Reed diffusers 101: Everything you need to get started with heatless home fragrance

Typically sold alongside candles and wax melts, reed diffusers are home fragrance products that disperse scent into the air through reed sticks. 

Reed diffusers are made by combining fragrance oil or essential oil with a liquid base. The scented reed diffuser solution is held in glass or metal bottles, which are capped with lids or plugs until ready for use. To use reed diffusers, simply uncap the bottle then add diffuser reeds.

Who shops for reed diffusers? Because they don’t require flames or heat, reed diffusers are a great home fragrance option for those:

• that are wary of burning candles for fear of leaving them unattended.
• living in housing that prohibits lit candles.
• concerned that pets or children in the household might disturb a burning candle.
• who simply don’t like the idea of open flames in their house. 

Candle makers can increase sales by adding reed diffusers and other flameless options to their collection. Similar to candles, reed diffusers are an attractive option for home decor and add a cozy, welcoming ambiance to lounge areas. They’re commonly used in powder rooms or small spaces, but you can use them in any space where an atmospheric scent is desired. 

Reed diffusers can throw scent for an impressive amount of time, often up to three months and sometimes as long as six!

The strength and longevity of reed diffusers depends on several factors (outlined below on this page) in addition to the most important: time. 

Over time, reed sticks decrease in performance as they dry out.

You can dispose of the old reed diffuser sticks in the trash or according to your local Waste Management agency's guidelines. 

To renew the fragrance throw and extend the longevity of your reed diffusers, add new diffuser sticks after disposing of the spent ones. Don't forget to wash your hands after handling used diffuser sticks. 

Makers can include replacement reed diffuser sticks with the initial reed diffuser purchase or offer them as an add-on; both options result in customers who rave about how strong and long-lasting your reed diffusers are! Diffuser stick replacement bundles are an easy accessory product to add to your line.

Plant fresh air perfume holiday ornament glass bottle aromatherapy essential oil reed diffuser set

If you notice that your reed diffuser's fragrance throw is getting weaker, it's likely time to replace your reed sticks. Reed sticks that look dry can also indicate that it's time to switch them for new ones. 

We recommend testing your reed diffusers to determine how long they throw scent. Record the number of times you're able to extend the life of your reed diffuser by replacing the reed sticks. 

And remember, nose blindness is real! Test in different locations and ask family members or friends for their opinions. Fragrance oils and essential oils all perform differently, so be sure to test every scent you make.

When you’re ready to dispose of the reed diffuser liquid, do not pour it down the drain. To keep them out of waterways, most areas require fragranced oils or solutions to be disposed of in the trash or at a specific facility. Your local Waste Management agency likely shares disposal information on their website, so start there to confirm the proper way to dispose of reed diffuser solution in your area.