Like your coffee maker or your trusty reusable water bottle, your essential oil diffuser is one of the things you use almost every day. But no matter how much you use it, how often do you clean it? If you’re like me, the answer is probably never.
and it can damage both the air in your home and According to experts, the diffuser itself. A dirty diffuser will not only be less efficient, but it can also harbor mold and other potentially harmful bacteria. To keep your diffuser mold-free, here’s how (and when) to clean your diffuser, as well as tips for choosing the best diffuser.
The best way to clean an oil diffuser
Credit: Yuko Nitta/Getty Images
To clean your diffuser, replace the oil with vinegar.
Fortunately, cleaning your essential oil diffuser is easy. Experts say all you need to do is mix water and white vinegar and diffuse it. Fill your diffuser with water, add a teaspoon of vinegar, and let it run as normal. Jonathan Chan, our senior clinical trial technician, adds that if you notice mold growing on your diffuser, you can easily wipe it down with a microfiber cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol.
However, the best way to keep your diffuser clean is to prevent stains in the first place. “The first step is always prevention,” Jonathan explains. “When you’re done using your diffuser, don’t leave it full of water. Instead, dump the excess water and wipe it down after use.” He also notes that thyme, cloves, and rosemary have antifungal properties. He points out that research has shown this and suggests changing the types of essential oils you use.
How often should I clean my oil diffuser?
Some people recommend cleaning your oil diffuser after every use, while other experts say a good rule of thumb is to clean your oil diffuser at least once a week, or every time you change the oil. However, according to his website for InnoGear (the maker of his favorite essential oil diffusers), the diffuser must be cleaned every three times he uses it. This will keep it functioning smoothly and prevent bacteria and mold from forming inside.
What to look for in an essential oil diffuser
Credit: Reviewed/Jackson Rucker
Stop and smell the diffuser.
Not all essential oil diffusers are created equal. When purchasing a diffuser, consider factors such as ease of assembly and use, intensity of diffusion, noise, and any special features you require. With all this in mind, we tested some of the most popular models and found this one from InnoGear to be the best.
“The InnoGear diffuser just checks all the boxes,” says Sarah Kobach, Smart Home Editor (and our resident diffuser guru!). “It’s easy to use, easy to disassemble, locks shut, and is very affordable.” What’s more, its large capacity allows it to run for up to 11 hours continuously, and it also features color-changing lights to enhance the ambiance.
Get the InnoGear Upgrade 150ml Diffuser from Amazon for $15.99
