This is one of those things I never dreamed I would actually DIY. Seriously, deodorant! I am too vain to mess with things like personal hygiene. But I really want to eliminate as many crazy chemicals as possible in our home.
I tried the store bought “natural” deodorant and after 2 days I felt like I was radiating B.O. YUCK! But instead of grabbing the aluminum-laced antiperspirant, I decided to give homemade deodorant a try. I couldn’t believe that it worked!
The first recipe I tried was a soft deodorant that you applied with your fingers, it was a little weird to get use to that, but worked beautifully. But I did miss my stick of deodorant that I could apply quickly and get on with my day.
The recipe I used had only coconut oil as the base. Which melts when it gets the slightest bit warm. In my lotion making adventures, I discovered that Shea butter is pretty solid and with a little beeswax, it would be nice and firm, even in the summer.
So I started messing with some measurements and came up with this recipe. My husband and I love it! And we have put it to the test, 4 days camping in southern Utah, hiking in the sun, deodorant worked! Hammering stakes into the ground in the greenhouse on a 75 degree afternoon, deodorant worked! I am sure I will be able to give many more examples this summer 🙂
The one thing I will point out, this is not antiperspirant. It is a deodorant. Your body is made to sweat, so that is a good thing. Smelling like sweat, not a good thing! So it did take a bit to get use to sweating, I kept thinking, it’s not working. But I was fresh, just sweating.
Making deodorant is super fast too, just measure out 3/4 oz beeswax, 2 oz coconut oil, and 3/4 oz shea butter into a glass 2 cup measuring cup. I like to weigh my ingredients because it’s more precise than measuring ingredients that are solid.
Put your measuring cup in a small saucepan with a couple inches of water and simmer on low until your oils are totally melted.
Then remove it from the water and add in 2 Tbsp baking soda, 2 Tbsp corn starch and 1/4 cup arrowroot powder.
Stir until totally mixed together and smooth. Add in the Tea Tree oil and stir.
Then pour into your deodorant containers. I bought mine on Amazon, they can be washed and reused so my set of 5 will last forever 🙂 If you pour slowly, the sides will start to harden and you will get a cut little rounded top! I don’t know why, but I really like that. This recipe makes exactly 2 containers worth. One for me, one for the hubby.
Now your deodorant is all done, you just have to let it harden. If you need it fast, you can refrigerate it.
This homemade deodorant stick will stay solid at normal room temperatures, but if you go camping in the heat, keep it in the cooler or it will get too soft. Learned that the hard way!
Have you tried out homemade deodorant yet? Are you ready to?
Homemade Deodorant Stick
A fast & easy solid homemade deodorant stick that really works! You can make 2 sticks in 10 minutes with all natural ingredients you can feel good about.
Ingredients
- 3/4 oz beeswax
- 2 oz coconut oil
- 3/4 oz shea butter
- 2 Tbsp baking soda
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup arrowroot powder
- 10-20 drops tea tree oil (or other essential oil)
Instructions
- Weigh the beeswax, coconut oil and shea butter into a glass measuring cup.
- Place in a small saucepan with a couple inches of water and simmer until the oils are completely melted.
- Remove from heat and stir in baking soda, cornstarch and arrowroot powder. Then stir in tea tree oil.
- Pour into 2 empty deodorant containers.
- Allow to harden before use.
hindivines.com says
thanks for the great tutorial ,appreciate your work. I will also try it.
Joe says
How long does it stay useful? I mean, since it does not have preservative ingredients, how much time does it take until it becomes useless?
Mallory says
Loved making this recipe! So glad you share what you know and can help many people make their own at home at an affordable cost. I used some emulsified wax along with the beeswax (because it is what I had). I replaced Arrowroot powder with Cornstarch as it is what I had. I also added in Rosemary Extract as a preservative and a bit of vitamin E oil. Scented it with Bergamot because it is my husband’s favorite.
Kati says
Thanks for sharing! Im so glad that it worked with using what you had on hand. This will be very helpful for others.
Jade says
What is the arrow root for?
Megan says
Howdy! Had a quick question: I noticed another person asked about making the consistency less creamy and pasty and you told her to use more beeswax (I had the same problem). How much do you think would help? Also, when I made this the first time I couldn’t measure my tea tree oil and think I poured too much and it might be irritating my arm pits! They’ve been peeling and are slightly discolored and sometimes the formula clumps on my skin! I don’t think it’s an allergic reaction so much as a problem with the way I made it. Any advice?
Thanks!
