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Best Deodorants for Kids of 2025

Updated
What to use when your child is suddenly in need of some serious deodorizing.

Let’s be real. One day you are smelling your child’s sweet head, and the next, you are knocked back by a wave of body odor. It happens fast, and it usually catches parents off guard.

When the funk sets in, you have questions. Is it safe to put chemicals on young skin? Do natural options actually work, or will they leave my kid smelling like lavender and gym socks?

We are here to clear the air. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about childhood body odor and review the best deodorants for kids on the market. Let’s find a solution that keeps your child smelling fresh without the harsh chemicals.

Our Top Picks

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Best Value Deodorant for Kids: Tom's Wicked Cool! Natural Deodorant
  • Vegan product, not tested on animals
  • Made with all-natural ingredients
  • Suitable for boys or girls
Best Natural Deodorant for Kids: Native Natural Stick Deodorant
  • Well-loved brand for quality products
  • Contains bacteria-neutralizing probiotics
  • Wide variety of fragrance options
Best Fragrance-Free Deodorant for Kids: TBH Kids Unscented Stick Deodorant
  • Affordable compared to other options
  • Uses simple, all-natural ingredients
  • Doesn’t contain extra fragrances
Best Stick Deodorant for Kids: Pretty Frank Natural Deodorant Stick
  • Comes in a larger size than most
  • Vegan formulation
  • Smoother than other natural deodorants
Best Kids’ Deodorant for Sensitive Skin: Mona Natural Deodorant for Sensitive Skin
  • Formulated especially for sensitive skin
  • Lasts for 24 hours
  • Doesn’t stain clothing
Best Roll-On Deodorant for Kids: Keep It Kind Fresh Kidz Natural Roll-On
  • Roll-on style is easy to use
  • Fragrance-free formula
  • Users claim it works great & lasts all day
Best Cream Deodorant for Kids: Truly's Organic Deodorant for Kids
  • Uses only 4 natural ingredients
  • Softens skin while deodorizing
  • Non-staining formula
Best Scented Deodorant for Kids: Fresh Monster Gummy Burst Natural
  • Sweet, fresh-smelling scent
  • Hypoallergenic formula for sensitive skin
  • Made in the US
Best Sports Deodorant for Kids: Grownish Sport A Natural Deodorant
  • Lasts for 24 hours
  • Free of aluminum, parabens, talc, etc
  • Formula stays soft & doesn’t dry out
Best Antiperspirant Deodorant for Kids: Tom's of Maine Antiperspirant
  • Great for kids who sweat a lot
  • Uses many natural ingredients
  • Comes in a variety of scents

What to Look For

Before you grab the first stick you see on the shelf, here are a few things to consider to keep those pits happy and healthy:

Deodorant vs. Antiperspirant

It is easy to confuse the two, but they do very different jobs. Deodorant targets bacteria. Sweat itself is actually odorless; the smell comes from bacteria breaking down that sweat. Deodorant makes the skin more acidic, which stops bacteria from partying in your child’s armpits.

Antiperspirant stops the sweat itself. It uses ingredients (usually aluminum) to plug sweat ducts.

While the American Cancer Society notes there is no clear link between aluminum and cancer, many parents prefer to play it safe (1). Kids generally don’t need heavy-duty sweat blocking, just odor control. That is why most kid-specific products stick to natural deodorant formulas.

Type

Deodorant comes in several formats. Pick the one that fits your child’s patience level and lifestyle.

Stick Deodorant

This is the classic solid stick. It’s affordable, easy to apply, and familiar. Most natural brands use oils or waxes, so they might feel a bit harder than the gel sticks you are used to.

Roll-on Deodorant

Roll-ons use a liquid or gel formula with a rolling ball applicator. They are great because they don’t crumble like sticks can. However, they go on wet. Your child will need to flap their arms like a chicken for a minute to let it dry before putting on a shirt.

Cream Deodorant

Creams usually come in a jar or a squeeze tube. You apply them with your fingers like lotion. They are often very effective and moisturizing, but they can be messy. If your kid is in a rush, this might not be the best choice.

Spray Deodorant

Aerosols are quick and dry fast. However, they pose inhalation risks. You don’t want your child breathing in propellant chemicals or fine mists. It is generally safer to stick to solids or roll-ons for younger kids (2).

