How to Use Reed Diffusers: Instructions, Tips & FAQs
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At Infinitely Special, we’re passionate about helping you get the most out of your reed diffuser. Whether you’re a first-time user or simply want to enhance your experience, this guide will walk you through how reed diffusers work, how to care for them, and how to maximise fragrance and longevity, safely.
How to Set Up Your Reed Diffuser
- Place the rattan reeds that came with your diffuser into the fragrance oil bottle.
- Let the reeds absorb the oil for a few hours.
- Flip the reeds so the saturated end is in the air and the dry end is in the bottle.
- Allow the diffuser to naturally scent your space as the oil travels up the reeds and evaporates into the air.
Helpful Hints When Using Reed Diffusers
Flip Sticks for More Scent
If you’d like a stronger fragrance, simply flip the reeds. Always do this over a paper towel and wipe the bottle to prevent oil drips on surfaces.
Less Sticks = Less Scent
For smaller rooms like bathrooms, you don’t need to use all the reeds. We recommend using 6 of the 8 provided. More reeds will intensify the scent, fewer reeds will soften it.
Protect Your Surfaces
Reed diffusers should always be placed on a non-porous coaster (ceramic, glass, marble, etc.). Oils can stain wood and other surfaces, just like a glass of iced water might leave rings.
Keep Out of Reach of Children
Diffusers should be placed where they won’t be tampered with. Spills can damage surfaces, and oils are not safe for ingestion.
Fire Safety Reminder
Diffuser oils are flammable. Do not light the reeds or place diffusers near open flames. Always wipe down the bottle base before placing it on any surface.
What Are Reed Diffusers & How Do They Work?
Reed diffusers are a flameless, low-maintenance way to fragrance your home. Rattan reeds are inserted into a glass or ceramic bottle of scented oil. Each reed contains about 20 channels (like tiny straws) that draw the oil up and disperse the fragrance into the air through evaporation.
Unlike candles, reed diffusers:
- Require no flame or heat
- Produce no soot
- Are safer for homes, offices, and shared spaces
Why We Use Rattan Reeds (Not Bamboo)
Our reeds are made from premium quality rattan — not bamboo. While they may look similar, bamboo contains "nodes" that block liquid from travelling through. Rattan, on the other hand, has continuous channels that allow for smooth wicking and even fragrance diffusion.
Can You Reuse Reed Sticks?
No. Reeds should not be reused with a new fragrance. Once saturated, they retain the original scent, and combining different oils can lead to unpleasant blends. Replace your reeds when:
- Switching scents
- Reeds are fully saturated
- Reeds become clogged with dust or stop diffusing
How Often Should You Flip the Reeds?
Flip the reeds once a week to refresh the scent. You can also flip them any time the fragrance feels too faint and you want a quick boost.
How Often Should You Replace the Reeds?
Replace the reeds when:
- Flipping no longer revives the scent
- They appear saturated or dusty
- Fragrance performance drops even with remaining oil in the bottle
Fresh reeds restart the diffusion process and ensure clean, even scent distribution.
What If the Bottle Has Oil But No Scent?
If you still have oil but little scent:
- Flip the reeds
- If that doesn’t help, replace them with new reeds
This usually solves the problem, as reeds can become clogged or saturated over time.
How Many Reeds Should I Use?
It depends on the room size and desired strength.
- For a stronger scent: use 8 reeds
- For a softer scent (e.g., in a small room): use 4–6 reeds
More reeds = faster oil absorption and stronger diffusion.
Where Should I Position My Diffuser?
Place your diffuser:
- Near a door or light air current to help circulate scent
- Away from vents, air conditioners, or direct sunlight (these can reduce lifespan by increasing evaporation)
Start in a neutral space and adjust based on your needs.
What If My Diffuser Is Too Strong?
If the scent feels overpowering:
- Remove a few reeds to reduce diffusion
- Never dilute the oil — it’s formulated for optimal performance
Reed Diffuser Safety Reminders
- Do not ingest oils
- Do not light the reeds
- Use on a protected surface
- Keep away from pets and small children
- Always wipe the bottle base to avoid surface stains
Final Thoughts
Reed diffusers are a beautiful, low-effort way to fill your home with scent — no flame, no fuss. With premium rattan reeds, high-quality oils, and proper care, your Infinitely Special diffuser will gently scent your space for weeks at a time.