There’s nothing better than walking into my home and being greeted by the soothing aroma of Lavender or the cozy scent of Cinnamon Bark. For me, familiar scents often bring back my happiest memories. With my diffuser, I can recreate those comforting aromas and enjoy them anytime I want.
Diffusers are small devices that turn essential oils into a light mist, filling my space with subtle, purposeful scents. They help me enjoy the benefits of essential oils while creating a calming atmosphere for myself and anyone visiting my home.
How My Oil Diffuser Works
When I first started diffusing essential oils, I realized how simple and accessible it is. All I need is a diffuser, some water, and my favorite essential oil.
Here’s how I set up my diffuser:
1. I pick an essential oil—or a combination to make my own blend.
2. I add water to the fill line (usually about 1 cup) based on my diffuser’s instructions.
3. I add 5–10 drops of essential oil to the water.
4. Then, I pop the lid back on, turn it on, and relax as the aroma fills the room.
How Many Drops Do I Use?
When I first started, I wondered how many drops of oil to add. The general recommendation is 5–10 drops, but it’s up to me. If I’m blending multiple oils, I use 2–3 drops of each.
I’ve found that the number of drops also depends on the size of the space. For smaller rooms, 5–10 drops work perfectly, but in larger areas, I use 10–20 drops to make sure the scent carries. Over time, I figured out what works best for my home.
What I Do If the Scent Feels Weak
Sometimes, I notice the aroma isn’t strong enough. When that happens, I just turn off my diffuser, add a few more drops of oil, and restart it. Within minutes, the scent fills the air.
If I still feel underwhelmed, I think about upgrading to a better-quality diffuser. Higher-quality diffusers tend to produce a more intense mist, which helps spread the scent more effectively.
How I Clean My Essential Oil Diffuser
After a session, I sometimes see residue from the oils at the bottom of the diffuser. While I don’t clean it after every use, I make sure to clean it regularly to keep it working well.
Here’s how I clean mine:
1. I fill the diffuser with fresh water, stopping just below the fill line.
2. Instead of essential oil, I add about 10 drops of white vinegar.
3. I run the diffuser for 3–5 minutes to clean the inside.
4. After that, I drain the mixture and wipe any remaining residue with a cotton ball or paper towel.
5. Finally, I let it dry completely before using it again.
How I Use a Reed Diffuser
For a non-electronic option, I use a reed diffuser. It’s simple and perfect for a consistent, low-maintenance aroma. I just mix essential oil with a carrier oil, pour it into a glass container, and add rattan reeds. Once the reeds absorb the mixture, I flip them to release the scent into the room.
I refresh the aroma every few days by flipping the reeds again. My reed diffusers typically last 3–4 months, depending on how much oil I use.
How I Make My Own Reed Diffuser
Making a reed diffuser is a fun DIY project. Here’s what I use:
• A glass container with a small opening
• Rattan reeds or bamboo sticks
• Essential oils
• Fractionated coconut oil
• Rubbing alcohol or witch hazel
I mix 20 drops of essential oil with ¼ cup of coconut oil and a teaspoon of rubbing alcohol. After pouring the mixture into the container, I let the reeds soak for about an hour before flipping them. It’s that easy!
Why I Love Diffusers
Whether I’m using an electronic diffuser or a reed diffuser, I’ve found they’re an amazing way to enhance my home with soothing scents. With the right oils, setup, and occasional maintenance, diffusing has become one of my favorite rituals for relaxation and well-being.
