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Everything contributes to the ongoing waste stream that we as humans create if we want it or not.
Perhaps it’s the little things that can make a big difference. In our article about essential swaps for a zero waste bathroom we share a broad vision of what you can do for a more toxin free life.
I have always believed that I should smell like myself, and I don’t mean like a sweaty night out dancing or after a gym session when I am drenched.
Although that fresh sweat has a lot of pheromones in it, which some women find attractive.
What I mean is my favorite Christal deodorant, which basically eliminates the bacteria under your armpits that are causing the bad smell.
But I get it. Not everyone wants to smell like themselves, although you have better mating chances, IMO.
Deodorants often contribute to the waste stream due to their packaging. Here at Zero Waste Man, we have curated a list of zero-waste deodorants that come in compostable cardboard tubes or other eco-friendly packaging and are made only with high-quality ingredients.
Some zero-waste deodorant brands use baking soda, while others are free of it, and we have made it easy for you to distinguish between them. Simply scroll through our list to find a natural, plastic free deodorant for your pits.
Steps to take before you use natural plastic-free deodorants:
- detox your body
- choose one of the great options listed below
How to detox from years of conventional deodorant?
If you’re looking to transition from traditional antiperspirants to natural deodorants, No Tox Life’s Underarm Detox Bar is the perfect pit stop for you!
Years of using aluminum-based deodorants can clog pores, making it difficult for natural deodorants to work effectively. No Tox Life’s detox bar, infused with activated charcoal and clay, can help draw out the pore-clogging aluminum, while the loofah exfoliates dead skin and debris. With cocoa and shea butters, the detox bar provides necessary moisture to your underarm skin, ensuring a smooth and healthy transition to natural deodorants.
Weighing just 0.9oz, No Tox Life’s Underarm Detox Bar is the perfect size to detox and exfoliate your pits for a few weeks. With this detox bar, you can jump-start your journey towards natural deodorants in the best possible way.
Alternatively, you can make your own detox paste as follows.
Armpit Detox Paste Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp bentonite clay
Instructions:
- Combine 1/2 tsp of apple cider vinegar and 1/2 tsp of bentonite clay in a small bowl.
- Mix the ingredients together with your finger until they form a paste. Avoid using a metal spoon since it can react with the clay.
- Apply a thin layer of the paste to the area under your arms.
- Let the paste sit for 20-30 minutes until it is mostly dry.
- Rinse off the paste with warm water and gently pat dry.
This armpit detox paste is a great way to prepare your underarms before switching to natural deodorant. The apple cider vinegar helps to balance the pH level of your skin, while the bentonite clay draws out impurities and toxins. Using this paste a few times a week can help your body adjust to the new natural deodorant and minimize any odors.
Or if you prefer you can simply just grab the no tox underarm detix bar and use it to prepare your body for the plastic free deodorants.
No Tox Underarm Detox
Packaging: Cardboard (0.9 oz, 25.5 g)
Baking soda free: Yes
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: Yes
Women-owned: Yes
About No Tox
No Tox Life is a family-run business that cares about providing you with effective, plant-based body and home care products that support a cleaner, greener lifestyle. Sandee and Callie, the mother-daughter duo behind the brand, use high-quality ingredients in each product they make.
Their soap and body products are made with botanicals, powders, and oils. Sandee has been passionate about living a natural lifestyle for decades, having had a bad reaction to perfume ingredients as a child. She started making soap in 2013 and spent hundreds of hours testing and learning about cosmetics formulation. Callie, the co-founder and creative director, designs and formulates new products, manages sales to retailers, and directs the brand’s look.
No Tox Life is a certified woman-owned small business, and their goal is to help people transition to a truly non-toxic lifestyle.
All their products come in plastic-free packaging and they have a big range from dish soaps to lip balm and soaps.
Pit Stop
Packaging: Cardboard Push-Up Tube (2.3oz, 65g)
Baking soda free: Baking free version available
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: No
Location: US, Oregon
Pit Stop Zero Waste Deodorant
Hammond Herbs has a range of zero waste deodorants that provide all-day coverage and come in delightful scent combinations like Lemongrass & Peppermint, Tea Tree & Lavender, Bergamot & Lime, Orange & Patchouli.
Their deodorants are free from harmful substances like aluminum, parabens, synthetic preservatives, synthetic fragrances, and have not been tested on animals. While not vegan, as they use organic beeswax in their formulation, they do use organic cold-pressed virgin coconut oil, shea butter, arrowroot powder, essential oils, non-GMO vitamin E oil, and baking soda.
To minimize waste, their deodorant comes in compostable cardboard tubes, making it an excellent option for those looking for eco-friendly and effective deodorants.
