Deodorant can be a lifesaver when the hot summer weather comes around. Not only can it help you avoid embarrassing sweat stains, it can also keep you feeling and smelling fresh as the temperatures rise.

Although aerosol deodorants are common, many instead use roll-on products. Not only are these options better for the environment, they’re also less likely to leave stains – and can be applied more discretely if you’re feeling not-so-fresh. But how much should you actually roll your deodorant around?

Apparently most of us are doing it far too much.

Co-founder of natural deodorant brand Make Waves Oliver Batiste says we actually only need between two and three swipes per armpit. Most people, he says, use far more than this.

He said: “It always amazes me how often people are overusing their deodorant, with some applying between five and 10 swipes of deodorant to each underarm.

“When applying a roll-on on you should only be using between two and three swipes of the product per armpit.”

And it’s not just a waste of deodorant – over-use can bring with it other problems too.

Oliver said: “Using too much deodorant can lead to excess product, which will take a much longer time to dry, potentially causing the product to spread onto your clothes and cause stains.

“Despite what many people seem to believe, using more deodorant will not increase its effectiveness.

“For best results and to save money on how often you need to repurchase your deodorant, stick to the two to three swipe rule.”

And that’s not the only mistake lots of us are making. Oliver also said re-applying deodorant during the day if you’re feeling a bit hot and sweaty actually makes it less effective.

He said: “On hotter days you may be tempted to add another layer of your chosen deodorant, but this won’t always have the desired effect.

“Applying deodorant over your old deodorant from earlier in the day without first cleaning your underarm can lead to decreased effectiveness and, in some cases, cause irritation due to product buildup.

“If you feel that your deodorant needs to be reapplied, first clean your underarms as best as possible using warm water or a wet wipe.

“This will help you feel much fresher and ensure the product you’re using can be as effective as possible.”