I love reed diffusers.
They have this wonderfully subtle way of sharing favorite aromas that remind me of fall, Christmas, my wedding and the simple joys of God.
I have one reed diffuser I keep in the bedroom. But over the last year, I’ve used two different electric diffusers that pulse out a fine mist to spread the wonderful smells of cinnamon, cloves, peppermint and just about anything else I feel like.
I like the electric ones for times when I need a boost of a certain aroma quickly (or I need to purify the air of the burnt smell coming from the kitchen). They are fantastic if I want to inhale scents that assist with head and respiratory functions (which I have needed A LOT since the weather started changing to fall).
When it comes to subtle fragrances in my home, though, I prefer the reed diffuser. I find my essential oils last much longer – 8-10 weeks compared to just a day with some electric diffusers. Plus, reed diffusers are easy to move and work even when the power is out – which is a common occurrence during the cold winter months. Reed diffusers can also be placed in areas out of reach of pets or children – no struggling to find a plugin nearby.
Ingredients for reed diffuser oil
In experimenting with diffusers, I did a lot of research on diffuser base oils. What I found on numerous sites came down to about the same ingredients for two different blends: water or a light-weight base oil, and vodka, witch hazel or rubbing alcohol.
Really, it depends on your budget and what you have on hand. I’m a thrifty soul, so I went with ingredients I already had on hand.
My DIY reed diffuser base oil:
1/4 cup almond oil (I use the NOW brand)
1 Tablespoon witch hazel
Another DIY base mix I found on several sites includes:
1/3 cup water
1 Tablespoon vodka or rubbing alcohol
There is chemistry involved in the base – something to do with how the molecules mix. Chemistry is not my strong suit, so definitely research online if you want to know more.
How much essential oil to use in reed diffusers
I was shocked that many sites recommended 20 drops of essential oils to 1/4 cup of liquid. For certain oils, that is going to be too much. Thieves, Cinnamonbark, Cloves and Black Pepper are all intense aromatics. I did not need nearly that much. I used a sample packet of Thieves (estimated 4-6 drops) and 4 drops of Cinnamonbark (because you cannot have too much cinnamon in your life!).
Now, your lighter oils – citrus oils like lemon, lime or tangerine – and a subtle aroma like copaiba – may need 20 drops to infuse the reeds. Experiment to find what you like. Be sure to keep notes, so you remember for the next time!!!
Using this method, your oil aroma can last 8-10 weeks.
Why I prefer reed diffusers
Reed diffusers are easy, inexpensive and can be made out of about anything with a narrow opening. (Think smaller glass oil or decorative bottles.)
They can make your oils LAST much longer than electric reed diffusers – 8-10 weeks, compared to a day in some electric mist diffusers.
Many offices also don’t allow electric ANYTHING that is not company-approved, so reed diffusers are a way to enjoy something other than musty office smell.
Plus, no electricity is needed to enjoy fragrances. That saves on the electric bill and allows you to enjoy aromas or oils used to deal with head and respiratory systems even when there is no power.
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