Precycle: Reduce Waste Before You Buy
If you’re having trouble tracking down the material your tubes are made from, you may want to opt for an easy-to-recycle option ahead of time to reduce your waste — also known as precycling.
Switch Your Brand
To solve your disposal dilemma before it starts, consider switching to a brand that offers take-back programs for deodorant packaging, such as the aforementioned Tom’s of Maine Natural Care Recycling Program with TerraCycle. Another great program: Send back five empty Schmidt’s natural deodorant glass jars for recycling, and they’ll send you one free deodorant of your choice. Or, browse the web for a brand that lists what the containers are made of on its website to help you find a recycling solution before you purchase the product.
Make Your Own Deodorant
If your goal is to eliminate packaging waste altogether, you can make your own deodorant at home from easy-to-find ingredients. One of the most basic homemade deodorants is baking soda, which absorbs perspiration and neutralizes odors. To give it a try, simply use a makeup brush or powder puff to apply baking soda to dry underarms, and see how it works for you.
For more advanced DIY deodorants, check out these recipes from Wellness Mama, Thank Your Body, and Instructables.