I love smelly stuff… candles, wax burners, reed diffusers. You name it. So, I did some research to find out what exactly goes in to making the oil for a reed diffuser and I learned something. The oils are actually kind of bad for you, especially if you have allergies. So, I’ve been experimenting and have found a new way of making the oil. It works pretty well!
Things you will need:
- Small glass bottle– The ideal bottle will be wider at the bottom and smaller toward the neck to keep the liquid from evaporating. Also, I prefer glass bottles because they are less likely to leak but you could use ceramic bottles or vases as well.
- Mineral oil– you can find this at any pharmacy.
- Vodka– I don’t think I need to explain where to find this. I used cake flavored vodka and it adds a bit more of a kick to your scent.
- Diffuser reeds– You can find these at craft stores for a few dollars.
- Essential oil– Make sure your fragrance is oil based or it will separate from the mineral oil. Water based oils still will still work but it will look funny. You can find these online (Ebay), in some craft stores and at the Vitamin Shoppe (I recommend this option. Oils are much cheaper here.)
Step 1:
The mineral oil is used as a non-evaporating base to hold the essential oils. Pour 1/4 cup of oil into a measuring cup.
Add 2-3 tablespoons of vodka. Stir thoroughly because this will not mix naturally. The vodka is used to thin the oils to the right consistency so that it can move up the reeds.
Step 2:
Add your choice of essential oil to your mixture. Your ratio should be around 75% base to 25% essential oil. Stir thoroughly.
Then just pour everything into your container, and insert 5-6 reeds. After a few hours, flip the reeds over to let the scent permeate the room. Continue to flip the reeds every few days.
*If you want to get super creative you could add some glitter or food coloring to your mixture for some cool effects. I did not go this far, but I’m not saying I wouldn’t…
Happy blending! 🙂
Thanks Megan. That’s interesting
I may have to try this! I’m a sucker for scented stuff. And this would be cheaper than the glade candles I have all over the house. 😉
It is really cheap. I made 3 and they only cost about $3 a bottle. Mainly because the fragrance is semi-expensive.