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How Do Reed Diffusers Work?

Homesick

You know that reed diffusers make your home or office smell nice, but how exactly do reed diffusers work? Below, we explain how scented oil, a decorative bottle and reeds combine to dispense fragrance 24/7. We also offer tips to make the most of your reed diffuser and investigate the unique benefits of reed diffusers.

 

How Do Reed Diffusers Work?

 

Reed diffusers have three main parts: the scent oil itself, the reeds and a small glass or ceramic bottle with a narrow neck. To set up a reed diffuser, uncap the bottle. If the scent came in a separate jar, also uncap that and pour a few ounces of oil into the bottle. Then, reseal the oil and store it in a cool, dry place. Place the reeds into the bottle and arrange them until they look nice.

reed diffuser on desk

The reeds are full of lots of microscopic channels that absorb the oil and push it towards the top of the reed. Once the oil reaches the end of the channel, it’s released into the air, circulating the smell around your home. Think of these channels like tiny straws that are moving the fragrance from the bottle into the air.

 

How to Care for Your Reed Diffuser

 

Now that you know how reed diffusers work, here are some tips for making the most of your reed diffusers:

  • Don’t use bamboo rods. The channels in bamboo are separated by nodes, which block the oils from traveling all the way up the bamboo. Use the natural reeds that come with your diffuser instead of bamboo.
  • If you want to increase the strength of the fragrance, add more reeds to the diffuser. Keep in mind that this will mean the oil is absorbed at a faster rate, so you’ll have to replace it more often.
  • Once the aroma starts to fade, flip over the reeds to expose the more saturated ends. Do this over a sink or trash can to catch any oil drips.
  • If you notice your reed diffuser is getting low on oil, let it evaporate completely before refilling. It’s better to start with fresh oil than to add it to old oil. Wash out the bottle with a bit of soap and water and let it dry completely (otherwise the water will dispel the oil). Then, refill the bottle using fresh oil and add new reeds to it.
  • On a similar note, don’t mix the fragrance oil with water in an attempt to dilute it and make it last longer. The oil and water will separate and make the reeds warp.
  • Place your reed diffuser in an area with good air circulation, such as a hallway with high foot traffic, for maximum scent.

  

Benefits of Reed Diffusers

 

You may be wondering when it’s best to choose reed diffusers versus scented candles or an electric aroma diffuser. Reed diffusers offer several unique benefits:

aerial view of reed diffuser

  • Since they don’t use heat, reed diffusers don’t require a flame or emit soot. As a result, they can be left alone unattended–even when you’re gone at work or on a trip.
  • Reed diffusers don’t need an electrical outlet, which distinguishes them from electronic aroma diffusers. As a result, reed diffusers can be placed in many locations around the home and aren’t tied to electrical outlets.
  • Because of these factors, reed diffusers are an excellent way to add scent to places where open flames aren’t allowed, such as college dorms or offices. If you’ve ever rued the fact that you can’t light a candle, a reed diffuser is an excellent alternative.
  • Reed diffusers emit a consistent scent 24/7. After a long day at work or a week-long trip, you’ll come home to a great-smelling apartment or house. Because reed diffusers can be left alone, they’ll keep emitting fragrance even when you’re away.
  • Last but not least, reed diffusers look fantastic. Many of them come in sleek-looking glass or ceramic bottles. Our collection of Homesick reed diffusers features our distinctive black-and-cream labels with matching black reeds for a striking look that complements many different home decor aesthetics.

If you want around-the-clock fragrance in your home or office, a reed diffuser is an excellent choice. A reed diffuser is simple to set up and care for and offers many benefits. Shop our collection of reed diffusers to explore the many scents we offer.