Aromatherapy 101: Using An Aroma Diffuser For Beginners

Aromatherapy is a technique used to alleviate common ailments and promote good mental well-being. Essential oil diffusers are a great way to improve the aroma of any room and enhance your overall well-being. Diffusers are small electronic devices that come in many shapes and sizes and can be used to help you relax, improve clarity and focus, and promote self-care. To use an essential oil diffuser, first, remove the top of the diffuser and fill it with lukewarm water up to the fill line. Next, add 3–10 drops of your favourite essential oil, depending on the size of the room and your desired aroma strength. Then, simply replace the top of the diffuser, place it in the desired location, and turn it on to enjoy its aromatic benefits!

Choose a good location for your diffuser, away from walls and on a flat surface

When using an aroma diffuser, it is important to choose the right location to maximise its effectiveness. A good rule of thumb is to place the diffuser in an open area, away from walls, on a flat surface, and somewhere between waist and head height. This will allow the fragrance to spread more effectively.

In general, you should place the diffuser in an area where you spend a lot of time, such as on a bedside table, a coffee table in the living room, or in the kitchen. It is also recommended to place the diffuser below eye level, as the aroma will rise on its own. If you have a plug-in diffuser, placing it in the centre of the room is ideal, as oil diffuses in a radial diameter. However, if there is no power outlet in the centre of the room, simply place the diffuser away from the wall.

Additionally, consider placing the diffuser on a table or shelf near the front door to create a pleasant and inviting scent for guests as they enter your home.

Add water to the diffuser, filling it to the fill line

To use an aroma diffuser, you'll need to add water to the diffuser until you reach the fill line. The amount of water you'll need to add will vary depending on the size and type of your diffuser, but most diffusers will have a fill line marked on the inside of the water tank. If your diffuser doesn't have a fill line, you can usually find instructions on how much water to add in the manufacturer's guide.

It's important to use the right type of water in your diffuser. Some diffusers specify that you should use distilled water, while others recommend using tap water. Using the wrong type of water could damage your diffuser or affect its performance.

When filling your diffuser with water, be careful not to overfill it. Most diffusers have a maximum fill line that you should not exceed. Overfilling your diffuser could cause it to leak or malfunction.

Once you've added the correct amount of water to your diffuser, you can move on to the next step of adding essential oils.

Using your diffuser with the correct amount of water is crucial for its proper functioning and longevity. Too much water can lead to leakage and potential damage, while too little water may result in reduced mist output and ineffective diffusion of essential oils. Always follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer to ensure optimal performance and maintain the longevity of your aroma diffuser.

Put 3-10 drops of essential oil into the water

Once you've removed the top of your diffuser, filled it with lukewarm water, and replaced the top, it's time to add your essential oil of choice.

Add 3-10 drops of your chosen essential oil to the water reservoir. You can use a single oil, such as lavender, or a blend of oils. If you're using multiple oils, add 2-3 drops of each to create a nice blend. You can experiment with the number of drops to find the right scent strength for you. Generally, 6 drops of oil is enough, but you may want to add more for a stronger scent.

Keep in mind that the number of drops will depend on the size of the room. For a smaller room, 3-4 drops should be enough, while for a larger space, you may need to add 10-20 drops to ensure the aroma fills the entire room.

After adding the essential oil, simply place the lid back on the diffuser, turn it on, and enjoy the aromatic benefits!

Turn on the diffuser and enjoy the fragrance

Once you've filled your diffuser with water and added your essential oils, it's time to put the lid back on and turn on the device.

Different diffusers will have different settings and features, so check the manufacturer's instructions for specific details. However, most diffusers will have an automatic shut-off feature and will run for around 15-20 minutes to fill the room with fragrance without becoming overpowering.

Some diffusers also have lighting features, with soft, coloured lights that can add to the calming atmosphere. You can usually control these lights, choosing the colour or opting for a cycle of different hues.

If you're using a reed diffuser, you don't need to turn anything on. The reeds will absorb the oil and slowly release the fragrance into the room.

Clean your diffuser after each use

To keep your aroma diffuser in good condition, it's important to clean it after each use. Here are some detailed instructions to help you with the cleaning process:

Firstly, always remember to unplug the diffuser before you start cleaning. This is important for your safety, as it can be hazardous if the diffuser is still plugged in and running. Next, empty any remaining water or oil from the reservoir. It's important to do this after each use because standing water can lead to the development of mould and mildew spores.

Now it's time to clean the inside of the diffuser. You can do this by wiping it with a paper towel or soft cloth that has been dampened with white vinegar or a natural cleaning solution. White vinegar is a great option as it helps to prevent corrosion and stop oil from mixing with the next scent you use. Alternatively, you can use a natural dish soap and water solution, but make sure to rinse the diffuser afterwards to remove any soapy residue.

The next step is to clean the ultrasonic plate or chip, which is responsible for breaking down the oils. Use a cotton swab or cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently wipe away any excess oil build-up.

Finally, dry the diffuser with a paper towel or soft cloth and reassemble the parts. Make sure that the diffuser is completely dry before using it again.

By following these steps after each use, you'll help to keep your aroma diffuser in good working condition and ensure that your favourite scents remain pure and enjoyable.

Frequently asked questions