The 10 Best Essential Oil Diffusers for Aromatherapy Benefits
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When it comes to creating a zen, spa-like atmosphere in your home, you may consider adding candles to your space or, better yet, the best essential oil diffusers. “An essential oil diffuser is designed to disperse aromatic molecules into the air of your environment for therapeutic purposes,” says Adora Winquist, Founder and CEO of The Soul Institute. The benefits of using an essential oil diffuser are countless, with an abundance of options that boost immunity, calm anxiety, uplift emotions, and fight inflammation.
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Not only that, but Winquist notes that inhaling the right essential oils through a diffuser can help shift mood, heighten awareness, and aid your overall physiological response, especially during cold and flu season. “Diffusing high potency anti viral, antibacterial, and antimicrobial aromatics is an effective way to support a healthy immune system,” she says.
Essential oil diffusers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and feature a host of intriguing features, such as changing colors, WiFi compatibility, and USB compatibility. There are four different types of essential oil diffusers on the market: ultrasonic, nebulizing, heat, and evaporative. Ultrasonic diffusers combine water with essential oils and then evaporate those oils into the air, and can also include humidifying effects. Nebulizing diffusers release the aroma in a fine mist without water, so there is no humidifying taking place. With a heat essential oil diffuser, the heat diffuses the aromatics into the air, either through a candle or an electrical source, and it doesn’t include therapeutic benefits. Finally, an evaporative diffuser includes a filter with essential oil and a fan blowing the oil through the air.
As you might imagine, an essential oil diffuser uses just that — essential oils. You simply place a few droplets of the essential oil of your choice into a bit of cool tap water, turn the device on, and let the diffusing begin. There are many essential oils and scents you can use; a few popular ones include eucalyptus, orange, peppermint, tea tree, lavender, and lemon. You can also set it up in any room in your home to spark a specific mood, such as the living room, kitchen, bedroom, or bathroom — the latter of which plays well alongside scented hand soaps and fluffy bath towels. And, not to worry, the droplets won’t splatter any surfaces like cozy duvet covers or silk pillowcases.
While the use of essential oil diffusers is safe for everyone including kids, it’s generally discouraged to use one if you have dogs or cats. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, the inhalation of strong odors or fragrances can cause them to develop a host of health issues, like burning sensation in the nose and throat, nausea, and difficulty breathing. Essential oil diffusers also release micro-droplets or oil particles into the air, so they pose a risk of inhalation. So, if you’ve got a furry friend running around, opt for a cozy candle instead.
An essential oil diffuser also serves as an ideal gift for him or her, especially if they’re looking to bring a sense of relaxation into their space. “This is the gentlest, safest way to experience essential oils and I highly recommend for the beginner,” says Hope Gillerman, Founder of H.Gillerman Organics. Whether you’re in search of the perfect hostess gift, a gift for mom, or one to go alongside a cozy gift for the home, an essential oil diffuser will be well used and appreciated.
Keep reading to discover the 10 best essential oil diffusers with a variety of unique features. Your zen atmosphere awaits.
Top Essential Oil Diffusers of 2023
Best Overall: Seasons Soni SM Portable Ultrasonic Diffuser
Best Budget: InnoGear Essential Oil Diffuser
Best Luxury: AromaTech Aromini Bluetooth Diffuser
Best on Amazon: Asakuki Premium Essential Oil Diffuser
Best Waterless: Canopy Humidifier Diffuser
Best Smart Diffuser: Sierra Modern Home Smart WiFi Diffuser
Best Portable: Neom Wellbeing Pod Mini Essential Oil Diffuser
Best Cordless: Vitruvi Move Diffuser
Most Unique: Pura Smart Home V3 Fragrance Device
Best for Large Spaces: Saje Aroma Om
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BEST BUDGET OIL DIFFUSER
InnoGear Essential Oil Diffuser
Size: 4” x 6”
Materials: Plastic
Capacity: 100 ml
Power: AC power adapter
Run time: 8 hours
Lighting: 8 light settings
Timer and intensity settings: 2 misting modes, waterless auto-off
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$13.59 $19.99 32% off
Want an essential oil diffuser that doubles as a nightlight — and is under $20? The InnoGear Essential Oil Diffuser is right up your alley. While it’s on the cheaper end of the spectrum, that doesn’t mean it has any fewer bells and whistles than its more expensive counterparts. The steam actually comes out the side of the lid, instead of from the center, so you can aim it in different directions, even right at your pillow if you so desire. It also comes in five different colors, like basic white, white grey, and bronze; two misting modes, and eight different switching hues. Plus, once the water runs out, it shuts off automatically. This diffuser has racked up over 85,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, so it’s definitely a great inexpensive option to keep in your stress-busting arsenal.