Kati says
I would test it on a smaller scale to see what amount of beeswax gives you the consistency you desire. You could also try remelting the one with too much tea tree oil (over a double broiler on low heat, not in a microwave) and add more ingredients to make a large batch to reduce the concentration of the tea tree oil. As with all things like this, it is a bit of trial and error till you get the perfect formula for you!
Megan says
That’s an interesting thought. I actually bought fresh tea tree oil and it helped. But I honestly cannot use the deodorant because of the baking soda– it darkened/discolored my underarms and made the skin peel!
Sadly, I had to throw all my sticks out. But thanks for your sharing your recipe and tips.
Good luck to the rest of you!
Brandi says
I will be trying this DIY deodorant recipe this weekend. I hope it works as well for us down here in the Florida heat and humidity as it does for you up there in the Utah heat. Really looking forward to trying this, and tweaking it as well!! 🙂
Also, there are citrus EOs that are less likely to cause photosensitivity. Look for steam distilled citrus oils, or there is a bergamot FCF that has been processed so that it can be used with no photosensitizing effects. You can find steam distilled lemon EO here: https://www.edenbotanicals.com/lemon-distilled-organic.html , or bergamot FCF here: https://www.edenbotanicals.com/bergamot-fcf-organic.html. Bonus, both of these oils are organic as well. {No, I’m not affiliated with Eden Botanicals, but I do really like their EOs both for quality and selection. :)}
Kati says
Good to know about the citrus oils. I love citrus anything but steer away from them because of photosensitivity!
Shane says
Thanks for the recipe, can I ask, how oily is this? Do you have trouble with the oils transferring to and staining clothes?
Renee Clancy says
I haven’t had any trouble with it staining my clothes
Kati says
I do not have oils on the clothes. It feels very solid when applied. If it feels too oily to you, you can use less coconut oil.
Fray says
I can not thank you enough for sharing this amazing deodorant recipe! I made it last night, to give it a try. I used it this morning, before work, and it truly worked! I still am fresh with no smell! Thank you ma’am!
Kati says
I am so happy to hear! Thanks for sharing your experience 🙂
Pat says
Love this but think the baking soda irritates my skin a bit. I put on aloe vera gel and it feels better. What will be the ratio I should put in if to equal the shea butter or to the baking soda amount in the mixing? Will the consistency remain the same or more runny? Thank you
Kati says
You could use more arrowroot powder in place of the baking soda without changing the consistency. The shea butter is solid so it might be okay to increase it if you remove the baking soda.
Emily says
Hello,
Thank you for this awesome recipe. Baking Soda seems to irritate my skin. How would you manipulate this recipe to get the same result? This is brand new to me 🙂
Kati says
The baking soda is used to absorb order and wetness, you could use more arrowroot but might not get the same results. There are lots of comments from ideas others have used to tweak it for their own.
Kim Aubin says
They are so many different type of beeswax, what type are you suggesting using for deodorant? Unrefined or Refined? White or yellow? Grade cosmetic, AAA or Premium? Sorry, I never bought this. Thanks!!
Kati says
Honestly, I bought my beeswax in a brick from Michaels, it has worked. I would suggest you pick the best option for you in your price range. The beeswax is what helps make it firm so you can use it in a stick instead of a soft paste.
Cyn says
But of an odd question… I live in South Texas near Galveston island, it sometimes gets around 100 or above on occasion during some parts of summer. Want to make sure I don’t waste supply’s but would like to try making this when I can afford them…
My question is that I’m wondering if anyone thinks this would hold up down down here?
Cyn says
Meant ‘bit’ not ‘but’, sorry.
Kati says
I have used it while camping in high temps in Utah. But we do not have the humidity. This deodorant will not keep you from sweating though, it is just to keep you from stinking.
georgi says
Have you ever thought of incorporating Magnesium Oil? I’d like to try it but am afraid of throwing your ratios off! To offset about 1 Tbsp additional oil, would you recommend increasing the wax or increasing the starch?
Kati says
I have not used magnesium oil. Just make sure you balance it with solids. If you add 1 Tbsp oil, increase the solid oil or a little bit of beeswax (but not the entire 1 Tbsp). It might take some trial and error. If it comes out soft, you can alway’s remelt and add more!
Megan says
This may have been asked, but is the coconut oil a solid or liquid, or does it matter?
Kati says
Coconut oil is a solid under 75 degrees and is liquid when it’s warmer.
Daisy says
I don’t have arrow root is there anything else I can substitute it with?
Kati says
You could use more baking soda.
