When the kindergarten teacher asked each member of the class to stand up and say what they wanted to be when they grow up, it went something like this. I can’t say for sure, because the only thing I really remember about kindergarten was being stung by red ants by the teeter totters. They even bit my hoo-haw. You remember things like that.
I digress.
Here’s how the conversation must’ve gone: “Hi, I’m Johnny and I want to be an astronaut.” “Hey, guys! I’m Melissa, and I want to be a doctor who fixes sick people like my dad.”
“Yo yo yo! I’m Betty … and I want to find a homemade deodorant solution for everyone in the world. Say it with me, “No more stinky synthetic pits! No more stinky synthetic pits! No? No one. Poopheads …”
But seriously, folks. I’m on a mission. After this post, there should be no reason whatsoever that you buy commercial deodorant.
I still remember fondly my very first experiment with homemade deodorant, and what a stupid big deal I made out of it. Verily, let it be known in all the heavens and earth, since that first day, I have bought zero, nada, no commercial deodorant. Making my own deodorant is a welcome permanent way of life now. (And, no. I don’t stink.)
However, some people had issues, as I have occasionally, with the first recipe that uses cornstarch. So I figured out a different recipe that uses clay. Well, some people had issues with the clay (which can contain trace amounts of natural aluminum) and that particular recipe didn’t offer as much odor protection.
So, back to the drawing board, if drawing boards looked like armpits.
This particular recipe combines the best of all worlds, and I’ve been using it for the last week and never, ever have I had such smooth pits. At the end of this post, though, I’m going to link up to ALL of my deodorant alternative posts – and give you two more incredible-looking options. After that, you will have no excuse. You will have a cornucopia, if you will, of pit protection options.
Get out of the deodorant section at the store. Yes. I’m talking to you.
Soothing Classic Homemade Deodorant
Before I get to the actual post, let me share something with you that I’ve decided is rather important: Always use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch in your homemade deodorant.
After making the switch late last year, I can attest that it’s not irritating like cornstarch; and, even better, you don’t have to worry about GMOs. At least, I don’t think there’s GMO arrowroot yet. Who knows. I can’t keep up with it.
(Side note: If you’re fine with the cornstarch, go for it. I’m not the boss of you. The rule, though, stands for anyone who has ever ditched homemade deo due to irritation.)
Soothing Homemade Deodorant – Step 1
Okay, so here’s how it goes, in a nutshell: You’re going to infuse coconut and another oil (I used sunflower, but you can use sweet almond or avocado or apricot kernel, if you’d like) with calendula and chamomile. So you want to plan ahead for this one – it’s going to take about two weeks.
For the first step, you take 2 Tbsp dried calendula petals and 3 Tbsp dried chamomile and put it in a jar. Please make sure you’ve sterilized your jar with boiling water for 10 minutes first (and then dry it out COMPLETELY).
Then, you’re going to cover that with about 5 Tbsp coconut oil and 3 Tbsp sunflower oil. If you need to, warm your coconut oil gently to get it to liquid form. This is easiest if you just pop it in a small cup and put the cup in another larger cup of very warm water.
But, actually, I just left my coconut oil out in the sun for about 10 minutes, and it was mostly liquified. Believe it or not, the sun is our friend.
Now just pop your lid on, give it a good shake, and leave it in a darkish place for 2-3 weeks. Shake it whenever you remember.
For the record, I used sunflower oil because it has some really outstanding antibacterial properties, as well, but it’s also very, very good for irritated (see: recently shaved) skin.
Soothing Homemade Deodorant – Step 2
Grab your jar of infused oils, and it should look a little like this. Here’s the difference between immediately after you add the oils to the flowers and after 3 weeks:
As you can see, the oil turns a beautiful shade of yellow, thanks to both the calendula and the chamomile. This is how you know it’s full of good stuff.
Now, make sure your infused oil is nice and warm. Again, warm it up in the sun or place your jar in a cup of very warm water. The sunflower (or other) oil helps the coconut oil stay more liquified, but it still solidifies a small amount if it’s cool.
Strain the flowers from the oil by using a coffee filter (my favorite) or piece of doubled up cheesecloth. Twist the top of the coffee filter or cheesecloth and squish out as much oil as you can get.
The resulting oil amount should be somewhere between 6 and 7 Tbsp (you lose a little in infusion).
Add you dry ingredients to the oil – about 1/4 c. plus 2 Tbsp each of baking soda and arrowroot powder. Stir well.
Drip in your desired essential oils (I like lavender and tea tree oil, for extra antibacterial protection) – no more than 20 drops total.
Put the lid on and keep it in your bathroom. It’ll be nice and gooey, which, to me, is the fun part of putting it on. (With your fingers, massaging your armpit seductively. It likes that. Makes it feel special, like the most important armpit in the world.)
A Few Important Notes:
- Always use a fresh, sterilized jar when creating your final deodorant formulation. Don’t just keep piling new deodorant onto old at the bottom of your jar. That would be a pretty invitation for a contamination party.
- Again, choose arrowroot powder over cornstarch, if you can.
- If you’re allergic to the ragweed family, you might want to skip the chamomile (a member) and just use calendula – or even calendula and dried lavender would be lovely.
- If you use a coffee filter to strain your flowers from your oil, be careful not to break it in the “squeezing” process. The filters can be delicate.
And here’s the entire recipe, in printable form:
Soothing Classic Deodorant Recipe
- 3 Tbsp dried chamomile
- 2 Tbsp dried calendula
- 5 Tbsp coconut oil
- 3 Tbsp sunflower oil (or other oil, like avocado, sweet almond, or apricot kernel)
- 1/4 c. + 2 Tbsp baking soda
- 1/4 c. + 2 Tbsp arrowroot powder
- Essential oils of your choosing (lavender and tea tree are my favorite antibacterials)
In a small, sterilized jar, add the flowers and the oils (making sure your coconut oil is liquified first). Shake well. Store in a dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking occasionally.
After 2-3 weeks of infusion, strain the oil from the flowers (again, heating up the oil slightly if it’s in a solid-ish state). In another sterilized jar, combine the infused oil with the dry ingredients and stir well. Add your essential oils drop-by-drop, stirring constantly. Store in your bathroom. This should keep for 3-4 months.
More Homemade Deodorant Options = No More Excuses! Yay!
If you’ve tried one and it didn’t work, today is the day to start trying another one.
Something, I PROMISE, something will work for you.
- The FIRST and easiest homemade deodorant recipe (using cornstarch, and similar to this one)
- Not a secret homemade deodorant (using clay and not quite as odor protecting)
- “Carry Along” deodorant/freshener
- Two-step homemade deodorant from Easy Peasy Organic (an EXCELLENT choice for those of you who have said you have issues with coconut oil staining your clothes)
- Homemade deodorant using PROBIOITICS (what?) from Frugally Sustainable – I really, really want to try this. And if you do, please let me know how it works for you!
- Wellness Mama has a splendific deodorant option as well. And if I know her, she’s tested it immensely!
And, as always, for those of you who are wondering where to get any of this stuff:
- Mountain Rose Herbs carries dried calendula and chamomile, as well as arrowroot and baking soda and a plethora of high-quality essential oils
- Vitacost (and that link there will take you to a $10 off coupon for signing up) carries calendula and chamomile teas (the same thing), as well as Bob’s Red Mill baking soda and arrowroot powder, in addition to essential oils
- Your local natural food store should carry most all of these things. Check the tea aisle if they don’t carry bulk herbs/flowers/spices.
If you don’t want to make your own, you can always purchase my own recipe here 🙂
Now, informal survey of those of you who are still around reading here at the end:
Do you already make your own deodorant? If so, WHAT formulation is working for YOU?
I may have also stumbled onto something else to control body odor accidentally while making my own nontoxic hair/body wash. I followed a recipe to turn 2 bars of Dr Bronner’s pure Castile soap with tea tree oil into a gallon of liquid soap. Worried about it drying out and tangling up my super long hair, I added more glycerin as well as organic cold pressed coconut oil and a can of coconut milk before letting it sit recommended time. I bathed using it in my hair and body yesterday evening. This morning I woke up and went on my mile run(and forgot to put deodorant on) while sweating like a work horse. When I got home I smelled my armpits and didn’t smell a single thing!(Usually a wet dog would smell less pungent than me post- run) To make sure it wasn’t just my nose, I got my reluctant fiancé to smell my pits. He didn’t smell anything either and was amazed. So finding the right thing to bathe with in addition to homemade deodorant could be even more effective in controlling unwanted bodily smells. You also get the added bonus of not bathing yourself in toxic waste. Also, my idea of adding extra glycerin, coconut oil and adding a can of coconut milk to the liquid soap recipe worked beautifully for my long, tangle prone hair! It would be interesting to see someone experiment with my idea.
Hello,
Sorry if someone has already asked these questions, but here I go. So I have had many failed attempts at making my own homemade stick deodorant. I have had not issues with smell, but only very bad rashes. When I first started making my deodorant I knew I had sensitive skin so I immediately skipped the corn starch or baking soda and went straight for the arrowroot. My most current batch had the following ingredients (shea butter, bees wax, coconut oil, charcoal, arrowroot, peppermint, lavender and eucalyptus). I gave some to my friend to also try, and both she and I broke out in a horrible rash with deep painful bumps. I went back to using my store bought natural deodorant, I only stopped using it because it is 12 dollars a tube, and my rash and bumps have gone away. That deodorant is made with the following (arrowroot, coconut oil, shea butter, beeswax, baking soda, essential oils, and probiotics). Do you have any ideas as to where the difference would be.
Hi all,
I have made my own deodorant in the past, but it made my pits turn dark gray. Not attractive. It was scented with basil and peppermint. Awesome scent combo, but I am wondering if the basil was responsible for the discoloration. I also made it with cornstarch (no arrowroot in the house at the time). Has anyone else had problems with this? The large corporation from Maine has nice smelling deodorant, but it makes my pits turn red and the skin peels off! Eek! Thank you all for your time, and have a crunchy day.
I haven’t had any staining even with the charcoal. You do not need a lot just a tiny bit will do, I find that it soaks into my skin quickly.
I use plain old Milk of Magnesia from Family Dollar. Their store brand has no bleach in it, as do most others.
My daughter and I have very sensitive skin. Coconut oil is very drying for our skin type. Can we use more avocado oil or another oil in place?? Thanks! My last message email was typo
My daughter and I have dry, sensitive skin. Coconut oil is very drying for us. Can we replace coconut oil with something? Or can we add more avocado oil?
I started to make this deoderant. I have infused all the ingredients and they are being stored on the dark top shelf of my kitchen cabinet. After one day it has solidified. What do i do? Of course i can warm it up but i dont want to ruin it AND don’t want bit to keep happening!
Help, this is my first foray into diy and I want it to be successful so I keep trying! Thanks, moira
Just run it under warm water, or leave it in the sun for a day or microwave it for a minute.
It will solidify again, but give a bit more time for the flowers to infuse.
Does this leave greasy or white marks on clothing?
I make this and add one capsule of activated charcoal. I also use jojoba oil or safflower instead of coconut because I am alergic. I haven’t had any staining even with the charcoal. You do not need a lot just a tiny bit will do, I find that it soaks into my skin quickly. When I am going to be extra active I just through in a tiny pinch of bentonite clay. I don’t think this is actually necessary but better safe than sorry! I have been doing this for two years and love it. I generally only have to apply every other day after I shower. Now I have to make it for everyone in my family……the bitter deodorant queen!! LOL
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For years I used a similar concoction to the basic recipe you link but got tired of the liquid state especially when the other ingredients separated from the oil and you had to mix it up before using. Then I tried one with cocoa butter and shea butter instead of coconut oil (Angry Chicken “pucks” of deodorant) but they were crumbly. I decided to melt the too hard and mix it with the too liquid and voila – creamy texture that doesn’t separate, get too hard in cold weather or melt in hot. I need to make some more and I’m hoping I can replicate it. I need it now so can’t try your infused version but I’d like to give it a try.
For me I switched to DIY during peri-menopause when I became super stinky. Commercial and natural deodorants were ineffective and clinical strength antiperspirants made my armpit skin die off – first turned brown then peeled off, yuck.
Would you please share your recipe for me? I’d love to try it. I’m having the same issue.
I have found that if I want a soothing bath after making oils or balms, I keep the oily plant material bound up in the filter (you just can’t get all the oil out…. :-), bind it well so as not to loose the material, and then stick it in a thin sock or a cheesecloth tube and use it in the bath water… Japanese style, I take a shower first so that I am clean and exfoliated, then run a very warm soaking bath with the soothing oils giving their last to me. Especially nice on those drying winter nights… with candles and … well, you get the picture… 🙂
Does anyone know if the sunflower oil she shows in the picture will go bad in the deodorant? I was going to buy it for this recipe but I didn’t because it said to keep refrigerated and use within 6 weeks. So I didn’t know if that would affect the deodorant, or if that only mattered if you were using it for cooking. Then I looked at this article again and wondered if maybe I should have bought it anyway.
