If you’ve been hanging out with me for a while you may have seen my original post all about aluminum-free deodorants where I rank the ones I’ve tried. I also posted an update where I specifically mentioned what I was using at that time.

It’s been a while so I wanted to share yet again. Please note that I’m a few years into my switch to natural deodorant and at this point I find that a lot of them work for me. So now I have the luxury of being able to focus on zero waste friendly packaging. Some of my favorite deodorants – like the ones I mention below – have great packaging and a great product inside, but you will see that I do recommend a few options that are sold (at least sometimes) in plastic sticks. They are typically recyclable or have parts that are recyclable but it’s not ideal from a waste standpoint. HOWEVER. This is a case where I want to be upfront and honest with you guys. These are brands I recommend to anyone who asks because I think switching to natural deodorant for your health is very important and IF using a deo that comes in a plastic stick helps ease the transition, so be it.

This post is going to be in two parts. First, I’ll share what’s in my rotation right now. After that, I’ll share what I typically say to family, friends or readers who contact me to give advice about starting to use natural deodorants.

MY CURRENT ROUTINE

At any given time I typically have at least two deodorants on hand. I like to rotate them because it seems to be the most effective for me. I might change this habit in the future but for now, it works. Currently in my drawer I have two actually kind of similar (but not quite) formulas, both of which I love for summer and seem to be working even with my postpartum hormone craziness imbalances.

The first is Meow Meow Tweet Grapefruit Baking Soda Free Cream Deodorant.

It’s easy to use, the scent isn’t overpowering and for me it lasts all day through running around after a toddler and lugging around a giant baby (seriously, born a month early but is now off the charts tall! Go baby go!) It comes in a jar or a biodegradable (YAY) tube. I think the formula is the same or very similar but I much prefer using the jar. You just put a pea-sized amount on your fingertips, smooth the product under your arms and off you go. You can wash your hands after but I usually just kind of rub any excess product into my hands and it dries down/doesn’t bother me. You can buy this wonderful product several places online but I find the best price – and fastest shipping! – on the brand’s website.

I also rely on the beautiful Sempiira Cream Deodorant.

It’s a slightly stickier consistency but dries down and feels fresh all day. This brand makes high-end products so the price tag reflects that. If you are a natural deodorant buff and know it’s worth it to splurge on a great product, I highly recommend trying this one. You might find your new favorite!

And now, the secret:

Both of these are effective for me even on days I’m running around in the summer heat. They’ve withstood many a day this summer where I’m wearing my baby in a carrier and chasing after my older daughter. However, if I’m being honest I feel most comfortable also having Primal Pit Paste on hand as a back-up. It’s a secret weapon in my drawer, laying in wait. I like the Jacked Up Jasmine scent the best. I am definitely sensitive to it if I wear it too many days in a row, but it is the MOST bulletproof solution for days when I have to be really protected, say, for an important meeting or presentation or speaking opportunity. I could definitely wear either of the other ones I have and be totally fine, but for some reason I rely on PPP to get me through those extra demanding days. It might be all in my head, but I’m not taking any chances.

MY ADVICE FOR NEWBIES

When a reader, friend or family member reaches out to ask for my advice about finding a natural deodorant, here’s what I say.

1. Don’t be scared. The worst that will happen is you have to reapply throughout the day at first.
2. Buy Primal Pit Paste first. Even if you find you’re sensitive to it, you’ll end up using it up over time because it’s really effective. They do have a sensitive version, but I don’t love it. I think their original formula is better IMO.
3. If you’re interested in a more traditional experience to start, try Schmidt’s sensitive stick. It’s a plastic tube that looks like what you’re used to and it works. They have a whole range of scents for sensitive, too.
4. If you’re okay going straight for a jar, get Meow Meow Tweet deodorant. I like the sensitive “Grapefruit” version. Yes, it is also available in stick form but I prefer the jar. Lots of bonus points and high fives to MMT for using a biodegradable tube! Hurrah.
5. If you want to get really adventurous… or on the flip side want to dip your toe in and not invest too much, DIY a natural deo. Try this super simple spray from Going Zero Waste or google around. In my experience the recipes like this that call for arrowroot powder tend to work the best.