The Best Electronic Diffusers To Boost Your Mood When WFH
Firstly – what’s the benefit of using an electronic diffuser over a candle?
“Candles use the heat of a flame to melt the wax (and essential oils in the wax), evaporating them into the air. However, this isn’t always a good thing – unless you’re using a natural wax candle, burning paraffin wax is said to release toxic fumes similar to those that come off diesel fuel that you then inhale. By using an electronic diffuser, you are only releasing water vapour and essential oils into the air. Essential oils use the power of aromatherapy to change your mood. Plus, electronic diffusers are cheap to run and can be left unattended, filling your home with invigorating scents while you potter about.” – Emilie De Block, founder of Bio Scents
Remind me – how exactly does aromatherapy work?
“Aromatherapy focuses on the physiological effects of plants and their aromas on the human body. Essential oils stimulate the olfactory nerve (the short nerve between your nose and brain), and signal to the limbic system (the part of your brain that controls emotional stimuli), explaining why something like lavender helps you feel relaxed and rosemary makes you feel alert. As a self-care ritual, scents can bring instant happiness, relaxation and calm – all things we need in our lives these days.” – Emilie
So how do you use a diffuser?
“Start by filling your diffuser with water – as a general rule of thumb, aim for three to five drops of oil per 100ml of water. However, the scent of some essential oils is naturally stronger than others. For example, peppermint is much stronger than bergamot, so you may want to add a little more or less. Depending on the size of your room, leave your diffuser on for around 30 to 60 minutes, which should be long enough to spread the scent throughout the room. Don’t leave it on for too long though – essential oils are strong and can cause headaches if the body is exposed to them for too long.” – Emilie
Which essential oils are worth trying?
“Firstly, quality is key. Pure, organic essential oils are best – lots of cheaper blends are made using fragrance oils, which are chemically-made scent compounds, which aren’t great for you and will have a chemical-like smell to them. For the best results, look for oils that are not pre-diluted, either. When it comes to lowering anxiety and depression and enhancing sleep, frankincense, ylang ylang, geranium, bergamot and lavender are great options, while clary sage and patchouli are also good at helping the body deal with stress. Peppermint, eucalyptus, rosemary, lemongrass and clove are good for low energy; and sweet orange, bergamot, lemon and frankincense are good for low mood.” – Emilie
Can you mix essential oils, or do you have to use them individually?
“You can absolutely use a blend of oils in your diffuser, just keep in mind the strength of the oils. If you are making a blend with one stronger oil and one that’s more subtle, you’ll want to use a ratio of one to four, more or less, so the subtle scent isn’t overpowered.” – Emilie
How should you look after an electronic diffuser?
“If you use your diffuser daily, aim to clean it every two to three weeks. Simply add water to your diffuser, add a few drops of white wine vinegar and turn it on for three to five minutes (in a room that’s well ventilated). Then pour out the water, rinse with fresh water and wipe with a clean cloth.” – Emilie
Inspired? Here are our top picks…
Anatome Essential Oil Diffuser & Humidifier, £95
WHY WE RATE IT: Tall, slim and white, this diffuser is a good choice for those who prefer an understated look. With the capacity to hold up to 100ml of water, it can run for up to three hours, emitting a fragrant vapour in ultrasonic waves. Pair it with Anatome’s Focus + Concentration oil blend for a productive working day.
Visit Anatome.co
Diptyque Electric Diffuser, £240
WHY WE RATE IT: Diptyque may be known for its candles, but its diffuser also comes highly rated. To use this stylish ceramic diffuser, which runs on a one-hour cycle, slide in one of the French fragrance house’s scented capsules. There are seven to choose from, including the iconic Baies and Figuier. With a pretty gold detail, it’s the perfect addition to your living room.
Visit NET-A-PORTER.com
Neal’s Yard Oska Diffuser, £75
WHY WE RATE IT: With the ability to control this diffuser via an app, you can change everything from the mist settings (there’s a continuous or intermittent misting mode) to the colour changing mood lighting. It also has an auto shut-off feature, making it safe and ideal for use around children and pets.
Visit NealsYardRemedies.com
Neom Wellbeing Pod, £90
WHY WE RATE IT: One of the wellness world’s bestselling products in the last few months, Neom’s cult diffuser is back in stock. With a detailed ceramic lid, it delivers the perfect amount of scent in minutes while also adding moisture to the air, and it can double up as a pretty nightlight, too.
Visit NeomOrganics.com
AromaHome Time Out Electric Diffuser, £45
WHY WE RATE IT: With LED lighting to create a soft white glow, built-in safety features and a pink marble ceramic finish, there’s a lot to love about this ultrasonic diffuser. It’ll mist for two hours and can also be used as a humidifier or air purifier on those days you don’t want to use essential oils.
Visit OliverBonas.com
Stoneglow Mist Diffuser, £65
WHY WE RATE IT: With four different time settings, this diffuser gives you more options than others when it comes to releasing scent, and it’ll automatically shut off when the setting is complete. Just 15cm tall, it’s the perfect size to keep on your bedside table or desk.
Visit StoneglowCandles.co.uk
This Works Travel Diffuser, £30
WHY WE RATE IT: Powered by a USB cable, this sleek and portable diffuser is designed to be light and compact, making it ideal to pack in your suitcase or weekend bag once travel is back on the cards. Due to its smaller size, it’ll take longer to scent a bigger room, but it’s ideal for smaller homes or for scenting your home office.
Visit FeelUnique.com
The White Company Electronic Diffuser, £65
WHY WE RATE IT: Minimalists will delight in The White Company’s offering, which has been specially designed to release the perfect amount of scent in minutes, whilst also adding moisture to the air. The light function will also add ambience and a spa-like vibe to any room.
Visit TheWhiteCompany.com
Aromatherapy Associates Home Diffuser, £49
WHY WE RATE IT: Fill this fragrance dish with a few drops of cult wellbeing brand Aromatherapy Associate’s essential oils, renowned for their bliss-inducing properties. Working without water, it diffuses scent through the top of the dish – simply wipe clean once finished.
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