For those of us looking to freshen up our homes and would prefer to stay away from nasty room sprays, the best home diffusers may be the next best thing. From electric oil diffusers to reed diffusers, an essential oil-based fragrance will help your space feel a little more like home. Below, we’ve found some of the best oil diffusers for all homes and budgets and stunning fragrances – designed to freshen up your home and decor at an affordable price, also.
Need a moment of calm? An essential oil may just be the thing. After all, when you get home from a long day at work, you’re probably looking to destress. Well, instead of lighting a holistic aromatherapy candle, why not consider a gentle-release diffuser to unwind? 💆
Closer's best room diffusers, at a glance:
There is nothing quite like tidying your home and adding your favourite scent into the mix. Thanks to home diffusers, your living space will be filled with a scintillating, inviting scent. And, you won’t need to break out a pet-unfriendly room spray to mask any smells traipsed through from kids or small fluffs. For a fresh home on a budget, these are our best-smelling picks. We’ve even included reed diffusers from the popular brand, Yankee Candle, perfect for those of you obsessed with them (like us).
SHOP: Best room diffusers: reed, essential oil and more
Best reed room diffuser
An exotic island escape, the Yankee Candle Pink Sands Reed Diffuser is said to be a beautiful mix of bright citrus, sweet florals and spicy vanilla. Inviting, it's perfect for any space - and for gifting, too.
With a 4.5/5 star average rating, Pink Sands is well-loved by customers. One customer commented that it's beautiful and delicate. They add that the notes have been perfectly curated - not overpowering, but you can smell every note. Some customers were unimpressed with how long it lasted, though.
Budget reed room diffuser
For a budget-friendly room diffuser, we recommend the Madagascan Vanilla Diffuser. This pick is available in a range of sizes for a sweet-scented room. For 22 weeks of use, your living space will be blessed with sweet notes of vanilla, inviting and therapeutic. You can buy a replacement pack of reeds and a Madagascan Vanilla refill - to save even more money.
From a handful of reviews, the diffuser clocks in at a 4.5/5 star average rating. Many agree that it's lovely - as expected and lasts long. One customer says the scent makes the room smell clean - and isn't too overpowering. Just fresh - which is just what we want to hear. Another customer says that they've received so many compliments.
Best reed diffuser for a burst of sunlight
floralstreet.com
Utterly joyous, this Floral Street Vanilla Bloom Diffuser transports you to a field of flowers. With notes of juicy plum, crisp amber and golden vanilla, this diffuser comes from a female-founded, independent British brand - and is mult-award winning, too. Exuding happiness, this reed diffuser will add a burst of sunlight to your space. Bold, original and perfect for summer.
From a handful of reviews, this Floral Street reed diffuser clocks in at an exceptional 4.8/5 average star rating. One customer commented that it's gorgeous "from the word go" - with a subtle (but noticeable) divine scent. Another adds that it's gentle but consistent. For a cheerful burst of yellow in your home, you can't go wrong with this Floral Street pick. One customer wishes the diffuser reeds were a little longer, though.
Best reed diffuser for an intense, spicy and rich scent
floralstreet.com
Spicy, rich and woody, the Floral Street Santal Diffuser is a striking and intense blend for a night-time soiree. Picture snow-topped mountains, sandy deserts and luxury hotels - we're obsessed. With notes of vanilla, cedarwood, vetiver, patchouli and cumin - it's truly a scintillating and luxurious experience. A bold scent, it's great for a home wanting to have a little luxury. How gorgeous is the purple?
With a 4.5/5 star rating, this Floral Street scent comes with fantastic reviews, with customers loving how luxe it is and how it lifts a room. One customer "can't imagine anything better". High praise. Elegant and warming, it will look stylish wherever it's placed. It may be too rich for some, though...
Best reed diffuser for serenity
For a little relaxation, consider this The Ritual of Jing Subtle Floral Lotus & Jujube Reed Diffuser. Infused with lotus and jujube, it's an opulent, sleek addition to your home. Lasting from two to three weeks, it fosters a balance between serenity and relaxation. Enchant your guests with this fusion of fruit and flowers. It looks so gorge, right?
From a handful of reviews, this Rituals diffuser has an average 4/25/5 star rating, well-reviewed by customers at LOOKFANTASTIC. One customer commented that it "smells so powerful". Another customer loves how clean-smelling it is - calming but rich. However, some felt it didn't last long as promised. But, others have noted that this stylish, pampering scent lasts a while.