Fiona says
What size are your sticks? I can see various some on amazon, but 15ml sounds too small… thanks
Kati says
The ones I ordered are 2.5 oz.
Tom says
It works! I’m a big goof. Followed the directions. Didn’t spill any. Works perfectly. I’m not as stinky.
Jeffry Santos says
Can I replace the baking soda with diatomaceous earth?
Kati says
I have never tried that and only use diatomaceous earth in my garden.
Dara R McCuistion says
I wouldn’t use diatemacious earth because it’s microscopic jagged bits of ground up sea shells. This is why it kills bugs, it cuts into their protective shells so they eventually die of dehydration. DE might cause irritation under the arms. People have had really good results with tapioca starch. If you do try DE, make sure it’s good grade as non food grade has dangerous toxins.
Kati says
Thanks for the info on diatomaceous earth! Good to know.
Jules says
I was under the impression that Diatomaceous Earth was only effective on bugs (jagged) if it remains dry. If well-incorporated into this wet mixture, I would guess it wouldn’t irritate. Can’t say for sure.
Naaman says
I used tapioca starch in place of arrowroot because it’s what I had. Works like a charm.
I’ve been using this recipe for over 6 months now, through the summer months, and the inside of my bakery reaches 110-120 F at times.
I love that you weigh everything, PSA most grocery stores have food scales for sale, you don’t have to go to a head shop.
My wife likes Lavender oil, Cedarwood, Bergamot, Rosemary, and Myrrh. Also, I thought about trying the all natural beard oil I use, cigar / vanilla.
Kati says
Love all your ideas! I have not used tapioca starch, but good to know it also works.
Simone says
I have been making your recipe and I love it but I need to know why my deodorant sinks in the middle and develops a hole shortly after pouring.
Kati says
I could be that it is slightly too warm when pored into the tube. Or is it leaking through the mechanism in the tube? See if letting it cool down slightly, almost just before it starts looking solid on the edges before pouring it in.
Dannan says
Is the cornstarch necessary, or can I replace with more arrowroot pwd? Thanks!
Kati says
You should be good with using more arrowroot powder.
Jeffry Santos says
How much more arrow root? ( if not using cornstarch)
Kati says
I would just sub the entire amount of cornstarch with arrowroot to get the same consistency.
Lauren Campbell says
Hi Kati! Thanks a bunch for this DIY!! I just recently made this deodorant and it came out very creamy and pasty. How do I make it more waxier and solid (like store bought deodorant)? I am guessing adding more beeswax?? (I wanted to ask before I went ahead and played around with it). I also used African Shea Butter, and I am not liking that smell of that and that could be the reason why its coming out pasting. What Shea Butter have you particularity used?
Kati says
Make sure you are melting all the oils completely so they mix together well. I use a similar shea butter and it does have a unique smell. I dont notice it with the addition of essential oils, but you can always try switching that out for another oil that is solid at room temp like cocoa butter. If you add more beeswax it will get firmer, but if it is too firm, you will not be able to easily transfer it to your underarm with the stick so be aware of that. Also, it will be more firm in the cooler months because the coconut oil will get firmer in the cold. Hope this helps you as you experiment to find your perfect deodorant!
Kim Aubin says
If you buy ultra refined Shea butter, the smell will be none! I hate the smell too, can’t stand it.
Wanda says
This recipe sounds awesome.. but I have no way to measure oz.. not much of a baker lol
Kati says
Food scales are inexpensive and come in handy for lots of things! I think mine was around $10-$15.
V Dubbard says
head shops sell scales suitable for culinary uses.
Beverly says
Hi Katie, I love this recipe. What would you recommend to make this recipe jist a bit more creamy or softer? And how much?
Kati says
More coconut oil or shea butter could make it softer. Coconut oil is liquid at higher temps so be careful with too much of it or your stick will melt in the heat.
Sabi says
I’ve made four different recipes I’ve found online for deodorant and yours has won out as the best no-smell feel-good deodorant, even compared to store bought natural AND traditional options! My partner runs, sweats, climbs, and is all around outrageously active, and she says it’s the best deodorant she’s ever used! THANK YOU!!! We appreciate you and your hard work sharing with the world!