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Wanted to know what to do when oil separates out a few hours after making it. Should I pour it off? Or add more arrowroot and baking soda?
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Hello, I tried the probiotic deodorant. After using a couple of earlier recipes that aggravated my manly underarm skin, this worked very well….BUT, it should not be used with anything light in color! Without breaking a sweat, I foolishly wore this deodorant with a new white dress shirt, and I think I’ve completely ruined the garment. The stain is yellow (gross), and is from the wax, shea butter, or cocoa butter…but not sure which.
Just wanted to say thanks! And for straining I actually used a pair of knee high stockings and strained the liquid twice. It’s easier to grip and squeeze that way. 🙂
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I’m looking at all the wonderful recipes that you have shared and I have one question. Could I substitute something else for coconut oil? Maybe mango or shea butter? Because I am slightly allergic to coconut products but would still like to switch to natural deo. I tried using coconut oil as a moisturizer and I had to stop :/ so now I am afraid to use it in those recipes.
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For anyone who has tried this, how is it for odor protection? I made the switch to homemade deodorant and ended up ditching it after a few months because no matter what I tried, the odor protection wasn’t very good. I’m a pitta, so I sweat a decent amount. I’d like to make some sort of homemade deodorant, but I’m not sure what to try. Thanks!
Hi,
I don’t know if you’ve already found a deodorant or not, but I use this recipe and like it.
http://wellnessmama.com/4901/deodorant-bar-recipe/
I especially like that it’s a solid! Whenever I feel like I’m starting to smell a bit, I use a cotton ball and dipped in white vinegar and wipe it on my pits! Then I reapply the deodorant and I’m set! I love not using commercial, smelly deodorant!
I’ve had the same issue. I’m definitely going to try this recipe, but until it’s ready, I’ll stay with my usual. I use Toms of Maine natural deodorant (no aluminum) immediately after I shower. Since I usually shower at night, I reapply when I get up. When I’m going to leave the house, I will then apply traditional deodorant/antiperspirant. This way, I stay dry & ‘non-stinky’, while using as little of the unhealthy stuff as possible. When I return home, I usually wash everything off & reapply Toms. I’ve found that the less traditional antiperspirant iuse, the better I feel. (It’s a bit odd – I know)
I hope this helps!
If you want antimicrobial you should use oil of clove and tea tree oil.
Note, when it comes to essential oils, NEVER put it on your skin unless they are specifically marked for external and/or internal use. To be blunt, cheap aeromatic essential oils are made via chemical extraction methods that can be TOXIC if used externally and/or internally. In fact, some of those cheap aeromatic essential oils can cause allergic reactions or TOXIC effects slowly over time.
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Thank you for this recipe, I can’t wait to try it. I have recently made and used the basic recipe that just calls for coconut oil, cornstarch and baking powder, but after several days use I started developing sore, swollen bumps under my arms similar to very large pimples. The swelling feels like a hard knot under the skin. In your experience would that be caused by the baking soda or cornstarch? Are either known to clog pores or cause irritation of that kind? Thanks in advance for your consideration of my question.
Holy crap. I had the same thing happen a couple weeks ago. so painful. I get hard keratin plugs anyway, so that was what first came to mind… and when they came to a head, i extracted one of those damned plugs, and it was much better after that.
I used nothing but witch hazel, rosemary eo and pink himalayan sea salt mix for about a week, to give my pits a break. I also took Oil of Oregano pills, to fight the inflammation from the inside, and salicylic acid topically at night.
For some reason, i had about a dozen of these, across both pits, for almost 2 weeks. out of the blue, overnight. Havent had a problem before, or since. It wasnt a new batch of deod, so idk what caused it.
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I started making my own deodorant over a year ago… and never had any problems with itching, skin darkening, or odor… but my husband never used it (itching) and I found I felt “soggy” on warm Texas days… not smelly at all but definite wetness. Not a great feeling. I tried replacing some of the liquid oil in the recipe with honey. (I read about honey being used in the Civil War as an anti-bacterial ointment.) I thought I’d give it a try and MAN, what a difference! It helps keep me dry even during hot summer days. I still haven’t found a good recipe for my husband… though I just mixed up the calendula oil infusion and will try it in a few weeks when it’s ready. Thanks for continuing to work on a formula! I’ll let you know if it works…
Robin
would you mind sharing your recipe for the added honey? I’m in Texas also, and any help would be greatly appreciated!
I use a simple spray that works wonders.
I used to use Antiperspirants (yes I know , yikes) … then I learned about aluminum.
Also not keen on the stuff in normal soaps so leads me to …
Dr. Bronner’s Castille Soap.
Use that stuff for everything (not usually full strength).
Deodorant …
(1 part) ETHYL Alcohol (NOT Isopropyl) or Witch Hazel
(1 part) Distilled water
(Half part) Dr Bronner (any scent)
(10 drops) TeaTree Oil
(5-10 drops) Essential oils to taste / scent ( lavender, sandalwood, etc )
Put it in a spray bottle (like the ones in the travel section)
Shake before each use .
Warning: Side Tangent : I use it as shampoo, body wash, part of toothpaste, washing dishes, etc … The stuff is amazing.
I think the part I like most is even if you do not get it all off your skin, it NOT drying or damaging . All made of Oils and Glycerin .
/Side Tangent complete.
I’d like to find out more? I’d like to find out some additional information.
This is my third batch of homemade deodorant. My first was baking soda and cornstarch with Shea butter, coconut oil and EO’s. Worked very well, no odor but after a few weeks, pits became inflamed. I thought it was the cornstarch so sWitched to arrowroot powder and baking soda, again pits got dark and irritated. Made a batch without baking soda and stink appeared after a few days, even tried just adding just 2TBS BS but irritation came back with small amount. Last night made a batch after shower with bentonite clay substituted for BS and I can smell a little onion scent. I recently bought salt rock and that works half the day…Do u think I should do both? I really do not want to go back to commercial deo, I don’t like the film you feel plus my armpits look and feel lovely since stopping in May. I want this to work. Plus I run long distances and don’t want to use old stuff for long runs for fear my regular might not work! Any help or suggestions?
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I LOVE THIS WEBSITE and this sounds amazing, just wondering if it gets on your clothes which we know at time that deodorant does. Would it leave a grease stain being that there is coconut and sunflower in the recipe?
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I love this stuff!! I broke out the second day and knew immediately it was
Simply detoxification!! The baking soda draws out impurities through the skin.
Results are different from one person to another depending on levels of toxins
in their body. Not a big deal at all, just your body telling you to get cleaned out.
Arrowroot always leaves white stripes on my tshirt. Always. Not on the armpit but on the side, on very visible places. No matter how little i use. When i put on the shirt after my pits are complet dry, it gets those white stripes. I do get why everyone is so satisfied with the arrowroot or whats the problem with my arrowroot
I’m very new to making my own stuff, so pardon me if this is a silly question. ^_^; But it gets very warm here in LA, and even after mixing my infused oil together with the dry ingredients, my deodorant keeps separating–the oil floats up to the top and the powder sinks down to the bottom. Obviously, I can shake it/stir it before every use, but it does get tiresome. Should I keep it in the fridge or something (clearly labeled, obv!)?
I just use the basic ingredients – coconut oil, baking soda, and arrowroot powder (I used to put in tea tree for antibacterial but my skin couldn’t handle that). Even though there is some irritation with the baking soda (especially in the summer – maybe because more sweat..?), I definitely stink less!
I remember, with the commercial deodorants, that after about a month or so, all of my workout shirts would stink in the pits – like I don’t think even flies could handle the stink! It was horrible because I was that person at the gym that stunk and no one wanted to be by. I kept having to switch deodorants and buying new workout shirts.
What’s so awesome now, is with making my own deodorant, my workout shirts do not smell. I find myself even forgetting to put deodorant on and it’s no problem. It’s like the commercial deodorants were either stripping or clogging something in my armpits, but now that they can breathe, it’s all good and everyone is happy 🙂
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I made this deodorant and LOVED it, but then it got grainy and rough after a few days?? Is that the baking soda? Is there a way to make it silky smooth? Anyone else have this issue?
I know this is an old post but I’m really excited about making this!
Have already got most of the ingredients in and have just ordered the calendula.
Hi,
I’ve just recently tried homemade deodorant for myself even before I google and found your blog. I mix 50 ml of coconut oil, 8 drops of lime eo, 8 drops of sweet orange eo, 1 slices up lime for infusion. I haven’t let it set for infusion that long, only let it settle for a couple of hours but I think it works just fine. I don’t let it harden but still use it in its liquid form, put it in a pump bottle.
How I use it is i just use one pump on my palm, spray some hydrolate/green tea and rub it between my hands and massage it on my pits. It works really well to make it absorbed to my skin without making it feels oily. I dissaprove of using baking soda for the pits cos its really irritating the sensitive skin and the pit is one part of the skin that’s really sensitive. I might change my recipe for the next batch using lavender and cinnamon stick as the infusion.
Great post thanks for sharing!!
Just wanted to let you know that you can also sterilise jars in the oven, that way you don’t have to worry about making sure they are 100% dry cause the oven does it for you.
I just make sure they are nice and clean, then stick them upside down, with their metal lids, in the COLD oven (NEVER EVER EVER put cold glass in the hot oven… it will shatter) and then heat to 150degrees C (about 300F). 20mins later switch off the oven, open the door and allow jars to cool slowly. Obviously won’t work for rubber lids/jars with rubber seals etc. Just use common sense.
Hope thats useful to someone 😉
Do you have to infuse the deodorant? Would this recipe work without infusing?
I always infuse my butters/oils for deodorant and lotion bars. It gives your product a pleasant aroma without having to add any EO, or at least less EO. Both economical and less chance of a reaction to specific EOs.
As a follow up…I infuse my oils/butters in a double-boiler, or a makeshift double boiler. I gently warm the oils/butters with the herbs for about 40 minutes or more, careful not to burn the oils and careful not to let the bottom pot (the one with the water) go dry. Then use a fine mesh strainer to sieve. I usually sieve twice, first through a fine mesh strainer, and then through a muslin cloth bag…similar to that of a cloth “tea bag”, or some similar cloth material.
I will weigh my infused oils afterward and add whatever weight of oils/butters have diminished through the infusion process to keep my formula (recipe) in tact.
I saw this post and your post for sensitive skin and using Bentonite Clay. I was wondering how French Green Clay would be as a substitute to that?
Also I was attempting to infuse my coconut oil in a mini warming crockpot for 2.5-3 hours. When I took the lid off the Calendula is all crunchy, as if it were friend and the coconut oil smells like it’s been toasted, not burnt. Did I do something wrong?
Sounds like the oil got way too hot and actually cooked the calendula.
Hi! I recently made a homemade deodorant very similar to this and have had a terrible allergic reaction all over my underarms and sides. The only ingredients in it I haven’t used before are arrowroot and tea tree oil. I have been doing some research and can’t seem to figure out if arrowroot is likely to cause a reaction like this. If anyone has any info let me know!
It could be the Tea Tree Oil; many people have reactions to it. There are some countries that are considering banning it. V=http://www.theguardian.com/science/2007/feb/18/medicineandhealth.health (this article lists several problems, including causing hormone issues, and the fact that there’s an abundance of quality control issues. It’s not a product to be used lightly.
I have tried my homemade deodorant but I have problem with traces on my chlotes:( Is there anyone who has the same problem and how did you solve it?
Hi,
I discovered this wonderful fact that it is possible to make your own deodorant a couple of weeks ago.
I am allergic to most other deos, and have used a ‘salt stone’ (that’s what we call it in Denmark).
I jumped right into trying the recipe, which was not Crunchy Betty’s, as I just discovered this faboulous site (LOVE IT !) some days ago, when digging further into this exciting subject!
I made it from 2 tbsp cornstarch, 2 tbsp baking soda (called NATRON here) mixed well.
Stirred into melted organic coconutoil – 2 tbsp as well.
I put 10-15 drops Rosemary essential oil into it, as it was the only one, I had available at the time.
And it went so well!!
I’m amazed how well it works, and I have had no skin irritation at all. Arrowroot is not easy to get here, but my recipe said cornstarch and hadn’t even heard about arrowroot two weeks ago.
This deo gets however rather fluid at a hot summer day. Coconut oil melts at 24 degrees celcius (75 F)
I then found out, that one could put some bee wax into it to make it harder.
So two days ago I made new deodorants, where I improvised a bit.
I used about
1/4 cup cornstarch &
1/4 cup baking soda
Melted
1/4 cup coconut oil
AND
3 tbsp melted bee wax (approximately…)
+ a small dash of almond oil
Essential oils : 15 – 20 dr sage (which should be antibacterial and sweat resistant) and
10-15 dr lemon.
