There comes a point in all parents lives when they realize their kids have started to stink. While some kids might be excited to start wearing deodorant, others might not be thrilled, especially if they’re younger. But body odor can be embarrassing for your child, especially in social situations. If you’re noticing that your kid is starting to smell after playing sports or running around all day, it may be time to introduce them to a kid’s deodorant. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the huge variety of deodorant options out there and wonder where to even begin. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
We reviewed dozens of deodorants for kids to identify the best of the best. We looked at ingredients, how long the odor protection lasts, how easy the product is to apply, and if it can be used on sensitive skin. After considering the features, prices, and Amazon ratings and reviews, we picked our 5 top rated deodorants for kids.
After careful consideration, Fresh Kidz Natural Deodorant for Boys was the clear winner. Not only is it made from natural ingredients that are gentle on your child’s skin, but it was formulated specifically for kids to prevent body odor for up to 24 hours by blocking odor-causing bacteria. It also won’t stain clothing, making laundry time easier on you!
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Deodorants for Kids
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Deodorant for Kids Overall | Fresh Kidz Natural Deodorant for Boys | 4.4 |
| Best Natural/Organic Deodorant for Kids | Tuly’s Deodorant for Kids | 4.3 |
| Best Budget Deodorant for Kids | Teen Spirit Antiperspirant Deodorant | 4.3 |
| Best Deodorant for Girls | Fresh Kidz Natural Roll On Deodorant for Girls | 4.1 |
| Best Deodorant for Boys | Tom’s of Maine Wicked Cool Deodorant for Boys | 4.2 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Deodorant for Kids Overall: Fresh Kidz Natural Deodorant for Boys
The Fresh Kidz brand by Keep It Kind is a range of chemical-free products made for kids and young teens. Specifically formulated for younger, sensitive skin, the Fresh Kidz Natural Deodorant for Boys is free from aluminum, parabens, sulfates, alcohol, and other harsh chemicals that may cause skin irritation. The deodorant rolls on smoothly and won’t clog pores or irritate the skin, but stills fights odor-causing bacteria. It goes on wet, but dries quickly and won’t leave armpits sticky or leave a nasty residue on their shirts. With up to 24-hour odor protection, your boys will be smelling fresh all day, even after working up a sweat.
The fun packaging is aimed at kids and lets them feel like this product is made for them instead of their parents. Customers say that the scent is similar to a light men’s cologne and that it’s not overpowering. If you’re looking for a female version, Fresh Kidz also makes a girl deodorant with a light floral scent. You can see more about their girl version below as the winner of our Best Deodorant for Girls category. Their boys deodorant beat out the girls’ version by a hair with a slightly better rating, but it was a tough call, and both versions from the Fresh Kidz brand will help your kids smell and feel great.
Fresh Kidz Natural Deodorant for Boys Key Features:
- Doesn’t contain aluminum, parabens, or alcohol
- Made with natural ingredients
- Prevents body odor for 24 hours
- Doesn’t stain clothing
Best Natural/Organic Deodorant for Kids: Truly’s Deodorant for Kids
Truly’s Deodorant for Kids is an organic deodorant full of natural ingredients such as organic coconut oil, powdered sugar, baking soda, and beeswax. It’s free from artificial ingredients and fragrances and doesn’t contain parabens, aluminum, or propylene glycol. In fact, all the ingredients in this deodorant are GMO-free and not harmful to your child, yet it’s still effective in stopping stinky odors.
This cream style deodorant won’t stain or leave a residue on your kid’s clothing. The cream is a little trickier to apply than a stick deodorant, but it’s easy enough if you scoop a bit onto your finger and apply it to your armpit. The heat from your skin will start to melt the deodorant so it goes on smooth. It’s not messy, and customers love the fact that you can control exactly how much to put on. Reviewers say that a little goes a long way so one container will last a long time. The soft coconut smell isn’t too strong and keeps body odor away all day. If you’re looking for an effective deodorant for your child made from organic ingredients, Truly’s Deodorant for Kids is a great option.
