Don’t let an empty deodorant stick stop you from feeling fresh! These DIY deodorants can perform deodorizer double duty when you’re in a bind.
Ran Out of Deodorant? 11 Homemade Versions You Can Try
Baking soda and water
This common kitchen ingredient can perform many tricks, including eliminating bacteria and odors under your arms. Mix 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda and water to create a deodorant paste. The baking soda will dry out the area and prevent strong smells, leaving you fresh and clean. Here are more of the many amazing ways you can use baking soda around your house.
Baking soda and cornstarch
No one likes to smell bad, and reaching for the baking soda and cornstarch can help. Mixing equal parts baking soda and cornstarch will create an odor-killing powder that will stop bacteria before it spreads. Dust this lightly under your arms to kiss stenches goodbye.
Baking soda and essential oils
While baking soda is a great odor-fighter, it doesn’t smell garden-fresh. Mixing a few drops of essential oils like lavender or lemongrass with baking soda can help you stay clean and smell sweet while you’re at it. Here’s how different aromatherapy smells affect your health and mood.
Baby powder
Baby powder isn’t just for kids: It can dry out your armpits to stop excessive sweat. Reapplication is necessary, though—baby powder isn’t as strong as baking soda, and will need a little extra care to keep you sweat-free. These are more brilliant uses for baby powder you’ve never tried.
Air freshener
The upside? Air fresheners are great at eliminating odors, which makes them an effective short-term fix for when deodorant isn’t on hand. The downside? Air fresheners are not made to be used on your armpits, so don’t reach for it regularly. (Speaking of homemade remedies, check out these awesome face masks you can make from things you probably already have in your kitchen!)
Lemon juice
If you’re looking for a strong odor-killer, look no further than lemon juice. The citric acid it provides can kill even the strongest bacteria. Be careful though—if you have sensitive armpits or have recently shaved, this will burn! Here are good reasons to always keep your home stocked with lemons.
Witch hazel
Witch hazel is already a common and natural alternative to deodorant, so if you have some on your shelves, you’re in luck. Its beneficial natural ingredients and antibacterial properties help remove oil and moisturize so well that some people permanently replace deodorant with it.
Coconut oil
This beauty favorite can also sub in for deodorant! The light natural fragrance and bacteria-killing properties will work as well on your armpits as they do on your face. What can’t coconut oil do?
Apple cider vinegar
As an antiseptic, apple cider vinegar is a recognizable household odor killer. The sharp smell will thankfully fade, but the vinegar will stick and help absorb stink. Apply it conservatively under your arms for an odor-banning alternative. Here are more health benefits of apple cider vinegar.
A bar of soap
When all else fails to cleanse your underarms, a bar of soap from your bathroom can come in handy. A bar of soap applied to damp armpits will help get rid of any bad smell and keep you odor-free.
Hand sanitizer
If you forget to apply deodorant and you need a quick alternative, scan the room for hand sanitizer. This common household item is the perfect emergency deodorant because the alcohol in it kills bacteria and neutralizes smell. And you thought Purell was just for your hands.
Originally Published in Reader's Digest