Put it in small cute jars (and yes – they are made of plastic….never heard about any trouble using them )
At this stage one should not be too hesitating – as the bee wax gets hard quite fast.
Put it in the fridge to cool.
AND – they are wonderful and perfect – all my small deos which I now give away for family and friends to try.
Hard enough to ‘hold everything together’ – and just soft enough to get a small amount on your finger.
And it has a wonderful yellow colour.
It works perfect – put it on every morning after my shower – just a small amount – and I don’t smell at all – not even during a hot summer day ( and I have past 50 – to admit… 🙂
Regarding the essential oils:
Rosemary is really nice – it has a bit sharp, ‘clean’ smell – think it’s good for men, and I am going to use it again for my husband’s deodorant. I would use it myself again, sure).
Sage and lemon mixed together – is a really nice combination – fresh and kind of sharp smell like the rosemary.
I don’t like sweet smells.
I can recommend using bee wax – my skin is soft and also less ‘sweaty’ – I use it a couple of other places at my body/skin.
It was however quite difficult to clean my small pots, as the wax gets quite hard – if anyone has a good tip – I would like to hear about it. I ended up using boiling water 2-3 times – and went outside in the garden to get rid of it – as it surely would clog the zink if poured it into that.
I am ready to try to make infused oils – allthough I am complete satisfied and proud of my results so far.
Wonderful site – I can’t wait to try some of the recipes!
I would wellcome a recipe for facial oil to mature skin. Wanted to buy and try one at Etsy, but I don’t have oily skin.
Last – but not least:
have you heard about Dr. Hauschkas theory about not using creme or oils for the night, as the skin should repair itself perfectly using the right stuff during the day (something like that).
Thought that maybe a good cleaning oil might do it for the night ?
Maybe Crunchy Betty is going to make recipes for cleaning oil and facial oil for the (almost) mature skin? 😉
Thanks for listening to my story – good luck at your chemistries!
Birthe
(51… and from Denmark)
I use beeswax for my deodorant sticks as well as my lotion bars. Cleaning up is easy if you thoroughly wipe out any remnants of your batch from your melting pot with paper towels, toss the towels into the trash and then continue to wash your pot in warm, sudsy water.
Also when infusing the oils. You can add herbs and oils then place in your crockpot with water in it. You may want a folded towel on the bottom. Allow to warm on the lowest setting. A few hours to overnight should so the trick. I do this when I want to speed up the process. It works well as long as you keep the temp low and slow.
For those with staining problems how about applying at night before bed. I have read that even the store bought deodorants should be applyed at night to be most effective. great post and I just made some to use. I have a 13 year old grand daughter that gets very stinky in just one day. We are trying to find one that works on her. If it works on her the rest of us will be easy.
I started using this recipe about 3 weeks ago, but without the arrowroot coz I didn’t have any lying around. It works great, no stink. But my pits are staring to get all dark and leathery :(. I am Indian (the Asian kind) and this is a rather unattractive look. Help! Any suggestions, alternatives, fixes? I hate to give this up coz it works so darned well!
I’ve read that the baking soda can cause irritation and discoloration. Perhaps try less baking soda or as suggested in another post by crunchybetty correct the pH balance by using a apple cider vinegar spray before applying the deodorant.
I was wondering if I could add beeswax to this recipe so it will go into a tube better?
Have you had any experience using beeswax in homemade deodorant?
Thanks!
Discovering that I can make my own deodorant has been one of the most lifechanging things ever, no joke! I (and most of my family) have always had the uncanny ability to get stinky very quickly, and are resistant to most commerical anti-perspirants and deodorants. I always had to reapply several times a day. Anyway, I found this on Pinterest a couple of weeks ago and it is currently infusing in my basement. In the meantime I have been using the simple combination of coconut oil, bicarbonate of soda, arrowroot powder and a couple of drops of essential oil (I used Niaouli because it was on-hand) – wow! Most powerful thing I’ve ever used against odour, and I’m not exaggerating! I like the fact I still sweat too, which is of course a necessary bodily function. I haven’t had problems with oil on clothes – I only apply a little of the mixture and the coconut oil seems to absorb very well. I’ve passed this on to my other family members too to try out. Thank you so much!
The only thing I’ve found with all the recipes I’ve tried and different variations that I don’t like….is all the oil. My skin does not absorb it quickly and then I end up with oil stains on everything. And more often than not I just don’t have the time to sit with my arms up in the air while I wait for it to dry or absorb. If you could figure out a recipe without all the oil I would be in heaven!
What about Castor oil? Have you ever tried it with any of your mixtures. I use Castor oil alone (just rub it on the armpit) as my antiperspirant and have been using it for almost a year. It works pretty well for that purpose but I’m always a little self conscious if I am going to be doing something that I know will make me sweat (i.e. working out) or going out on a date. Just curious if you think I can substitute it for the sunflower oil. I’ve never used either sunflower or coconut oil as a deodorant or antiperspirant so I’m a little nervous.
Thanks for this article, it’s a great post.
I have been using this for a few weeks. I smell clean but my clothes are stained. Of course, commercial deodorants leave stains too, but this seems worse. Anyone else have this problem? I’m trying Dawn to get the oil off my shirts but I don’t want to have to stain-treat my shirts everyday.
I find it helps to let the deo ‘soak’ into my skin before putting on a shirt…that seems to help!
I’ve very recently become interested in experimenting with DIY health and beauty products and I’m rather intrigued to have stumbled upon a real DIY deodorant recipe. Thanks for putting it out there! I have skin that is sensitive to most commercial deodorants and I’ve been using straight Tea Tree oil 2-3 days a week as a replacement for it. 2-3 drops on a q-tip works for both sides.
The deodorant I’ve made that works well for me is coconut oil, corn starch (I will try arrowroot now that I know I can buy it a brand new store that just opened near me!) and 40% zinc oxide cream (destin!). I don’t have the measurements of each. I believe I started with about 2/3 c of the coconut oil (from Trader Joe’s) and then added the starch and zinc oxide until it was a good creamy consistency. I don’t use an old deodorant dispenser. I store it in a small mason jar and use my clean fingers. It works pretty darn well. I still sweat but it’s not stinky. I wipe the residue from my fingers in between my breasts and underneath on really hot days. Gross…I know…but us large breasted women know how that goes. I’ve truly been amazed with zinc oxide. I’ve yet to purchase it in powder form, but the creamy stuff is amazing for the deodorant as well as hemorrhoids. Again, gross. But it’s very healing.
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I am currently using the probiotic deoderant from Frugally Sustainable. This, so far, is the best DIY deoderant I have used. It keeps me dry and has great odor protection. I still get a very little bit of miinor irritation from either the baking soda or arrowroot but nothing like with the reciped calling for 1/4 c each of baking soda and corn starch. I think when this stick runs out I will make it again but find a way to maybe add some chamomile and calendula into the recipe as you have done above and see if that makes it a little more soothing. Also, maybe a touch more coconut oil as it is a little on the dry side and can be kind of scratchy going on.
I’d love to make my own soaps and deodorants but every recipe seems to call for coconut oil. I’m terribly allergic to coconut in any form. what would a reasonable substitute for the coconut oil be in your soothing deodorant recipe? I’ve used Babassu oil in soapmaking and it’s worked in that application.
Typically in such recipes as these, the various oils are interchangeable–you pick the one that best suits your body (or budget, or store shelf). The virtues of coconut oil as used in this recipe are probably, first, the mild antiseptic quality, and second, the thicker or more solid state of the oil. For a decent substitution, select an oil that you know to be shelf-stable over a long period (which suggests that it must possess an antiseptic nature of it’s own, or it would go rancid*–this is my assumption), and if the thicker consistency is important, perhaps whip in an ingredient that accomplishes a similar task (xanthum gum, anyone? Beeswax, perhaps.)
On another note, for those who experience unhappy, irritatable pits with this recipe: baking soda may be your culprit. While baking soda is a great and admirable product in many respects, it causes skin irritation with too much exposure. As to what you could sub in its place, I have noooo idea. Perhaps try decreasing the quantity, switching up deos every couple days, or pick chlorophyll and resign yourself to a wardrobe of green. Or pop the body mint, though I wouldn’t try it. Of course, the irritation could just as easily arise from the essential oils you use, which are quite concentrated and many people have sensitivities or outright allergies to several plant materials, however “natural” they may be. (Keep in mind, even poison ivy is all natural.) But I pick on baking soda particularly here because it is generally not a good idea to use all over your body all the time; it is a salt, and abrasive. Sure it can polish, but it can also scratch that nice porcelain finish on your antique clawfoot tub. Or your loverly epidermis. It’s also a mild alkali (though it has something of a fickle nature, and can sometimes act as weak acid in certain situations), while skin is acidic. (It’s your acid mantle–how hard-core kickin’ are you?!) And messing with your skin’s lovely pH balance is not a good idea. Why, you could overthrow the balance of all your wonderful natural flora! And you don’t wanna mess with your flora’s zen. Those little buggers work with your acid mantle day and night to protect you from invasion (and bouts of hideousness). PS: Knock off the incessant hand sanitizer-ing. That rash you’re getting on the back of your hands could just be super-dry skin crying for mercy from the alcohol–which should be left to disinfect inanimate surfaces, not people–or it could be something much more insidious: hostile takeover by fungal colonies laughing at the half-dead ranks of your former defenders. Okay. Getting off the soapbox now…
Take away point: it’s all about tinkering and experimenting until you figure out what works best with your body. Take a cue from the hair dye box and maybe test the various oils and what-not before committing them into your nice recipe, sans poison ivy, of course.
Thank you!!! Been looking of this for sooo long. I have been using “natural” for almost two years. Using the “commercial” natural brands (Toms, etc.) and I still am a bit more stinky than I would like to be. More earthy than stinky but that still isn’t sexy!!! No “comedogenic” issues with coconut oil (seems to be an issue with the oil face cleansing method)? And thanks for steering me away from EVOO in the face mix. Would hate to take two steps back….
I’ve read that unrefined coconut oil is non-comedogenic and is better for these type uses. It also smells coconuty, while refined doesn’t. I use the unrefined in a paste deo I’m using now and have no trouble. I’ll be trying this recipe soon and using the unrefined. HTH
Oh no! I started to infuse mine three days ago and went to shake it today…it’s completely solidified. It’s cold here in PA…needless to say I can’t shake it, and I’m not sure if this prevents it from properly infusing. Should I be running it under warm water and shaking it once every couple of days? I’d really appreciate some advice, thank you so much!
Just saw this site and can’t wait to try it. I have used coconut oil for my stinky feet and love it. I also have used it on the side of my nose to prevent the cheesy smell that sometimes happens.)
I made my first batch of deodorant a week ago. I didn’t measure the ingredients so every time I put it on, it balls up. I’m going to measure this time and repost how it went and which recipe I used.
I followed your recipe to a T. I must say this is the BEST DEODORANT I HAVE EVER USED IN MY LIFE. Seriously, I can get very stinky in under a day. I was so impressed I decided to see how long I could go. I took a shower here on day 5 simply because I felt I really needed a shower, not because my pits were stinky. All in the name of science people! 😉 I am so happy! Thank you so much! (My husband thanks you too!)
How much is 1/4 c. + 2 Tbsp
2 Tbsp. are 1 0z. So 1/4 c plus the 2 Tblsp. will bee 3 oz.
my oil kept hardening (i used coconut + swt almond) because it was too cold in my kitchen cabinet. if i’m keeping it melted by putting my jar in a pot with shallow warm water daily, how long should i let the herbs infuse? i assume it’s much shorter….. thanks 🙂
I use coconut oil and baking soda equal parts to make a liquidy paste and just rub some in my armpits and it works great.
re: tp rolls.
I haven’t tried it myself, but what about using the tubes that cocoa butter comes in? (they used to be cardboard, I’ve seen plastic ones lately – although maybe it depends on the brand)
Smaller radius than a commercial deodorant stick – but you only need a little…
Love this recipe! I’ve certainly put it to the test, whether it be spin class, high intensity cardio, or running around at work, it has kept me smelling fab. I’m on my second batch, but i’ve been letting the flowers and oils sit for roughly 6-8wks, do you think this is a problem, could it have spoiled? Thanks for sharing, I rave about it to my friends and family.
No your oil should be fine in fact it should be even more potent from having sat longer. Besides if it goes bad you will cerainly know from the change in scent.
If I make this, is it ok to sell as long as I give you credit for he ecipe?
I love your site 🙂 I have not used antipersperant deodorant for years after hearing it can clog your pores. A few years ago I was falsley diognosed with lymphoma and had a lymphnoid removed from under my armpit and now I get welts under it from even plain deodarant ( hard to find ) I have wanted to make my own and was soooo excited to find your recipe I’m going to make it within the next week cant wait for finished product 🙂 also going to make my own fragnence , Love the idea of having my special smell without all the junk in it and the hefty price 🙂 Keep up the good work
Its a little grainy after rubbing it in. Is there anything I can do to smooth it out a bit?
