Bigger Aroma Diffusers: Are They Worth The Extra Space?

Aromatherapy is a great way to improve your mood and energy levels, as well as alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. Essential oil diffusers are a popular and effective way to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy.

When choosing an essential oil diffuser, it's important to consider the size of the room and the desired level of scent concentration. For small rooms, a diffuser with a capacity of 150 to 200 milliliters is sufficient, while for larger rooms, a capacity of 500 milliliters or more is recommended.

The type of diffuser also affects the strength of the scent. Ultrasonic diffusers, which use water and vibration to create a mist, are the most popular type. Nebulizing diffusers, on the other hand, don't require water and create a stronger concentration of scent.

When using an essential oil diffuser, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for filling the reservoir with water and adding the appropriate number of drops of essential oil. Most diffusers have settings to control the intensity and duration of scent release. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the diffuser are also important to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

How much water do I need to add?

The amount of water you need to add to your aroma diffuser depends on the size of the water tank and the duration of your diffusing session.

Most aroma diffusers have a water level line on the inside of the water reservoir, or they come with a measuring cup to fill up before adding water to the reservoir. It is important not to overfill the diffuser, as this may cause it to malfunction.

For small spaces, a diffuser with a capacity of 150 to 200 milliliters is usually sufficient. The Urpower OD1, for example, has a capacity of 100 milliliters and can run for up to 6 to 8 hours.

For bigger rooms, a larger water tank is recommended. Large-room diffusers can hold as much as 500 milliliters of water or more. The Urpower 500ml Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser, for instance, has a capacity of 500 milliliters and can run for up to 16 hours on a low-output setting.

Additionally, the size of the room should fall within the diffuser's coverage range, which is typically measured in square feet. The closer the room size is to the upper limit of the diffuser's coverage area, the higher the speed setting you will need to use.

To sum up, the amount of water you need to add to your aroma diffuser depends on the size of the water tank and the desired duration of use. Be sure to refer to your diffuser's manual for specific instructions and always fill the tank to the indicated water level to ensure optimal performance.

How many drops of essential oil should I use?

The number of essential oil drops you should use depends on the size of your diffuser and the room you're diffusing in.

For a 100ml diffuser, 3-5 drops of essential oil is a good starting point. You can then adjust this amount depending on the strength of the aroma you want to achieve. If you're using multiple oils, 2-3 drops per oil will give you a nice blend.

If your diffuser has a capacity of 200ml, you can use 6-10 drops, for 300ml capacity use 9-12 drops, for 400ml use 12-15 drops, and for 500ml use 15-20 drops.

The size of the room you're diffusing in also matters. For smaller spaces, 5-10 drops will be enough, while for larger spaces, you may need to use 10-20 drops or more to fill the room with aroma.

It's important to remember that essential oils are highly concentrated and can be very potent. Using too much oil can result in an overwhelming scent and even cause unpleasant side effects like dizziness, irritated eyes, and headaches. On the other hand, using too little oil may not be enough to scent the entire space effectively.

When trying a new essential oil or blend, it's best to start with a lower amount of drops and gradually increase until you find the right balance for your space.

Where should I place my diffuser?

When it comes to placing your aroma diffuser, positioning is crucial. The key to effective scenting is choosing the most central location in the area you wish to be scented. If you're fragrancing a large area, such as a hotel, mall, office space, or entire home, you may need a larger diffuser that works via an existing HVAC system, and strategic placement is less important. However, for most standard-sized rooms, here are some tips to ensure your diffuser is in the optimal position:

