How to Use an Oil Diffuser

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • Oil diffuser holder with votive candle

  • Small-necked bottle

  • Diffuser reeds

  • Scented diffuser oil

  • Clay pot diffuser with plug

  • Small funnel

Oil diffusers are effective in adding subtle fragrance to the air, since oil is a versatile medium for aromatherapy and essential oils. Candle diffusers are used to diffuse scents in a shallow bowl, using subtle heat from a votive candle. Clay pot diffusers are porous, closed jugs that can be hung on the wall to disseminate fragrance through evaporation. A popular trend is a reed diffuser, which consists of a bottle of fragrant oil and reeds that absorb the oil to the ends for evaporation. Reed diffusers don't require heat, provide a decorative element and are easy to maintain. The benefit of using oil diffusers is flexibility in changing the scent based on needs and preferences.

Advertisement

Candle Diffusers

Step 1

Pour the aromatic oil into the saucer on top of a candle diffuser, filling no more than halfway.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Position a votive candle under the container (there is an open side of the candle diffuser to insert a votive candle).

Advertisement

Step 3

Place the candle diffuser in a safe location and light the candle to gently warm the scented oil.

Reed Diffusers

Step 1

Decant the aromatic oil into the bottle and fill halfway.

Advertisement

Step 2

Insert the diffuser reeds into the neck of the bottle, taking care not to over-stuff the neck of the bottle, and arrange the reeds as desired.

Step 3

Place the bottle in a secure location and turn the reeds over weekly to expose the moist ends to air.

Advertisement

Clay Pot Diffusers

Step 1

Pour the aromatic oil into the ceramic jug of the clay pot diffuser using a small funnel; fill the jug at least halfway.

Step 2

Plug the opening of the ceramic jug or pot using the cork provided.

Step 3

Hang the clay pot diffuser in a ventilated area to diffuse a light scent. Check the level of oil bimonthly.

Tip

Place your candle diffuser or reed diffuser on a decorative trivet or coaster to protect surfaces. Change reeds with different fragrances to avoid mixing scents. Use a different clay pot diffuser with different fragrant oils to avoid mixing scents.

Warning

Never leave a burning candle unattended.

Video of the Day

Advertisement

references