Hi Betty, I make one similar to the recipe from Frugally Sustainable ( can’t remember where I found the recipe) and it works very well. I teach special ed and there are days when I have to chase my students ( and get sweaty), but I don’t stink at the end of the day and i am mostly dry. Even the clinical grade stuff wasn’t as good at times.
I use 1/4 cup arrowroot, 1/4 cup organic baking soda, 1/4 cup coconut oil, 3 probiotics capsules ( the temp stable type in blister packs that don’t need refrigeration) and 1/2 tsp vitamin E oil. Mix all powders and probiotics together, melt the oil, add the vitamin E, stir in the powder mix. Let it sit and whip gently several times as it solidifies to ensure a good blend. That’s it. Super easy, plus I smell like a dessert. Yes, he likes it too. :0)
We use just plain old rubbing alcohol for deodorant. Really, the smell comes from bacteria, and anything that will kill the bacteria will prevent smell for quite awhile. I also use body sprays that use an alcohol base. Same concept. I’ve heard people complain that rubbing alcohol irritates their skin, which is understandable, as it’s harsh. Luckily neither my husband nor I have very sensitive pits. I would imagine either white or apple cider vinegar would also work, as vinegar is naturally disinfecting. I had never considered that option before reading through some of the comments here, though. Maybe once our alcohol bottle runs out we’ll give vinegar a try!
Does it firm up like commercial deodorant or does it remain viscous? I have some cleaned out tubes I want to put it in, but I’m not sure if it will ooze out…
It will not firm up.
Where can I buy calendula and chamomile?
I MADE THIS! And it is going great so far. My only question is, could i make it a little thicker? Or is there any way to avoid the oil separation that happens? I am giving jars as xmas presents to my mom and sisters (they were interested in my homemade deo but not going to make it themselves) and I want to make the transition as easy as possible. And somehow, I think they might be more resistant if I tell them they may have to shake or stir it almost daily….. please help! More arrowroot powder? Beeswax?
I’ve been using the baking soda-cornstarch-coconut oil concoction for about a week now. No issues at all. The only thing, and this happened with conventional deo, is that I have to be careful of my clothes. So if I pull a tighter fitting shirt over my head after putting deo on, it may leave a mark on the shirt.
As for odor, I do pit checks and my husband even says he doesn’t smell anything bad. A friend also suggested hand sanitizer for odor. She and her mom swear by it. Apparently, you apply it as soon as you get out of the shower, and then you can put whatever you want over it. It’s supposed to make an antibacterial shield of sorts.
I tried that on one pit with just my homemade deo on the other and my hubby detects no difference when smelling at the end of the day.
Also, tea tree oil, as some other posters have mentioned, could be added instead of using sanitizer. I’ll add it to my next batch, as I’m just too lazy to mix it in at this point.
I want to try this because you ended with this “With your fingers, massaging your armpit seductively. It likes that. Makes it feel special, like the most important armpit in the world.”
But I don’t have the ingredients right now, I’ll have to try a different recipe first.
Hi, I’m making this right now, the oil is infusing on the heater for halve a week now. For the next step I have a question; How much is 1 cup in ml/cl? (metric system). So how much of the baking soda and arrowroot powder do I need to add? Thank you for the answer! 🙂
Also, the end result is a bit grainy, so I’m ending up scrubbing my armpits while applying the deodorant. Anybody any advice?
Well, since I got no reaction for a month, I will just share my findings. I found out a cup is roughly 250 ml, so there it is for people who do use the much more sensible metric system. Since I could not measure my soda and arrowroot powder correctly, that’s what caused the graininess. Trial number two is in the make, number one did take care of any smells and I loved it 😀
Hi, Crunchy Betty. First of all, thanks. I love your site and have literally gone through every single post! I just wanted to share how I make my deodorant… lazy girl style! It is super quick and doesn’t require any melting of ingredients. You apply it in 2 steps – the oil 1st, then powder portion (don’t worry… it still only takes seconds to apply).
Part 1 (oil): Mix coconut oil (approx 1/4 c) with a 5 drops Thyme EO (I found the Thyme oil helps keeps me fresh much longer). Keep in a jar with lid.
Part 2 (powder): Mix 1 part baking soda with 1 part arrowroot powder, & 5 – 10 drops of your favorite essential oil (I love ylang ylang!). Keep in a shallow container (I use a large, deep jar lid).
To use: Apply a *very* light coat of the oil mixture to armpits using fingertips… *very* light! I usually wait a few minutes to let it absorb well, but it’s not necessary. Then, dust armpit with powder mixture using a powder puff.
It’s super quick and works like a charm.
Enjoy!
I tried making my own deodorant a couple months ago…no luck. It didn’t bother my skin but it did not work. I totally refuse to buy deodorant at the store so…I haven’t been wearing any. My husband hasn’t said anything so I guess I don’t smell that bad. lol. But, I really hate not wearing anything. Is there a quicker one (that works) to get me started? I’m really tired of not wearing any. It makes me very uncomfortable. =(
I just made my first batch. It is coconut oil, cornstarch, and baking soda. I didn’t use any scent, because I kind of like unscented armpits. The formula reminds me of the old Secret deodorant that used to come in a jar. This works great except maybe on the hottest days, but I was concerned about the aluminum in commercial antiperspirants.
I’m allergic to ragweed and both chamomile and calendula are in the ragweed family. Anything else I can use??
For those of you using vinegar only… Place orange peels in a bottle of vinegar. After a week of infusing with the orange peels, remove and discard peels. Use the infused vinegar as you normally would. Now, you shouldn’t smell of vinegar, but have a slight citrus scent. Just be aware that citrus can be irritating to the skin, so use with caution. If irritation occurs, discontinue using.
Call me crazy but I use no deodorant, I feel great about it and the biggest shocker is that I don’t smell at all. I discovered that if I used rubbing alcohol under my arms after a shower that I didn’t smell, even if I didn’t shower for 3 days. Now I have a good culture of non stinky bacteria under my arms so I don’t even need to sanitize after a shower. Works for me! Maybe Im some special case though.
I mist straight cheapo vodka on my armpits. This works most days, except for the stickiest days of Summer. Those days I need something that adds a little smell. I usually just dab some natural rose oil perfume near my pits.
Your recipe is lovely! Yet I just don’t have the patience (yet) to do it that way. I hope to one day. 🙂 I currently use this homemade deodorant with coconut oil recipe and LOVE it. So does my husband. It was really easy (I was actually shocked when I was done making it that I was done). I am just thrilled to be done with store bought deodorant and join you and so many other awesome people on a natural approach to life.
PS: I love your toothpaste recipe!!! It’s all I use now. Thank you!!!
I am desperately trying to find a homemade deodorant recipe that doesn’t irritate my armpits. With every one I’ve tried, I get a red rash within a few days, and it usually end up raw. I think it’s the baking soda, as that’s the only ingredient that remains constant that could be an irritant. And now I have a ton of deodorant that is useless…
Do you think it would be possible to remedy and strain the solids from the oils with a recipe similar to this? Thanks.
My very first batch of homemade deodorant is sitting in the fridge to firm up. I took 80 grams (I’m hoping that’s about 5 tablespoons) of Lush lotion bars and melted them in the microwave. Then, I added 1/4 c baking soda and 1/4 c potato starch (it works like cornstarch in pudding, at least), both from Bob’s Red Mill. I poured it into a little ingredient bowl, and put it in the fridge. Since the lotion bars were solid to start with, I’m thinking this will harden up nicely.
It took me all of 10 minutes, and that included finding the Lush bars, cutting them up, and finding a container to put the open baking soda package in. I can’t wait to try it out.
Thanks for sharing. I’m going to give this a go, I have calendula and chamomile growing in the garden. 🙂
I checked a few local stores and no one seemed to have calendula. I just used chamomile for all of the herbs. I used 5Tbsp Coconut Oil, 2 Tbsp Jojoba Oil, and 1 Tbsp Sunflower Oil. It is currently infusing. I set an alarm for 2.5 weeks from now and will then add tea tree oil and grapefruit oil. I have a strong dislike for lavender, so I went with something citrusy. I must have stood in the essential oil isle for half an hour smelling everything to try to find something I liked. I saw that they do have vanilla in a different brand then me, so if this works well, I may try vanilla in the future.
Other than mainstream aluminum-containing deodorant, I have only tried Tom’s. It works really well for a couple of days, then feels like my armpits are on FIRE. It is especially bad when I have just shaved. I am excited by the list of ingredients in this recipe. I am a true believer in the power of coconut oil and have been using it for months. I really hope this works for me!
Coconut oil, arrowroot and baking soda. Works wonders but after a few
months my underarms are a little uncomfortable.(itchy). Honestly no commercial brand works as good as this one. And
other then the baking soda irritating my underarms, the smell is gone,
wetness is under control and one batch lasts a few months! I will absolutely try this out! If it works as well as the one I am making now but does not irritate then I will be one happy camper!
I tried using this deodorant for the first time when I took my kids to the county fair. In 100 degree weather. And I am a crazy sweater. After 4 hours out there I sniffed, and got nothing. Thank you! I’m so thrilled. 😀
Can you replace baking soda with baking powder? it’s all I have in. or would it be bad to have the cream of tartare component in there?
I made this stuff last night and I have not had a drop of sweat since, they aren’t even damp. My pits are smooth and dry.. There is also absolutely NO odor. I changed the recipe a tad bit, though. Instead of sunflower oil, I used shea butter. And I ommited the dried flowers altogether. I used tea tree oil (a good amount, maybe 1/2 tsp or more) and tried to scent it with lemon oil. It took a lot of lemon oil to offset the tea tree oil. (I think tea tree oil smells like a$$). I also used more arrowroot than baking soda. And then just mixed it all up in a glass jar. I am very pleased with the final product. It’s already working better than my Secret, AND there’s no aluminum seeping into my pores!
Thank you for the recipe!
I have a question about infusing coconut oil. I mixed melted coconut oil and sweet almond oil with the herbs. But it sets up again pretty quickly. If it’s in a solid state, is it still infusing? I can’t shake it… Thanks!
Try putting it on the heater (Central heating) to keep it liquid. I don’t think it’s infusing in solid state.
Hi! This is fabulous! I have made the switch to natural deodorants. First switched to the Thai Mineral Salt one which everyone swore by. It did get rid of odors, but gave me a HORRIBLE rash under both arms. Looking at the reviews online, no one else seemed to have that problem.
Now I’m getting into essential oils and making my own things and this is exciting to try. QUESTION: Can I use chamomile and calendula that has been infused already? I don’t want to wait three weeks to infuse it, and the place I get my herbs also sells preinfused oils. Can I just add that to the coconut oil as written, and then add the dry ingredients immediately? Will have to figure out the amount of oil that is made from that amount.
Thank you!
So I’ve made this…and as it works wonderful! I’m really, my pits are smooth and free of bumps. I’ve been on this particular recipe for about 2weeks now. It’s my 2nd recipe, the 1st I started back in February (I think). That one left my pits really dark! Not this one…yet anyway!
However, I would like to know if I have to mix this recipe every time b/c the oil separates. Like I have to vigorously shake the heck out of my bottle, or sometimes grab a clean spoon to mix it, every day!! Just curious…
I don’t deal well with store bought deodorants. I get itchy and sore even when I’m buying the sensitive skin one. It was sticky for a large amount of the day and stained my clothes.
My partner had trouble with store bought deodorants because they didn’t stop the BO at all. Spray, roll on, nothing worked.
I made this a few weeks ago. I needed something right away as my store deodorant had run out and I didn’t want to buy more so I didn’t bother infusing the oil, just used it as is. I didn’t have sunflower oil so I used olive oil. I added lavender EO
This is the best deodorant either of us has ever used. My pits are no longer gloopy or staining my clothes and I’m not itchy at all. My partner no longer smells. It’s fantastic. Usually when we’ve been away and I open the case to sort the washing I can smell the clothes as soon as I pick them up, this time I had trouble telling what had been warn and what hadn’t. Even holding the shirts up to my face and sniffing all I could smell was the lavender.
Thankyou so much for this recipe.
is it possible to use fresh lavender?
i grow herbs in my backyard and have some, but i don’t want to wait to dry it.
also, is it possible to speed up the infusion process?
I love this deodorant, thank you for sharing! I used lavender instead of chamomile, castor oil instead of baking soda because of allergies. This is the BEST recipe for deodorant I have ever tried! It even withstood an 11hr shift in 95 degree weather…my pits still smelled AMAZING!!!!!!
