Which Plastic Free Deodorant Is Right For You?

First published 2023, updated 2026. 

It is exciting to see so many plastic free deodorants available now, but with so many choices, how do you pick the right one for you? 

Whether you prefer a deodorant paste or hands-free application, we have a plastic free deodorant to suit you! 

The best plastic free deodorant depends on what matters most to you — whether that’s sensitive skin, strong odour control, ease of application, or scent.

The following deodorants are completely free from plastic packaging, and include a range of application styles.


Best plastic free deodorant for sensitive skin

If you have sensitive skin or have reacted to natural deodorants before, it’s best to choose a formula without bi-carb or essential oils. These are our top picks.

Biome – Unscented Deodorant Cream

Biome's very own bi carb and essential oil free deodorant uses magnesium to alkalize pH and prevent odour causing bacteria, while still being gentle on the skin. It comes in a recyclable metal tin.

This natural deodorant is: Plastic free, aluminium free, bi carb free, essential oil free, palm oil free, vegan, made in Australia.

Application: Rub a pea sized amount into clean, dry underarms.

Packaging: Metal tin. Reuse or recycle.

Goodeau Mineral Cream Deodorant

Made in Queensland with a blend of superfine minerals and plant powders that absorb moisture and inhibit odour-causing bacteria, this cream-to-powder deodorant is designed to be gentle while still effective. There are also some lightly scented options. 

This natural deodorant is: Plastic free, bi carb free, palm oil free, vegan, made in Australia.

Application: Apply a small (half-pea) sized amount using a spatula or your fingers. Rub into the skin, covering the whole underarm area.

Packaging: Aluminium tin. Reuse or recycle at the end of life. Refill available at Biome Paddington.


Best for strong odour control

If natural deodorants haven’t worked for you before, this is the one to try.

Black Chicken Remedies Axilla Deodorant Paste Tin 60g - Original

Black Chicken Axilla Deodorant Paste

Black Chicken’s Axilla deodorant has been one of the most popular natural deodorants for some time, with consistently strong reviews. It is very effective at reducing body odour and a good option if you have struggled with other natural deodorants.

For those with sensitive skin, there is also a Barrier Booster version available.

This natural deodorant is: Vegan, alcohol free, aluminium free, paraben free, sulphate free, petrochemical free and free of artificial colours.

Application: Apply a small amount to armpits using a small spatula or your fingers.

Packaging: Metal tin, can be recycled or reused once empty.


Best for long-lasting, low maintenance

Biork Potassium Crystal Deodorant Stick

Biork is an unscented and hypoallergenic potassium crystal deodorant stick, and unlike many crystal deodorants, it is completely free from plastic packaging. One stick will last for 12+ months, making it a simple and long-lasting option.

This natural deodorant is: Plastic free, bi carb free, essential oil free, palm oil free, vegan.

Application: Wet the end of the stick and apply to clean underarms after you hop out of the shower. Pat the crystal dry for storage.

Packaging: Cork and paper. Recycle the cork at Biome and recycle the paper in your curb side recycling bin.


Best for easy, mess-free application

If you prefer something quick and hands-free, stick deodorants are the easiest option.

Viva La Body Natural Deodorant 

This natural deodorant is a bicarb free, vegan-friendly deodorant stick. Magnesium enriched, it neutralises odour and absorbs wetness. Packaged in a plastic-free paper push-up stick and scented with essential oils selected for their ability to support the natural balance of your microbiome.

This natural deodorant is: Plastic free, vegan,  palm oil free, certified cruelty free, aluminium, bicarb and alcohol free, zero waste, and from an Australian business.

Application: Rub stick onto armpit area. Applies as a smooth balm, dries to a powder.

Packaging: Paper tube. Recycle or compost at end of life.

Raw Nature Deodorant Stick 

This plastic free deodorant stick is made with natural ingredients and scented with essential oils for a soft, floral finish. It is designed to support odour control while being easy to apply in a hands-free format.

This natural deodorant is: Plastic free, vegan, made with naturally derived ingredients.

Application: Apply directly to clean underarms.

Packaging: Plastic-free stick format.

Best for scent variety

If you enjoy a scented deodorant, both Viva La Body and Raw Nature offer the most variety without synthetic fragrance. 


Best for fully compostable, paper packaging

If you’re looking for the lowest-waste option, deodorants packaged in paper are one of the easiest to dispose of at end of life.

Earths Purities Ladies Natural Deodorant Paste

Earths Purities Bicarb Free Deodorant Paste 

This natural deodorant comes hand wrapped in 100% post-consumer recycled paper packaging, making it one of the lowest-waste options in the range. It is made on a base of shea butter and coconut oil, and real coconut and mango fruit extracts.

This natural deodorant is: Plastic free, aluminium free, bi carb free, essential oil free, palm oil free, vegan, made in Australia.

Application: Rub a pea sized amount into clean, dry underarms.

Packaging: 100% post-consumer recycled paper. Compost or recycle at end of life.


If your deodorant isn’t working as expected — or your skin feels irritated — it’s often a sign the formula isn’t right for your skin type rather than natural deodorant itself.

If your skin feels sore or reactive, read our guide on how to avoid natural deodorant rash.

If it’s not working as expected or you're exploring the switch to natural deodorant, read common natural deodorant problems and how to fix them.


 

Shop plastic-free deodorants →

See the full sensitive skin deodorant range →

Discover all our natural deodorants →


FAQ: plastic-free deodorant

Does natural deodorant actually work?
Yes — natural deodorant can work very well, but results depend on the formula and your skin type. Unlike antiperspirants, it doesn’t block sweat. Instead, it helps control odour by targeting bacteria and managing moisture.

Magnesium-based formulas and well-balanced deodorant creams tend to perform best, as they neutralise odour while staying gentle on the skin. Application also matters — using a small amount on clean, dry skin (and reapplying if needed) can make a big difference to how well it works throughout the day.

Why does natural deodorant cause a rash?
A rash is usually a reaction to specific ingredients or friction, rather than natural deodorant itself. The most common triggers are bi-carb (baking soda), higher concentrations of essential oils, or applying to freshly shaved or damp skin.

If irritation occurs, switching to a bicarb-free, low-fragrance formula is often enough to resolve it. Giving the skin a short break and reintroducing a gentler product slowly can also help support the skin barrier while it settles.

Is aluminium-free deodorant better?
Aluminium-free deodorant works differently to conventional antiperspirant. It doesn’t block sweat glands — instead, it allows the body to sweat naturally while helping control odour.

Aluminium salts are used in antiperspirants to plug sweat ducts, which reduces perspiration. Some people prefer to avoid this mechanism and take a more precautionary approach due to ongoing discussion around long-term health and skin exposure.

For everyday use, aluminium-free deodorant is often chosen as a lower-tox alternative that supports the body’s natural processes while still keeping odour under control.


Related Reads

Best natural deodorants in Australia and how to choose one that works

Homemade Deodorant in 10 Minutes

DIY roll-on deodorant recipe

Best natural deodorant for sensitive skin

Common natural deodorant problems and how to fix them

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