Okay, let’s be honest for a second—how many of us have stared at the ingredients list on a store-bought deodorant and thought, “Wait…what even is half of this?” Yeah, me too. Between the chemical-sounding names and the mystery fragrances, it’s no wonder we sometimes feel like our armpits are in a science experiment gone wrong.
That’s why I’ve fallen head over heels for DIY deodorants with natural ingredients. Not only do you know exactly what’s going under your arms, but making your own can be fun, cheap, and surprisingly satisfying. Plus, there’s something strangely empowering about slapping on a concoction you whipped up yourself and smelling…well, not terrible.
So, buckle up, my friend. I’m sharing 9 DIY deodorant recipes that are natural, effective, and, honestly, kind of addictive to make. You ready? Let’s dive in.
1. Classic Coconut Oil & Baking Soda Deodorant
Ah, the OG DIY deodorant. Simple, effective, and smells like a tropical vacation (minus the sunburn).
Ingredients:
3 tbsp coconut oil
2 tbsp baking soda
2 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
Optional: 5–10 drops essential oil (lavender or tea tree are my faves)
How to Make:
Melt the coconut oil gently in a small bowl.
Mix in baking soda and cornstarch until smooth.
Add essential oils if you want a scent boost.
Store in a small jar or old deodorant stick.
Pro tip: If you have sensitive skin, reduce the baking soda slightly. Trust me—arm rash is not a good look.
This one’s a staple for a reason. It’s cheap, easy, and works surprisingly well. FYI, coconut oil can melt in hot weather, so keep it somewhere cool or your stick might turn into a gooey mess.
2. Shea Butter & Arrowroot Powder Deodorant
Want something richer and creamier? This recipe is like the spa day your armpits never knew they needed.
Ingredients:
2 tbsp shea butter
2 tbsp coconut oil
2 tbsp arrowroot powder
1 tbsp baking soda
Optional: 5 drops essential oil (I like eucalyptus for a fresh kick)
How to Make:
Melt shea butter and coconut oil together.
Mix in arrowroot powder and baking soda.
Add essential oils, then pour into a container and let it solidify.
Why I love it: It glides on super smooth, unlike some of the gritty homemade sticks I’ve tried. It’s like spreading frosting on your armpits—without the sticky sugar, thankfully.
3. Beeswax-Based Deodorant for Longer Wear
If you’re tired of deodorant that disappears after a couple of hours, beeswax is your secret weapon.
Ingredients:
2 tbsp beeswax
2 tbsp coconut oil
2 tbsp baking soda
2 tbsp arrowroot powder
10 drops essential oils (peppermint or lavender)
How to Make:
Melt beeswax and coconut oil over low heat.
Stir in baking soda and arrowroot powder until smooth.
Add essential oils. Pour into an old deodorant stick or jar.
Let it cool completely.
Why it works: Beeswax firms up the mixture, making it less prone to melting and giving you all-day coverage. Plus, it adds a nice protective layer on your skin.
4. Aloe Vera & Coconut Deodorant Gel
Not a fan of the creamy stuff? Try a gel version. It’s light, soothing, and perfect for sensitive skin.
Ingredients:
3 tbsp aloe vera gel
1 tbsp coconut oil
1 tbsp baking soda
5 drops tea tree essential oil
How to Make:
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl.
Store in a small squeeze bottle or jar.
Apply with fingertips for a cooling effect.
Personal note: I love this one after a workout because it’s refreshing and non-greasy. Aloe vera soothes any irritation while keeping odors at bay. Win-win.
5. Bentonite Clay Deodorant
Bentonite clay isn’t just for face masks—it works wonders under your arms too.
Ingredients:
2 tbsp bentonite clay
2 tbsp coconut oil
1 tbsp arrowroot powder
1 tbsp baking soda
5–10 drops essential oil (lavender, rosemary, or lemon)
How to Make:
Mix all dry ingredients in a bowl.
