Put a towel down underneath the diffuser to catch any excess water while the diffuser runs. If the towel remains dry after the first few times using it, it probably isn’t needed. You’ll also need a power outlet nearby if your diffuser needs to be plugged in.
If you’re unsure how to open your diffuser, check the manufacturer’s guide for instructions specific to your diffuser. Some diffusers may have two tops that need to be removed to access the reservoir. One will normally be decorative, where the other is used to trap excess moisture. If you remove the top of your diffuser and see another casing instead of a tank, remove this interior casing as well.
Rather than a line or marker, some diffusers may come with a measuring jug that holds exactly the right amount of water for the reservoir. Fill this up with water and pour it into the tank. Room temperature is around 69 °F (21 °C). Put a finger in the water to test it, looking for water that is slightly cool but not cold.
You can combine different types of essential oils, but you should only put a maximum of 10 drops into your diffuser. Use a few drops of each oil that you want to prevent an overpowering aroma when you turn your diffuser on. Keep track of how many drops of oil you use for each operation so you can get a better sense of how much you need. For a smaller room, you might only need 3 or 4 drops. Start lower and increase the amount of oil you use until you’re happy with the aroma.
Some diffusers may have multiple settings or lights that you can use to adjust its operation. Check your manufacturer’s instructions if you’re unsure how to make your diffuser work, or to see how to use these more advanced settings.
People moving around it will help distribute the oil, but will also increase the chance of it being knocked over. Make sure the diffuser is kept in a safe place first.
Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for advice on your specific diffuser. Make sure you put the water in before you add any oils.
Combine different oils for a more complex aroma, but avoid using more than 4 drops of oil combined in a candle diffuser. The amount of oil needed will vary based on the size of your room. Start with fewer drops and increase the amount of oil you use until you’re happy with the aroma. Keep track of how many drops of oil you use for each operation so you can get a better sense of how much you need. For a smaller room, you might only need 3 or 4 drops. Start lower and increase the amount of oil you use until your happy with the aroma.
Keep an eye on your candle and diffuser as it works, to make sure the candle doesn’t go out by itself. Once the water in the reservoir has mostly evaporated, or you cannot see the oil anymore, blow the candle out.
Try placing the diffuser near the main entryway to the room, so you get a fresh hit of your chosen oil everytime you go into the room.
Unlike other diffusers, reed diffusers don’t allow you to swap out new scents easily. Pick an oil that you like for long-term usage. There’s no right amount of oil to pour into the diffuser. Some people will pour in the whole bottle, others will add a little at a time to keep the oil fresh.
The more reeds that you use, the stronger the aroma will be. For a smaller room, you may only want to use 2 or 3 reeds. Adding the reeds may cause the oil in the diffuser to overflow if it’s already very full. Be careful when adding the reeds, or do so over a sink to prevent spillage.
It may help to flip the reeds over a paper towel or over your sink to catch any stray oils.
Use a combination of lemon, peppermint, and rosemary oil for an energizing blend of aromas. [21] X Research source
Try combining orange, ginger, and cinnamon oils for an amazing fall scent perfect for Thanksgiving. [24] X Research source
Use a mixture of lavender, grapefruit, lemon, and spearmint oil for a delightful summertime blend of aromas. [27] X Research source
Mix equal quantities of peppermint oil and eucalyptus oils for an aroma that will help clear your sinuses and may help you breathe better. [29] X Research source
