I've never gotten stinky with Iodine but horrific on other cleanses. Baking soda radically changed my life during that time. I washed with it after using soap and then just before getting out of the shower I tapped my fingers in B.S. and smeared it on. Never needed deodarant during that time. My understanding is that the smell is an increase in bacteria production. Using the B.S. kills the bacteria or puts them at bay. All I know is that it worked and is suppose to be safe.