One of my more popular blog posts is one I originally posted several years ago, about how to remove those unsightly yellow stains that crop up on the armpit area of shirts. During the course of researching and writing the post, I learned some unexpected things about deodorant! Because those armpit stains aren’t just caused by sweat – they’re caused by a combination of sweat and aluminum (a common ingredient in antiperspirants).
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Related: How To Remove Sweat Stains The Easy Way
So whether you’re just trying to avoid pit stains, or simply want to make a switch to something natural and homemade, there are plenty of reasons to give a homemade deodorant a try. And lucky for you, that’s what I’ll be sharing with you today! I’ll show you how to make a great homemade spray-on deodorant that is safe, effective and downright enjoyable to use. (No, really! This deodorant feels cool and refreshing when I put it on, and it’s quite nice on really hot days!)
This particular formula includes clary sage essential oil for its antibacterial properties. Clary sage oil can help kill smelly bacteria, and it also has a pleasant scent that makes it a great addition to this spray deodorant. And as an added bonus, clary sage oil can help you feel less stressed and more centered. (And who couldn’t use a bit of that when they’re getting ready for the day?) Here’s how you can make it at home!
Homemade Spray-On Deodorant
Ingredients:
1/2 cup witch hazel
1/4 cup aloe vera gel
1/4 tsp baking soda
10 drops clary sage essential oil*
*Note: Clary sage essential oil is fine for most people, but it should not be used during pregnancy. Feel free to substitute in another oil with odor-banishing properties, like melaleuca, lavender, or rosemary oil.
Directions:
Add the witch hazel, aloe vera, baking soda and essential oils to a small spray bottle, and shake well to combine.
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Using Your Homemade Spray Deodorant
Shake the bottle well before each use. Spray on underarms and let dry for a few seconds, if desired. Or just spray it on and go about your day!
Dear Jillee, what could I use as a substitute for the witch hazel as unfortunately I don’t like the smell of it? I’m a new subscriber and absolutely love your website and look forward to your daily emails.
I would suggest that you give witch hazel another chance – once it’s mixed the essential oil, that’s all you’ll be able to smell! It is a really unique product with great benefits. Maybe try another brand, you have had one with a particular fragrance added. :-)
Will do, thank you Jillee. I’ve made the solid deodorant so far, re-used a glass Gu cheesecake jar but they don’t have lids so I used a paper muffin cake case secured with a hair elastic until I can find a lid that fits.
Hi there. Thank you so much for your posts. I have suffered from late onset MS for the last 31/2 years and find I have intolerances to a lot of chemicals that previously did not bother me. I can’t wait to try your suggestions as I have copious amounts of lavender and melaleuca growing here. I will let you know how they turn out later on down the track. Regards, Caz
Hi Jillie
I love your website. Very good information on all subjects.
I have a question about this deodorant. The pic of the George’s aloe appears to be the liquid drinking form and the recipe says aloe gel. Which one did you use?
Thanks!
Either one works!
I am not sure about this but some time back my Mom said to just use rubbing alcohol and apply with a cotton pad. I have been using it since and it keeps the pits from smelling. The problem is that it does not keep you dry but not smelling is more important. I will have to try your formula and see how it works. Thanks Jillee, you always have great ideas.
I used to do this as well and it did work for part of the day but wouldn’t last. I ended up reading that rubbing alcohol could do some serious harm. Instead a high proof alcohol was suggested. I can’t remember specifics but it’s definitely something to look into.
Can’t wait to make and give this a try. Thanks for sharing
I can’t use baking soda as it gives me a rash. Would arrow root powder work just as well? Or is there anything else you would suggest using?
I can’t use baking soda either.
Try unflavored sugar free Milk of Magnesia! This formula is not sticky. A very small amount (dime-sized) rubbed between hands then rubbed under each armpit lasts all day and doesn’t leave white marks on clothes!
I’ve been using this for years and it’s worked better for me than even ‘clinical strength’ anti-perspirant/deodorants. A small bottle lasts a very long time too so it’s economical. Leaves your skin soft too.
That sounds like a good idea. I am going to give it a try.
And does that help with sweat as well? Where abouts would you find it? TIA!
Arrowroot powder will be perfect!
I use milk of magnesia. It works great & doesn’t put stains on your clothes. It also gives your body the magnesium it needs.
I use 190 proof vodka in a spray bottle with my favorite deodorizing essential oil Patchouli diluted at 2%. The great thing about this is that it you sweat through your clothes and become stinky by the evening, a refresher spray will take care of it on you and your clothing!
I too am heavy chested. I put on cornstarch under, over, around & through! lol. Really helps keep me dry.
I have tried using baking soda in other sprays and it tends to clog the sprayer. Any suggestions?
You can warm up the liquids before mixing it with baking soda, and it will dissolve much better :-)
This sounds great. Hey Jillie, I have a question. I am heavy chested and sweat below my chest, and it sometimes stinks will this work for that too?
See my other comment about unflavored sugar free Milk of Magnesia for underarms. I use this under breast too. This formula is not sticky. After I apply under arms I rub what’s left under breasts and it keeps me dry and odor free there too. I also apply a little between thighs at groin area, ever since menopause I sweat there too :-(
I would love to try this homemade deodorant and looking forward to finding out if it works for me. I just want to share their are company’s out there that make all natural deodarants and I have bought and tried these two. “Pit Putty” paraben and aluminum free etc. By, Bubbleandbee.com I tried a few and they guarantee it will work for you after you try one and it doesn’t work they want you to try anothe to work with your specific chemistry. It didn’t work for me but the Orange Vanilla stick works for my hubby. It falls apart… Read more »