What testers say: “I absolutely LOVE my little diffuser! It’s quiet, I use it when I’m in my office and on my nightstand at night. I sleep so much better now. It’s extremely simple to operate too. I just add a little water and the essential oil I want to use, within seconds the room is filled with a lovely scent of my choosing.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $13.59
BEST LUXURY OIL DIFFUSER
AromaTech Aromini Bluetooth Diffuser
Size: 3”W x 12”H
Materials: Recycled aluminum
Capacity: 120 ml
Power: 110–240V AC
Run time: 1-3 months, depending on usage
Lighting: No
Timer and intensity settings: Scent intensity buttons, timer set with accompanying app
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$295
$191.75 $295 35% off
While the AromaTech Aromini Bluetooth Diffuser may seem like an unassuming tower at first glance, its special features will make you realize it’s anything but. This nebulizing diffuser takes an impressive short amount of time to completely diffuse a 120 ml bottle of essential oils, and it includes three different intensity levels, so depending on which one you select, your scent can last up to three months. The whisper-quiet, cold-air diffuser uses filtered air instead of water. It also pairs with an app via Bluetooth, where you can customize the scent intensity and run time.
What testers say: “I am so grateful for my new scent machine, the new and improved AroMini BT. My home has a luxurious aroma and seems to last much longer without having to raise the frequency or keep it on for a long period of time. It’s a great investment!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $295
BEST ESSENTIAL OIL DIFFUSER ON AMAZON
Asakuki Premium Essential Oil Diffuser
Size: 6.61″L x 6.61″W x 4.76″H
Materials: Polypropylene
Capacity: 500 ml
Power: Corded electric
Run time: 18 hours
Lighting: 7 LED light settings
Timer and intensity settings: 1, 2, or 3 hours; mist modes; auto-shut off
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$21.23 $35.99 41% off
With a 500 ml capacity, it’s no wonder the Asakuki Premium Essential Oil Diffuser ranks number one among Amazon’s aromatherapy diffuser best sellers and has close to 40,000 five-star ratings. That’s really just the tip of the iceberg, though; it also boasts a 16-hour run time, seven different LED light options, and multiple mist nebulizer functions. It even has a remote control for easy on-and-off capability and the ability to change light and mist modes from up to almost 17 feet away. You can set it to run continuously or in intervals of one, two, or three hours, and you can set the misting mode that way, too.
What testers say: “Love it! Adds moisture to the air and whatever scent you like. It fits in my decor. The lights are non obtrusive (you do have the option not to use), timer for the mist is a great add, and provides several options. Also the light sound of the water is so soothing. Total vibe!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $21.23
BEST WATERLESS ESSENTIAL OIL DIFFUSER
Canopy Humidifier Diffuser
Size: 10” L x 8” H x 7” W
Materials: Wood pulp, plastic
Capacity: 2.5 L
Power: Corded electric
Run time: 36 hours
Lighting: None
Timer and intensity settings: None
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$150
Humidifier or essential oil diffuser? With the Canopy Humidifier Diffuser, there’s no reason to choose. The 2.5L water capacity is ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, or offices, and it promises to hydrate rooms up to 500 square feet. The 36-hour run time is impressive, as is the fact that the humidifier treats the water flowing from the tank with UV light before evaporating it for clean, hydrated air. It also features an auto mode to increase humidity at night when your skin needs it the most.
Meanwhile, the aroma diffuser is waterless — you simply place a bottle of your favorite essential oil upside down inside it atop the aroma puck and let the scent envelop the room without any accompanying mist. It comes in six different colors, and depending on where you purchase it, has a host of different accompanying scents and accessories. Healthy skin, indeed. I have the brand’s Bedside Diffuser, and I’m truly impressed with the scent throw from such a miniature device, even on its lowest setting.
