How Often Should Reeds Be Replaced In A Diffuser?
Reed diffusers are a popular and easy-to-use way to diffuse essential oils throughout the day into the air. They work by using diffuser reeds, which are thin sticks made from natural materials such as bamboo or rattan or man-made materials such as fibre, to absorb and release the oils into the air. While some reed diffusers can last for several months, the reeds themselves will eventually need to be replaced.
Sometimes there is no need to replace the diffuser reeds
With my reed diffusers, I have found that because they contain a high amount of essential oils they tend to evaporate more quickly than the cheaper ones but the scent remains strong until the blend has completely evaporated (usually 4-7 weeks) so there is no need to change the reeds. I just flip the reeds daily when the strength of the fragrance starts to wane.
Factors that determine how frequently to replace the reeds
If you are using reed diffusers other than Petits Rituels reed diffusers, here are some factors to consider when determining how often to replace the reeds.
- The type of oil being used: Some essential oils used for natural home fragrance are more potent than others and will evaporate more quickly. Oils with a stronger scent, such as peppermint or eucalyptus, may require the reeds to be replaced more frequently.
- The humidity level in your home: Humidity can affect how quickly the oils evaporate from the reeds. In a dry environment, the oils may evaporate more quickly, leading to a need for more frequent reed replacement.
- The size of the diffuser and the number of reeds being used: The larger the diffuser and the more reeds being used, the more essential oil will be released into the air. This can lead to the reeds needing to be replaced more often.
- The strength of the scent you desire: If you prefer a stronger scent, you may need to replace the reeds more frequently to maintain the desired level of fragrance. Alternatively you can flip the reeds to boost the scent.
In general, it is a good idea to check the reeds in your diffuser and decide whether you need to flip them or if they need to be replaced when the scent begins to weaken. If you are using a high-quality essential oil and the reeds are still in good condition, you may be able to go a couple of months without replacing them.
It is also a good idea to follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific diffuser, as they may have specific recommendations for reed replacement or reed maintenance. By keeping an eye on the condition of the reeds and replacing them as needed, you can ensure that your reed diffuser is always providing a pleasant and aromatic experience.
Photo credits: Mindaugas Norvilas
Nathalie Allard
Author
Nathalie Allard is an Artisan Perfumer and the founder of Petits Rituels. She’s known for creating beautiful room-transforming 100% natural fragrances with real therapeutic benefits.