Learn How to Make Your Own All-Natural Deodorant

Tired of spending money on store-bought deodorants and antiperspirants, only to find that they let you down and stain your clothes? There are a few simple – and unbelievably cheap – alternatives available.

Easy Baking Soda Deodorant

Baking soda is one of the easiest ways to replace store-bought deodorants. It works like a charm and is simple and effective. This trick may not work for everyone, especially those with sensitive skin. Straight baking soda can irritate your skin or cause discoloration. If you notice this after a week or two, use one of the other DIY deodorants below.

All you need is a washcloth​ and baking soda.

What to Do

Sprinkle baking soda – a little will do – onto a damp washcloth and apply it to your underarms. It'll keep you fresh throughout the day! If a dry application is preferable, use a duster or brush to apply.

Tip: Applying baking soda right after shaving may cause irritation. To combat this, many people have found that applying a small amount of coconut oil before baking soda works perfectly.

Why This Works

Baking soda absorbs perspiration and neutralizes odors.

Simple Scented Baking Soda Deodorant

For a scented deodorant, mix together equal parts baking soda and cornstarch (for shelf stability) and add a few drops of essential oil or a handful of dried flowers (lavender is nice). Store in an airtight container.

Coconut Oil Deodorant

If a powdered deodorant does not peak your interest or you find that you break out from baking soda, this coconut oil deodorant is a perfect option. It takes just a little more preparation but it works! This DIY deodorant will create a soft bar that can be applied to your underarms daily. You can fill a small jar or refill an empty deodorant container for easy application.

Ingredients

• 6 Tablespoons coconut oil
• 4 Tablespoons baking soda
• 4 Tablespoons arrowroot or cornstarch
• Essential oils (optional)

Directions

1. Use an old bowl and a fork or spoon to mix baking soda and cornstarch (or arrowroot).
2. Add coconut oil and mash until mixed well.
3. Add essential oils a drop at a time until you have a fragrance you enjoy.
4. Place in a small jar or deodorant container and refrigerate for a few hours until set.

How to 'Fix' Store-Bought "Natural" Deodorants

The idea of natural deodorants is great. Many people are looking to avoid the chemicals in antiperspirants because of health concerns. Add to that the fact that aluminum can also turn the armpits of your light-colored shirts a nasty yellow and you really have to question your choice in deodorant!

However, the majority of "all-natural" deodorants available in stores are disappointing. Many consumers have run the gamut of natural deodorants only to find that they don't work! Those promises of "24-hour protection" are null when embarrassing body odor starts creeping in after lunch.

It can cost a lot of money (and time) to find that one chemical-free deodorant that works with your body chemistry. What can you do with those half-used natural deodorants clogging your bathroom shelf? Fix them and baking soda is often the answer!

Adding baking soda to a prepared deodorant can make a big difference. It's very easy and can save you from tossing away something that can be useful (which you paid good money for). The method is similar to the coconut oil deodorant above, you will just begin with a lump of 'deodorant' as the base.

1. Roll out and remove the remaining deodorant you purchased.
2. Mash the deodorant in a bowl with an old fork or spoon.
3. Add at least 3 tablespoons baking soda and mix well.
   1. If you like, add 1-2 tablespoons each coconut oil and cornstarch to enhance the deodorant even more.
   2. Adding fragrance via essential oils is also an option.
4. When everything is mixed and you have a good consistency - not too hard or too soft - pack your improved deodorant back into the container.
5. Refrigerate for a few hours so it hardens. Apply as usual.

The Benefits of Using Baking Soda Deodorant

• Inexpensive.
• No harsh chemicals.
• Fragrance- and alcohol-free.
• Neutralizes odors, rather than covering them up.