What testers say: “This is the best humidifier I have ever had! It’s mist free, my skin has started looking better, my room doesn’t feel damp while this is on, has a pretty long runtime, SUPER EASY TO CLEAN. you can actually put it in the dishwasher! This humidifier is def worth the money, everyone everywhere should have one.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
BEST SMART OIL DIFFUSER
Sierra Modern Home Smart WiFi Diffuser
Size: 6.8″L x 6.8″W x 9″H
Materials: Wood
Capacity: 14 ml
Power: Corded electric
Run time: 12 hours
Lighting: 7 premade moods with multiple options in app
Timer and intensity settings: Multiple, controlled in app or through smart device
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$39.95 $59.95 33% off
For an essential diffuser that’s as packed with smart functions, check out the Sierra Modern Home Smart WiFi Diffuser. The sweeping wooden design features seamless smart integration with both Google Home and Amazon Alexa, so you can simply use your voice to activate its many different modes, LED lights, mists, and timers. You can even create schedules in the accompanying app. The 400 ml tank lets you diffuse for up to 12 hours continuously, the UltraSonic Vaporizer instantly vaporizes water and oil molecules, and it doubles as a humidifier. Is there anything this essential oil diffuser can’t do?
What testers say: “The WiFi interface sold me on this product, and I’m glad it did. Second to the fact that this is a very effective diffuser, the wifi is its most useful feature. I haven’t bothered to learn the manual controls because the WiFi is so useful. I like the timer and the two level diffusion volume, I’m glad that the light can be on whether the diffuser is on or off.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $39.95
BEST PORTABLE OIL DIFFUSER
Neom Wellbeing Pod Mini Essential Oil Diffuser
Size: 2.72″L x 2.72″W x 4.25″H
Power: USB cable, battery operated
Run time: 50 hours
Lighting: None
Timer and intensity settings: 3 intensity settings
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$66
$69
Talk about an ideal backseat driver. If you’ve been thinking it’s high time your car had an essential oil diffuser, then it’s time for the Neom Wellbeing Pod Mini Essential Oil Diffuser to come to the rescue. Rather than having a water tank, it features cold diffusion, so “the precious and tiny medicinal molecules do not alter due to heat,” Winquist says. It’s battery operated and also includes a USB cable, and can last for an incredible 50 hours when fully charged.
What testers say: “Love this! I’ve been looking for something for my car and didn’t want to use plug ins available from the shops. I wanted something more special given the amount of time I take to commute. This is perfect. And it’s not noisy or distracting at all.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $66
BEST CORDLESS OIL DIFFUSER
Vitruvi Move Diffuser
Size: 3” x 7.4”
Materials: Matte metal, BPA-free plastic
Capacity: 65 ml
Power: USB-C power cord and charging plate
Run time: 8 hours
Lighting: 4 settings: on, dim, candlelight, off
Timer and intensity settings: Intermittent setting, automatic shut-off
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$145.60 $179 19% off
$139.30 $199 30% off
The name of this essential oil diffuser says it all. It may look unassuming, but thanks to its cordless design, the Vitruvi Move Diffuser is made to take with you on the move. You can choose from four or eight hour run times — the former runs consistently, while the latter goes for 30 seconds on and 30 seconds off. It also includes an automatic shut-off, and the four different light settings include dim, candlelight, and night mode (which turns off the lights but keeps the scent going strong).
Gillerman is a fan of Vitruvi diffusers because of their diffuser designs. “If I am going to sit my diffuser out in my living room or on my bedside table, it should be as beautiful as a well-designed lamp and work as an appealing soft light, too,” she says. Vitruvi recommends putting 25 drops of essential oil inside, which is, frankly, a lot, but since it scents spaces up to 500 feet, they go a long way.
