There are hundreds of essential oil diffusers available, ranging from $10 to $100 or more. We spoke with an expert to help you navigate the purchasing process and find the best essential oil diffuser for you.
What exactly is a diffuser for essential oils?
One of the most common ways to use essential oils is to diffuse them or release them into the air. A diffuser is an electrical gadget that distributes the essential oil of your choosing around your room or residence for the duration that you specify. It emits a pleasant aroma and is completely safe when used correctly.
The most common type
Hope Gillerman, an essential oil expert in Los Angeles and author of Essential Oils Every Day: Rituals and Remedies for Healing, Happiness, and Beauty, suggests using an ultrasonic diffuser. “These are available in a variety of pricing ranges, are simple to clean, and rarely break.” This type of diffuser employs electronic frequencies to vibrate rapidly, producing an effect similar to boiling water but without heat. Instead, the vibrations disseminate the essential oils as a thin mist by breaking them down into tiny microparticles.
Do you like a stronger scent?
You can use a nebulizing diffuser instead if you want a stronger aroma from your oils. This diffuser vaporizes the oil before dispensing it as a mist. “Use a nebulizing diffuser if you prefer a stronger aroma, especially if you enjoy citrus oils,” suggests Gillerman. “These can cost $100 or more and are quite fragile because they are made of glass and require extra cleaning to avoid clogging.” Instead, consider these 7 essential oils for a restful night’s sleep.
Keep away from the heat.
With so many various diffusers on the market, it’s easy to become confused when deciding which one is best for your house. “Avoid using steam diffusers, candle diffusers, or hot plate diffusers since they heat the oils and disrupt their delicate chemistry,” advises Gillerman. “Heat degrades the effectiveness of essential oils, requiring you to use more to achieve the same outcomes.”