Best reed diffuser for sleep
Freshly cut lavender comes to mind with this NEOM Perfect Night's Sleep Reed Diffuser Refill & Reeds. For those of us having trouble nodding off, consider this slumber-promoting fragrance from NEOM. It contains notes of tranquil lavender, chamomile and patchouli to persuade your muscles to chill out and for an easy transition to deep sleep. It's great for your bedroom scent.
Lasting a good few months, this NEOM sleep diffuser is loved for its smell, and quality - and helps with aiding slumber, Not only is the smell said to be gentle and refreshing, but it's helped many relax at night, and unwind from stressful days. However, opinions are mixed on the value.
Best uplifting reed diffuser
Realign your positive vibes with this The Body Shop Boost Mandarin & Bergamot Uplifting Diffuser. Crafted from 100 per cent natural essential oils, including mandarin from Italy and bergamot from Calabria, you can bask in the blend in the notes of mandarin, orange and bergamot. For a mid-week lift, consider this juicy, zesty diffuser, packed with citrus to delight your senses.
Budget electric oil diffuser
www.onbuy.com
Versatile and relaxing, this ASAKUKI Essential Ultrasonic Oil Diffuser has been designed for your home, office, or yoga studio showcasing the healing potential of aromatherapy and essential oils. Using ultrasonic vibrations, this ASAKUKI diffuser disperses a fine mist of essential oils and water into the air, providing a soothing, aromatic atmosphere. Plus, with the large water tank and several LED colours, you can match your mood - with user-friendly timer modes and auto-switch safety. Helping humidify the air, it's made from high-grade, eco-friendly materials - stylish for all homes.
From over 4,000 customer reviews, this diffuser has been rated highly. Reviewers love the appearance, mood lighting aspect and the capabilities of this appliance's ability to diffuse the chosen aroma. Many customers mention that it's lovely to look at - and has great features, from the dimmable mood lighting to the safety cut-out. Plus, it's really good value for money. However, some customers are unsure of the quality and mist. But, many love their new diffuser.
Pros
- Multifunctional design combines mood lighting and oil diffusion
- User-friendly - easy to clean, timer modes and safety feature
- Creates a soothing environment for relaxation and mediation
Cons
- Some customers are unsure of the quality and mist
Best nebulising room diffuser
Sleek, compact and primed for smaller spaces, the NEOM Wellbeing Pod Mini Essential Oil Diffuser is ideal for bathrooms, home offices, and even your car. Battery-powered, this diffuser uses nebulising technology - which vaporises essential oils without heat or water. A cold method preserves the potency of the oils for maximum therapeutic benefits. Not only is this NEOM model functional, but chic and easy to use, too. With an adjustable intensity and three settings to suit your moods and needs, this portable pick comes with a USB for convenient charging.
Thanks to a handful of reviews, this NEOM diffuser has lots of positive reviews. With an average of 4.5/5 stars, this diffuser has been called "perfect for a gift", not requiring a charger- and can be popped anywhere for your convenience and style. One customer says it's easy to use and switch oils - so you can find the right scent or blend for you. Plus, the battery is said to last a while. However, one reviewer said it was a little noisier than expected.
Pros
- Ideal for travel and small spaces, it’s easy to carry and use anywhere
- No water needed - simplifies maintenance, and avoids spillages
- Customise the strength of your fragrance with three adjustable settings
Cons
- A little noisier than expected
Best ultrasonic room diffuser
Enhance your environment with the Beurer LA 40 Aroma Electric Diffuser LED Table Lamp - sophisticated mood lighting meets soothing aromatherapy. Not only does this innovative device serve as a colour-changing lamp, but as an aroma diffuser - seamlessly integrated functionality. With six colours to promote focus and relaxation, the Beurer LA 40 uses ultrasonic technology, which uses high-frequency vibrations to turn water and oils into a fine mist. Silent and efficient, it will provide a continuous aroma to help make your home feel a little more serene...
Tried and Tested by Closer writer, Piper Huxley:
I love my new aroma electric diffuser from Beurer. Doubling as a delightful little lamp, his ceramic diffuser helps me feel super relaxed and makes the atmosphere feel clean, and serene and smell lovely. Not only does it look very stylish, but fits seamlessly in any space. I would prefer it to be wireless or rechargeable, as opposed to needing constant power - so I can place it anywhere. But, it's truly gorgeous - and has transformed my day - from yoga sessions to winding down after a long day.
