How to Use Oil Diffuser: Tips for Safe & Effective Aromatherapy

July 09, 2025

Whether you are new to the world of aromatherapy or a seasoned expert, using essential oils in oil diffuser is the first method aromatherapists and wellness experts recommend. Topical applications of essential oil are not for everyone and that is perfectly alright. In such cases, using oil diffusers can provide the usual solace and healing benefits of essential oils to many. Discover how to use diffuser at home with Aromachology’s compact little guide on the topic.

Different types of oil diffusers work differently in different settings. To use an oil diffuser you must know about the 4 types of diffusers so that the diffuser you’re going to buy turns out to be exactly what you had expected. Let us begin.

What Is An Oil Diffuser?

An oil diffuser is a machine that has been designed specifically to disperse essential oils in the surroundings. Sometimes people confuse a diffuser with a humidifier, but keep in mind that both are two very different things. Humidifiers have not been made with the intent of using essential oils in them.

What Are The Different Types Of Oil Diffusers?

Ultrasonic Diffuser: Ever seen a space themed projector that spewed out fragrant mist? That was probably an ultrasonic diffuser which uses water and ultrasonic waves for water dispersion into the air. Create a cozy and fun atmosphere during karaoke nights with ultrasonic diffuser.
Nebulizing Diffuser: This diffuser does not require any water. Instead it operates on the science of air pressure to fill your homes with the oh so pleasing aroma.
Evaporative Diffuser: As one of the most commonly used types, you will find it in living rooms and waiting parlors of most houses. Forget your worries about how to use aroma diffuser and allow yourself to get lost in the gentle scent and benefits of essential oils with its effortless operation.
Heat Diffuser: Unlike other diffusers on the list, heat diffusers use no breakthrough technology. All you need is an essential oil, a candle and a ceramic heat resistant diffuser. Pour in the essential oil and light the candle. Put it in the placeholder and watch your oil seep into the air.

Why Use An Oil Diffuser - Top Benefits

If you have pet dogs or cats, diffusing essential oil is the best option because then essential oils not only retain their potency, but lessen the chances of toxicity for pets significantly.
It is hassle-free and there are tons of beginner friendly wholesale essential oil options available for diffusion like lavender essential oil, rosemary essential oil, lemongrass essential oil.
Essential oils in diffusers infuse a natural fragrance in the house, in comparison to the artificially enhanced smell of aerosol sprays. This is good if you already have a congested nose and do not want to overwhelm your senses while cleaning your house.
Using an essential oil diffuser can bring a personality and comfortable vibe to your home while suffusing the air with familiar homely scents for kids.

All in all, diffusing essential oils is a whole package deal and you will definitely not regret trying it out.

How To Use An Oil Diffuser - A Step-by-step Guide

With this let’s take a look at the how to use a diffuser properly-

Step 1: Clean your diffuser

Use wet wipes to clean the insides of your diffuser. Once everything dries out, add the water according to the oil diffuser instructions.

Step 2: Prepare the ‘spring day’ inspired essential oil blend

For this diffuser blend, you will need 2 drops of frangipani essential oil, 2 drops of vanilla essential oil and another 2 drops of tangerine essential oil.

Step 3: Diffuse the blend

Open all the rooms, let the diffuser run its course and sit down for a few minutes to enjoy the airy fragrance.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Diffuser

There are some clueless and repeated mistakes that are the worst offenders and the reasons behind why your diffuser is not working the way you want it to. Let’s explore the best way to use oil diffuser in detail.

Mistakes To Watch Out For When Using An Oil Diffuser

You are adding too much water and not enough essential oil. Or the opposite could also be true. Diffusers often come with markings that indicate the sufficient water level. As for essential oils, you only need 7 drops in total for one complete cycle.
Ensure proper ventilation into the room, else essential oils will only add into the stuffiness in the room.
Take breaks between each session to allow your senses to get used to the scent.

How Often To Use An Oil Diffuser In Different Setups

One topic that is clearly forgotten and is not discussed enough is this one. While we as a community may not agree on the number of times one should use an oil diffuser, we have reached a general consensus that breaks between each 30 minute cycle are important and necessary.

Safety Guidelines and Precautions

Only use light scented essential oils around kids like roman chamomile essential oil, lemongrass essential oil. Discover more kid-safe essential oils and enjoy a moment of peace together.
Like any other electrical home appliance, do not let children go anywhere near the diffusers or the essential oils.
Wear thick rubber gloves while giving your diffuser a weekly cleansing.
After using the reed diffuser, cover the container tightly with a lid. Accidental spillings can harm the paint and wood of your furniture.

Concluding Thoughts

Oil based diffusers are older than you think. Devoid of any technology, our ancient counterparts had figured that plant oils and plant resins could be heated to release their natural fragrance. In the earlier ages the main focus of diffusing was ritual purification. Nowadays, with the comeback of more natural ways of living, using aroma diffusers is the best way you can reap the numerous benefits of essential oils.