Melt coconut oil and blend it with the dry mix.
Add essential oils and stir well.
Transfer to a container and let it solidify.
Why I like it: Clay helps absorb sweat while neutralizing odor. Plus, it has that earthy, detoxifying vibe that makes you feel like a holistic guru.
6. Witch Hazel & Cornstarch Spray Deodorant
Spray deodorants are kinda fun, right? Here’s a natural version that’s super quick to make.
Ingredients:
½ cup witch hazel
½ cup distilled water
2 tbsp cornstarch
10 drops essential oil (peppermint or lemon works well)
How to Make:
Combine witch hazel and distilled water in a spray bottle.
Dissolve cornstarch in a little water and mix in.
Add essential oils and shake well before each use.
FYI: It’s refreshing and dries fast, but it may need reapplication after heavy sweating. Still, it’s way better than spraying mystery chemicals on your armpits.
7. Cocoa Butter & Baking Soda Deodorant
Cocoa butter isn’t just for lips—it’s amazing under your arms. It moisturizes while keeping odors in check.
Ingredients:
2 tbsp cocoa butter
2 tbsp coconut oil
2 tbsp baking soda
2 tbsp arrowroot powder
Optional: 5 drops essential oil
How to Make:
Melt cocoa butter and coconut oil together.
Mix in baking soda and arrowroot powder.
Add essential oils and pour into a container. Let it solidify.
Personal tip: This one feels luxurious, like you’re pampering yourself every morning. And honestly, smelling a little like chocolate isn’t the worst thing ever.
8. Activated Charcoal Deodorant
Want to get fancy? Activated charcoal is your BFF for detoxifying and odor control.
Ingredients:
2 tbsp coconut oil
2 tbsp shear butter
1 tbsp baking soda
1 tbsp arrowroot powder
½ tsp activated charcoal
5 drops essential oil
How to Make:
Melt coconut oil and shea butter.
Mix in baking soda, arrowroot, and charcoal.
Add essential oils and pour into a stick container.
Why it rocks: Charcoal absorbs impurities and odors like a magnet. Plus, it gives the deodorant a slick black tint—super satisfying if you’re into quirky DIY vibes.
9. Lemon & Coconut Oil Deodorant
If you like a citrusy zing, this one’s for you. Lemon is naturally antibacterial and smells fresh AF.
Ingredients:
2 tbsp coconut oil
2 tbsp baking soda
2 tbsp arrowroot powder
Juice of ½ lemon
Optional: 5 drops essential oil (lavender pairs well)
How to Make:
Mix baking soda and arrowroot powder.
Add coconut oil and lemon juice. Stir until smooth.
Add essential oils and store in a jar.
Heads up: Lemon can be a bit harsh on freshly shaved skin. Trust me—I learned that the hard way.
Quick Tips for DIY Deodorants
Making your own deodorant is fun, but a few pointers can save you from weird mishaps:
Patch test first – especially if you’re using baking soda or essential oils. Some people get irritation.
Use clean containers – hygiene matters, folks.
Store in a cool place – oils can melt, sticks can squish.
Customize scents – essential oils aren’t just for aromatherapy; they make your DIY deodorant feel fancy.
Don’t panic if it’s gritty – sometimes baking soda just wants to be extra.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it—9 DIY deodorant recipes that are natural, effective, and actually fun to make. Whether you’re into creamy sticks, gels, sprays, or fancy charcoal formulas, there’s something here for every armpit personality.
Honestly, I never thought I’d feel proud of my armpits until I started making my own deodorant. It’s empowering, eco-friendly, and kinda satisfying knowing I’m skipping all those weird chemicals. Plus, it’s a conversation starter—“Hey, want to try my DIY deodorant?” …or, you know, maybe not in polite company.
Give one of these recipes a shot. Experiment with scents, textures, and formulas. Your armpits deserve some TLC, and honestly, it’s way more fun than you’d think.