Kati says
Thanks so much for the comment! It has made my day. I am so glad this recipe is working so good for you guys. This is why I love sharing what I make 🙂
Barbara says
I’ve been looking for a handmade deodorant because I’ve been purchasing ours online for years now. I already make our own soap and lotion bars but haven’t had any luck w deodorant recipes yet but yours sounds promising! I also would like to try the other recipe that is applied w fingers because I’m already using that method w the product I buy so I have lots of glass jars stashed. I will be trying this one and will let you know how it works out. I don’t have Shea butter in the house but have cocoa butter so I wonder if that would be too chocolately? Also, I’d like to use patchouli oil instead of tea tree oil. Have you used that or heard from anyone who has?
Thanks again!
Kati says
I am sure cocoa butter would be nice in the deodorant and I dont think anything can be too chocolatey 😉 And you can definitely play around with the EOs to find ones that you like. Look at the properties of each and adjust to what you need most.
Jenny Engle says
What does the arrowroot do for it? Is it necessary for the deodorant to work. Only wonder because it’s the only ingredient I dont have already.
Aurora Anderson says
this isn’t my recipe, but to my understanding the arrowroot powder acts as a drying agent to help with perspiration.
Kati says
Very well put Aurora!
Kati says
Arrowroot is kind of like cornstarch. It is pretty inexpensive, but can be hard to find. If you don’t mind cornstarch you could try using it. It is a drying agent that can help with minimizing moisture (sometimes people use it in homemade dry shampoo too).
Sophie says
Love this recipe!
Looking to substitute the beeswax for candelilia wax to make it vegan.
How much would you recommend to use in this recipe as apparently candelilia wax is stronger than beeswax so you don’t need as much?
Kati says
I have never used candelilia wax so I am not sure how it might change the recipe. I say play around with it a little. Just an FYI, in the summer when my house is naturally hotter, the deodorant is softer so maybe leave the amounts the same as we are entering the warmer months.
Claire says
Do you have a suggestion for an alternative to coconut oil? I’m allergic to coconut.
Thanks!
Kati says
You need something that is solid so I would use shea butter or cocoa butter.
Lori says
Do you have printable labels for the deoderant?
Kati says
I’m sorry Lori, I do not. But they are easy to make so have some fun with your favorite colors.
Laura D. Byrnes says
How did you make your labels then? What Avery size are they or where did you print them?
Kati says
I think they are the 2″x4″ mailing label size. I used a template for the labels. Avery supplies them for you!
Kati says
And I print them on my home printer.
Misty Nicole Roberts says
Hello, and thank you for linking up this recipe for Merry Monday’s! This looks awesome, and while I agree with your comments about sweating, this blend might need to be a bit stronger for those of us living in the deep south, where with humidity, the average summer day can far exceed the triple digit marks, and where sweat lingers and sticks to the body, clothing, etc. Thanks for linking up this week!
Kati Farrer says
Yeah, we get to 100 here in Utah but it’s a dry heat and only for a week or two. I know some people make a stronger homemade deodorant and other combinations of essential oils help with that too. Good luck this summer 😉
Jennifer says
Wow, who knew? I just love this idea and appreciate the step by step instructions.
By the way, I’d like to invite you to post on my new blog hop (www.myflagstaffhome.com) that is open all weekend, if you’re interested.
Jennifer
Kati Farrer says
Thank you Jennifer!
Laura D. Byrnes says
Oooh! I’ve heard of your myflagstaffhime site. I live in Sedona and would love to friend you on FB. ❤️????❤️
Kati says
You must be thinking of someone else, this is my only website 😉
Sherry says
What a great idea. I’m trying to make more homemade products, so this is one I’m going to try. Thanks for linking up and sharing with us at Funtastic Friday. Hope you join us again this week.
Kati Farrer says
Thanks you Sherry! I hope you give it a try, it’s really great and simple to make.
Kelly | Typically Simple says
I would have never thought to DIY deodorant! I bet using different essential oils would create different fresh scents. Thanks so much for sharing at the Creative Inspiration party!
Kati Farrer says
Hello Kelly! You can use any essential oils you want to customize the scent. Just be careful with citrus oils because they can cause sensitivity to the sun, but if you don’t expose your underarm a lot, they would smell awesome!
Valerie says
I’ve never attempted to make my own deodorant but I have thought about it. Now that I know that it’s pretty easy I will for sure be trying it.
Kati Farrer says
It is really easy to make and I love how much it works. I hope you get a chance to try it soon 🙂
Rebecca says
Great recipe!! What about adding scents, like lavender essential oil or citrus? Would it work with those ingredients?
Kati Farrer says
You can definitely add other scents with other essential oils. Be careful about citrus oils, they can cause sensitivity to sunlight, but if you don’t expose your underarms a lot in the summer, it would smell amazing :). I always prefer citrus scents for the body.