Thanks for this recipe. I plan to make this once I get all the ingredients. I have tried two different recipes. The probiotics recipe works good but it makes me itchy and leaves red bumps. I left out the baking soda and it still seems to irritate my skin. Plus, it is staining my clothes terribly. My question for this recipe is this: could I replace the baking soda with bentonite clay or should I just use more arrowroot powder? Thanks so much!
Hi! I find baking soda formulas to work the best for odor control, but I have one spot on one underarm that gets red, itchy and rash-y whenever I use a baking soda deodorant. The “Not a Secret” formula is super soft but yeah, not so great on controling stinkiness. I was wondering if the baking soda I’m using is the culprit–it’s the “created” kind, not the naturally found like Bob’s Red Mill. Any comments/suggestions? I’m considering messing with the formulation of the “Not a Secret” formula, too.
Thank you CB for sharing all this wonderful info with us! I wanted to return the favor and share what I have found on Aluminum chlorohydrate. I have heard that Aluminum is bad and then I hear its not. Its so hard to know anymore, so I went to the source. The MSDS. Check this out http://www.sciencelab.com/msds.php?msdsId=9925582 I find it interesting that its a major skin irritant, that a lot of the information is “not known” or “not available” and this “Possibly hazardous short term degradation products are not likely. However, long term degradation products may arise.” is really concerning to me. I hope this helps.
I was hopeful but a little skeptical in making the Soothing Deodorant. Tried it the first day, a day I was just hanging out at home doing nothing. Worked great. The REAL test was the next day, a day I was working a 12 hour shift as a nurse in a crazy busy ER. Guess what? The deodorant worked GREAT! I spent the entire day sniffing my armpits and looking for wet spots. Nada, zero. I am soooo excited! Even my store-bought all natural deodorant didn’t do this for me. Thank you for this awesome recipe. Love.
Far be it from me to be so dramatic as to claim that homemade deodorant has changed my life, but O. M. G. peeps. This is freakin’ amazing! I made the orignal recipe (BS/CS/CO) and tried it yesterday for the first time. I must have looked like a full-on freak cuz I kept sniffing my pits every couple hours lol. But AT NO POINT DID I STINK! And I’m not talking just under regular conditions here, gals. I mean even after running 2 miles in Georgia summer conditions (you know, when it’s so hot and humid that your sweat won’t even evaporate, it just drips off..gross)my pits were odor free. It was a flippin’ miracle. I’ve also found I don’t sweat or feel as sticky in the underarm region as I did with commercial deodorant. I am a convert! Homemade deo 4 life!!
I tried the original recipe and it worked amazingly well! That is, apart from the itching. So i gradually reduced the amount of cornstarch and bi-carb in it until one day i decided to try using just coconut oil. Just by itself. And it totally works! I’m not kidding – my armpits smelled of nothing but the faint sent of coconut ALL DAY. In hot weather. And no itching.
My great grandma, grandma, and mom swear by milk of magnesia. I buy a 14 ounce bottle for $1 at the dollar store. lasts me at least 2-3 months. I put it on right after I shower in the morning and just before I go to sleep. No smelly pits here 🙂
I’m having great success with a modified version of this. I just use the coconut oil with a little bit of tea tree and lavender mixed in. Then I dust with plain arrowroot powder. Done.
Baking soda, cornstarch and coconut oil. I don’t use any essential oil; it doesn’t seem necessary. I first tried this recipe in August. In Florida. It still works. 3 tablespoons of each. Stuff it into an old deodorant container.
I was using a coconut oil, corn starch, beeswax, essential oil recipe and was all impressed with my amazing smelling armpits… I believe my first action was to stick my pits in my husband’s face and say “doesn’t it smell like sunshine!?!?!” lol. Then came the heat of summer and the fact that we don’t have AC here in the UK and my sunny pits turned sour 🙁 so i’ve gone back to my old deoderant…which I hate bc I hate the left behind residue… I may have to try out other recipes, lime, or ACV. which ingredient helps most with the stank????
This is my very first attempt at a crunchy recipe! Just got my infusion put in the jar. I found calendula at community whole foods but used camomile tea (which had a little licorice root and lemon) because I had some in the pantry. Very excited to see how it turns out! Will this solidify enough to put into a deodorant stick?
I am two weeks into my switch to homemade deodorant and I must say I was surprised at the efficacy of odor elimination. I’m a guy and always found commercial products covered my natural smells, but left a 3rd mysterious odor that I wasn’t always comfortable with. I made a variation of your first recipe with a little less coconut oil and used rosewood, cedarwood, and tea tree oils. I’ve been using EOs for some time now for emotional and spiritual well-being, but stumbled upon your blog looking for personal care & household uses. Thanks for all the great ideas and absolute honesty regarding your process and journey to find better ways of living. All the best~~
Happy Monday…stupid question of the day…
Where do I get chamomile and calendula. Went to the Whole Foods and the guy working looked at me like I was a space alien when I asked about it.
Thanks in advance!
Try a local health food store or regional one. In the bulk herbs section. Or a local herb store.
For examples: I buy herbs at Sprouts, People’s Co-op, and In Harmony — all in person within about 15 miles of my house.
By mail, Mountain Rose Herbs is my favorite. I’ve heard about several more, too…
I was wondering the same thing. Thanks for asking Jodueren.Although, I saw a small chamomille herb plant in Menard’s garden center yesterday. I think I run on over there and grab it.
Not sure about calendula, but if you have a good tea shop locally they should have chamomile. (Or you could always tear up some tea bags in a pinch). The bulk spice section in the natural choices area of my local Safeway/Carrs and Fred Meyer stores have chamomile, raspberry leaf and other goodies from Frontier; the local “hippy” grocer has almost anything you could want for tea or infusing. And this is Alaska, we’re not exactly known for selection. You might be surprised what you can find at a mainstream grocery if you look hard enough.
So, I bought a calendula infused oil from Mountain Rose Herbs about a month ago. You think I could use that?
Yes.
Arrowroot Powder is also a great substitute for cornstarch in baking!
OK..I’ve made the deo with probiotics..love this stuff!
First, I used CB’s recipe, and the baking soda irritated my freshly shaved pits…but I can’t skip deodorant here in the deep south! So then I combined hers with a recipe from Bonzai Aphrodite, and the Frugally Sustainable one.
I made it with less baking soda, (about 1/8 cup, instead of 1/4), switched to arrowroot, and added 4 capsules of probiotics (gotta get shelf stable ones..they don’t all have to be refrigerated). Success! I can rub this in right after shaving, with no redness, irritation, etc.
I don’t sweat as much since switching to homemade deo, either.
Lavender oil, coconut oil, and cocoa butter complete my recipe. I smell yummy…
Y’all are an inspiration. I’ve gotten kind of burned out on trying homemade deodorants so I’m currently using a natural brand deodorant that isn’t too irritating to use and only has one ingredient that I don’t like. My deodorant misadventures have so far included: mainstream commercial deodorants (gunky and unpleasant-smelling, with LOTS of ingredients I’m not happy about), several variations on the baking soda-cornstarch-coconut oil recipe, natural brand deodorants (most of which caused irritation), and beeswax-sunflower oil-EO deodorants (homemade or from Bubble and Bee).
I’m so jealous of those of you who can use the baking soda-cornstarch-coconut oil deodorant. This was my first homemade deodorant – I made it without EOs and just a tiny dab kept me totally odorless all day. It was effective even after I tried eliminating the cornstarch and reducing the baking soda. But it turns out that even small amounts of baking soda are horribly irritating to my skin, and the coconut oil gave me acne on the sides of my body from armpit to waist. So, basically, all 3 ingredients can potentially cause horrible rashes. On the positive side, I learned that I really don’t sweat enough to justify daily antiperspirant use, which I wouldn’t have known if I hadn’t tried.
The calendula and chamomile infusion sounds great and I think I’d like to try it if and when I make another oil and beeswax deodorant. I like how soothing oil-based deodorants are on my sensitive skin (although I prefer a solid stick to a soft cream because it’s too easy to overapply a cream and stain my clothes); I just need to find an EO blend that I like. I have not been enjoying lemongrass or lavender. Tea tree seems okay as long as I don’t use too much. Rosemary sounds promising, and I’d love to hear any other suggestions for odor-reducing EOs.
In the meantime, I am so totally going to try ACV as deodorant, starting tomorrow. I’m terribly curious to see how it works.
I’m disappointed that the printable version doesn’t include the direction to “massage your armpit seductively”. Think I’ll have to try this soon…slowly but surely getting big business off my body.
I’ve been using the “not so Secret” recipe for months and I love it and have had no probs with the baking soda although I’d love to try it using arrowroot on the next batch.
My local heath food store called me today to let me know my beeswax was in and she told me she could not get arrowroot powder due to bad crops. Has anyone else had this problem? I know Mountain Rose herbs still has it but Vitacost does not. Just curious.
Another question on the calendula…I grow marigolds and isn’t that the same thing? Can I just pluck the petals or is it a certain species?
TIA!
I have a store-bought deodorant with PREbiotics in it that works extremely well. I imagine, as long as the probiotics-containing deodorant were kept refrigerated, that would work, as well. On the flip side, I’ve been taking probiotics for a couple of weeks now, and I’ve noticed a significant decrease in body odor. Like, I haven’t showered in a WEEK, and I only put deodorant on once or twice after my shower, and I don’t smell like anything today. Oh, and my skin’s clearing up – flakiness vanishing, acne disappearing like it was all just a big ol’ joke.
I actually found my original homemade deodorant recipe! Amazing!
[FWIW: I was avoiding baking soda on purpose. It makes my skin itchy and red when left on. A quick face scrub is okay, but anything longer than 30 seconds is too long.]
2 T coconut oil
1 t cocoa butter
2 t beeswax
Heat together over hot water (double-boiler, heat off, water HOT, but never boiled).
1 t shea butter
Stir until it starts to melt, then remove small pan from bigger pan and continue stirring until completely melted.
2 T arrowroot powder
2 t hydrated bentonite clay [I didn’t have dry clay at the time.]
Stir until creamy and smooth.
1 t vanilla-infused vodka
1/3 dropper of vitamin E oil
Stir until incorporated.
15 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops of lemongrass essential oil
5 drops of rosemary essential oil (second batch = 5 drops clary sage = don’t repeat)
Stir. Spoon mixture into empty deodorant container. Smooth top. Cap and freeze for half-hour.
Notes: Not firm enough for me. It filled a repurposed (and clean!) Tom’s of Maine deo container (3 oz) and it didn’t seep out. All product above the container goes onto your skin. This takes some getting used to!!!
It was easy to apply with my fingers and worked beautifully as both a deodorant/anti-perspirant and as a soothing lotion. I haven’t used typical commercial deos for years. (No detox period to contend with.) I had been using crystal rock versions, which worked well but I had been reading about alum, interspersed with Tom’s of Maine, which did not work well for me. This homemade version worked loads better than Tom’s and was more anti-perspirant than crystals and smelled way better than anything I’ve ever used! I remelted and added more beeswax in an attempt to get it firmer (and I added more of the vodka through rosemary EO ingredients since heating destroys them). It worked!!!
T = Tablespoon
t = teaspoon
I have not made homemade Deo. yet, but it is on my list of things to make and the list grows daily!. Possibly wait til winter. 🙂 We’ll see though! This one sounds great! Turns out the pretty yellow and orange flowers that grown in my front flower beds are Calendulal! I had no idea! My mother in law planted them 4 years ago when i had my 2nd child. I finally asked her the other day what they were. I tried growin some seed i got a few weeks ago and must have been a dud pack, never sprouted. Any way, since i have calendula, i may have to make this one. 🙂 I also infuesd dried calendual and use with my ACV rinse the other night. MY hair is crazy shiney! Good shiney! AS a side note, i’ve been with my husband for 10 years and he has neve worn deoderant. Allergic to them. He doesn’t stink either. the whole reason we stink is becase we surpress what our body is supposed to do naturally. Even after a day working in the yard he doesn’t really smell. Well except that lawn mower smell but no BO. More a musky manly scent. Our bodies know what to do, we need to trust them. 🙂
Calendula is SO easy to grow 🙂 I’m keen to try chamomile as well, just haven’t worked out where to put it yet!
Just a thought about coconut oil stains on clothes: eucalyptus oil is a great oil stain remover. Put a clean cloth behind the stained fabric, dab eucalyptus oil on with another cloth, keep going till the stain is covered, pressing the oil into it. Throw in the wash as usual – the stain will be gone and the entire load of laundry will smell faintly and freshly of eucalyptus.
I actually found Crunchy Betty last year when I was researching natural/non-toxic bug sprays & candles which then led me to several blogs that also had deodorant recipes, so this post has a special place in my crunchy heart!
After sifting through what seemed like a million different deodorant recipes, I decided to take all the good advice/info and distill it down to one recipe. I use a two step application that addresses the complaints that (1) the coconut oil left oily marks and (2) the baking powder, cornstarch, or arrowroot powder left white marks.
