Most people who have one do not understand how to use a diffuser – at least correctly. Sure, they can get it going but how to get the best use from one often escapes them. Not only that, but for some even the basics behind fragrant diffusers are baffling. Not through any fault of theirs, but simply because they are not sure of the theory behind the way they work.

Here, then, is a brief review of what reed diffusers are and how to use them to get the best from them. Keep in mind that ignorance on this topic is fine, because you are not alone and that the vast majority have no idea of what the term ‘diffusion’ means let along where reeds come into the equation! That is why so many try to use bamboo, cocktail sticks or even twig cuttings from their garden. Oh yes they do!

What are Reeds?

First, how reeds work. A reed, such as rattan cane which is actually a form of reed, is spongy inside with a honeycomb of interconnected air pockets. When immersed in oil the oil can fill up these air pockets, and slowly work its way up the reed by capillary action. This will only happen if the viscosity of the oil is low, and if the molecular size of the fragrance oil is small enough to enable it to do so. If the oil is too thick, then it will either not penetrate the reed pot or will not be drawn up inside it oil diffuser B0BN8G88YY.

Fragrance oils are developed both to penetrate the pores of the reed stems and to travel up through its tissues. It is also able to be evaporated from the surface of the reed into the atmosphere, and so provide the lovely and soothing fragrance that is the purpose of its existence.

Use the Right Oil

So, to make your diffuser work properly, you must use the recommended brand of fragrance oils and also the instructions on how to set it up. To do this, fill the bottle anywhere from half full to full with light fragrance oil sold specifically for this purpose. Measure the height of the bottle, and then purchase reeds at least twice that height. Cut any longer reeds to twice the height of the bottle, and then put them into the bottle.

Make sure you use proper reeds or rattan because wood and bamboo will not work. These are not spongy or absorbent enough, so use reeds. The reeds will absorb the fragrant oil which will subsequently evaporate from the reeds and produce this fabulous fragrance that will fill your entire home.

Tips for Use

Although setting up your diffuser is easy, and getting it to start working is a very simple task, there are still some problems that you can come across, and here are some of the more common and how to overcome them.

a) If your diffuser has reeds already partially immersed when purchased, remove them and turn them upside down so that the ‘dry’ ends are now immersed in the oil. That will give you an immediate fragrance hit and then continue to evaporate offering you a continuous source of fragrance. You can do this again whenever you want a scent ‘boost’ from your diffuser: just turn the reeds round and allow the wet ends to evaporate.

b) Only use the number of reeds you need. Small spaces such as a home office, bathroom or toilet need fewer than your lounge, so remove those you don’t need and keep them moist by wrapping them in cling film.

c) Many commercial and industrial premises are not able to use scented candles because of fire regulations, and fragrance diffusers are an ideal substitute for them. While on the health and safety aspects, children should not be give access to fragrance diffusers because not only can spills cause damage to surrounding surfaces, but the oils can also catch fire if they are close to an ignition source.

d) Always use a coaster under your diffuser. Not because they are hot (they aren’t), but because the oils can stain, a coaster or some other protection should be use under fragrance reed diffusers that are standing on any traditionally varnished surfaces.

e) Never dilute or try to thin the fragrant oils with water, thin engine oils or any other form of thinner because they will be either incompatible with the oil or will be of too high a molecular size to be absorbed into the pores of the reed stem.

Many people have their own opinions of how a reed diffuser should be used, but always keep in mind the meaning of the term ‘diffuse’. The oil has to be absorbed by the reed and diffuse throughout its cellular structure so that the same oil can evaporate into the air in your home. If you use an oil that is to high in molecular size to do this then you will have a serious problem in getting your reed diffuser to work.

Follow the instructions on how to use a diffuser and you should be fine.