Truly’s Deodorant for Kids Key Features:
- Made from organic ingredients
- Free of parabens, aluminum, and propylene glycol
- No artificial fragrances
- Doesn’t stain clothing
Best Budget Deodorant for Kids: Teen Spirit Antiperspirant Deodorant
Teen Spirit Pink Crush Antiperspirant Deodorant is made by Lady Speed Stick for preteen and teen girls. It has a fruity melon candy scent that reviewers say their daughters love. It’s a stick deodorant that’s easy to apply and won’t leave a white residue on your child’s skin. The fun pink and white packaging is super cute and some older reviewers even bought it for the nostalgia factor!
This deodorant contains antiperspirant which reduces sweating by stopping the sweat glands and provides all-day odor and sweat protection, so if you’re looking for a natural option, this may not be the best choice for you. But for around $3 a stick, it’s a great value deodorant that works all day and prevents embarrassing body odor.
Teen Spirit Antiperspirant Deodorant Key Features:
- Won’t leave a white residue
- All-day sweat and odor protection
- Girlie and fun packaging
Best Deodorant for Girls: Fresh Kidz Natural Roll-On Deodorant for Girls
Fresh Kidz Natural Roll-on Deodorant for Girls is specifically formulated for young girls and preteens with more sensitive skin than adults. It’s free from aluminum, parabens, ethyl alcohol, propylene glycol, artificial fragrances, and harsh chemicals that may cause irritation. The light lavender and vanilla scent is feminine but not overpowering, leaving your kid smelling fresh and clean. Like the boys’ version, this deodorant is a liquid that rolls on smooth and dries quickly so they won’t have that sticky underarm feeling all day. And it’s clear, so it won’t leave a cakey white residue on their skin or clothes.
The natural ingredients won’t clog pores but still fight odor-causing bacteria, giving your kid protection against bad smells for up to 24 hours. Since it’s formulated for younger skin, this deodorant can help your child avoid dry, itchy, and chaffed skin that may come from adult or chemical filled deodorants. It’s even cruelty free and vegan so you can feel good about what’s going on your kid’s skin.
Fresh Kidz Natural Roll On Deodorant for Girls Key Features:
- Doesn’t contain aluminum, parabens, sulfates, or alcohol
- Made with natural ingredients
- Prevents body odor for 24 hours
- Dermatologically tested for all skin types
Best Deodorant for Boys: Tom’s of Maine Wicked Cool Deodorant for Boys
Tom’s of Maine created the Boy’s Freestyle Wicked Cool Deodorant as a specially formulated natural kids’ deodorant. The Freestyle version is made with a citrusy-herbal scent that young boys won’t find too stuffy or obnoxious. Reviewers describe the scent as similar to what a boy’s fabric softener would smell like, and rave about how it stops their kids and tweens from smelling after sports practice or a day of running around. The gel stick deodorant formula won’t stain clothes, and provides them with 24-hour odor protection.
The gentle yet effective formula is free from aluminum, parabens, artificial fragrances, and preservatives, and it’s not tested on animals. You’ll love the fact that it’s easy on their skin and stops the stink, and your boys will love the cool packaging that encourages them to make deodorant part of their daily routine.
Tom’s of Maine Wicked Cool Deodorant for Boys Key Features:
- Doesn’t contain aluminum, parabens, or preservatives
- No artificial fragrances
- Prevents body odor for 24 hours
Who Should Buy Deodorant for Kids
Most children’s sweat glands start to become active and lead to body odor around the time they hit puberty, which is roughly ages 8-13 for girls and 9-14 for boys. However, it’s not uncommon for some children to start having body odor sooner, especially if they sweat heavily. When you first start to notice their body odor, it’s often best to start with encouraging your kid to have good hygiene habits. Daily bathing with a good soap and showering after sports or energetic activities can help keep them clean and smelling nice. Wearing clean clothing and loose fitting cotton shirts can also help with sweating less. You may also want to look at their diet to see if their food choices maybe be affecting their body odor. But at some point, good hygiene won’t be enough anymore, and it’ll be time to introduce them to a deodorant.
