These Kid-Tested, Parent-Approved Kids’ Deodorants Really Stop The Stink

Other Notable Deodorants We Tested

Native Deodorant

$13 at Amazon $13 at Target $15 $13 at Walmart

Fresh Monster Deodorant for Kids

$13 at Amazon $20 at Walmart

Play Pits Natural Deodorant for Kids

$28 $24 at Amazon $12 at Target

Our Testing Process

To find the best deodorants for kids, we first spoke to parents and dermatologists about the needs of tweens and teens. We then researched dozens of options on the market, using their input to narrow down our list to 17 top-rated deodorants for kids.

We then had real kids test these deodorants by incorporating them into their daily routines over the summer. During testing, kids attended camp, played sports, and ran around in the sun. At the end of the day, parents performed a sniff test to determine if the deodorant had effectively kept odors at bay. Additionally, kids assessed each deodorant on the following criteria:

• Texture: We considered the texture of the deodorant and how it felt when applied to the skin. Did the texture make the application difficult? While some deodorants glided on smoothly, others felt sticky, tacky, gritty, or overly wet.
• Stains or Reactions: We noted any stains or residue left behind on clothes or skin. In addition, we paid attention to adverse reactions like rashes, blisters, or itchiness.
• Scent: We asked kids to rate the scent upon application. Was it something you'd want to smell like all day? Was it overwhelming or astringent? Many reported scents that were too light or scents that didn't last long enough.
• Efficacy: To gauge each product's efficacy, we put the deodorants through the wringer: activity-filled weekends, hours of sports practice, and full days at camp during a super-hot summer. To determine how the deodorants fared, we asked parents to perform a sniff test after a full day of wear.
• Value: We asked parents to consider the price against the quality, efficacy, and lasting ability of the deodorant to assess its overall value.

Our Experts

To find out what to look for in a kids' deodorant, we also spoke with: 

• Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE, FAAP, a pediatrician, bioethicist, adjunct professor at Stanford School of Medicine, and director of digital health at Stanford’s Sean Parker Center for Asthma and Allergy Research
• Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital

Factors to Consider

• Deodorant vs. Antiperspirant: In addition to fragrance, antiperspirants typically contain aluminum, which helps block sweat to prevent body odor. That means they’re best for when you’re dealing with sweat-related odor issues. Deodorants lack aluminum, instead using fragrance and other ingredients known to inhibit odors and/or absorb moisture, such as talc, baking soda, coconut oil, or activated charcoal. They’re great for odor prevention.
• Application Type: Deodorants and antiperspirants are available in a variety of forms: solid, roll-on, soft solid, cream, spray, gel, crystal, and wipes. The type of deodorant your child uses will depend on their preferences. If you choose a solid deodorant, opt for one that goes on clear to prevent white residue or stains on clothing.
• Scented vs. Unscented: For deodorant-reluctant kids, a sweet or fun-smelling product can convince them to use it daily. Most deodorants for kids have options with a light fragrance that isn't too overwhelming.
• Ingredients: The skin in your child's underarm is delicate. To ensure their deodorant doesn't cause a rash or other irritation, opt for a formula free from harsh chemicals or fragrances and perform a patch test before using the product. Dr. Swanson says there’s no need to panic about aluminum, parabens, or propylene glycol, but “if you're concerned about these ingredients, you can skip the antiperspirant and choose a gentle deodorant for your child or teen.”
  

Is Aluminum Antiperspirant Safe for Kids?

Aluminum salts keep us from sweating because they dissolve and stop sweat production. “Some people have concerns that aluminum and other ingredients found in antiperspirants (parabens and propylene glycol) might be linked to an increased risk of some medical problems in life,” Dr. Swanson notes. “This has not been proven in human studies, and studies have not shown that applying these substances to the skin causes an increased risk of any disease.” People with kidney problems may need to avoid aluminum since their bodies may not be able to filter it out fast enough.

Which Is Better for Kids: Deodorant or Antiperspirant?

According to Dr. Zeichner, when choosing between deodorant and antiperspirant for kids, you should consider the purpose. “Many antiperspirants also provide deodorant effects, helping to neutralize odor. Straight deodorants, on the other hand, only address odor but not wetness,” he explains. “If your main concern is a foul smell, then a deodorant is for you. If you are suffering from wetness or excessive sweating, then you should look for an antiperspirant.”

Who We Are

Cheryl Fenton is a Boston-based lifestyle writer for Parents who has enjoyed a 30-year career in writing, as well as authored a book or two. While her teenage daughter is sugar and spice and everything nice, she certainly doesn’t smell that way when coming off of the sports court or after a bike ride home from school. Beginning her daily ritual of putting on deodorant when she was 10, she has since settled on her favorite and, when asked to try something else, she makes a stink face. 

Katrina Cossey is a writer for Parents, an enthusiastic shopper, and a devoted mom. She spent several years in broadcast journalism but found her true passion in writing about the best products for families, pregnant people, and kids of all ages. She’s researched thousands of baby products, toys, gifts, and more and personally tested many of them. In her spare time, you’ll likely find her in the beautiful outdoors of Oklahoma with her husband and 4-year-old son. While her preschooler hasn't reached his deodorant days yet, Katrina loves the Secret brand for herself because of its long-lasting wear and light scents.