Boy Moms Ask: What’s the Secret to Keeping BO Under Control

Personal hygiene takes on a whole new meaning once boys start puberty. What used to be a quick rinse or even a skipped shower now needs more attention. As their bodies change, body odor may appear. It can feel unfamiliar at first, but guiding your son through this stage helps him build good habits and a sense of responsibility.

Several boy moms from the Smart Parenting Village (SPV), a community of over 116,000 parents, shared the products and hygiene tricks that worked for their sons—so you can try them, too.

Also read: Practical Guide for Teaching Your Kids About Sex: Puberty and Periods

Puberty changes everything, including how kids smell. As boys’ hormones kick in between ages 9 and 14, they start to sweat more and develop new types of bacteria on their skin. Regular soap and water no longer work as effectively. The child you once had to remind to shower now needs deodorant, antibacterial cleansers, and possibly a new laundry routine.

Not all soaps are made equal. During this stage, regular body wash might not be enough. Parents recommend antibacterial options that fight odor-causing germs without drying the skin. We also recommend double cleansing: start with a bar soap, then follow with a body wash.

Betadine Skin Cleanser is a favorite for this reason. It’s a mild antiseptic that eliminates bacteria and fungi and helps remove stubborn odor.

Most moms suggest, “Betadine skin cleanser once or twice a week sa huling banlaw,” after washing with soap.

Mommy Arnie wrote, “Betadine skin cleanser, gamitin habang naliligo. Then use tawas after bath. ’Yung mga lumang damit na nangangamoy, either ibabad mo sa suka and hot water, or dispose and get new ones na lang.”

One mom shared her son’s routine: “Safeguard body wash, tapos three drops of Betadine sa tubig pang banlaw (2–3x a week lang), Deonat or powder tawas after. Siguraduhing tuyong-tuyo ang kilikili at katawan bago magbihis. Maligo rin sa gabi before bedtime.”

Another popular choice among parents is Irish Spring Original. It has a fresh scent and can provide long-lasting deodorant protection while being gentle on young skin. Many also use Dial Gold Antibacterial Soap, a classic option that helps manage odor and bacteria throughout the day.

Milcu is another parent favorite. This all-natural classic controls odor and perspiration without clogging pores. Since it’s aluminum-free and non-sticky, it’s perfect for first-time deodorant users. Apply it after a bath on completely dry, clean skin.

One mom shared her experience: “Milcu powder, legit, Mommy! Nagsimula kami gumamit nito last year, siguro five years old siya noon. Pedia niya mismo ang nag-recommend kasi ganun din ang problema ko sa daughter ko. Kahit grabe ang pawis, basta may Milcu, wala talagang amoy.”

Choosing your child’s first deodorant can feel tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. There are two main types: deodorants, which neutralize odor, and antiperspirants, which block sweat. For most tweens, a gentle deodorant is the safer first step. If sweating becomes excessive, you can switch to an antiperspirant later on.

There are plenty of deodorant sprays on the market, but SPV parents most often recommend Deonat, Deoflex, and Belfour. These picks are lightweight, non-sticky, and leave a fresh, just-showered scent that lasts all day. They help neutralize odor without affecting how much your child sweats, making them ideal for kids who may smell after play or sports but are not heavy sweaters.

When choosing products, look for gentle and kid-safe formulas. Go for mild scents, hypoallergenic ingredients, and alcohol-free options. Avoid harsh additives like parabens and synthetic fragrances that can irritate young skin.

Sprays can be convenient for kids who prefer quick and easy application, especially after sports or active play. However, only non-aerosol sprays should be used, as aerosol sprays can irritate the skin and pose inhalation risks, making them unsafe for children.

When regular deodorant sprays are no longer enough, it might be time to introduce your child to a stronger deodorant. A good starter option is Arm & Hammer Deodorant, which is unscented, long-lasting, and free from aluminum and parabens, making it gentle yet effective for daily use.

Mommy Yhancy shared, “Ito ang ginagamit ko sa anak ko. Talaga namang effective at long-lasting. Active siya sa kickboxing, pero kahit pagpawisan nang husto, epektibo pa rin. My son is 13 years old.”

Another recommended product is Super Pit, a natural deodorant that keeps pre-teens fresh without harsh ingredients.

Sometimes the odor comes from fabric, not skin. Bacteria cling to shirts, especially under the arms. If the smell stays after washing, soak clothes in vinegar and hot water before rinsing to kill bacteria and remove trapped scents.

1. Use antibacterial soap a few times a week to control odor-causing bacteria, but avoid strong formulas or harsh scrubbing that can dry the skin.

2. Apply tawas (alum) after bathing for natural odor protection, making sure it is used only on intact skin.

3. Encourage your child to take an evening shower, especially after sports, to wash away sweat and bacteria safely.

4. Dress your child in loose, breathable clothing to prevent heat and sweat from building up.

5. Keep a hygiene kit in your child’s school bag with wipes, a small towel, and spare clothes so they can stay fresh throughout the day.

6. Pay attention to your child’s diet and water intake, since certain foods and dehydration can affect body odor.

Body odor is part of puberty, but if it becomes unusually strong or shows up suddenly, it’s best to consult a pediatrician. Persistent odor might signal an infection, diet issue, or other underlying cause.

For boys, learning underarm care is a small but meaningful step toward independence. It’s not just about smelling good but about feeling comfortable in their changing bodies. Hygiene is nothing to be embarrassed about. With the right products and your support, your son will stay fresh and take pride in caring for himself.

Click here to read what’s causing your child’s body odor.