Fragrance expert Hayley Forster talks us through the different types of diffusers:
Reed Diffusers use rattan, bamboo or paper reeds placed into a bottle containing scented oil. The reeds soak up the oil and disperse the scent into the air. Reed diffusers require no electricity or heat, making them a safe and easy-to-use option. However, they may not be as effective in larger spaces.
Electric or Fan Diffusers use the movement of air from a fan to disperse the essential oils. A pad soaked in oil is placed in the fan’s path so the air blows the scent out. These work well in larger spaces, but the scent can be less concentrated than with other types.
Ultrasonic Diffusers use water and ultrasonic waves to disperse essential oils into the room. The oil is added to water and the ultrasonic vibrations break the oil into tiny particles which are then dispersed as a mist. This type of diffuser also adds a bit of humidity to the air, which can be beneficial in drier climates or months.
Heat Diffusers use heat, usually from a candle or electricity, to gently heat the essential oil to promote evaporation. However, they can alter the chemical composition of the oils, and the scent doesn’t last as long because heat tends to make oils evaporate faster.
Nebulising Diffusers use an atomiser to create fine, airborne particles of essential oils that are then blown into the air. They are often considered the most powerful type of diffusers because they create a strong and long-lasting scent that can quickly fill a room.
Ceramic Diffusers simply require you to drop scented oil onto a ceramic piece, from where it slowly evaporates into the air. They are silent and don’t require electricity, but they don’t spread the scent as far or as intensely as some other types.
Diffuser FAQ
What types of essential oils work best with diffusers?
There are some 400 essential oils extracted from plants all over the world. Popular oils used in aromatherapy today include chamomile, lavender, rosemary and tea tree. “Aromatherapy and essential oils are often used to reduce stress and anxiety, and to bring about relaxation,” says Farrah Idris, lead massage therapist at St Joseph’s Hospice and complementary therapies tutor at City Lit London.
Farrah recommends opting for the best you can afford. “Make sure they’re proper oils and that you know what you’re buying,” she advises. She cites G Baldwin & Co, Neal’s Yard, Oshadhi, Tisserand, Aromatherapy Associates and Neom as go-to brands for high quality oils.
As for Hayley Forster, she recommends lavender for relaxing, peppermint for focus, citrus scents for uplifting, eucalyptus for decongesting, tea tree for purifying the air, rosemary to help with headaches and fatigue, sandalwood for meditation, chamomile for calming, ylang ylang for reducing stress and frankincense to promote a positive mood.
Are essential oils safe for your pets?
“Be careful using them around your pets, especially if they have had breathing difficulties in the past,” advises Hayley. She says you should always store oils out of reach of pets, as some can be harmful or toxic to pets if ingested, inhaled, or come in contact with their skin.
Hayley also advises the particular oils to avoid for cats and dogs. She says, “For cats, oils such as cinnamon, tea tree, thyme, oregano, clove, pine, citrus, or eucalyptus oils, can be especially toxic. For dogs, oils like tea tree, cinnamon, citrus, pine, wintergreen, and ylang ylang have been reported to cause issues.”
What are the benefits of using a diffuser?
The benefits of using a diffuser include neutralising unpleasant smells from pets or cooking, boosting or calming your mood with aromatherapy and even improving sleep.
How do I choose the right diffuser for my space?
The main thing to consider is your room size. You’ll want a more delicate scent with less of a scent throw for a smaller room like a bathroom, while larger rooms will demand a stronger scent or even an electric diffuser. It’s also worth changing the diffuser scent based on type of room. For example citric smells work well in the kitchen as they’re excellent at neutralising cooking smells, while lavender and eucalyptus are calming enough for the bedroom.
Source: telegraph.co.uk