how to make reed diffuser
Whether you are practicing aromatherapy or simply trying to freshen up your home, using a reed diffuser is a great way to enjoy your favorite scents. Reed diffusers are quite easy to make at home by putting reed sticks within a jar containing an essential oils mix. The oils are effectively "sucked" up the channels in the reeds, and when they reach the top of the reeds, the scent is dispersed throughout the room. As long as you have your essential oils and base oils, all you need are reed sticks as well as a long vase or similar container with a narrow opening.
Materials for Making Reed Diffusers
Glass or ceramic container (glazed inside, so it doesn't leak) with a narrow opening at the top. I decided to try this beautiful vase a friend bought for me, since it's already in my bedroom and it has been deemed completely uninteresting to the felines.
Essential oils of your choice. I have lavender and eucalyptus.
I've heard of using mineral oil as your "base," but I wanted to avoid petroleum-based products. Sweet almond oil or sunflower oil are other options. But I was intrigued when I read about using vodka and water, mostly because I have some in the freezer, it's not my favorite libation, and it won't leave a greasy mess if it does get knocked over. However, I've also read that vodka will evaporate more quickly than something totally oil-based. It's your call.
Reeds or bamboo skewers. You can find reed diffuser sticks online pretty inexpensively, but if you have bamboo skewers in the kitchen or craft room, just trim off the pointy ends before use.
Steps for Making Reed Diffusers
1. If you're using an oil base, you will blend a mix of 30% essential oil to 70% base oil. You can experiment with the percentages to see what works best for you. If you're using the vodka and water mixture, you will want to add approximately 12 drops of essential oils to about 1/4 cup of water, then add a little vodka (the vodka helps bind the oils to the water).
2. Pour the mixture into your receptacle and place one end of the reeds or skewers into the solution, allowing it to saturate the reeds. Then take them out, and place the opposite ends into the bottle. Rotate which ends are in the scent solution about once a week.
The smaller the neck on the bottle, the slower the liquid will evaporate.
Experiment with different essential oil combinations until you find one or two you like. You can then increase your batches and keep them in sealed containers (like a canning jar) to save prep time later on.
If you have pets, know that essential oils can sometimes be harmful to your dog or cat. Do your research before you make a reed diffuser and find out if your chosen oil is considered toxic.
Using Reed Diffusers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Reed diffusers are a popular and elegant way to scent your home or office. Here's a simple guide on how to use them effectively:
1. Prepare the Diffuser:
Remove the reeds: Take the reeds out of the packaging.
Insert into the bottle: Carefully place the reeds into the bottle filled with fragrance oil. Make sure they are submerged deep enough to absorb the oil.
2. Allow Initial Diffusion:
Let it sit: Leave the diffuser undisturbed for several hours or overnight. This allows the reeds to fully absorb the fragrance oil.
3. Flip the Reeds:
Enhance fragrance: Periodically flip the reeds to ensure even fragrance diffusion and a stronger scent. The frequency of flipping depends on your desired scent intensity.
4. Placement:
Consider location: Place the diffuser in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can cause the fragrance to degrade.
5. Refilling:
Monitor fragrance: When the fragrance intensity starts to fade, carefully remove the reeds and refill the bottle with new fragrance oil. Ensure the reeds are clean and dry before reinserting them.