Deodorants get rid of stinky odors by covering up the smells and getting rid of the bacteria that causes odor in the first place. Some deodorants contain antiperspirants which combat sweating and odor by blocking the pores and reducing sweat. Since kids have more sensitive skin than adults, you’ll want to find a deodorant that won’t irritate their skin but still gives long lasting odor protection. As with all products applied directly to skin, remember to test a small spot first for irritation or allergic reactions, and stop using immediately if your child has a reaction. Be sure to follow the directions and consult with your doctor if you have any concerns.
If you’re concerned about your child’s digestive issues, then you may want to check The Best Probiotics For Kids.
Important Features to Consider
Deodorant for kids should get rid of bad odors, be gentle on their skin, and be long lasting (no kid wants to reapply deodorant several times a day). Here’s what to consider when selecting deodorant for kids:
- Ingredients. What’s not in a deodorant is just as important as what’s in it. Children and teens are still growing and developing, and their skin may be more sensitive to harsh or chemical ingredients than adult skin. Everyone’s skin is different, and some people react differently to certain ingredients than others. Deodorants range from sweat stopping antiperspirants to all natural organic options with everything in between. There are vegan and cruelty free options, as well as choices for those with sensitivities or allergies. With so many options, you can pick a deodorant that fits your child’s needs and doesn’t cause skin irritation.
- Application style. Stick solid, gel, liquid roll on, paste – deodorants come in a variety of application styles, and they all have benefits. One isn’t better than the others, it’s more of a personal preference. Pick a style of deodorant that your kid likes to use and makes it easy for them to apply.
- Longevity. How long the deodorant keeps your kid smelling nice is important, especially if they’re participating in sports or sweat heavily. Every child is different and deodorants may react differently from kid to kid, so you’ll want to look for an option that is right for their activity level. Reading the reviews from other parents can help you figure out exactly how long a deodorant will last.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should kids start using deodorant?
There aren’t any set rules about when kids should start wearing deodorant, so it really depends on the child. Many kids start having body odor shortly before puberty, but some kids can have a noticeable body odor before that. Use your judgment, if you notice your kid starting to smell and good hygiene practices aren’t helping, it might be time for a deodorant.
Is adult deodorant safe for kids?
Adult deodorants (especially antiperspirants) often have stronger formulations and contain harsh chemicals that may irritate your child’s skin. Kids and teen deodorants are specifically made with the younger generation’s needs in mind and will provide odor relief without being too harsh. That being said, there are some great natural deodorants out there that are marketed for adults but are gentle enough for kids to use. The best thing to do is to check the ingredient list on an adult deodorant before giving it to your kid. You can check out some adult deodorant options that are gentle enough for kids’ sensitive skin in the “Other Deodorants for Kids We Reviewed” section.
Do toddlers need deodorant?
As many kids start having body odor in their pre-adolescent to tween years, most toddlers won’t usually need deodorant. However, if you start noticing your toddler having a distinct body odor and good hygiene isn’t making it go away, you may want to talk to your pediatrician to see if deodorant would be a good option. If you are looking for a deodorant for your toddler, be sure to find a very gentle and natural formula to protect their sensitive skin from irritation.
Is body odor a sign of puberty?
Body odor is often a sign that puberty is starting as kids’ hormones and sweat glands start to become more active around the ages 8-13 for girls and 9-14 for boys. But that’s not always the case. Some kids just sweat more and are smellier than others. Genetics, diet, and activity level all play a factor in a child’s body odor, and they may develop it years before they hit puberty.
