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Written by Grove Collaborative

When should kids start using deodorant (& which deodorants are best)?

Last Updated: January 21, 2022


Growing kids can start to develop body odor, and they might even be curious about trying out deodorant. Read on to find out more about the best deodorants for growing bodies.

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For many adults, swiping on some deodorant each day is as routine as brushing your teeth. But how do you know when your kids are ready to start doing the same?


When kids are small, they smell like baby shampoo and that amazing natural newborn scent. But eventually that newborn smell gets replaced by, well, something a little stinkier. Growing kids can start to develop body odor, and they might even be curious about trying out deodorant.


If you’re wondering when it’s the right time to buy some—and which is the best deodorant for kids—here are some tips to help you explore the options.


This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.

When do kids typically start wearing deodorant?

There is no "right" age for kids to start wearing deodorant. The choice ultimately comes down to each kid's unique body chemistry, development, and comfort level.


Many kids start using deodorant around the same time that they start to have noticeable body odor. This stinky odor is caused by sweat and bacteria mixing, and it often becomes more noticeable as kids approach puberty, which typically happens between the ages of 9–14.

So why does my 7-year-old have body odor?


Is your kid starting to smell a little ripe a bit early?


While some kids don’t have noticeable body odor until they hit puberty, others may have it earlier, and that's totally normal, experts say. Some kids might have more body odor if they're very active or because of changes in their personal hygiene.


Kids can eliminate some of the bacteria that causes stinky odors by making sure they shower or bathe each day and by always wearing clean clothes, socks, and underwear.

Shop Grove's selection of kids bath supplies.

What kind of deodorant is safe for a kid to wear?

Note: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.


Pediatricians say mild deodorants are generally safe for kids to use; however, it's a good idea to chat with your child's doctor if you have questions about body odor or which products are safe to use.


According to Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital there are a few important things to look out for when choosing the right deodorant for a child.


Deodorants for kids should be:


  • Fragrance-free or at least free of heavy, artificial scents
  • In deodorant stick form (not gel or liquid)
  • Gentle on skin (preferably made with natural ingredients)

What are natural deodorants for kids?


There are a number of natural deodorants that may make great options for kids trying out deodorant for the first time.


Natural deodorants typically protect against odor using naturally-derived ingredients. Antiperspirants, on the other hand, may contain harsh chemicals like parabens, aluminum, pesticides, chemical emulsifiers, and heavy scents that can cause irritation and even be absorbed into your skin while you wear it.


When choosing a deodorant for kids, a natural product that will be gentle on their sensitive skin and that contains no harsh or artificial chemicals is likely the best bet to get them started.


Wondering how easy it is to switch to natural deodorant? We had one of our Grove writers give it a shot … and document what happened. Have a look.

5 best natural deodorant options for kids

Based on reviews from actual Grove members on our site, we found the top five natural deodorants that are great starters for kids who are just starting to use them.

1. Fresh Monster Deodorant for Kids and Teens


Aluminum-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, triclosan-free, phthalate-free, and dermatologist-tested, this kids deodorant offers 24-hour odor protection without using harsh chemicals. Plus its fun gummy burst scent reminds us why we loved gummy bears so much as a kid.



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2. Peach Refillable Deodorant Set


This aluminum-free deodorant is made with arrowroot powder and magnesium. It comes in several natural scents like cucumber sage, coconut jasmine, citrus vetiver, or cedarwood eucalyptus, achieved using essential oils and plant-based ingredients.


Plus you can customize your plastic-free case color and reuse it with new scents once you finish one up.


Grove member Martha B. says "This product is not only recyclable, it smells wonderful. Having sensitive skin, I have tried many deodorants that irritated my skin. This product is the best I have found. The recyclable packaging is amazing."

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3. Schmidt's Sensitive Skin Natural Deodorant


An ultra-gentle deodorant made with certified 100% natural origin ingredients. Schmidt's is aluminum-free and certified vegan. It's a favorite for people with very sensitive skin who need a natural and long-lasting deodorant.


Grove member Amber W. says "I tried so many natural deodorants. So many irritated my very sensitive skin. And others made me oddly smell worse. This one does the trick for me!"


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4. Smarty Pits Natural Sensitive Skin Deodorant


There's a lot to love about this natural, aluminum-free, and paraben-free deodorant. It's scented with essential oils and comes in a plastic-free, biodegradable tube.


Plus, the gentle formula is made to go easy on sensitive skin without causing irritation.


Drena C. wrote "I love this deodorant! It works really well & is environmentally friendly! My young granddaughter tried it & loves it as well. Going forward, this will be the only deodorant I'll use."

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5. hello Coconut Deodorant with Shea Butter


This deodorant is thoughtfully crafted with a base of natural oils and waxes including coconut oil, rice wax, shea butter and cocoa butter to glide on easily, soothe and moisturize, without staining.


Carol S. said "I ordered this deodorant in hopes of finally finding my go to. I've since reordered and I love the coconut smell and it goes on smooth and lasts for more than one day. I even use it in other places for smells. Love it!!"

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More natural deodorant options made specifically for kids

If you're looking for more deodorants made specifically for kids or teens, take a look at the following items below for a couple more options.

SmartyPits Teen Deodorant


SmartyPits deodorant is free of aluminum, parabens, and phthalates.


Each stick is hand-poured using natural butters, waxes, and oils that are selected to be gentle on skin for tweens and teens. Plus, it comes in a fun pink lemonade scent.

Shop Now

Are you contributing to the plastic crisis?

Grove orders have removed 3.7 million pounds of plastic from waterways since January 2020.

U.S. companies make 76 million pounds of plastic every day, but only 9% of plastic is recycled. At Grove, we think it's time to stop making plastic. How are your shopping habits contributing to the Earth's plastic pollution?


Peach Not Plastic is removing plastic from personal care with innovative hair, face, and body care. Try it and help us continue to remove plastic from our oceans!

Shop plastic-free Peach skincare

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