Ingredients to Watch

Kids have thinner, more absorbent skin than adults. When shopping, check the label for these ingredients:

Aluminum

As mentioned, this plugs sweat ducts. Most parents avoid this for kids to allow natural sweating without the chemical blockade.

Alcohol

It kills bacteria, but it also stings. If your child has sensitive skin or shaves their underarms, alcohol can cause painful irritation and dryness.

Parabens

These are preservatives used to extend shelf life. Some studies suggest they can disrupt hormones. While many brands have phased them out, it is always worth double-checking the label (3).

Phthalates

These chemicals make fragrances last longer and help products stick to skin. They are known endocrine disruptors. Since puberty is already a hormone rollercoaster, it is best to avoid adding phthalates to the mix (4).

Natural Ingredients

If you skip the chemicals, what actually stops the stink? Natural brands use plant-based powerhouses.

Here are the heavy hitters in natural deodorant:

  • Coconut oil: A natural antibacterial agent that also soothes the skin.
  • Powders: Baking soda, arrowroot, and cornstarch absorb moisture. Note: Baking soda is effective but can cause rashes on sensitive skin.
  • Essential oils: These provide a fresh scent and often have antibacterial properties to fight odor at the source.

Scent

You might love the smell of pine forests, but your 10-year-old might prefer smelling like gummy bears. Involve your child in the choice. If they like the smell, they are more likely to actually wear it.

If your child has eczema or allergies, skip the fragrance entirely. Unscented versions neutralize odor without adding potential irritants.


Product Reviews

We tested, sniffed, and reviewed the top options to find the best odor protection for your kids.

Tom's Wicked Cool! Natural Deodorant for Kids

Best Value Deodorant for Kids

Tom’s of Maine is a heavyweight in the natural personal care world, and their Wicked Cool! line is specifically designed for kids. It bridges the gap between “baby products” and “adult deodorant.”

This aluminum-free stick offers 24-hour odor protection, which is great for active school days. The formula avoids artificial fragrances, preservatives, and animal ingredients.

It comes in scents like “Freestyle” and “Summer Fun,” which are pleasant without being overpowering. The texture is solid but glides on relatively easily. Since it is widely available and affordable, it is a great entry-level deodorant for preteens.

Pros

  • Widely available and budget-friendly.
  • Cruelty-free and vegan formula.
  • Designed specifically for kids’ pH and skin.

Cons

  • Scent may fade by the end of a very active sports day.

Product Specs

Net weight 1.6 ounces (45.3 grams)
Type Stick
Scent Freestyle, Summer Fresh

Our Ratings

Safety
4.5 / 5
Effectiveness
4 / 5
Scent
4.5 / 5
Skin Sensitivity
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Native Natural Stick Deodorant

Best Natural Deodorant for Kids

Native has arguably made natural deodorant “cool.” While it is not marketed strictly for kids, the clean ingredient list makes it a top choice for tweens and teens.

The formula relies on baking soda to neutralize odors and tapioca starch to keep pits dry. It is also vegan and cruelty-free. What sets Native apart is the incredible variety of scents, from Coconut & Vanilla to seasonal limited editions.

Native also includes probiotics (good bacteria) to help balance the skin’s microbiome. If your child finds the regular formula irritating, Native offers a sensitive skin version that swaps baking soda for magnesium.

Pros

  • Huge variety of fun scents kids love.
  • Contains probiotics to fight odor-causing bacteria.
  • Smooth application compared to other natural sticks.

Cons

  • Can leave white marks on dark clothing if applied heavily.

Product Specs

Net weight 2.65 ounces (75 grams)
Type Stick
Scents Coconut & Vanilla, Cucumber & Mint, Lavender & Rose, Unscented

Our Ratings

Safety
4.5 / 5
Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Scent
4.5 / 5
Skin Sensitivity
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

TBH Kids Unscented Stick Deodorant

Best Fragrance-Free Deodorant for Kids

If your child’s school has a “fragrance-free” policy, or if they just have a sensitive nose, TBH Kids is a fantastic solution. It focuses on neutralizing odor rather than masking it.

The secret sauce here is a blend of charcoal, arrowroot powder, and coconut oil. Charcoal acts like a magnet for toxins and impurities, while arrowroot absorbs wetness.