What testers say: “The reservoir size is perfect for me since I only use it to diffuse essentials for short durations. I love how it looks and how easy it is to clean and for me to take it from the dining table to the bathroom and then to the bedroom.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $139.30
MOST UNIQUE OIL DIFFUSER
Pura Smart Home V3 Fragrance Device
Size: 1.71” x 3.88” x 3.88”
Materials: Plastic
Capacity: 20 ml
Power: Corded electric
Run time: Up to 120 hours
Lighting: Nightlight, optional LED lights
Timer and intensity settings: Automatic shut-off, customizable schedule and intensity level, intermittent setting
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$71.99
$31.49 $44.99 30% off
Two simultaneous scents, a completely customized experience from your phone, and a smart LED ambient nightlight; the Pura Smart Home V3 Fragrance Device is a do-it-all device. Choose from multiple combinations of scents, like Simply Lavender and Yuzu Citron, Lavender Fields and Vanilla Chiffon, or Linens & Surf and Lavender Fields. Then, simply snap them into place and get to customizing your waterless scent experience with Pura’s app. You can adjust the intensity level, change colors, and use schedules and timers. The Pura diffuser is also safe to use around kids and pets, and the fragrances are paraben- and phthalate-free, which sets it apart from other essential oil diffusers. This little round contraption is one for the diffusing books.
What testers say: “Simple and easy to use. I have programmed my house to greet me with amazing smells as I come home from work and when I wake up in the morning. I like that I don’t feel like I am wasting product for the time that I am not home but do not have to remember to turn it on. It just automatically smells amazing with no effort!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $71.99
BEST ESSENTIAL OIL DIFFUSER FOR LARGE SPACES
Saje Aroma Om
Size: 3.5” x 8”
Materials: Ceramic and cement
Capacity: 100 ml
Run time: 10 hours
Lighting: Yes
Timer and intensity settings: Continuous or interval, 2 misting modes
$106
The elegant ceramic and cement design of the Saje Aroma Om is as much a showpiece for your coffee table as it is a fantastic essential oil diffuser. It’s whisper-quiet, runs for up to 10 hours, and offers excellent scent throw even in the largest of spaces. It also includes an auto-shutoff feature, which is convenient if the water runs out or if you forget to turn it off yourself. It comes in white or black, and the optional LED lightband also offers a warm white tone. The beautiful, sculptural silhouette makes for a stylish addition to your home too.
What testers say: “I absolutely love my diffuser. The color is gorgeous! I turn it on every day when I’m working and it makes me feel so zen.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $106
BEST OVERALL ESSENTIAL OIL DIFFUSER
Seasons Soni SM Portable Ultrasonic Diffuser
Size: 5.1” diameter
Materials: Resin, polypropylene
Capacity: 120 ml
Power: USB-C cable, optional charging base
Run time: 16 hours
Lighting: 4 light settings
Timer and intensity settings: 2, 8, or 16 hours
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$118
$100.30 $118 15% off
There are many reasons to love this Seasons essential oil diffuser — starting with the fact that, before you even turn it on, the round, ridged resin design looks absolutely beautiful sitting atop a coffee table or bookshelf. Once you get past the planter-like silhouette, the fun truly begins. While it comes with a USB-C cable and has the option of an additional charging dock, it actually doesn’t need to be plugged in to run. You can take it on the go, thanks to its handy leather strap. And, of course, there’s its impressive scent throw — about 7-8 drops of essential oil will make the scent travel across a fairly cavernous room. This diffuser also includes options for two, eight, or 16 hour increments, plus four different colorful LED lights. Basically, it’s an essential oil diffuser lover’s dream come true.
What testers say: “This is hands down the best diffuser I have EVER used! Firstly, it is so aesthetically pleasing and adds a nice touch to any room of the house. Secondly, there is no need to constantly be refilling the water, it lasts much longer than any brand I have used and gives off a much stronger, widely-spread scent throughout the house.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $100.30
What to Consider When Shopping for an Essential Oil Diffuser
Type: There are four different types of essential oil diffusers: ultrasonic, nebulizing, heat essential oil, and evaporative. Of these four, ultrasonic and nebulizing are the most popular. Ultrasonic models combine water with essential oils and disperse them into a fine mist; nebulizers release the essential oil in a mist without water. Gillerman recommends starting with an ultrasonic diffuser and then decide on where you want to put it. “Choose a small model that is stable on your desk and may even run off your computer USB port, and choose some light citrus oils that everyone loves,” she says.
Capacity and time: When it comes to choosing an essential oil diffuser, the most important considerations are water capacity and the time the diffuser will run. The larger the water tank, the higher the capacity and run time. Some can run for up to 16 hours, or even longer if they don’t need water. Features like auto shut-off or intermittent modes can help prolong the run time, too. “The more features, the better,” Gillerman says. “Each ultrasonic diffuser lists how long it will run without refilling, how much space it can scent, and size of the reservoir.”
