“How do Reed Diffusers work? And, Why Can't I Smell My Reed Diffuser Anymore?”

Exploring Common Issues and Solutions.

Reed diffusers have become a popular choice for home fragrance, offering a continuous and subtle scent without the need for an open flame or electricity. However, if you've noticed that your reed diffuser has become less effective over time and isn't filling the room with its delightful aroma as it used to, we’ll explore reasons why in this blog, sharing tips on how to get the best from your aromatic investment.

Let’s explain what a reed diffuser is and how it works: Get ready for the Science bit....

The key components of a reed diffuser include a fragrant oil or blend of essential oils (at Bey&Bo we only use high quality, cruelty free fragrance oils in our luxury reed diffusers. Our oils are only sourced from reputable UK suppliers) and a set of reed sticks. The process works through a combination of capillary action and evaporation.

The core of a reed diffuser is its fragrant oil, which is typically a mixture of fragrance oil and a carrier oil. The carrier oil serves to dilute the concentrated fragrance oil and allows them to travel up the reeds more effectively.

Reed sticks, typically made of rattan or bamboo, are inserted into the fragrance oil in the diffuser bottle. These sticks have a porous nature, allowing the fragrance to travel up through their channels.

Capillary action is the process by which a liquid, in this case, the fragrance oil, is drawn into small, narrow tubes (the channels in the reed sticks) against the force of gravity. The capillary action occurs because the liquid is attracted to the surface of the tube and can climb upwards.

As the fragrance oil travels up the reed sticks, it reaches the exposed ends. Once the oil is exposed to the air, it begins to evaporate. This process releases the aromatic compounds into the surrounding environment.

Once the fragrance molecules are released into the air, they spread and diffuse throughout the room, creating a pleasant and subtle scent. The diffusion rate is influenced by factors such as the temperature of the room, humidity, and airflow.

The reeds act as a continuous wick, drawing fragrance from the bottle and releasing it into the air. The capillary action and evaporation processes continue for as long as there is fragrance oil in the bottle.

If you can no longer smell your reed diffuser here are the main reasons why this may have happened and how to fix it.

1. The Reeds have become clogged: The first and most straightforward step is to examine the reed sticks. Over time, dust, and other particles can accumulate on the sticks, hindering the fragrance's release. To revive your reed diffuser, simply flip the reeds or replace them with new ones if they appear saturated or dirty.
2. Rotate the Reeds Regularly: As we mentioned earlier reed diffusers work by drawing fragrance oil up through the reeds and releasing it into the air. To ensure an even distribution of scent, rotate the reeds regularly (We recommend every 7 days). This prevents the reeds from becoming clogged and encourages a consistent fragrance output.
3. Choose the Right Location: The effectiveness of a reed diffuser can be influenced by the size, temperature and airflow in a room. In larger rooms with poor air circulation, the fragrance may disperse more slowly, making it seem like the diffuser has lost its potency. Try placing your diffuser in a smaller or more central area to enhance the scent distribution. The “diffusing” process is influenced by the temperature of the room and the entire process will work better with heat (you may notice your diffuser aroma stronger in the hot days of summer or when the heating comes on in the winter months).  If exposed to direct sunlight or heat sources, the fragrance may dissipate more quickly, therefore, it’s best to opt for a pleasantly warm area with good airflow to maximize the diffusion of the scent.
4. Quality Reed Diffuser Oil: Not all diffuser oils are created equal. At Bey & Bo we have invested in high-quality, long-lasting fragrance oils that can make a significant difference in the longevity and potency of your reed diffuser. These oils have a more robust and enduring aroma.

5. Adjust the Number of Reeds: If the fragrance seems overwhelming or too subtle, experiment with the number of reeds in the diffuser. Adding or removing reeds can control the intensity of the scent, allowing you to customize your aromatherapy experience.
6. Nose Fatigue: Our sense of smell can become accustomed to scents, leading to the phenomenon known as nose fatigue or nose blindness. If you’ve been exposed to the same fragrance for an extended period of time, your olfactory receptors may become less responsive. Consider taking a break from the diffuser or rotating between scents to keep your senses engaged.

Reed diffusers are an excellent way to enhance the ambiance of your living space, but like any other product, they require proper care and attention. By following these tips, you can revive the effectiveness of your reed diffuser and enjoy a consistently delightful fragrance throughout your home. Experiment with different scents and techniques to find the perfect combination that suits your preferences and creates a welcoming atmosphere. You can also compliment your favourite diffuser with a matching natural wax scented candle and vegan-friendly wax melt.

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