Because it uses coconut oil as a base, the stick can be firm in cold weather. TBH recommends holding it against the skin for a few seconds to warm it up before swiping. It is free from aluminum, parabens, and sulfates.

Pros

  • Charcoal helps draw out impurities.
  • Completely fragrance-free for sensitive environments.
  • Simple, clean ingredient profile.

Cons

  • Stick can be hard to apply if stored in a cool room.

Product Specs

Net weight 2 ounces (57 grams)
Type Stick
Scents Unscented

Our Ratings

Safety
5 / 5
Effectiveness
4 / 5
Scent
5 / 5
Skin Sensitivity
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Pretty Frank Natural Deodorant Stick

Best Stick Deodorant for Kids

Pretty Frank takes a straightforward approach to stink. This deodorant uses magnesium hydroxide and zinc to tackle odor, skipping the baking soda that irritates some kids.

The texture is unique; it is dry but applies smoothly. It uses organic arrowroot powder to help with moisture control. The scent options are sophisticated, like “Woodlands” and “Lavender,” making it a good pick for older kids who don’t want to smell like bubblegum.

It is also an edible-ingredient formula (though we don’t recommend eating it!). This gives parents peace of mind knowing exactly what is going onto their child’s skin.

Pros

  • Baking soda-free options available for sensitive skin.
  • Uses food-grade ingredients.
  • Large stick lasts a long time.

Cons

  • Can leave a slight white residue.

Product Specs

Net weight 2.7 ounces (77 grams)
Type Stick
Scents Unscented, Charcoal Seaside, Coconut Lime, Jasmine, Lavender, Orange Vanilla, Woodlands

Our Ratings

Safety
4.5 / 5
Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Scent
4 / 5
Skin Sensitivity
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Mona Natural Deodorant for Kids, Sensitive Skin

Best Kids’ Deodorant for Sensitive Skin

For kids who break out in a rash at the mere sight of a hygiene product, MONA Brands is a lifesaver. This deodorant is hypoallergenic and specifically formulated for delicate underarm skin.

It uses magnesium oxide and zinc oxide to fight bacteria gently. There is no baking soda, alcohol, or aluminum. The texture is creamy and applies easily without dragging on the skin.

You can choose from kid-friendly scents like Honeydew or Orange, or stick with the Unscented version. It provides reliable coverage without the itch.

Pros

  • Excellent for kids with eczema or sensitive skin.
  • Zero baking soda or alcohol.
  • Does not stain clothing.

Cons

  • Soft formula can be used up quickly.

Product Specs

Net weight 1.76 ounces (50 grams)
Type Stick
Scents Honeydew, Vanilla Spice, Orange

Our Ratings

Safety
4.5 / 5
Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Scent
4 / 5
Skin Sensitivity
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Keep It Kind Fresh Kidz Natural Roll-On Deodorant

Best Roll-On Deodorant for Kids

If your child hates the feeling of a waxy stick, Fresh Kidz offers a great roll-on alternative. This liquid formula inhibits bacteria growth and keeps kids smelling fresh for hours.

It is free from aluminum, parabens, and alcohol, significantly reducing the risk of irritation. The packaging is modern and sporty, which appeals to pre-teens who don’t want “baby” products in their locker.

The main trade-off is drying time. Since it goes on wet, your child needs to wait a moment before getting dressed to avoid damp spots on their shirt.

Pros

  • No waxy residue or crumbles.
  • Sporty packaging appeals to older kids.
  • Effective odor control without heavy chemicals.

Cons

  • Requires drying time after application.

Product Specs

Net weight 1.86 ounces (53 grams)
Type Roll-on
Scents Fresh Kidz Blue Boys and Girls Purple

Our Ratings

Safety
4 / 5
Effectiveness
4 / 5
Scent
4 / 5
Skin Sensitivity
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Truly's Organic Deodorant for Kids

Best Cream Deodorant for Kids

Truly’s takes a different approach with a cream format. It looks like a lotion but acts like a deodorant. The ingredient list is incredibly short: coconut oil, powdered sugar, baking soda, and beeswax.

Yes, powdered sugar! It helps kill bacteria by creating a hyper-osmotic environment where bacteria can’t survive. The beeswax helps the product stay on the skin longer.