Other Deodorant for Kids We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other deodorants that kids can use. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best deodorant for kids list, there are still some great alternatives that might be the best option for your child. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Natural/Organic Kids Deodorants
- Kids Deodorants for Girls
- Kids Deodorants for Boys
- Adult Deodorants That Kids Can Use
Natural/Organic Kids Deodorants
Dirty Kids Organics Natural Deodorant
If you’re looking for an organic kids deodorant with a unisex scent, Dirty Kids Organics provides long-lasting odor protection with natural organic ingredients.
Key Features:
- Nontoxic and free from aluminum, parabens, sulfates, and propylene glycol
- Dries quickly and doesn’t leave a sticky residue
- USDA Certified Organic, non-GMO, vegan, and cruelty-free
- Made in the USA
- Long-lasting up to 24 hours
Cost: $25 for 2
Food Grade Organic Natural Kids Deodorant
Made in a solar-powered facility in the USA, this kids deodorant is made from only natural ingredients that are Carcinogen-Free certified.
Key Features:
- Nontoxic and free from aluminum, alcohols, or parabens
- Made from Food Grade USDA Certified Organic and Wild Crafted & Natural ingredients
- Non-greasy and won’t leave marks on clothing
- Made in the USA
- Carcinogen-Free Certified
Cost: $14
While it’s not organic, this effective deodorant is made with natural ingredients such as charcoal, arrowroot powder, coconut oil, sodium bicarbonate, and witch hazel to combat odor without harsh chemicals. And it’s fragrance-free, making it a great option for boys or girls.
Key Features:
- Fragrance-free
- Free of parabens, sulfates, aluminum, and phthalates
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin
- Soy, nut, and gluten-free
Kids Deodorants for Girls
Degree Girl Just Dance Antiperspirant Deodorant
This deodorant goes on clear so it won’t leave a gross white residue. It contains antiperspirant and offers 24-hour sweat and odor protection for teen girls.
Key Features:
- Goes on clear for invisible protection
- Fights sweat and odor for 24 hours
- Fresh scent
Cost: $10 for 2
This natural deodorant offers long-lasting protection that won’t stain clothing. It rolls on wet and dries quickly so your daughter can go about her day smelling great.
Key Features:
- Doesn’t contain aluminum, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or silicone
- No synthetic fragrances or dyes
- Cruelty-free and made in the USA
- Can use on sensitive skin
- Fresh honeydew melon scent
Cost: $11
Growing Basics Girls Deodorant
This natural stick deodorant is specially designed for pre-teen girls and offers 24-hour protection from body odor. It comes in three fun scents that girls will love.
Key Features:
- Doesn’t contain aluminum, parabens, tricolsan, or sulfates
- Cruelty-free
- Fun scents specifically designed for teens
Cost: $22 for 3
Junior Varsity Natural Girls Deodorant
This kid’s deodorant was developed with active children in mind and provides kid-friendly scents to cover up body odor while they’re playing sports or working up a sweat.
Key Features:
- No aluminum, propylene glycol or parabens
- Gentle on skin
- Natural deodorant
- Fun cherry scent
Cost: $8
Tom’s of Maine Wicked Cool Natural Deodorant for Girls
Tom’s of Maine Wicked Cool brand is specifically designed for kids and teens. The Summer Fun scent for girls is great smelling and provides all-natural, long-lasting odor protection that will keep your girl feel fresh all day.
Key Features:
- No parabens, aluminum or preservatives
- Gentle on skin
- Can last up to 24 hours
Kids Deodorants for Boys
Australia’s leading teen brand created a roll-on deodorant that provides all-day odor protection for tweens and teens. All-natural ingredients and cool packaging will encourage your kid to pick it up.
Key Features:
- Natural ingredients won’t clog pores
- Provides all-day odor protection
- Won’t stain clothing
- Free of aluminum, parabens, and sulfates
- No chemical hormone disruptors
Cost: $12
This natural deodorant is specifically designed for tween boys ages 6-13 and offers all-day protection from stinky odors. It’s an invisible solid stick deodorant that won’t leave marks.