I filled a small glass jar with melted coconut oil (if you make this recipe in the summer when the weather is warm, you can just leave your jar of coconut oil on the kitchen counter and it gets liquid enough to pour – at least in my non-air conditioned house). I added several essential oils that I selected for their combination of scent and antibacterial properties: peppermint, eucalyptus, lemongrass, lemon, and grapefruit. Other oils you can try are lavender, tea tree, rosemary, bergamot, etc. I used A LOT of peppermint in mine because I wanted a fresh clean scent, but the combination of the peppermint/eucalyptus plus citrus not only smells good but gives a nice slightly tingly feeling when you apply it. The melting point of coconut oil is in the low to mid 70s, so it solidified once it cooled down but sometimes in warm weather it gets a little melty. This is not a problem if you keep it in a jar with a screw on lid (which I really recommend if you are traveling with it). If you are reusing an old deodorant container so that you can apply it the regular way of swiping it on without touching it, you may want to add a bit of beeswax to the melted coconut oil. This will provide a firmer texture and keep your deodorant from melting in warm weather.
In a second glass jar, I have arrowroot powder. That’s it. No baking soda (because so many people complained about having pits of fire) and no cornstarch (most of the corn in the United States is genetically modified so I figured why deal with that if I didn’t have to?). But that’s just me. I like arrowroot powder because it’s absorbent but also very silky in texture (it makes a great dry shampoo too!). But you can mix it with baking soda, cornstarch, clay, or marshmallow root powder.
To apply, I make sure that my skin is completely dry (meaning it’s not the first thing I put on when I get out of the shower). I dip my fingers into the jar and then rub some of the coconut oil under my arms. I wait a few minutes to let my skin absorb the coconut oil. Seriously, be patient. Towel dry your hair, put on lotion, but give your skin a few minutes alone with the coconut oil.
Next I take a cotton pad (you can use a nice fluffy powder puff or one of those really nice wool puffs) and dab it into the arrowroot powder. Don’t be tempted to swipe it across your armpits though. Instead, gently press the arrowroot powder into your skin.
I know two steps can seem like so much extra work, but it really isn’t. And it’s totally worth it because with this method, I sweat much less, I don’t stink, there are no oil marks on my clothes, and I don’t have white marks on my black shirts.
If you really can’t handle two steps, you can mix the arrowroot powder into the coconut oil/essential oil mixture (while it’s still liquid) and voila, you now have only one step.
Coconut oil is really essential to this deodorant recipe because it’s antibacterial (and bacterial growth is what causes you to stink when you sweat), but if you’re really not down with using any oil, you might be able to use a combination of arrowroot powder and coconut flour/coconut milk powder (I’ve never tried it, but hey, it’s worth a shot, right?). Be aware that if you use an only powder deodorant, it’s a bit more work to add the essential oils and get them evenly distributed. I found an awesome trick online though! Apply a few drops of essential oil to dried rose petals or small pieces of silk then put the rose petals/silk in the jar with the arrowroot powder. Once a day, give the jar a roll between your hands (just make sure you don’t open the jar right after you roll it – give it a little time to settle). That is enough to distribute the essential oils throughout the powder.
I used this combo when I was in Reno last summer. It was SO HOT and I didn’t stink at all! Bonus: you can use the coconut oil/essential oil mixture to keep your feet moisturized and unstinky.
Love the tip about the chamomile to soothe! I make my mix a bit more liquid and decant into an empty roll-on deo container. Shake before use and its two quick swipes in the morning. A possible suggestion to previous posters who said they were allergic to the baking soda: I thought I was too until I discovered the real culprit causing the itchy rash under my arms – sodium benzoate (a preservative in foods and some commercial toiletries – even so-called organic ones). No matter what I used, it itched like crazy and made the rash worse. Once I stopped eating this nasty preservative, baking soda was not a problem anymore. My research seems to indicate this allergy is more common than medical science currently thinks.
For the last week or so I have been spritzing on Bragg’s apple cider vinegar (acv) then patting on a drop of Lavender essential oil. Then when it dries, I follow it with a dusting of Lush’s dusting powder (Karma scent- my fav, but it’s discontinued) that I added a few drops of Lemongrass essential oil into.
The ACV stings a bit on freshly shaven pits, but it’s not bad and the sting and smell dissipate after a few minutes. I live in Arizona, so sweat is a daily thing (as it should be). And so far, I can go all day and not be stinky. 🙂
I can’t wait to try your recipe though!!!
I drink 1/2 tsp liquid chlorophyl with 8 oz water every day. It is great for your liver and you don’t smell. You do still need to wash to remove toxins (sweat) and bacteria.
I want to try this. I really do. For my husband, not for myself. That’s where it gets tricky. I use nothing (haven’t for about 8 years now…I don’t stink. Don’t worry…my farts definitely do. I don’t think I’m better than you). But after my last attempt left him in such pain that he could hardly keep his arms down at his sides (which made for some awkward business meetings) we are gun-shy. Maybe I’ll take a deep breath and try again. I haven’t had the startup energy necessary, what with the Littles (we have one turning 1 in a couple days and one who just turned 4) and the messy kitchen, etc. This post may be just the inspiration I needed. But in a couple of weeks. Please don’t ban me from your forums if I visit the deodorant section one (or even two) more times. I am doing my very best.
I made a variation of the not a secret deodorant and it works great for cutting the smell except on the hottest days (also, I’m 20 so I think we youngsters are just smellier in general.) I use that at night and in the morning, when I’m done putting witch hazel on my face, I wipe my pits with the damp cotton ball. It works sort of like the carry along anti-perspirant in that it just dries everything right up.
Your timing rocks as always- I have just enough of my Tom’s of Maine deodorant to get me through the 2 weeks til this will be ready! (if I go to the store RIGHTNOW)
Thanks a bazillion for making the chemical free lifestyle less intimidating!
I am so happy I switched to natural deodorant, it seems to work so much better and I can customize the scent *and* no more yellow marks on my clothes. Though I suppose it’s not *entirely* natural, since I threw in some body spray, but I hadn’t gotten any essential oils yet and I love that scent.
I was inspired by a post on my favorite blog, Honey Rock Dawn, about natural deodorant, but it called for shea butter and cocoa butter, which I would have to order, so I searched for a simpler and cheaper recipe, and found it at the createbellacreate blog. I got everything in the baking aisle at Meijer, so it’s just regular baking soda and cornstarch, though the coconut was organic, it was unscented. I was then blissfully unaware of how many things you have to watch out for. The blogger did say that she used aluminum free organic baking soda, which I admit confused me, since I didn’t think it was in baking soda. So anyway, it filled up two little baby food jars and 3 months later, I have 1 and a half jars left. I’m excited that it’s lasted so long and that I don’t *ever* have to buy deodorant again.
The deodorant was the beginning of my crunchy experience, and thanks to your blog, I now wash my face in raw honey every day and moisturize with sweet almond oil. I have thought about going no shampoo, but I do use a brand that’s SLS free. It’s made me more aware of what’s in what I put on my body, but also that I can mix products and use them for other uses (for example, use conditioner for shave gel). I learned that I can make my own laundry soap and baking soda does ever Now I just have to get that shea butter to make lotion bars. =) Thanks for opening my mind to all kinds of possibities.
Hi just wanted to say I love all that you do and thank you so much!!! I have been using the frugally substnable deodorant for two weeks now. Did not have arrowroot powder so used corn starch. Also made some for my husband. So far so good!!! Yeah!!! No rash yet but they say that it may take three week or so. My husband tested it put at his work and said that it worked for him. This is the first time I have made my own deodorant. Next time will use arrowroot powder and see if there is a difference. Again thank you so much you are an inspiration to all of us.
the baking soda irritates my skin and prolonged use of coconut oil irritates my skin too. besides arrowroot, does anyone have any suggestions what to substitute for coconut oil? CrunchyBetty, may i substitute essential oils of calendula and chamomile for the infusions?
thank you.
Here’s one that doesn’t use coconut oil:
http://asonomagarden.wordpress.com/2009/07/28/how-to-make-homemade-deodorant-i-love-it/
thank you! that was actually the first recipe i tried — earlier this year. the baking soda in it irritated me and it didn’t work for me when it got warmer.
I’ve bookmarked a lot and they all seem to use the same ingredients. There was one that split it into two parts: cream and powder. Perhaps you could use that one, except without the baking soda and with cocoa butter/shea butter/both instead of coconut? Here’s the recipe anyway:
http://www.easypeasyorganic.com/2010/06/best-deodorantantiperspirant-youll-ever.html
Edit: If corn starch doesn’t bother you, perhaps you could throw in some arrowroot powder as well?
I have been making my own for about two years and it’s my best seller in my etsy store!
My husband uses it and loves it and he works outdoors.
Those who are getting a rash, stop using baking soda-very irritating to skin and not needed. Cornstarch shouldn’t cause a rash.
I use Shea butter, beeswax, coconut oil infused with lavender and calendula,, tea tree oil, cornstarch, and arrowroot powder. That’s it!
The coconut oil is antibacterial and alsofights odor.
The cornstarch acts as an antiperspirant to keep you dry!
The tea tree oil kills bacteria as well. No bacteria-no odor! So yes, this is a deodorant AND antiperspirant, although many will swear the first two weeks of using it, but you will not
Stink. Your body just needs to detox.
I probably sell 15-20 tubes of this a WEEK!!
PS baking soda is just to fight odor, no need for it of
You use coconut oil.
What is your Etsy store?
What’s the store? I want to buy some too!
Are you able to share the name of your Etsy store…? I want to stop using my OTC deo but I’m not sure I’m ready to tackle making my own.
baking soda is very irritating to the skin, yes… but if you continue to use the deodorant through that irritation, it WILL go away in about 2 weeks… i guess you develop a tolerance to it or something. The first two weeks are tough through the detox. Once you get through it, it’s the best deodorant EVER.
I’ve found that coconut oil stains clothing if used in deodorant. For some reason it’s only happened to guys (maybe they sweat different than gals?). So instead I use Shea butter and cocoa butter in my recipe. I sell it on Etsy and it’s my most popular product. I guess that’s saying something…
But I never thought about an infusion! Neat idea!
Crunchy Betty you make me laugh! I love your kindergarten story…thanks for making my day (and making my pits smell better!).
Betty
i bout the crystal rock deodorant, is it not good? it didnt cost much and is impossibly natural and will last a year. i think i paid $2 for it. anyone have any info on this? I mean if it really is natural and works then it seems to me im saving money by buying this product verses buying all these ingredients to make my own.
I tried making my own with beeswax, almond oil, and essential oils…and it ended up staining my clothes. Time to try one of these new recipes!
I found that corn starch actually works better for me than arrowroot powder. I guess everyone’s body chemistry is different. And I have to be very careful on the baking soda. Too much and I get a rash, not enough and I smell. I use the bs/co/eo/corn starch basic, but I also add shea and coco butters. They smell nice, soothe skin, and are solid at room temperature, especially the coco butter. This helps keep deodorant firmer. I haven’t had much luck adding beeswax. I find it hard to wash off so it builds up.
I use Organic Coconut Oil and Bob’s Alum-free baking soda…works great!
And since I have use the CO as my: moisturizer, make up remover, additive to my baking soda toothpaste concoction and I use my baking soda as my: exfoliator, shampoo/product build up remover and again in my toothpaste, so it’s always right there on my vanity. (as a bonus, when I am using my BS over the sink during my beauty routine, the excess BS in the sink gets spritzed with vinegar & wiped out and cleans my sink!)
It just makes sense to take a dab of CO, add a dash of BS – it melds together beautifully in my hands. Just apply and it’s not sticky or heavy and it really does work great!
Love the idea of adding essential oils…can’t wait to try that out.
I have found that splashing on some plain old Apple Cider Vinegar works perfectly as a deodorant. Try it!!! The vinegar smell only lasts a minute or two, but the odor protection lasts all day. I’ve been using it for two weeks now.
Okay, so I read this comment yesterday… at a time when I’m fed up with my homemade deodorants either not really working or giving me painful itchy pits… and I thought, pfft, it can’t be that easy. Really? Just some acv? But I tried it and whoa. No stink! At the end of the day, if I really pushed my nose down there (heh), I could smell a little vinegar. But for real, no stink. *fingers crossed for continued success with such a simple thing* I mixed a tiny bottle of acv with a few drops of lavender eo, smells good 🙂
It’s interesting, you know, I read in a magazine many years ago that Princess Diana used acv for deodorant!