Pros
- Consumes only 12W of power, making it energy-efficient
- With mood-setting colour-changing LED lighting
- Ultra-sonic technology means it's quiet and efficient
Cons
- I wish it was rechargeable- so it can be placed anywhere!
Best ceramic room diffuser
Made with a delicate ceramic cover, this Dialan’s Ceramic Essential Oil Diffuser is ideal for your home and beyond. Simply fill it with water and add a drop of your favourite essential oil to enjoy the benefits. Multifunctional, serving as an aromatherapy diffuser, cool mist humidifier, and night light. It helps you moisturise the air, relieve stress and improve sleep quality. With seven LEDs, you can take your pick of colours and let this night light help you snooze. Thanks to its whisper-quiet run, it ensures a peaceful and relaxing environment - with an automatic shut-off for peace of mind.
From over 900 global ratings, this ceramic diffuser has earned an average 4.4/5 star rating, with many loving the ease of use and quality - despite being a budget-friendly pick. One customer commented that they love the choice of colours and the timer setting comes in handy. Another says it looks more expensive than it actually is - but, would love a larger capacity model. Overall, reviews love how easy it is to set up and work without a fuss - the different lights are another plus.
Pros
- Ceramic adds an exquisite touch, making it a stylish addition to any room
- Acts as a diffuser, humidifier, and night light, providing multiple benefits
- Ultrasonic tech means it works quietly, ideal for use during sleep or work
Cons
- Some would love a larger model
Premium pick
www.rituals.com
Enhance your night-time routine with the diffuser from Rituals. Proper boujee, we know. But, it comes with an oil cartridge to help promote sleep. The Ritual of Jing Sleep Aroma Diffuser emits a delicate cloud of fragrance for just 10 minutes, filling your room with a subtle mist that helps with relaxation.
With lavender, known for its calming effects, and sandalwood, which helps clear and focus the mind, create a tranquil atmosphere ideal for unwinding just before bed. Perfect. It even includes a guided meditation to further enhance your restful experience...
Pros
- Lavender and sandalwood helps to relax the mind and body for better sleep
- Includes a guided meditation to further aid in relaxation and stress relief
- 10-minute mist cycle is perfect for a quick and effective setup before sleep
Cons
- Short duration - 10 mins may be too brief for some!
Which essential oils are the best?
There are a lot of essential oils to try in your electric diffuser – from single scents to blends. Below, are some of our favourite essential oils for you to try – for destressing, focus and more.
Lavender - is perfect for promoting sleep and relaxation.
Eucalyptus - can help improve respiratory health and even enhance mental clarity.
Lemongrass - is a natural bug-repellent and can even relieve muscles.
Tea tree - is best for sensitive skin, can prevent blemishes and deter insects.
Sweet orange - is detoxifying and is said to be great for lifting the mood.
Peppermint - can help reduce any stress and improve mental function.
You can find all of these in this beginner's set: ASAKUKI Essential Oils Set.
Where do I put a diffuser in the living room?
When deciding what part of the room to place your diffuser, we recommend avoiding any doors or windows. If you do, the fragrance will waft into other rooms, or even outside. You don't want a weak scent, or no scent at all. Not ideal. Instead, pop it on a coffee table in the centre of the room.
Are room diffusers safe?
Diffusers are considered safe when they're used responsibly. Just remember: some visitors might be sensitive to certain fragrances, and this could trigger an allergic reaction in your home.
That being said, oil diffusers are said not to be dog-friendly – due to the ingredients or oil’s scent that may trigger your dog’s allergies or even impact their respiratory system in some cases.
Can you use room spray in a reed diffuser?
If you're using an electric oil diffuser (such as an ultrasonic or nebuliser), we wouldn't recommend it. Though room sprays can be strong and mask smells, they may damage your new favourite home accessory. Whereas, we reckon you'd be safe to diffuse your favourite fragrance with some reeds.
Piper Huxley is a Homes Product Writer for Closer, an all-rounder who will write on anything from décor to wellness. When not scouring the net for the best home bargains, Piper is listening to a musical soundtrack and tending to her houseplants.