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Diffusing essential oils can transform your space with inviting aromas and create a calming atmosphere. Learn How to Make an Essential Oil Diffuser with these easy, eco-friendly DIY ideas.
I love diffusing essential oils in my home because they smell fantastic and have many aromatic benefits. But what if I want these same benefits when I am not at home or do not have a diffuser? Learn how to diffuse essential oils without a diffuser using these 10 simple hacks.
Don’t worry; there are several ways to “diffuse” essential oils without an actual diffuser. And the best part is that most of these DIY oil diffuser hacks are 100% free! If you do have a diffuser, remember they must be cleaned from time to time. Learn how to clean an essential oil diffuser here.
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DIY OIL DIFFUSER HACKS
1. Use your hands
This is probably the easiest way to use essential oils aromatically and doesn’t require any special equipment. Simply put a few drops of essential oils in the palm of your hand, cuff them over the nose, and take several deep breaths.
Because we never want to waste essential oils, rub the remaining oil onto the back of your neck, into your hands, or on the bottom of the feet. Depending on the oil, sometimes I even run it through my hair.
2. Clothes Method
Add a few drops of essential oils on your shirt near your collar to receive essential oil benefits throughout the day. Unlike other oils, pure essential oils will not stain your clothes.
This is especially helpful if you are stuffy and trying to promote clear breathing. Think eucalyptus on your sleeve; I can’t tell you how many times I have used this hack.
3. The Tissue Method
This one is not rocket science but totally worth sharing.
If you are at the office and need a little aromatherapy benefits, take a tissue and add a few drops of essential oils to it. Place it on your desk and reap the benefits throughout the day.
4. Mobile Diffuser (cotton balls)
I highly recommend a car diffuser, but if you don’t have one, try out this DIY oil diffuser hack! Put a few drops of essential oils on a cotton ball and place it in your cup holders or in between your air vents.
This is also very helpful for a stinky trashcan or shoes. Essential oil-filled cotton balls can be very handy!
5. Under the Pillow
Diffusing essential oils at night is my favorite way to sleep. Essential oils can be crucial in promoting a healthy night’s sleep and can make all the difference in the world.
If you don’t have a diffuser, simply place the same calming oils on your pillows and sheets. Be sure to keep the oils out of your eyes as they can burn.
6. Essential Oil Room Spray
I love making room sprays with my essential oils. These make the perfect diffuser if you are out of the house. I like to keep them handy to freshen the air and give me a boost.
Mist into the office, schoolroom, or car for aromatic benefits. Check out my favorite room spray recipes, such as my homemade Febreze and my 5 room spray recipes for spring.
#7 Salt Diffuser
This might possibly be the easiest DIY project you have ever done, but with the largest impact. Grab a bowl, add in coarse pink Himalayan salt, and then add in essential oils.
You can add in one oil or a blend of oils. Check out my personal blends for some ideas to add to your salt diffuser.
- My favorite diffuser blends
- Diffuser blends for mood
- Diffuser blends for fall
- Christmas diffuser blends
- Diffuser blends for kids
Set your salt diffuser anywhere you want: in your home, car, or office. Add them to bookshelves, in the bathroom, on the window sill, pretty much anywhere.
As the scent starts to fade, you can add more drops of essential oils into the salt or dissolve the salts in a warm relaxing bath.
Get creative and make these pretty by finding fun containers or bowls to add your salt to.
#8 In the Bathroom
For a clean, fresh-smelling bathroom, add several drops of oils to the inside of the toilet paper roll. Rosemary, lemon, and Siberian Fir work great for odor control.
#9 Diffuser Necklace
Wearing a diffuser necklace is a perfect way to receive the benefits of essential oils all day. Learn more on how to make a diffuser necklace here.
#10 Reed Diffuser
Making a reed diffuser is another great way to diffuse essential oils in your home. All you need is a jar with a small opening at the top, a light carrier oil, essential oils, and reeds.
Vases are most commonly used for a reed diffuser because the smaller opening on top will help the oils from evaporating too fast. You can find these used at thrift stores, garage sales, or in your grandma’s basement.
HOW TO MAKE A REED DIFFUSER
Add 1/4 cup of carrier oil to the base. (I like to use a light oil like sunflower or fractionated coconut oil)
Add in 20-30 drops of essential oils.
Place the reeds in the vase, and voila, you’re done. The reeds will absorb the oils and release the scent into the air.
Here is some more info on how to make reed diffusers.
So many ways to diffuse essential oils! Get creative, friend and happy diffusing! 😉
PIN IT FOR LATER
How to Make an Essential Oil Reed Diffuser
Ingredients
- ¼ cup carrier oil
- 20-30 drops essential oils
Instructions
- Add 1/4 cup of carrier oil to the base. (I like to use a light oil like sunflower or fractionated coconut oil)
- Add in 20-30 drops of essential oils.
- Place the reeds in the vase, and voila you're done. The reeds will absorb the oils and release the scent into the air.
Video
Notes
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Thank you so much for sharing. I do love and look forward to all your emails. I’d there a blend to make for vertigo?
Hey Laura,
Love your content! I’m wondering if there’s any oils you avoid diffusing with an infant in the house? I’m just getting into oils and have a two and a half month old..
I’m definitely going to try the salt! Actually there’s several of these that I’m going to try🙂
Very interesting information, especially regarding the difussers.
What great tips! Can’t wait to try them out around the house!
Great ideas! The salt one is such a unique idea and I always have a spare vase or two around that would great too!