I took some plain baby wipes and put in a ziplock baggie, put apple cider vinegar in it and sealed up to carry with me , it makes great deodorant wipes 🙂
One thing I noticed when I first switched to homemade was that it may not work perfectly the first week. I sweat pretty bad and had a funky smell at first. I figured this was my body “detoxing” off store-bought crap, much like when my hair detoxed when I went no ‘poo. But after about a week I was good to go! And I have found that cornstarch does not irritate my skin but maybe I will try it with arrowroot instead just to see..
i was SO EXCITED when I made my first ever all natural deodorant. I used a mixture of coconut oil and baking soda but left out the cornstarch because I didn’t have any on hand. It worked like a charm…for about a week. Then I broke out in the rash to end all rashes. Large red bumps that spread down the side of my body. It took about 2 weeks to clear up. I keep reading that it’s the cornstarch that causes the irritation, but since mine didn’t have any in it, I can only assume it was the baking soda. So what can I use in place of the all important baking soda??
I can’t wait to give this recipe a try. I’m making my shopping list right now! 🙂
You can also try rubbing rosewater on your arms right after bath. No matter how much you sweat after that, your underarms won’t stink.
I haven’t heard that one before, nice. Thanks Aditi 🙂
I’ve tried a few different recipes and finally found one that works for me! It’s a combination of a lot of different recipes I read. I sweat like a man, so the fact that this keeps me from stinking is pretty miraculous. It works for me all day, even outside working in the garden, but it doesn’t hold up after my Insanity work out (but no chemical deodorant did either). I’m super happy with it so far!
1 T. arrowroot powder
1/2 T. baking soda
1/2 T. french green clay
3 T. coconut oil (NOT melted)
2 drops tea tree essential oil
3 drops ylang ylang essential oil
1 drop lemon essential oil
3 drops castor oil
Mix together dry ingredients, then add oils and smush forcefully with the back of a spoon until well combined. Store in a sealed container. Apply a pea-sized amount to each underarm.
Do you have a brand of French green clay you recommend? Would like to try this! (As for sweating like a man… yes. Yes I do. And my fiancé doesn’t. Unfair!)
I tried this one and it was a disaster for me. I have very sensetive skin but had no idea that my armpits were goin to react the way they did. My skin turned gray and fell off in chunks leaving me raw and some of my hair has not grown back. It did nothing to fight the odor and I actually sweat more using this then having used nothing at all. I literally just dripped and I would just be sitting reading a book cool weather. I thought it was the detox peopl talk about and was trying to wait it out. But by day 10 when my skin started to fall off in chunks I was done.I am happy to hear that it works for others but wanted to let people know my experience with this particular recipe. And yes I followed it exactly to the letter.
I have made the “not a secret” deodorant, adding a little baking soda (which tends to be a bit irritating) with the clay. I plan on trying the probiotic one that Andrea posted on FS soon, so I will definitely let you know how it works for us. Thank you for being so lovely!
: )
I have made the “not a secret” deodorant, adding a little baking soda (which tends to be a bit irritating) with the clay. I plan on trying the probiotic one that Andrea posted on FS soon, so I will definitely let you know how it works for us. Thank you for being so lovely!
: )
Okay. I’ve asked this same question on several blogs, and no one ever answers me. PLEASE ANSWER ME. ☺
I know that we’re supposed to sweat. I get it. But sometimes you don’t just want (need) stink-free pits; sometimes you want sweat-free pits. Wet marks under the arms is not very professional or sexy.
Please advise!!!
I’ve been wondering the same thing, bw. I don’t mind a “little” sweating when I’m just hanging around the house.
Maybe you aren’t getting answers because you never asked an actual question?
Well, that seems a bit Harsh. Having a bad day?
The baking soda and arrow root or cornstarch absorb a lot of the sweat in these recipes. I use my homemade 99% of the time, and it works great. But yes, there are times when I don’t want to sweat at all, such as an important job interview, high school reunion, etc, and I keep a stick of my old stand by Secret for those special occasions.
Recipes with clay will help absorb some of the sweat. Have you tried them?
I’m not sure what the question is? How to maintain sweat-free pits?
If so, there are a lot of things to consider….
1. Some folks go through a “detox” phase when switching away from typical commercial deodorant where they stink and sweat more than usual for a short period.
2. Once you are on the other side of that, if it even happens, nearly everyone I have read about or know in person says they actually sweat LESS using homemade deo than they did with commercial deo.
3. Diet – what you eat – has a whole lot to do with all bodily wastes, including sweat output.
4. Health, activity level, etc. also has a lot to do with how much or how little one sweats. Not just from the activity itself, but from an efficiency standpoint. How good is your body at removing toxins through the skin, which is sweat’s purpose?
5. There are a bunch of herbs and tea/infusion recipes on the internet that you can google for short-term reduction of sweating. You drink the tea and it helps prevent sweating for 2-3 hours or longer. (I’ve never tried any of them, but herbs are amazing!) I’ve also read about other “quick fixes” one can carry around in a purse or leave in a desk drawer or perhaps even a car (vodka-based sprays might be okay in all weather situations).
6. Lifestyle adjustments can greatly reduce sweating. Some are obvious to some people, but not so obvious to others. Just saying… 😉 Wearing layers, suit jackets, lightweight sweaters, slim-fitting dark tops work better in some situations, loose-fitting lighter colored tops work better in other situations, etc….
7. One could view homemade deodorant as the catalyst for all kinds of society changes. 😉 Maybe one day sweat will be considered sexy, and ‘professional’ behavior will mean different things than it does today.
Lastly, you never know unless you try it… 🙂
I agree about having to go through a “detox” phase. Or just a phase a phase of adjustment. The first time I tried, I quit after a week or two. But the next time I gave it 3 or 4 weeks, and then I found I only needed to use my homemade when I knew it would be warm. And if one way doesn’t work for you, try another idea.
Magnesium oil or bath salts helps with the detox, odor reducing on the body and helps with muscle aches as well as a ton of other issues. I highly recommend it!
You are going to sweat excessively in a job interview because you are nervous. That is pretty much a given; it’s part of your body’s response to anxiety. That being said, the things others posted like detoxing, diet, etc. can determine the extent to which you sweat. Add to that list what you wear. Synthetic fibers (nylon, rayon, polyester, acrylic, etc.) will make you sweat MUCH more than natural fibers (cotton, wool, silk, hemp, etc.). If your professional wardrobe consists mostly of polyester suits, you are really gonna sweat in the interview, girlfriend. Also, if you sweat a lot at night, switch to natural fiber sheets and pjs. I know those silky-looking pjs look adorable, but unless they’re 100% real silk (and those would be some expensive pjs!) stick with the oversized t-shirt. Natural fibers “breathe;” synthetics don’t. (Don’t ask me why, I don’t know that part.) Hope this helps 🙂
my question (along the same lines) is that i walk everywhere. if it’s plus 32 degrees celsius i know i’m going to have wet armpits. i also know that i should wear natural fibres. BUT i have a hard time finding clothes that aren’t oversized that don’t have sleeves that are right up close in my armpits! so the question is, is there any brand or style of women’s clothes that is a little more forgiving/loose in the pit area for when sweat is inevitable?
Hey there. I totally get your sweat issue. I used to sweat so bad that I got a special topical lotion to help it. It worked, but that was definitely a chemical overload. Over the years, I have used all types of deodorant. RIght now I make my own with coconut oil, baking soda, arrowroot and grapefruit essential oil. It’s simple and my body doesn’t reject it. I think that’s part of the problem with may deodorants. Sweating is a defense mechanism and a way for your body to regulate itself. Yet a lot of sweating could mean something is wrong (maybe a food allergy, stress, laundry detergent allergy, etc). I would definitely look at all these things before I focus on finding a “super deodorant,” as frustrating as this is to hear.
deodorant is just that, De-odor-ant, it’s to take the odor out of sweat not stop you from sweating, now when someone comes up with a non surgical de-sweat-erizor, then we’ll be talkin’! because so far the only way i know of to not sweat is to get an operation done.
I have actually heard that if you bathe in magnesium salts you wont stink, So I tried it and it works, but you have to do it a few times a week, odor significantly reduced. 1-2 cups salts per bath add some lavender oil, light some candles and just relax. Helps with muscle aches too!
So why should we not use cornstarch? I have some I need to use up before I buy arrowroot powder, but why is the cornstarch a no-no for sensitive skin? I do have sensitive skin, but reducing the baking soda by half and subbing in more cornstarch for the other half has been working great for me for months. A little irritation every now and again, but I’ve attributed that to daily shaving rather than the deo. So…can someone explain the cornstarch to me?
This recipe, as well as the Frugally Sustainable recipe, sound like good ideas. I have calendula and chammomile already, so I might have to start infusing some oils. The recipe I’ve been using: 2T. EVCO, 3T. cornstarch, 1T. baking soda, and approximately 6 or 7 drops each of tea tree eo, rosemary eo, and lemongrass eo (works better IMO than lavender). Love the scent, and it lasts all day. Only on really sweaty and stressful days has this mixture failed me–thankfully that doesn’t happen often. I do use Tom’s of Maine when traveling tho…cuz melted EVCO deodorant in my bag is just not a happy thing (but it ALWAYS requires a second application later in the day). If I were to add beeswax to my mix for more solidity, how much should I add?
Sounds wonderful. I personally do not use deodorant – and no complaints or smells- as long as I eat a meat free healthy diet. I think the need for deordorant varies by person though. Your recipes are really vital to avoid all the toxins in commercial deodorant though.
I gotta say, I’m unsure about the probiotic thing. For starters, you’re meant to keep those probiotic capsules in the fridge, and they have a use-by date. Secondly, the whole point of the baking soda is to create an environment that is not appealing to the stinky bacteria that can grow in your sweaty pits. So wouldn’t that also be an environment that is unappealing to the probiotics, too?
I am unsure about probiotics in deodorant, as well. If you go to the linked site and read through the comments, it gets mentioned. I don’t recall the outcome. In any case, there are shelf-stable probiotics, so the fridge part is a non-issue. My concern about probiotics is with essential oils. I want the scent of the EOs, but the ones that do a good job in deodorant are – in my mind – going to be the ones that make the probiotics null and void (as in killing the friendly bacteria along with the not-so-friendly). I did read on FS to buy certain probiotics (not by brand, but by which bacteria were present). I used to have some shelf-stable probiotics and if I still do, then I’m going to try it with and without just to see for myself.
If you read the whole post about the probiotic deodorant, she says to buy shelf stable probiotics. Otherwise you will have to refrigerate the deodorant.
Thanks Andrea, I did miss that. Shelf-stability is still a function of the capsule though, so I’m not sure how this would be affected by opening the capsule and mixing the bacteria into an alkaline environment. I’m not saying it’s wrong, I’m just saying I’m unsure.
Personally I believe that a healthy gut is the start to healthy everything else, so I’d rather ingest the probiotics anyway.
I love the idea of arrowroot! Will definitely try that. Once upon a time, I accidentally instructed my friend to make deodorant with baking ‘powder’ rather than baking ‘soda’ … uh, oops. Luckily she’s still my friend, even after what I put her pits through … 😉 Amanda @ EasyPeasyOrganic
PS. Thanks *again* for the mention! xx
For some reason arrowroot and/or cornstarch seem to clog my lymph up. (I have chronic fatigue and have easily clogged lymph.) The last recipe I tried was your clay one, which actually works really well for me, except that I need to add more dry ingredients because it never solidified. I am going to be trying a re-make of it soon. And I definitely want to try the probiotics in it. May try a combo of yours and this:
http://www.theeverythingsoapblog.com/2012/03/recipe-best-natural-deodorant.html
Interesting DIY deodorant. I have been looking for this recipe for a long time. Better grab the ingredients and do it right away.
Since we’re talking about awesome homemade deodorant…
I forgot to put some deodorant on the other day, and I was freaking out ALL DAY that I was going to be the smelly kid at work, but I WASN’T. My pits were fine all day! It was the best thing ever. Deodorant-wise, that is. XD
On a more on-topic note, I’ll definitely give the arrowroot a try next time…usually, my pits are fine, but every couple of months, I get some minor irritation. Haven’t been able to figure out a reason for it, though…
I have made the probiotic deodorant from frugally sustainable and I have made several recipes of home made deodorant for many years but that was by far the best working deodorant I have tried- works really really well
I make my own deodorant. Yippeee!!! It works wonderfully – no stink and no sting; lovely fresh smooth underarms. Ahhh…
As for sharing my recipe, ha! Everyone I know who knows I make my own deodorant wants to know my recipe. For that matter, so do I. LOL I am a ‘wing it’ type girl. I started with a combination of Crunchy Betty’s second version (clay) and Angry Chicken’s second version, using the ingredients I had from each list. All I recall is my experiment with the EOs I used. One deo container had rosemary, lemongrass, and lavender. The other had clary sage, lemongrass, and lavender. I tested them on a really long travel day (several airports, airplanes, and shuttles). Oh boy. The rosemary version was WAY more effective!!! During one shuttle ride, I was standing with one arm over my head thinking, “What is that stench?” Next thought, “EEK! It is MEEEEEE!!!” Switched arms and thought, “Ahhhhh….this is MUCH better…” Later that night, I looked in my travel book to find which arm had which deo. I wrote THAT down. This deo held up wonderfully for ten days of travel in the Southeast (U.S.) in August AND it kept me bug-bite-free to boot! Not an easy feat since I attract them like moths to light….
