This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure policy.
Stay fresh and clean with this homemade whole-body deodorant recipe. Made with simple ingredients like coconut oil, witch hazel, and essential oils, it is both effective and eco-friendly.

When I first switched to making my own deodorant, I was surprised at how effective it could actually be. Store-bought bar deodorants did a good job of masking smells, but unfortunately, it came at the expense of putting harmful ingredients onto my skin.
This whole body deodorant is perfect for everyone wanting to keep odors in check. Please note that if this is the first natural deodorant recipe you are making, check out the ‘Making the Switch‘ section below for helpful tips.
How to make whole body deodorant
Ingredients
- 1 oz unflavored vodka
- 0.25 oz fractionated coconut oil
- 25 drops of tangerine essential oil
- 10 drops of bergamot essential oil
- 2.75 oz witch hazel, alcohol-free
Materials
- 4 oz spray bottle
Instructions: (see image gallery below for step-by-steps)
- Use a funnel to add the vodka, fractionated coconut oil, and essential oils into the spray bottle. Secure the lid and shake well to incorporate the ingredients.
- Remove the lid, add the witch hazel, secure the lid again, and give it another good shake.
- To use deodorant, lightly spray onto desired body areas, being careful to avoid sensitive skin and eyes. Allow the spray to air-dry before dressing to avoid staining clothes.
Pro Tip: The ingredients will separate naturally. Shake well before each use. Remember, spray deodorant is less effective than stick deodorant for preventing underarm body odor.
Before use
To rule out any skin reactions, do a patch test on a small area of skin before applying the product fully.
Tangerine and Bergamot are both photosensitive oils and should not be worn in direct sunlight. If you are applying them to exposed skin, substitute these oils for non-photosensitive ones.
Always consult with your healthcare provider to see if this product is right for you.
Tips
- It’s normal to see a natural separation of the ingredients. Simply give the bottle a good shake before each use.
- For best results, apply the spray to clean skin to maximize the deodorant’s effectiveness.
- If you are transitioning from commercial deodorant, give your body a couple of weeks to adjust to this natural alternative.
- Spray deodorant is not as effective against strong underarm body odor as a stick deodorant, such as my homemade deodorant without baking soda recipe.
- I like to use spray bottles that can be reused. This is an eco-friendly way to do things, and it also saves money by reducing one-time-use purchases.
Variations and alternatives
Dipropylene glycol is a good alternative to fractionated coconut oil, but it can be difficult to source. I’ve had great success using the fractionated coconut oil, though the dipropylene glycol does give the spray a solid base that adheres well to the skin.
I love the freedom of creativity that comes with making your own body care products. You can easily swap out essential oils for your preferred scents.
What is whole body deodorant?
Let’s face it: our armpits are not the only area of our bodies that produces undesirable odors. This is totally normal, and whole body deodorant is made to tackle these smelly spots wherever they may be.
Though it’s not exactly comfortable to discuss, we all sweat. There are creases and folds of skin on our bodies that get hot, sweaty, and, therefore, stinky.
Whole body deodorant can be used all over the body to neutralize any offending areas. It does differ slightly from regular homemade deodorant spray as it adheres better to the skin and is safe for the entire body.
Spray it on your back, bottom, thighs, or feet. If you struggle with odors, simply spritz the skin and let the deodorant air dry. This will keep you smelling good and fresh throughout the busy day.
Making the switch
For pretty much everyone moving from conventional deodorants to natural or homemade deodorants, you are going to go through an adjustment period.
Simply put, these deodorants are not as effective as conventional ones because we are not using any harsh chemicals; our bodies have become accustomed to them, especially antiperspirants.
To help with the adjustment period, consider doing an underarm detox, as well as using an underarm exfoliant from time to time.
And that’s about all there is to it. Let me know if you have any questions. If you made and loved this recipe, I would love for you to leave a review below!
Whole Body Deodorant Spray
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 oz unflavored vodka
- 0.25 oz fractionated coconut oil
- 25 drops tangerine essential oil
- 10 drops bergamot essential oil
- 2.75 oz witch hazel, alcohol-free
Instructions
- Use a funnel to add the vodka, fractionated coconut oil, and essential oils into the spray bottle. Secure the lid and shake well to incorporate.
- Remove the lid, then add in the witch hazel. Secure the lid again and give it another good shake.
- To use deodorant, lightly spray onto desired body areas, being careful to avoid sensitive skin and eyes. Allow the spray to air-dry before dressing to avoid staining clothes.
Video
Notes
-
- Natural separation will happen. Give the bottle a good shake before each use.
-
- Apply the spray to clean skin to maximize the deodorant’s effectiveness.
-
- If you are transitioning from commercial deodorant, give your body a couple of weeks to adjust to this natural alternative.
What can you use in place of witch hazel? I have had reactions to it.
Hi, can you recommend a substitute for the vodka? Fairly expensive where I live and was looking for an economical and natural alternative:)
Yes, witch hazel works to!
This was so easy to make, and spells so good,
Thank you so much Laura,
Yay, I’m so happy to hear!