Cleaning: Winquist prefers a nebulizing diffuser, since the cleaning is easier. “It should have a filter to hinder viruses, bacteria, pollen, and dust,” she says. “Typically a high quality filter should last at least one year before replacement and will not require cleaning.” However, for essential oil diffusers that do require cleaning, like the ultrasonic versions, be sure you clean them frequently to avoid mold or calcium deposits. Gillerman recommends cleaning them every time you switch oils, and to do a deep clean once a month with filtered water and white vinegar. “Always leave your diffuser clean if you are taking a break from using it,” she says. “The longer it dries out, the harder it is to remove any residue.”
Size: Essential oil diffusers come in a variety of sizes and shapes. You can find portable ones that fit in your car’s cupholder, or larger ones that look like art upon a coffee table or nightstand. The smaller the diffuser, the less obtrusive it is — though it may also come with a smaller capacity or operating time.
The Different Types of Essential Oil Diffusers
Ultrasonic diffuser: This type of essential oil diffuser combines water and essential oils, and then disperses them as a fine mist. “They also add moisture to the air like a humidifier,” says Winquist. “It uses a smaller amount of essential oils and is also generally very quiet.” Gillerman also says they’re the easiest and most cost-effective type of diffuser.
Nebulizing diffuser: This diffuser works by atomizing the essential oil and breaking it up into micro-droplets that then disperse into the air. “These particles go into your sinuses, lungs, and even your brain, but with a higher concentration,” says Gillerman. She also says this option is more costly to run and makes a humming sound, which may bother some users.
Heat essential oil diffuser: With this type of diffuser, an electric heating component or candle will burn the oil. Both Gillerman and Winquist prefer the electrical option over the candle, “to slow the process and not hinder the benefit of the aromatics diffused,” says Winquist. While the aroma may be stronger from this type of diffuser, it lacks the benefits of molecules being dispersed through the air as with nebulizing and ultrasonic options. Gillerman also says they are much more difficult to clean.
Evaporative diffuser: With this type of diffuser, you place drops of essential oil onto a wood or clay filter, and then the diffuser blows and circulates it through the air without water. “Different oils evaporate at different rates,” says Winquist. “If you’re looking to experience the synergistic benefit of your essential oil blend, this may not be the best choice.” However, they are almost completely silent, so if you don’t want to be bothered by the sound of your diffuser all day, this may be right for you.
How We Selected the Best Essential Oil Diffusers
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections. Learn more about us here.
To choose the 10 different essential oil diffusers featured in this piece, we searched through multiple options across price, company, and type. We included a range of diffuser types, including evaporative, nebulizing, and ultrasonic options. We also spoke with a variety of fragrance experts to round out our picks and learn more about essential oil diffusers as a whole, and compared hundreds of customer reviews.
Meet the Experts
Adora Winquist is the Founder and CEO of The Soul Institute in North Carolina. She has over 25 years of experience helping people access their full potential through the power of aromatherapy and vibrational medicine. The Soul Institute offers retreats, meditation, personal development programs, and innovative aromatherapy products, and has been featured on Today, HuffPost, Martha Stewart, The New York Post, and more
Hope Gillerman is an aromatic healer and founder of H.Gillerman Organics, an award-winning, certified organic essential oil line. She is also the founder of her own unique aromatic healing modality, The Hope Gillerman Method, that combines her essential oil remedies with energy healing, bodywork and teachings. Gillerman has written for Huffington Post, BodhiTree, WellInsiders, Liberty of London, and ABC Home’s Reveal blog.
Meet the Author
Jamie Allison Sanders is a freelance writer based in Los Angeles with over two decades of experience in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Her work has been published in a variety of outlets including InStyle, Well+Good, People, U.S. News 360 Reviews, Hearst’s Best Products, Today.com, Saatva’s Sleep Enlightened Blog, and Insider. Throughout her career, she has spent countless hours testing products and raving about them to her friends, family, and anyone else who will listen. She also owns at least 5 different essential oil diffusers, and was extremely excited to write this piece. She scoured the internet for options across a wide variety of categories, analyzed customer reviews, and spoke with fragrance experts.
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