What is a diffuser, exactly?
To break down synthetic or essential oils into tiny molecules requires the use of a diffuser. The latter can be uniformly dispersed into the air, producing a pleasant aroma and various effects.
Essential oils can be relaxing, soothing, energizing, and stress-relieving. Then there’s the matter of personal ties.
According to Kara Montgomery, on behalf of the Bloomy Lotus team, our sense of smell directly communicates with our limbic system (seat of emotion and memory); different fragrances can elicit different emotions.
And here’s something more to consider: even before we recognize the scent, the things we smell elicit emotion. That is why our sense of smell is such a robust one. It’s not just about the smell; it’s about our unique interpretation of it.
Are all oil diffusers created equal?
Diffusers come in various styles, but the majority of them fall into one of three types.
Ultrasonic Diffusers
An oscillating plate vibrates to make and emit a chilly, odorless mist in these devices.
Trevor T’temken Ellestad, the education and communications manager, in-house herbalist, and aromatherapist at Saje Natural Wellness, compares it to the mist around a waterfall.
When you add essential oils to water, the vibration breaks the essential oil down into minute particles. After that, it is released into the air.
Nebulizing Diffusers
Neither heat nor water is used in these diffusers. Instead, ECO Modern Essentials’ Elisabeth Lemieux says, “they function by atomizing the essential oils into fine particles.”
“For a shorter running time, nebulizers need a larger amount of essential oil. The concentration of essential oils discharged into the air, on the other hand, is substantially higher,” she explains.
Passive Diffusers
This type of diffuser likewise doesn’t utilize heat or water and is powerless. No wires, outlets, batteries, or applications are present.
“Reed diffusers, gentle oil warmers, and diffusers that employ porous ceramic to emit essential oils into the air organically are all examples of passive diffusers,” adds Bella Martinez, Edens Garden’s lead certified aromatherapist.
Features
Ambient illumination, automated shut-offs, aroma strength, and interval settings, and timers are all features available on both ultrasonic and nebulizing diffusers.
Diffusers are a safer alternative to candles because they allow you to sleep or leave the house totally and still come home to a fragrant environment.
Diffusers, on the other hand, aren’t merely for scent. Sara Panton, the co-founder of Vitruvi, adds, “A diffuser can work as a piece of decor to help connect a room.”
The atmosphere and emotion associated with diffusers in specific colors or textures, according to Panton, can intensify its intention in a space, making it look, feel, and smell amazing.
The best way to choose a diffuser is to follow these guidelines:
When I first started looking for a diffuser, I had no idea what I was looking for; all I wanted was something to make my house smell great. However, I quickly discovered a few crucial factors to examine that might help you choose the best selection.
These include:
Think about your living situation and your way of life
” The greatest diffuser for your needs is going to be the one that fits best with your decor or your lifestyle,” Ellestad says, adding that “a diffuser you love is a diffuser you know you’ll use regularly.”
picking a diffuser based on design
Panton agrees that picking a diffuser based on design is a good idea. She describes diffusing as a multi-sensory experience amplified by color, texture, and shape. “Aesthetics play a big part in deciding on the appropriate diffuser for your space.”
Capacity
While size isn’t everything, Ellestad advises that you pay attention to capacity if you like the notion of an ultrasonic diffuser. For more significant portions of the house, larger water tanks and longer run times are ideal.
Diffuser Usage
It would help if you also thought about how frequently you intend to use your diffuser. A device with an intermittent setting extends the diffusing period while ensuring that it does not overrun smaller regions.
Keep quality and upkeep in mind
“Once you’ve determined your specifications and requirements, you’ll want to look for a BPA-free diffuser. Panton believes the vapor released should be pure and non-toxic. She also suggests double-checking the cleaning instructions on a diffuser. Ultrasonic diffusers need to be cleaned regularly, which usually entails pouring a solution of water and pure white vinegar through the diffuser and cleaning out the various nooks and crannies with a cotton swab.
You can also use rubbing alcohol to clean the plastic components of both ultrasonic and nebulizing diffusers. Before cleaning your diffuser, however, make sure to consult the user instructions for your specific model.