• Choose an open area in the room, preferably not against a wall or on the floor, but with a solid surface or tabletop.
• Ensure there is a power outlet nearby, as most diffusers need to be plugged in.
• Avoid placing the diffuser in a corner, as this may cause the oil to hit the wall and rise upwards, reducing diffusion. Instead, place it in the centre of the room, as oil diffuses in a radial diameter.
• If you want to scent multiple rooms, leave the doors open. Windows, on the other hand, should be kept closed, as the microscopic oil particles will leave the building if they are open.
• Keep the diffuser out of direct sunlight and away from fans, as these can affect the diffusion of the scent.
• If using on a wooden surface, place a placemat or towel underneath the diffuser to protect the surface from moisture.
• Ensure the room is well-ventilated to prevent a build-up of vapour, especially if there are children or pets in the house. Leave the door open so that pets can leave if they want to.
• Place the diffuser below eye level. The aroma will rise, so placing it above your nose will prevent you from fully enjoying the scent.
• Consider the aesthetics of the room. You may want to pair the diffuser with items that mesh well in colour and texture, or let it stand alone as a centerpiece.

How often should I clean my diffuser?

To keep your aroma diffuser in good condition, it is important to clean it regularly. The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you use it and whether you use the same oil or switch between different oils.

If you use the same essential oil every day, it is recommended to clean your diffuser at least once a week. This is especially important if you don't empty your diffuser after each use, as this can cause mould or mildew to build up from water being left inside.

It is also recommended to perform a light clean once a week and a more thorough clean when you change scents or after diffusing resin-based essential oils, such as Omani Frankincense, The Quietude, and The Tranquilist.

Additionally, certain essential oils, like myrrh or Desert Rosewood, can leave a sticky residue and even harden around the bottle lid as they oxidise. To continue using these oils, be sure to clean your diffuser regularly.

After diffusing an intensely aromatic oil, such as patchouli, it is also a good idea to clean your diffuser, as its scent tends to linger longer than a citrus essential oil.

• Always unplug the diffuser before cleaning for safety reasons.
• Empty the diffuser after each use to prevent mould and mildew spores from developing.
• Wipe out the diffuser's interior with a paper towel dampened with white vinegar or a mixture of water and a mild dish soap to prevent oil buildup and corrosion.
• Clean the ultrasonic plate or chip by dipping a cotton swab into rubbing alcohol to remove excess oil.
• Dry and reassemble the diffuser before refilling and using it again.
• For a deep clean, fill the diffuser halfway with plain water and add 10 drops of distilled white vinegar. Run the diffuser for 10-15 minutes, then empty and wipe down with a soft cloth.
• Wipe down the exterior of the diffuser with a cloth dampened with plain water.

By following these steps, you can keep your aroma diffuser in good working condition and ensure that your essential oils are dispersed efficiently, providing you with maximum scent and therapeutic benefits.

What essential oils should I use?

Essential oils are highly concentrated natural extracts from the leaves, flowers, and stems of plants. They are commonly inhaled for their scent and therapeutic properties, and can also be used in diffusers, humidifiers, and diluted with a carrier oil to be applied to the skin.

The best essential oil for you will depend on your desired outcome. Here are some popular essential oils and their effects:

• Lavender oil: The lavender scent is often used to help relieve stress and anxiety and promote good sleep.
• Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil is used for skincare and helps treat acne, nail fungus, and warts.
• Peppermint oil: Peppermint oil can be used to improve respiratory function and relieve sinus congestion. It also has properties that may improve digestion and relieve nausea.
• Orange oil: Orange oil may alleviate anxiety and stress and promote healthy lymphatic flow. However, like lemon oil, it can cause photosensitivity on the skin.
• Lemon oil: Lemon oil is used for boosting immunity, circulation, and lymphatic flow. It also has antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it useful in treating skin conditions.
• Eucalyptus oil: Eucalyptus oil is refreshing, citrusy, and somewhat sweet, helping to boost mood and provide a relaxing effect.
• Rosemary oil: Rosemary oil can be used to improve energy and concentration.
• Bergamot oil: Bergamot essential oil has been shown to reduce salivary levels of cortisol and improve fatigue and negative emotions.

It is important to note that essential oils should not be ingested and should be diluted before being applied to the skin. Always do a patch test before using a new essential oil to check for any potential skin allergies.

Frequently asked questions