Meow Meow Tweet
Packaging: Cardboard Push-Up Tube (1.8oz, 50g)
Baking soda free: Both Options
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: Yes
Location: US, California
About Meow Meow Tweet
All hail the eco-friendly warriors at Meow Meow Tweet! This small-batch, cruelty-free, USA-made vegan plastic free deodorant is the perfect solution for all you earth-loving warriors out there. With both stick and cream form options, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? It’s 100% vegan and palm oil free, so you can feel good about every use.
Sensitive skin? No problem! Meow Meow Tweet has got you covered with their zero waste deodorant that’s baking soda free. Plus, their mini sticks are perfect for travel or testing out which scent is your fave. And let’s talk about packaging – it’s either in glass jars or compostable deodorant paper tubes, so you can feel good about every step of your sustainable self-care routine.
Papr Comsetics
Packaging: Cardboard Push-Up Tube (1.8oz, 50g)
Baking soda free: Both Options
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: Yes
Location: US, California
Papr Deodorant
At the heart of this brand is a commitment to creating eco-conscious beauty products that are both good for consumers and kind to the planet. To minimize their environmental impact, they use paper as packaging due to its lightness, versatility, and recyclability. But their commitment to sustainability goes beyond packaging – they plant a new tree for every one they take down.
Not only do they prioritize the planet, but they also prioritize the safety of their customers. They conduct extensive research to ensure that their ingredients are safe and won’t harm consumers. As a vegan and cruelty-free brand, they do not test on animals. They believe in using science to create better products, and in being conscious human beings in all aspects of their business.
Eco Roots
Packaging: Cardboard Push-Up Tube (3oz, 85g)
Baking soda free: Yes
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: Yes
Location: US, California
About Eco Roots
Eco Roots is a zero-waste brand that offers a variety of eco-friendly personal care products such as shampoo bars, shaving tools, and zero waste razors. For those seeking a cleaner and greener option for deodorant, look no further than their zero-waste deodorant.
Using only natural and organic ingredients, their deodorant formula effectively keeps you dry and odor-free throughout the day. Not to mention, it’s free of aluminum, parabens, and is cruelty-free, making it gentle on even the most sensitive skin.
Each zero-waste deodorant is meticulously handmade in small batches, ensuring maximum freshness without the need for harmful preservatives. By choosing this sustainable and ethical alternative, you can bid farewell to conventional deodorants and embrace a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
Native
Packaging: Cardboard Push-Up Tube (2.65 oz, 75 g)
Baking soda free: No
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: Yes
Location: US, California
About Native
Moiz Ali, the founder of Native, had a life-changing experience when he decided to take a closer look at the ingredient label of his antiperspirant. Little did he know that this simple act would set him on a path towards a new mission.
His curiosity about the presence of aluminum in the antiperspirant sparked a desire to create a natural, clean deodorant that could compete with the big players in the market.
Native has always been a company that pays attention to the small details, from incorporating customer feedback into their formulations to using only the purest ingredients in their products. The commitment to quality is evident in every item in their lineup, which reflects their dedication to creating effective and sustainable personal care products.
Fat and the Moon
Packaging: Glass Jar (0.5oz, 2oz, or 6oz glass jars)
Baking soda free: Yes
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: No
Women-owned: Yes
Location: US, California
Sensitive Pit Cream by Fat And The Moon
If you’re looking for an herbal deodorant that really covers the full spectrum of stink, look no further than this one! It comes in a handy cream format that’s packaged in a reusable glass jar, so you can feel good about your eco-friendly choice.
Now, depending on the temperature, the consistency of the cream might vary a bit. But don’t worry, this is totally normal for natural products and it won’t affect its effectiveness or usability. If you’re someone who prefers a powder deodorant, you might want to check out their bod powder or yoni duster too. They’re all great options for keeping you feeling fresh and confident all day long!
Live Like You Green It
Packaging: Aluminium Tin ( 2 oz, 56 g, or 4 oz 113 g)
Baking soda free: Yes
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: Yes
Black-owned: Yes
Location: US, Miami
About Live Like You Green It
Live Like You Green It is a line of vegan, organic, and zero-waste skincare products created by founder Dani. Frustrated by the lack of eco-friendly skincare options that met her high standards, Dani set out to create a line that was sustainable, inclusive, and effective.
Each product is thoughtfully crafted by hand using only the highest quality, earth-friendly ingredients and packaging. With Live Like You Green It, customers can feel confident in their choice to care for both their skin and the planet.
Little Seed Farm
Packaging: Glass Jar (2.4 oz, 68 g glass jars)
Baking soda free: Yes
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: No
Location: US, Tennessee
About Little Seed Farm
James and Eileen, the founders of Little Seed Farm, left the city to build a sustainable lifestyle on their 84-acre farm. They implemented regenerative farming practices like rotational grazing to replenish the natural biodiversity of the grasslands.
