The Gentle Pit Cleanse: A Simple Routine to Refresh Your Underarms

If you’ve ever switched from conventional antiperspirants to a natural deodorant (or are thinking about it), you might have noticed your pits going through a bit of an adjustment period. More sweat, stronger odor, maybe even some irritation—it’s super common. Your body is simply recalibrating after years of aluminum-based blockers and synthetic fragrances.

Enter the Pit Cleanse—a gentle, at-home routine using just bentonite clay and raw apple cider vinegar (or water). This isn’t about “detoxing toxins” from your whole body (your liver and kidneys handle that beautifully). Instead, it’s a simple way to help clear away residue, balance your underarm skin’s environment, and make the transition to natural options feel smoother and more comfortable. Many people report it helps reduce that funky transitional smell faster and leaves pits feeling fresher.

Why Try a Pit Cleanse?

  • Helps unclog pores from old antiperspirant buildup
  • Bentonite clay gently draws out surface impurities and excess oils
  • Raw apple cider vinegar’s natural acidity can discourage odor-causing bacteria
  • Supports your skin during the shift to aluminum-free deodorants
  • A monthly maintenance ritual for cleaner-feeling underarms

It’s not magic, but for folks going natural, it’s a small, empowering swap that feels really good.

What You’ll Need

  • 1 Tbsp bentonite clay
  • 1 Tbsp raw apple cider vinegar (or filtered water if your skin is extra sensitive)
  • Non-metal bowl and utensil (glass works great)

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. In a glass bowl, mix 1 Tbsp bentonite clay with 1 Tbsp raw apple cider vinegar and/or water.
  2. Stir with a non-metal utensil until you get a smooth, yogurt-like paste. Add a bit more clay or liquid if needed to reach the right consistency.
  3. Let the mixture sit for 30 seconds—it thickens slightly as the clay activates.
  4. Apply a thin layer to clean, dry armpits. Keep your arms raised while it dries.
  5. Let it dry for:
    • 5–10 minutes if you have delicate or sensitive skin
    • 15–20 minutes for normal skin
  6. If you feel any burning, stinging, or discomfort at any point—rinse immediately with cool water.
  7. Rinse gently with warm water in the shower or using a soft washcloth. Pat dry (don’t rub).

How Often?

  • Once a month for maintenance to keep things feeling fresh
  • 1–2 times per week during the natural deodorant transition phase (usually 2–4 weeks), then taper off as your body adjusts

Final Thoughts

The Pit Cleanse is all about giving your underarms a gentle reset so they can thrive with cleaner, simpler products. Pair it with your transition to our tallow deodorant, and many people notice the adjustment phase shortens and feels way more manageable.

Have you tried a pit cleanse before? How did your transition go?- we’d love to hear your experience!

Stay fresh, stay natural, and keep feeding your skin (and pits!) the good stuff.

Ready to reset? Grab your bentonite clay and give your pits some love.

Super Important: Patch Test First!

Before your first full cleanse, mix a small amount of the paste, apply to your inner forearm, wait 10–15 minutes, then rinse, monitor for the next 24 hours for any redness, itching, or irritation. If anything shows up, skip the pit cleanse or dilute further with water. For external use only. Do NOT use on broken, irritated, freshly shaved, or sunburned skin (wait at least 24 hours after shaving). Discontinue immediately if you experience irritation, redness, burning, or discomfort. Store the dry bentonite clay powder in a cool, dry place away from moisture

Everyone’s skin is unique, so listen to yours. If you have very sensitive skin, start with a shorter time and more water dilution.

Back to blog