It’s really not hard to make your own zero waste deodorant, but lots of recipes call for baking soda. While I’m personally not sensitive to baking soda, there are many who are. Because of that, I thought it would be great to whip up a recipe that doesn’t require any baking soda at all. It’s baking soda free, but just as effective. Honestly, I love it just as much, if not more, than my original zero waste deodorant (with baking soda). It glides on so smoothly and leaves absolutely no smelly odors behind – only the pleasant orange scent I chose to make it with. With it being summer now, it’s a much welcome DIY. It won’t stop you from sweating (it’s not an anti-perspirant), but it will stop you from smelling. Here’s how to whip up some for yourself and stop wasting money on store bought brands.
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Why is it important to use plastic-free deodorant?
For starters, our world has a plastic addiction. The minute you walk into a store, I can guarantee you you’ll be able to find something made or packaged in plastic almost instantly. That includes deodorant.
Conventional deodorant comes in a plastic pump that will likely end up in a landfill somewhere. Plastic never decomposes, but instead breaks up into tiny little pieces over hundreds of years. These are called microplastics, and they will continue to pollute and leach toxic chemicals into our environment over time.
Only 9% of plastic actually gets recycled. And if you think that’s bad, take into consideration we’ve generated over 8.3 billion tons of the stuff since large scale production began.
So, it’s super important we reduce our plastic consumption where we can. If that means swapping out plastic deodorant for DIY deodorant, so be it! It’s a great swap to make, no matter where you are in your zero waste journey.
Why should I use natural deodorant?
Conventional deodorant is loaded with questionable ingredients, such as aluminum, parabens, phalates, and sometimes even formaldehyde (the same thing used to preserve dead bodies – gross). Aluminum has been linked to breast cancer and Alzheimers. No thanks. These ingredients block up your pores, which isn’t good for your health at all.
It’s important to be mindful of the fact your body will have to get used to natural deodorants. Aluminum filled anti-perspirants actually clog your sweat glands, so when you’re using natural deodorants, you might find you sweat a bit more.
This is perfectly fine though, because the natural deodorant is allowing your underarms to sweat naturally – which is what you want.
Also, it may take some time for your body to get used to it – there might be a bit of a detox period. Some people get kind of turned off by how stinky and sweaty you get at first when you make the switch, but don’t let that stop you.
During the transition to natural deo, toxins that have built up in your skin will use this time to trickle out of your pores. During that time, your pits may have a stronger smell than usual, but it will go away in a few days or weeks.
In the meantime, you’ll just have to apply more of your natural deodorant until your body adjusts. Not everyone experiences this though – I certainly didn’t. So keep that in mind!
Also, some benefits to switching to natural deodorants include not having to deal with those not-so-pleasant yellow stains on your white shirt (caused by aluminum combined with sweat).
You can also kiss razor burn and irritated armpits goodbye too. The sweat buildup underneath the skin can worsen those uncomfortable symptoms for some people.
It’s actually good for our bodies to sweat – it’s our body’s way of releasing toxins and adjusting our temperatures.
What’s the deal with baking soda free deodorant?
Natural deodorants, like the DIY I’ll be sharing today, tend to contain essential oils to create nice scents (instead of artificial fragrance), a carrier oil, and baking soda.
A lot of people who have sensitive skin don’t react well to baking soda. That’s why I decided to whip up this. My original zero waste deodorant recipe called for baking soda, but I wanted to try something different. Plus, I thought it’d be nice to give you guys another option.
The recipe I’m sharing today is also completely vegan and cruelty free – it contains no animal byproducts what so ever. It instead calls for arrowroot powder, or cornstarch – both of which are excellent at absorbing odors.
Some natural deodorants do contain beeswax, but I personally find that over-complicates things. This DIY is much simpler.
Zero Waste Deodorant Without Baking Soda Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 – 4 tablespoons coconut oil (more if needed)
- 2 tablespoons shea butter
- 1/3 cup arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)
- 40+ drops of essential oil (I chose a combo of orange, peppermint and lavender – mainly orange)
- 5 drops of tea tree oil (optional, antibacterial + anti-fungal)
Directions:
- In a small bowl, add the shea butter and coconut oil. Place in the microwave and heat for a minute, or until melted. You can also use a double boiler, if you don’t want to use the microwave. Mix it together once it’s melted to make sure it’s combined.
- Now add in the arrowroot powder (or cornstarch). Mix it in gradually, as it can get messy. Mix until there are no lumps.
- Now, add in your essential oils and tea tree oil (optional). You can add as much or as little as you want – I prefer my deodorant strong so I always add a lot. Mix it together until everything is well combined.
- Pour your deodorant into an empty glass jar of your choosing. Place it in the fridge for at least 20 minutes so it hardens and cools. Then take it out of the fridge and store it wherever you like and use as needed.
To use your deodorant:Just scoop some onto your finger and smear it under your pits. You’ll smell great for the rest of your day!
For those who don’t prefer DIYs…
Not into DIYs? Here’s a list of my favorite zero waste deodorants from plastic free, sustainable brands. These products all utilize natural ingredients. I’ve personally tried Meow Meow Tweet’s deodorant and love it.
Would you give this zero waste deodorant with no baking soda a try?
For more tips on making your toiletries waste free, check out this zero waste toothpasteand this zero waste mouthwash.
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