Little Seed Farm started with a goat milk soap that Elieen’s grandmother requested to help heal her dry skin, which has now become their flagship product. As they expanded their product line, including baking soda and aluminum-free deodorant cream, each product is meticulously crafted with the cleanest ingredients to gently protect and nourish the skin.
Additionally they have some great soaps that I still have to add to our zero waste shampoo article.
Ethique
Packaging: Cardboard Push-up tube (2.47 oz or 70 g)
Baking soda free: Yes
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: Yes
Location: New Zealand
Ethique Deodorant Stick
Introducing the Rustic solid ethique deodorant stick – the perfect solution for staying fresh and confident all day long! This deodorant stick contains a powerful blend of ingredients that work together to prevent odor-causing bacteria.
Zinc oxide and magnesium hydroxide team up to neutralize odors, while bamboo powder absorbs sweat and oil, leaving your underarms feeling dry and comfortable. To top it off, sweet almond oil and jojoba help to soothe and soften the skin, making application a breeze and leaving your underarms feeling silky smooth.
With the Rustic solid deodorant stick, you can feel confident and fresh all day long while also treating your skin to the nourishing benefits of natural, plant-based ingredients.
Alpine Provisions Co
Packaging: Cardboard Push-Up Tube (2.4 oz, 70 g)
Baking soda free: Options
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan and cruelty free: Yes
Location: US, California
Alpine Provision Co
Looking for a natural deodorant that is both effective and gentle on the skin? Look no further than this range of natural deodorants. With three different options to choose from, there is something for everyone.
The Charcoal deodorant is perfect for those looking to detoxify their pores and absorb moisture, while the Magnesium deodorant effectively neutralizes odor-causing bacteria. For those with sensitive skin, the Sodium Bicarbonate deodorant is a great choice, as it helps reduce odor-causing underarm bacteria while still being gentle on the skin.
By choosing a natural deodorant, individuals can avoid the potential harm of harsh chemicals such as aluminum. Instead, they can enjoy the benefits of natural ingredients that work to keep them smelling fresh and confident all day long.
Overall, this range of natural deodorants is a great choice for anyone looking to take a more natural and gentle approach to personal care. With effective and thoughtful ingredients, individuals can feel good about using these deodorants on a daily basis.
Toms of Maine
Packaging: Paper tube
Baking soda free: Yes
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: No
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: No
Location: US, Maine
Toms Of Maine Deodorant Stick
While I still use their toothpaste, which comes in a plastic tube and not in zero-waste packaging, I’ve noticed that most of their products are actually in plastic. However, they do have a small lineup of zero-waste deodorants.
This powerful and gentle formula provides long-lasting odor protection that will leave you feeling confident and smelling great.
And the best part? You won’t have to worry about harmful ingredients like aluminum, parabens, or artificial fragrances. Although it’s just a small step in the right direction, it’s worth mentioning that they are a certified B Corporation.
Noniko
Packaging: Refillable Stainless Steel Deodorant (2.3 oz, 65 g)
Baking soda free: No
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: No
Women-owned: Yes
Location: US, California
Noniki Stainless Steel refillable
I want to introduce you to the Stainless Steel Refillable Deodorant from Noniko – it’s the perfect addition to your plastic-free deodorant routine.
This deodorant stick is made from natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any aluminum, so you can stay fresh and odor-free all day long. Plus, it comes in a zero-waste, stainless steel case and refill system!
You can choose from three amazing scents – Sundaze, Unwind, and Drift – all of which smell fantastic.
And the best part? When you order a new refill, you can send back your empty case in the same box it came in to be cleaned, sanitized, and refilled for a NEW LIFE! So, not only will you smell great, but you’ll also be helping the environment. Don’t forget to keep the exterior case applicator to use for a lifetime!
Circular Bodies
Packaging: Refillable Glass Bottle (4 oz, 113 g)
Baking soda free: Yes
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: Yes
Women-owned: Yes
Location: US, California
Circular Bodies Deodorant Spray
Circular Bodies’ products are all handcrafted with high-quality ingredients in small batches at their studio. The company was started with a mission to make it easy for people to use natural and sustainable products for their body and home care needs.
Tierra And Lava
Packaging: Paper Tube (2.7 oz, 75 g)
Baking soda free: Yes
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: No
Location: Central America, Guatemala
Tierra and Lava Zero Waste Deodorant
Hey there, eco-warriors! Have you heard about the amazing anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties of copal and lemongrass? These natural powerhouses work together to kick those nasty odor-causing bacteria to the curb!
Not only will you stay smelling fresh all day long, but you’ll also get to enjoy a lovely herbal scent that’s perfect for everyone. So why not try out copal and lemongrass for your next deodorant? Your pits (and the planet) will thank you!
