered mixer for about 18minutes and it’s still extremely powdery. Should I not be using this type of mixer?
Hey Claire,
18 minutes is quite the workout for your arm, even with an electric mixer!! I use my KitchenAid Stand Mixer when I make deodorant at home, but maybe you could try adding a tiny bit more coconut oil to your mix. I would def heat the coconut oil before adding so that it’s liquified. This may help dilute some of the powder and make a more even mixture. Good luck, Claire!
Nice! Fresh! Easiest
And my fav part – 100% natural!!
Hi, thanks for the recipe. Do you think I could omit the arrowroot powder and use just baking soda, assuming I’m not sensitive to it, which I don’t think I am? Would it be more effective that way, or does the arrowroot contribute to odor control in a way that baking soda does not? I have a hard time with deodorants; it’s hard to find one that works and for that reason I used antiperspirants for a long time. I’ve only switched to deodorants in the last couple years, and have to wash and re-apply at least once through the day in addition to in the morning. However I’d like to do even better and make my own rather than use the expensive ‘natural’ store-bought deodorants.
For sure! We’d just go easy on the baking soda at first, and keep an eye out for any skin reaction. Another idea would be to try diatomaceous earth, which is made mostly of silica and is helpful for those with more sensitive skin. It’s a great odor reducer!
I’ve been using this recipe for two months now and it’s crazy how well it works!!! I don’t smell anymore!!
Hi, does this leave white marks or discolor your clothes? Thanks!
I have used this recipe once and I love it, but it does leave white marks. There were a few times when I put the deodorant on either no shirt on and when I went to put my shirt on, It brushed against my armpits and left elite streaks. Luckily it came off perfectly with a damp washcloth so I wouldn’t worry too much 🙂
So many deodorants end up with that effect, don’t they Ella? Thanks for sharing your experience! xoxo
Thank you so much. Loved your article and the honesty❤️ Happy holidays
It’s our joy, Cayla!
Ive been making deodorant using this recipe for over a year now and I am converted. I started with 1/3 of the baking soda and built up. It lasts ages and I’ll never go back to buying again. Ive made mandarin & letiver scent and tea tree & lemon so far. About to make 3rd batch in lavender & rosemary. Thank you so much for the ace recipe.
We’re so glad Samantha! Thanks for making this with us and sharing your fun scent combos!
Those sound like they smell good- I like the different scents, and guess there are many options. Good to hear the good feedback, from your experience. (I’m just reading the reviews and maybe will try it.. but have found a deodorant I like that is pretty natural [& effective!] too.) Making it is probably more cost effective, and may be better for the planet in the overall picture.
Absolutely!
I really love this recipe!! Thank you so much for sharing! Making some for friends and family. ❤️ I will never buy deodorant again! Mine was kind of crumbly, but next time will add a bit more coconut oil and knead it too, as Libby suggested!
I really love this recipe!! Thank you so much for sharing! Making some for friends and family. ❤️ I will never buy deodorant again! Mine was kind of crumbly, but next time will add a bit more coconut oil and knead it too, as Libby suggested! Also, forgot to mention, I bought some empty deodorant containers —turned out great!