When I went to make another batch, I combined the clary sage version and the little bit left of the rosemary version and heated them up and added random ingredients (more beeswax is all I recall). Nope, didn’t write ’em down. (I cleaned my deo container well.) This time I used rosemary, lemongrass, lavender, and bergamot EOs. Bergamot is a great deodorizer, but it is also a photosensitizer (can cause sunburn). I purposely did not use it in my summer deo for the Southeast, but felt it would be good for Winter here in San Diego. It worked wonderfully and smelled lovely!
Meanwhile, we were traveling again in April and my DD has started to request and need deodorant. I made her a quick batch of the VCO+baking soda+arrowroot powder and scented it with lavender EO only. She liked it, but it was unexpectedly warm at the end of our travels and it melted everywhere. This did not please her in the slightest and I found the deo on my bathroom counter with a note requesting something else.
So, I combined the rest of that with the rest of mine, which was nearly out, and some “pucks” I had in the fridge from my first batch and had forgotten…threw them all in a double boiler and heated them up. Added a tablespoon of bentonite clay and a tablespoon of arrowroot powder, stirred, and poured into our (now-clean) deo containers. I scented mine with rosemary, lemongrass, lavender, and bergamot EOs (1 drop of each, but the lavender is so thin I think I ended up with 5 drops total of lavender). I scented DD’s with 2 drops lavender. Okay, it works. But, it is dark gray and scary-looking. Boogey man scary. Thankfully, it goes on light gray and blends right in with no staining. However, DD just brought me hers again requesting a new version. Clear. Oh boy.
I came here to show her other options. Loved seeing a new version!!!! She wants it in the deodorant container (twist up), though. Not gonna happen with VCO + another oil here in San Diego. I’ll need beeswax, too.
Meanwhile, a friend has a teenage daughter who had a bad reaction to store-bought deo and has requested I make her my deo… If only I knew how I did it.
I’ve been trying to find a working homemade recipe for several years now. The least bit of (the only part that is really effective) baking soda and I break out in a major rash. A minimally effective one is your first recipe, only using zinc oxide instead of baking soda. But the zinc oxide is very difficult to wash out, and the odor builds up behind the layer of deodorant. Perhaps I’ll try this version, minus the baking soda, and plus the probiotics.
I make my own spray deoderant. I use colloidal silver, essential oils (lavender, sage), 1/8 tsp baking soda (arm and hammer). I dust over this with baking soda to last all day, however, some days my pits just can’t take all that soda. Just the spray alone works with reapplication if you get it before you start to stink again, about four hours for me. I’m wondering if I couldn’t use the arrowroot in exchange. I don’t want to cause a growth of some kind. I used to get infected pores using the store bought and gave crystal deodorant a try. With a bit of study this is what I came up with. However, after more than three years, my pits seem a bit rough and I can’t shave and then dust without rash. This is messier than I’d like, but its worth a try.
This recipe sounds awesome!
After trying commercial “natural” deodorants with no avail, I am just finishing up Week One of plain old “Lemon In Armpit”. Actually I switched to “Lime in Armpit,” as the lemon seemed to be too irritating. Literally: rub cut lemon/lime on my armpit after showering and I am good to go (and I am a HEAVY sweater who has tended to stink when using failed natural deodorants). The first day or two were kinda pink and burny, but then around day 3 or 4, it stopped stinging at all when I switched to limes.
hahaha! I know it’s rude to laugh at your pink and burny armpits, but I love the “lemon in armpit” vs “lime in armpit” names. Sorry 🙂
Coconut oil, baking soda, arrowroot, beeswax pellets, tea tree oil. Even in the Philippine heat it never failed me. 🙂
Recipe? How much do you use? Please share. =)
I use your “first” recipe, althouh now that Ive done it once before, this time I just used coconut oil, lavender oil and enough baking soda to get it to the right texture so I can pack it into a deoderant container. I didnt use the cornstarch this time, Is there an exact reason why I should, or can I get away with Just the baking soda?
A new past time is smelling my pits through out the day and admiring how lovely they smell 🙂
Haha – love it. The cornstarch or arrowroot is just for drying or soaking up sweat I think, so if yours is working without it, I wouldn’t worry!
I was under the impression that the cornflour (arrowroot, etc) was just to give a smoother texture. When I’ve used just baking soda (in a hurry) I’ve found it quite rough against the skin.
I’ve gone back and added cornstartch to the deoderant, Yep after a few days it was definatly too abraisive. It didnt help when I had razor burn either… so I started spraying with witch hazel to help sooth…
Then I stumbled upon a DIY Spray deoderant using witch hazel lavender and grapefruit essential oil… Would love to hear if anyone has tried that one before.
I made a spray of witch hazel, tea tree EO, bergamot EO and lavender EO. Easy to put on, smelled nice, but really not that effective–and I just have an office job and don’t live in a hot climate. Baking soda works best on me but I can’t use it more than once or twice a week or I will get a nasty rash.
To make sure I understand- this will work only as a deodorant and not an antiperspirant, correct? Will I sweat through my clothes?
Correct, this won’t stop you from sweating. Hard to say if you’ll sweat through your clothes, not knowing anything about you.
Personally I’m against the idea of antiperspirant. The body sweats for a reason; stopping sweating is stopping the natural processes of the body. Generally speaking, sweat doesn’t smell, it’s the bacteria that grows in warm, moist places. The theory behind the baking soda deodorant is that you keep the pH of the armpit in an alkaline state, which prevents this bacteria from growing (as bacteria prefers an acidic environment).
I got my husband who is a very heavy sweater to try a more natural deodorant without antiperspirant (he breaks out from the homemade kind). I can’t remember but the may have been a slight transition period but now, he says he actually sweats less or very little if at all and his shirts are no longer getting stained with buildup under his arms. The switch sounds scary just because we are programed to think that what we’ve been doing is the best way. I encourage you to try the switch and even if the homemade doesn’t work for you, try a commercial deodorant only brand.
I got my husband who is a very heavy sweater to try a more natural deodorant without antiperspirant (he breaks out from the homemade kind). I can’t remember but the may have been a slight transition period but now, he says he actually sweats less or very little if at all and his shirts are no longer getting stained with buildup under his arms. The switch sounds scary just because we are programed to think that what we’ve been doing is the best way. I encourage you to try the switch and even if the homemade doesn’t work for you, try a commercial deodorant only brand.
I got my husband who is a very heavy sweater to try a more natural deodorant without antiperspirant (he breaks out from the homemade kind). I can’t remember but the may have been a slight transition period but now, he says he actually sweats less or very little if at all and his shirts are no longer getting stained with buildup under his arms. The switch sounds scary just because we are programed to think that what we’ve been doing is the best way. I encourage you to try the switch and even if the homemade doesn’t work for you, try a commercial deodorant only brand.
I also found that probiotic deodorant recipe from Frugally Sustainable, and I’m planning on making it (sans the probiotic part) because I already have all of the ingredients. I like the idea that it solidifies into a stick, which makes it handy for travel and being in non-airconditioned places (which is problematic for my current deodorant, which is a mix of coconut oil, arrowroot powder, baking soda, and lavender essential oil). Hopefully I’ll be able to make it in the next few weeks, and I’ll come back and give an update!
Thanks for the follow up! I’ve got to admit, it was 90 degrees yesterday, I was working outside, and I caved. I’ve been getting a little tired of oil/sweat stains on my clothes and didn’t want to ruin a new shirt. . .I’m interested to try out Easy Peasy Organic’s method. . .It looks like it could be pretty easily used on any recipe, as long as you apply the dry ingredients separately and last. . .
I have been making my own homemade deoderant and it works great but I keep Breaking out in a rash. I have tried many recipes and the ones with baking soda I have a reactio to but the ones without baking soda leave me stinky! I am at a loss at what to do. Any help would really r appreciated 🙂
This is me exactly. I have a clay version I use every day, but it’s only marginally better than using nothing. I have a divine baking soda/arrowroot powder/coconut oil/shea butter deodorant that works fabulous, smells great, goes on smooth and dry, love love love it. But I will break out in a painful itchy rash if I use more than once or twice a week, so I save it for when I’m doing something Important. I’ve used several brands of baking soda, it doesn’t make any difference. It’s very frustrating 🙁
try swiping on some vegetable glycerine before putting on the deo
That’s probably from the Baking Soda. It can be really irritating. Subbing baking soda for a clay (Bentonite or Kaolin) or just using all arrowroot powder will help prevent the rash.
I’m an esthetician and have been making my own line of bath, body and skincare products for about 6 years.
I also have a problem with baking soda causing a nasty rash and would love to find something that works well without the rash …
Sub bentonite or Kaolin clay for the baking soda, or just use all arrowroot powder.
I use a coconut oil/baking soda/essential oil deodorant and have very sensitive skin. I use sweet almond with a little lavender eo on my legs after I shave and I make sure I rub just a touch of that on my pits right out of the shower. Then I can use my DO without any issues.
What is the ratio for the coconut oil/baking soda/essential oil?
I do also- just coconut oil (not refined because I like the coconut smell), tea tree is the essential oil I use, and baking soda. I mix as needed, so ~1teaspoon coconut oil, 1-2 drops tea tree oil, and add the baking soda just until it is between pasty/crumbly.
I apply it right after the shower, let it dry mostly and gently brush any excess off. I tested it (push it to the limit, and this test was in Las Vegas heat in August btw) and I got 2 1/2 days before I started to get any odor, and to be fair that was because I was working outside moving large objects. So it lastwd forever. Now I do sweat a lot because I take fenugreek for kidney health and that increases sweat production, plus I have always been a heavy sweater.
I have very sensitive skin, and can’t wear store antiperspirant and it never worked well anyway, so I’m not ever surprised about sweating, I think that for me this works just as well as any store
bought I have used minus the dermoid sinus those products cause.
A final note/fyi I have been no-poo for about 3 years and use baking soda to wash my hair, and since January I use it to wash/exfoliate my face (followed by grapeseed oil). The deodorant I started in August. No poo- my hair is thicker and I will never ever go back! BS facewash + oil moisturizer = I never get breakouts unless i stray from this for 2+ days, it even eliminated my under-chin cystic acne. Deodorant that I’m trying still but so far a 2+ day stink ward off is good i think.
PS I work from home so I can do these longer experiments and push it to the limit most times, nobody was harmed by my stink in the execution of this experiment lol
Me too! Baking soda gives me a rash, but no baking soda leaves me smelly. 🙁 I Had bought calendula in olive oil, and use a mixture of that with lavender, tea tree and geranium as a healing oil… I put it on after the rash develops (and use it to heal just about everything that ever arises). Some times of the month, and through most of the winter, for deodorant I am OK with just coconut oil mixed with a few drops of lavender. But now it is summer and there are time I really need something that works hard. I try to reserve my use of baking soda for the days when it matters most, and give my pits a break the rest of the time by just using coconut oil and lavender. I prefer to leave out the arrowroot and/or cornstarch. It just doesn’t do anything for me. (Also, I’m allergic to chamomile–what a pity.)
Sometimes I make my own wipes with vodka, distilled water, vitamin E, tea tree and a bit of clove. I started making them for my kids to use on their faces (they work pretty well), but they kill underarm bacteria too. It’s a PAIN to make wipes though.
This is me as well, I have made every different kind of homemade deo, came up with recipes myself and the only ones that work to give me all day odor protection are with bakinging soda. After I use this for about 3 days develop the rash. It’s only with the ones with baking soda so I know that is the culprit. I have used three different brands of baking soda (including Whole Foods and Bob’s) and all three have given me the rash. I also did some research and found out that coconut oil is very pore clogging (so that would be a bad thing right?) I’m at a loss and am back to using my crystal deo…until something else comes along.
Wow! The chamomile and calendula sound really nice in this one. I just can’t imagine myself being forward thinking enough to do the infusing 2-3 weeks in advance though. I make mine from a recipe containing arrowroot powder, baking soda, coconut oil, beeswax, castor oil, and essential oils. I love it! I’ve written a post about it, if you want to check it out here:
http://wifelife2011.blogspot.ca/2012/02/natural-deodorant-stick-recipe.html
darnit, I really wanted to read that post, but the brown text on brown background gave me an instant migraine. =(
Natural Deodorant Stick
-1/8 c arrowroot powder
-1/8 c baking soda
-2 1/2 tbsp coconut oil
-1 heaping tbsp beeswax
-2 drops castor oil (optional – helps it to slide on better)
-8 drops tea tree essential oil
-8 drops lavender essential oil
-up to another 10 drops of another essential oil for scent purposes
I popped over and copied it for you.