Baking soda is widely known for its ability to not only clean the house but to absorb odors as well. For instance, if you have a pungent smell in your refrigerator, leaving an open box of baking soda in your fridge can help get rid of the odor.  This odor-absorbing ability has resulted in baking soda becoming a popular option as a natural chemical-free deodorant.

My daughters and I have been using food grade baking soda as deodorant for a long time now. Baking soda is inexpensive, easily available and effective in keeping bad body odor at bay.   This versatile kitchen ingredient helps neutralise body odors by absorbing sweat, altering skin pH, and suppressing bacterial growth.

Baking soda is a preferred underarm deodorant over conventional deodorant.  Off-the-shelves commercial deodorant may contain harmful chemicals such as:

• Aluminum. Some people are concerned that absorbing aluminum from a deodorant can increase their risk of breast cancer and other cancers. However, there isn’t any scientific research to date to support this.
• Parabens. Although research is still ongoing, some early studies indicate that parabens found in beauty and personal care products may increase the risk of cancerous skin damage.
• Triclosan. This ingredient may disrupt some types of hormones.
• Artificial colors. These may cause skin irritation.

How To Make DIY Baking Soda Deodorant

• Pour baking soda into a salt shaker and apply a very light shake onto your palm  before rubbing on the underarms.  Do it after shower when your underarms are still slightly damp so that the baking soda sticks to the skin.
• Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda in a cup of water. Store this in a spray bottle and use daily on sweat-prone areas. Allow to air-dry and brush off any residue to avoid staining your clothes.
• Mix baking soda and cornstarch or arrowroot powder in a ratio of 2:1. Sprinkle on underarms and feet to prevent body odours.

Caveat

If you have dry or sensitive skin, you could be more prone to the following side effects if you use baking soda under your arms:

redness
rash
itchiness
scaly skin
stinging/burning sensation

Baking soda is generally safe when used on the skin.  Stop using baking soda as deodorant if you experience severe reaction on your skin.