If you’re new to aromatherapy diffusers, you might be wondering whether they’re worth the investment and how to use them safely and effectively. Diffusers are one of the easiest ways to enjoy essential oils at home, creating a beautifully scented space that supports calm, focus and everyday wellbeing rituals.

Below is a simple guide to how diffusers work, the different types available, and how to use essential oils safely for adults, children and pets.

1. Easy to Use & Work Quickly

The diffusers we offer are either ultrasonic or cold air (nebulising) diffusers, and both are simple to use. Ultrasonic diffusers work by adding water as directed by the manufacturer, along with a few drops of essential oil. They gently disperse aroma into the room, making them ideal for everyday use. Nebulising diffusers work by inserting the essential oil bottle into the diffuser, which then disperses the oil into the air without heat or water.

Aromatherapy works primarily through scent, with essential oils influencing how we feel emotionally through the sense of smell. Diffusing oils is therefore a gentle, non-invasive way to enjoy aromatherapy as part of your daily routine.

2. Safer Than Traditional Candle Burners

Modern electric diffusers are much safer than older oil burners that relied on tea lights. There’s no naked flame, no hot surfaces, and most ultrasonic diffusers switch off automatically when the water runs out — making them ideal for use in the evening or overnight (following manufacturer guidance).

Heat-free diffusion also preserves the natural aroma of essential oils.

3. Adjustable Mist Settings

Most modern diffusers offer continuous or intermittent mist settings. This allows you to control how strong the aroma is in your space, which is especially useful in smaller rooms or when diffusing around children.

4. Beautiful Home Accessories

Diffusers don’t just smell lovely — many are designed to look beautiful too. Soft lighting features create a calming ambience in the evening, while stylish ceramic or mosaic designs make diffusers a natural part of your home décor.

5. Diffusing Around Children

Diffusers can be enjoyed in family homes when used mindfully. Many people choose to use diffusers as soft night lights in children’s bedrooms without oils. If you do choose to diffuse essential oils around children, it’s best to use very small amounts, ensure good ventilation, and avoid diffusing directly near a child’s face.

As a general guide:

• For babies: 1 drop in a diffuser for short periods (10–15 minutes)

• For young children: 2–3 drops for short intervals

• Always turn the diffuser off once your child is asleep

• Ensure the room is well ventilated

There are also certain essential oils that are traditionally avoided around babies and young children. These include oils high in 1,8 cineole and strong stimulating oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, rosemary, thyme (ct thymol), clove, cinnamon, fennel, anise, tarragon, cardamom, ginger, spike lavender and lemongrass.*

6. Ultrasonic Diffusers Add Gentle Moisture to the Air

Ultrasonic diffusers use water to create a fine aromatic mist. Many people enjoy these as part of their home atmosphere, especially during colder months when indoor air can feel dry. While not a medical device, this gentle moisture can feel comforting in everyday living spaces.

7.  Are Diffusers Worth the Investment?

Diffusers have come a long way in both design and performance. With prices ranging across different styles and budgets, there’s an option for most homes. A good-quality diffuser can become part of your daily routine — helping you unwind in the evening, create focus during the day, or set the mood in your living space.

All Freya Natural Therapy diffusers come with a one-year guarantee for peace of mind.

8.  Which Essential Oils Should I Use?

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts used in aromatherapy for their beautiful aromas and emotionally supportive qualities. Many people enjoy choosing oils based on how they want to feel — for example, calmer, more uplifted, or more focused.

If you prefer not to create your own blends, pre-blended essential oil blends are a simple option. In our home, favourites include Destress Yourself, Total Relaxation, Focus & Study, and Immune System Boost — each chosen to suit different moods and moments of the day.

9.  How Many Drops Should I Use in a Diffuser?

Essential oils are concentrated, so you don’t need much:

• Small diffuser (100–200ml): 4–6 drops

• Large diffuser (300–500ml): 6–10 drops

• Always check your diffuser manufacturer’s guidelines

If the aroma feels overpowering or you develop a headache, simply reduce the number of drops or the length of time you diffuse for. Our sense of smell also adapts to aromas after around 15 minutes, so less is often more.

10.  Diffusing Around Pets

Pets have a much stronger sense of smell than humans, so always ensure they can leave the room if they find the aroma too strong. Avoid diffusing in enclosed spaces where pets cannot escape the scent, and never apply essential oils directly to animals.

11.  What Type of Diffuser Is Best?

Ultrasonic Diffusers
Use water to disperse aroma as a fine mist. Ideal for everyday use, smaller rooms, and those who enjoy softer scent diffusion and ambient lighting.

Cold Air (Nebulising) Diffusers
Diffuse essential oils without water, creating a stronger scent suitable for larger spaces. These are great when you want quicker room coverage and a more intense aroma. Many are portable and rechargeable for flexible use around the home or workspace.

Both types have their place — the best diffuser depends on how and where you want to enjoy aromatherapy.

Our New Cold Air Diffuser: Movisia

We’re delighted to introduce our Movisia cold air diffuser — a portable, rechargeable option that allows you to enjoy aromatherapy without water. Simply attach your essential oil bottle or use the supplied container and enjoy effortless scenting wherever you are.

💛 Create Your Calm at Home

Ready to experience aromatherapy in your own space?
Explore our collection of beautifully designed aromatherapy diffusers — from gentle ultrasonic diffusers to powerful portable cold air diffusers — perfect for enjoying your favourite essential oil blends at home, work, or on the go.

✔ High-quality, carefully selected diffusers
✔ Suitable for 100% essential oils
✔ Beautiful designs for every room
✔ One-year guarantee

→ Shop Aromatherapy Diffusers

Essential oils high in 1,8 cineole are traditionally avoided around young children. Always follow recommended usage guidelines. (Tisserand & Young)