To apply, your child takes a pea-sized amount and rubs it in. It’s a bit more hands-on, literally, but it is incredibly effective and moisturizing. It is non-staining and GMO-free.

Pros

  • Minimalist ingredient list (only 4 items).
  • Very moisturizing for dry skin.
  • Does not stain clothes.

Cons

  • Application is messy (requires fingers).
  • Scent is mostly just coconut.

Product Specs

Net weight 2.5 ounces (71 grams)
Type Cream
Scents Unscented

Our Ratings

Safety
4.5 / 5
Effectiveness
4 / 5
Scent
4 / 5
Skin Sensitivity
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Fresh Monster Gummy Burst Natural Deodorant for Kids

Best Scented Deodorant for Kids

Fresh Monster is all about fun. If you are struggling to get your child to wear deodorant, the “Gummy Burst” scent might be the bribe that works. It smells sweet, fruity, and exactly like candy.

Created by moms, this formula is hypoallergenic and free from toxins like aluminum and phthalates. It glides on clear and smooth, so you won’t see white clumps in your child’s armpits.

While the scent is the main draw, the odor protection is solid for everyday activities. It’s a great “starter deodorant” to build the daily hygiene habit.

Pros

  • Kid-approved scent encourages daily use.
  • Hypoallergenic and gentle.
  • Glides on clear.

Cons

  • Scent might be too strong for some parents.
  • Small container size.

Product Specs

Net weight 1.76 ounces (50 grams)
Type Roll-on
Scents Gummy Burst

Our Ratings

Safety
4 / 5
Effectiveness
4 / 5
Scent
5 / 5
Skin Sensitivity
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Grownish Sport A Natural Deodorant

Best Sports Deodorant for Kids

When your child starts playing organized sports, the sweat level goes up. Grownish Sport is formulated to handle the “active kid” funk.

Targeted at the 8-13 age range, it aims to last through practice and games. It is free of the usual nasties like aluminum and talc. The formula remains effective even as body heat rises.

While they market specific versions for boys and girls, the ingredients are largely effective for anyone. It’s a solid choice for the gym bag.

Pros

  • Designed for high-activity days.
  • Formulated for the specific pH of pre-teens.
  • Does not dry out or crumble easily.

Cons

  • Scent options are somewhat gendered.

Product Specs

Net weight 2.5 ounces (75 grams)
Type Stick
Scents Cool Water + Amber, Honey Pear + Hibiscus

Our Ratings

Safety
4 / 5
Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Scent
3.5 / 5
Skin Sensitivity
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Tom's of Maine Antiperspirant Deodorant

Best Antiperspirant Deodorant for Kids

Sometimes, natural deodorant just isn’t enough. If your child is suffering from excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) or self-consciousness due to wet patches, an antiperspirant might be necessary.

This Tom’s of Maine product does contain aluminum, specifically recycled aluminum. It is one of the few “natural-leaning” brands that offer wetness protection.

It is free from petrochemicals and artificial fragrances, making it a “cleaner” version of standard drugstore antiperspirants. We recommend this as a step-up product if aluminum-free options have failed to work for your child.

Pros

  • Actually stops wetness (antiperspirant).
  • Contains olive leaf extract to soothe skin.
  • Reliable 48-hour protection.

Cons

  • Contains aluminum (chlorohydrate).
  • Can cause yellow stains on white shirts.

Product Specs

Net weight 2.25 ounces (64 grams)
Type Stick
Scents Fresh Meadow, Coconut Lavender

