For a long time, deodorant was just another item I picked up at the store without thinking too much about the ingredients. But as we began cleaning up our food and simplifying what we kept in our home, I started paying closer attention to everyday products too. Soap, lotions, lip balm, hair products, and eventually deodorant all became things I wanted to understand better.

After experimenting with several DIY deodorant recipes, I found that a simple blend of tallow, arrowroot powder, and a small amount of baking soda worked surprisingly well. Baking soda helps neutralize odor naturally, which is a must working on a homestead! This version has become one of my favorite simple solutions for everyday use.

At first it felt a little intimidating, but once I started experimenting with simple ingredients, I realized how straightforward it actually was.

If I was willing to make our own soap, tallow balm, and pomade, then I figured I could learn to make a natural deodorant recipe too.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I make a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my full disclosure here.

What This Natural Deodorant Does

This is not an antiperspirant. It does not stop sweat.

Instead, it:

• Helps neutralize odor
• Absorbs moisture using arrowroot powder
• Uses natural ingredients
• Applies smoothly
• Works for everyday use

Over time, I found that simple formulas worked best. No complicated additives. No unnecessary fillers.

Just traditional ingredients.

Why I Use These Ingredients

Tallow forms the base of this deodorant. It gives the recipe structure and nourishment without feeling overly greasy, and it has been used for generations in traditional body care products.

Beeswax helps keep the deodorant firm and stable, especially during warm months. It also helps the mixture hold its shape once it sets.

Arrowroot powder helps absorb moisture and keeps the deodorant feeling dry and smooth throughout the day.

Baking soda helps neutralize odor naturally. I keep the amount moderate so it remains effective without being overly harsh.

Shea butter softens the mixture and helps the deodorant glide smoothly when applied.

Coconut oil adds smoothness and helps everything melt together evenly, but I keep it balanced so the deodorant does not feel too heavy.

Essential oils are completely optional. I use them sparingly, usually something simple like lavender or tea tree. A small amount is plenty.

Ingredients for Stronger Natural Deodorant Recipe (With Baking Soda)

38 g grass-fed tallow (about 3 tablespoons)
29 g arrowroot powder (about 2½ tablespoons)
17 g coconut oil (about 1 tablespoon)
14 g beeswax (about 1 tablespoon)
9 g shea butter (about 2 teaspoons)
6 g baking soda (about 1 teaspoon)
1 g essential oil, optional (about 15–20 drops)

Optional Essential Oil Ideas

You only need a small amount. Some good choices for natural deodorants include:

• lavender
• tea tree
• lemon
• rosemary

Tea tree oil is especially popular because it is often used in natural deodorants.

Essential oils are optional. This deodorant is effective without them. When I link to essential oils, I’m linking to the brand I personally use and trust. Young Living offers a 10% share discount on orders of 50 PV or more with code SHAREYL, if you’d like to take advantage of it

Yield

This recipe makes about 4 ounces, enough to fill one standard deodorant container or a small glass jar.

Equipment

• Double boiler or heat-safe bowl
• Spoon or small whisk
• Clean jars or deodorant tubes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the tallow, beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter together in a double boiler over low heat. Once everything is fully melted, remove the mixture from heat.

Stir in the arrowroot powder and baking soda, mixing thoroughly so there are no clumps.

Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then add the essential oils if you are using them.

Pour the mixture into small jars or deodorant containers and allow it to set completely at room temperature. As it cools, the deodorant will firm up and become smooth and solid.

Tips for Making Natural Deodorant with Baking Soda

Mix the powders together first.
Before adding the baking soda and arrowroot powder to the melted oils, whisk them together in a small bowl. This helps prevent clumps and keeps the deodorant smooth.

Use gentle heat when melting the oils.
Melt the tallow, beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter slowly over low heat using a double boiler. High heat can affect the texture of the finished deodorant.

Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding essential oils.
Essential oils are delicate and can lose their scent if added while the mixture is too hot. Waiting a minute or two helps preserve the fragrance.

Start with a small amount when applying.
Natural deodorant is concentrated, so a little goes a long way. Applying too much can feel heavy or leave residue on clothing.

Test the baking soda level if you have sensitive skin.
If baking soda feels too strong for your skin, you can reduce the amount slightly and replace it with additional arrowroot powder.

Store in a cool place during warm months.
The beeswax helps keep the deodorant firm, but storing it in a cool area during the summer will help maintain the best texture.

A Note on Switching to Natural Deodorants

When switching from conventional products, it can take time for your body to adjust. I found that consistency mattered more than anything. Once I stuck with it, this recipe worked beautifully for our family.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Natural Deodorant Recipe