I’m really into diffusing essential oils at home and have tried a bunch of different diffusers over the years to keep things smelling nice. One stylish option is making your own DIY reed diffuser, which offers both a gentle scent and aromatherapy benefits.
I’ve shared before how fragrance oils, plug-in air fresheners, and artificial scents can cause issues like headaches and skin problems or even breathing troubles. Although they can fill a room with fragrance, there are healthier alternatives. Personally, I’ve grown to dislike artificial scents and prefer the natural aroma of essential oil blends in my house.
We have several nebulizing and ultrasonic diffusers in various rooms, which are great for scenting the air and providing health benefits. A homemade reed diffuser, however, gives a more subtle yet elegant way to enjoy your favorite essential oils. A beautifully scented glass jar can also enhance your home decor.
To make your own reed diffuser, you’ll need diffuser sticks, a glass bottle, a base oil, and essential oils. Alternatively, you can use alcohol instead of a carrier oil. You can style it however you want by picking the right diffuser bottle; just ensure it has a narrow opening. You can find bottles at thrift stores, craft stores, or online.
For reeds, either rattan reeds or bamboo skewers work well. If you opt for skewers, just cut off the pointed end.
I typically use 40-50 drops of essential oil for every 1/2 cup of carrier oil. Since this diffuser works through evaporation, the oil mixture has to be strong. The carrier oil should be thin, so it diffuses properly and doesn’t clog the reeds. Heavy oils like olive oil, jojoba, and virgin coconut oil won’t work well.
If you’d rather not use a carrier oil, vodka or rubbing alcohol are good alternatives. Mix 1 tablespoon of alcohol with 1/2 cup distilled water for the diffuser liquid.
I often get essential oils from Plant Therapy, as they have some great-smelling blends. If you have kids, make sure to use Kid Safe oils around your DIY reed diffuser. Some essential oils are safe for children to smell but not to use on their skin. For instance, lemongrass and ylang ylang are too harsh for their skin but safe to diffuse.
While you can buy premade blends, I’ve included some ideas for making your own DIY blends. Lighter essential oils, like citrus oils, evaporate faster and are known as “top notes.” Combining these with heavier, fixative essential oils (base or middle notes) helps the scent last longer. Generally, the best blends have a good mix of all three notes.
This DIY project won’t produce as strong a scent as an electric diffuser, but there are a few tricks to enhance the aroma. What are your favorite ways to add some fragrance to your space? Share in the comments!