Key Features:
- No parabens, tricolsan, or aluminum
- Up to 24-hour protection
- Invisible solid deodorant with no residue or sticky feeling
- Clean, sporty scent
Cost: $14 for 2
Junior Varsity Natural Deodorant for Boys
This all-natural kids deodorant goes on clear and is great for active kids. The sporty citrus scent will keep kids smelling fresh, even after practice.
Key Features:
- No aluminum, parabens, or proplene glycol
- Gentle on skin
- Goes on clear
- Citrus sport scent
Cost: $8
Prep U Aluminum Free Natural Deodorant for Guys
This chemical-free deodorant is great for sensitive skin and provides odor protection throughout the day. It’s a natural deodorant that is baking soda free and gentle enough for sensitive skin.
Key Features:
- Aluminum, paraben, sulfate, and baking soda free
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Dermatologist tested
- All-natural ingredients
- Citrus mint scent made from essential oils cover up body odors
Adult Deodorants That Kids Can Use
Crystal Mineral Roll-On Deodorant
While this deodorant is marketed to adults, the all-natural ingredients are gentle enough to use on kid’s skin. This mineral-enriched roll-on deodorant goes on wet but dries quickly and combats odor-causing bacteria.
Key Features:
- Won’t stain clothing
- Roll-on formula combats odor for up to 24 hours
- Dermatologist tested
- Free of aluminum, parabens, phthalates, and artificial dyes and fragrances
Cost: $4
Explore Naturals Performance Deodorant
This is another deodorant that is marketed to adults but can be used by kids. It comes in a variety of scents and provides odor protection that won’t stain clothing.
Key Features:
- All-day odor protection
- Contains less baking soda than other deodorants
- Dairy, soy, and gluten-free
- Aluminum, paraben, phthalate, and sulfate-free
Cost: $12
Kopari Aluminum-Free Deodorant for Sensitive Skin
Kopari’s sensitive skin formula is non-toxic and free from aluminum and toxins. It goes on clear and stops odors without using harsh chemicals.
Key Features:
- Made with organic coconut oil
- Goes on clear and won’t leave a sticky residue
- Fragrance-free
- Non-toxic formula is aluminum, paraben, and gluten-free
Cost: $14
The Healthy Deodorant by Lavanila Girl
The Healthy Deodorant comes in several girly scents and is another all-natural option that is gentle enough for kids and teens.
Key Features:
- Won’t leave a sticky residue
- Long-lasting odor protection
- Aluminum-free
- 100% natural
Cost: $8
This all-natural deodorant with magnesium naturally neutralizes odor and nourishes skin. The soft rose scent and gentle formula make this a nice smelling option for tween and teen girls.
Key Features:
- Free of aluminum, parabens, phthalates, triclosan, and baking soda
- 100% natural ingredients
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin
- Made in the USA
Cost: $15
A favorite natural deodorant of adults, Native deodorants don’t have harsh chemicals and use natural ingredients to neutralize odor. The formula is gentle enough to use on kid’s skin as well.
Key Features:
- Smooth application
- Won’t stain clothing
- Free of aluminum, parabens, phthalates, and talc
- Made in the USA
Cost: $12
The natural ingredients in Primal Pit Paste work to neutralize body odor. Their all-natural deodorant is made in the USA, and the company is committed to creating products that are safe and natural alternatives.
Key Features:
- Made with responsibly sourced and organic ingredients
- Free of aluminum, parabens, and propylene glycol
- Made in the USA
Cost: $11
Schmidt’s Natural deodorant offers odor protection through all-natural ingredients that are gentle enough for children’s skin.
Key Features:
- Non-greasy formula goes on smooth
- Free of aluminum, parabens, propylene glycol, and phthalates
- Gentle formula that’s great for sensitive skin
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cost: $8