Our Ratings

Safety
3.5 / 5
Effectiveness
4 / 5
Scent
4 / 5
Skin Sensitivity
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Net weight Type Scent
Tom’s Wicked Cool! Natural Deodorant for Kids Best Value Deodorant 1.6 oz (45.3 grams) Stick Freestyle, Summer Fresh
Native Natural Stick Deodorant Best Natural Deodorant 2.65 oz (75 grams) Stick 4 scents
TBH Kids Unscented Stick Deodorant Best Fragrance-Free Deodorant 2 oz (57 grams) Stick Unscented
Pretty Frank Natural Deodorant Stick Best Stick Deodorant 2.7 oz (77 grams) Stick 10 scents
Mona Natural Deodorant for Kids — Sensitive Skin Best for Sensitive Skin 1.76 oz (50 grams) Stick Honeydew, Vanilla Spice, Orange
Keep It Kind Fresh Kidz Natural Best Roll-On Deodorant 1.86 oz (53 grams) Roll-on Fresh Kidz “Blue” Boys and Girls Purple
Truly’s Organic Deodorant for Kids Best Cream Deodorant 2.5 oz (71 grams) Cream Unscented
Fresh Monster Gummy Burst Natural Deodorant Best Scented Deodorant 1.76 oz (50 grams) Roll-on Gummy Burst
Grownish Sport A Natural Deodorant Best Sports Deodorant 2.5 oz (75 grams) Stick 2 scents
Tom’s of Maine Antiperspirant Deodorant Best Antiperspirant Deodorant 2.25 oz (64 grams) Stick 2 scents

FAQs About Deodorants for Kids

You have questions about your child’s changing hygiene needs; we have answers.

What Age Should a Child Start Using Deodorant?

There is no magic number. You start when the smell starts. For most kids, body odor (BO) kicks in with the first stages of puberty. This usually happens between ages 9 and 11 for girls and around age 11 for boys (5).

However, some children develop BO much earlier, even at 6 or 7. If you notice a smell, it is fine to introduce a gentle, natural deodorant. If the odor is very strong in a very young child, mention it to your pediatrician just to rule out other causes (6).

Why Does My Child Smell Worse After Using Natural Deodorant?

This is often called the “detox phase.” When you switch from an aluminum antiperspirant (or start using products for the first time), the bacteria on the skin can change.

Sometimes, the ingredients in natural deodorant (like baking soda) interact with your child’s specific body chemistry to create a weird smell. Give it two weeks. If the funk persists, switch to a brand with different active ingredients, like magnesium or charcoal.

What Can I Use Instead of Store-Bought Deodorant?

If you are in a pinch or prefer DIY, you have options.

  • Lemon Juice: The citric acid changes the skin’s pH, making it hard for bacteria to survive. (Do not use on shaved skin!)
  • Witch Hazel: A natural astringent that cleans and dries the area.
  • Crystal Stones: Blocks of mineral salt (potassium alum) that you wet and rub on the skin.

DIY Recipe

You can mix 1/2 cup melted coconut oil, 1/4 cup baking soda, and 1/4 cup cornstarch. Add a few drops of essential oil for scent. Let it cool in a jar and apply like a cream.

How Do I Remove Deodorant Stains from Kid’s Clothes?

Natural deodorants, especially those with coconut oil, can leave grease spots. Antiperspirants with aluminum can leave yellow stains.

To fix this, mix baking soda and water into a paste. Scrub it into the stain with an old toothbrush and let it sit for an hour before washing. For oil stains, a little dish soap applied directly to the spot before the laundry cycle works wonders.

Can I Use Vaseline as Deodorant?

No. Vaseline is pure petroleum jelly. It traps moisture and heat against the skin, which can actually make the warm, damp environment that bacteria love worse. It does not kill bacteria or neutralize odor. Stick to products designed for deodorizing (7).

Does Shaving Armpits Reduce Smell?

Yes, it does. Hair traps moisture and provides more surface area for bacteria to grow. It also traps the odor itself. Trimming or shaving the underarm hair allows sweat to evaporate faster and makes deodorant easier to apply directly to the skin (8).


The Bottom Line

Puberty is awkward enough without worrying about body odor. Finding the right deodorant can give your child a huge confidence boost.

Start with a natural, aluminum-free option. Look for ingredients like coconut oil, charcoal, or magnesium. If the first brand you try causes a rash or doesn’t stop the stink, don’t worry. It often takes a little trial and error to find the perfect match for your child’s body chemistry. Once you find it, you (and everyone in the car with you) will be breathing easier.

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Headshot of Tricia Roberts

About the Author

Tricia Roberts

Tricia Roberts is a freelance writer and editor of a wide variety of content. She is a mom to six children through birth and adoption and has fostered many more. Tricia loves seeing moms thrive and believes they can do so when they have access to a supportive parenting community. She enjoys serving as a board member at a local parenting support center. When she’s not writing, she’s reading — anything and everything! Tricia also finds joy in crafting, gardening, baking, hiking, and traveling — especially with her family.