P.s.: They also sell sunscreen and baby balm.
Attitude
Packaging: Paper Tube (2.7 oz, 85 g)
Baking soda free: Yes
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: Yes
Location: Montreal, Canada
Attitude
No more worrying about mid-day freshness checks with the new ATTITUDE leaves bar™ Deodorant – Herbal Musk.
This plastic-free, vegan, and EWG VERIFIED™ deodorant is designed to provide long-lasting protection and a soothing sensation without the use of harmful ingredients like aluminum or baking soda.
The deodorant is formulated with white clay and magnesium hydroxide that absorb moisture and eliminate bad odors, leaving your underarms smelling fresh all day with its herbal musk citrusy scent. Circular Bodies has created a nourishing product that is formulated with castor and jojoba oil, leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth after application.
Chagrin Valley
Packaging: Push-Up Paper Tube (2.7 oz, 42 g)
Baking soda free: No
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: No
Location: US, Ohio
Chagrin Valley
Chagrin Valley’s commitment to plastic-free living continues with their latest addition to the lineup – a deodorant stick in a cardboard sleeve! This long-lasting deodorant stick not only smells amazing, but it’s also environmentally friendly. By using a cardboard sleeve, they’ve eliminated the need for wasteful plastic packaging.
But it’s not just about being eco-friendly. Chagrin Valley’s deodorant stick is also effective and nourishing. Made with a blend of natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and baking soda, it provides all-day protection against odor while keeping your skin soft and moisturized. And with a variety of scents to choose from, including lavender and tea tree, you’re sure to find one that suits your personal preferences.
Say goodbye to plastic packaging and harsh chemicals, and make the switch to Chagrin Valley’s deodorant stick in a cardboard sleeve and dont forget the shampoo and conditioner bars from their selection- your body and the planet will thank you.
Ola Bamboo
Packaging: Push-Up Paper Tube (1.5 oz, 42 g)
Baking soda free: No
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: No
Location: Canada
Ola Bamboo Stick
OLA Bamboo is a Canadian company founded by three young entrepreneurs, Jean-Philippe Bergeron, Simon-Pier Ouellet, and Vicky Jodry, who share a passion for protecting the planet. They are dedicated to reducing plastic waste by providing affordable and easy-to-use eco-friendly products.
The company also offers zero waste dental products, in addition to their other sustainable offerings. OLA Bamboo’s mission is to make a positive impact on the environment by providing practical and sustainable solutions.
Trail Botanica
Packaging: Push-Up Paper Tube (1.5 oz, 42 g)
Baking soda free: No
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Paraben-Free: Yes
Palm Oil-Free: Yes
Aluminum-Free: Yes
Vegan: No
Location: Canada
Trail Botanica
Trail Botanica is a company that creates skincare products inspired by nature. Their mission is to provide products that are not only good for your skin but also have minimal impact on the environment.
They use natural and organic ingredients and aim to reduce plastic waste by using glass and metal containers that can be reused or recycled. Their packaging is also made from recycled materials.
In addition to creating sustainable products, Trail Botanica is dedicated to education, and they offer resources to help people make informed decisions about the products they use on their skin.
How can I make deodorant at home?
Deodorant Recipe: 1/2 cup melted coconut oil 3/4 cup aluminium free baking soda or arrowroot powder if you have sensitive skin. 40 drops essential oil of choice Keep mixing until all the baking soda is mixed in.
What is plastic free deodorant?
A type of deodorant that comes in environmentally conscious packaging which can be paper or cardboard or sometimes even in refillable aluminium containers.
Why is aluminium bad for your skin?
As a conscious consumer, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients in the products we use every day. One common ingredient in conventional deodorants is aluminum, a heavy metal that is designed to block sweat.
However, when we apply these deodorants, our skin absorbs the aluminum, yet no studies claim that it causes cancer.
Too much aluminum could harm our bodies, but it’s also unnatural for us to stop sweating completely. Sweating is a natural process that helps regulate our body temperature and eliminate toxins. In fact, fresh sweat doesn’t even have a bad odor unless we’ve consumed certain foods.
That’s why it’s crucial to opt for aluminum-free deodorants. By choosing a natural alternative, we can protect our health while still effectively controlling body odor.
How long do you stink after switching to aluminum free deodorant?
As everyone’s body chemistry is unique, it’s difficult to say exactly how long the transition period will last when switching to aluminum-free deodorant.
Some people may find that they stop experiencing body odor immediately, while others may experience an adjustment period of a few days or even a couple of weeks.
This is because your body needs time to detox from the aluminum and other chemicals in conventional deodorants, and to adjust to the new natural ingredients. So, don’t be discouraged if it takes a little while to get used to aluminum-free deodorant – it’s worth it for your health and the planet!
