How To Clean A Diffuser

by | Last updated Nov 27, 2020 | 1 comment

Essential oil diffusers are perfect for taking in the benefits of aromatherapy in your bedroom, living room, yoga studio, or office. Diffusers placed in the right spaces will allow you to take in the benefits of essential oils.

how to clean your essential oil diffuser

So, you just bought the best ultrasonic diffuser online, now what? You need to keep your diffuser up and running properly year after year. Giving it regular maintenance is a must. Cleaning your diffuser only takes a few simple steps. Carefully follow the step-by-step guide on the best way on how to clean your ultrasonic diffuser.

how to clean your diffuser

Steps On How To Clean An Ultrasonic Diffuser

Follow these instructions on how to clean your essential oil diffuser. These steps should work for the following brands, but please consult your user manual for proper cleaning.

Step #1: Turn Off, Unplug And Empty Your Diffuser

empty your diffuser

To prevent any risk of injury to yourself, home, or diffuser, turn it off. Unplug your diffuser from the outlet once it is off. It can still draw power even when it is off, so unplugging it is crucial. This prevents you from getting electrocuted.

If there is any leftover excess water or oil, take it to the sink and pour it out.

Step #2: Fill Diffuser With Clean Water

fill your diffuser with clean water

Pour tap water, filtered, bottled, or distilled water into the reservoir—the cleaner the water, the better.

Ideally, I recommend using distilled water. It is the purest form of water. You do not want any impurities seeping into the machine while cleaning it out. 

When pouring your water, make sure it does not pass the fill line. Passing the line will prevent the diffuser from cycling the liquid properly.

Step #3: Add Pure White Vinegar To The Water

add pure white vinegar to the water

Add about 10 – 15 drops of pure white vinegar to the water tank. Pure white vinegar mixed in with the water will break down hard water stains. It will easily get rid of stains and lingering residue and oils attached inside the diffuser.

You can buy vinegar at your local grocery store. Any brand of vinegar should work.

Warning: Do not use distilled vinegar. Distilled vinegar is meant for cooking and flavoring foods. 

Another option instead of vinegar is to use rubbing alcohol. The isopropyl alcohol will break down any built-up mildew or reside inside your diffuser.

For an extra boost of cleanliness, you can use Sparoom Klenzor Essential Oil Diffuser and Humidifier Cleaning Tablets.

Step #4: Swab/Rub Tight Spots

swab tight spots

Dip a cotton swab in vinegar and wipe the insides of the diffuser. Be sure to add small amounts of pressure in the harder to clean areas. Be sure not to push or rub too hard. Doing so will scratch the plastic.

Once you are done, pour out all of the liquid into your sink. 

Let the inside dry out before moving on to Step #5.

Step #5: Rinse And Run

turn on diffuser

Por tap, filtered, bottled, or distilled water back into the water tank. Distilled water is best. Plug in your diffuser into the electrical socket.

Turn on your diffuser and let it run for about 5 minutes.

Afterward, empty the water and let it dry.

Your diffuser is now clean and ready for normal use!

Step #6: Wipe The Diffuser Dry

This is an optional step. To make sure that there is no lingering residue or vinegar, you can use a soft cloth, such as a microfiber towel to pat dry the interior.

Remember not to push or rub too hard. Pat it dry to make sure you are not scratching the plastic. Once it is dry, your “like new” diffuser is ready for your favorite essential oils!

How Often Should You Clean Your Ultrasonic Diffuser

It depends on how regularly you use your diffuser and how dirty it is inside the water tank. If you use your aroma diffuser almost every day, then I suggest you clean it once every month. If you see hard water spots or mold stains before one month, then clean it every 2 weeks. Frequent cleaning will help keep your diffuser running normally and extend its life.

Troubleshooting Your Diffuser

Are you trying to figure out what is wrong with your diffuser? If cleaning it out did not work, there might be another issue with it. Below are some helpful steps you can take to address your malfunctioning diffuser.

  • Check the water level. Make sure you have the right amount of water in your diffuser. Too much or too little will cause it to malfunction.
  • Use the correct power adapter. Make sure your power adapter is the right kind.
  • Make sure the adapter is fully plugged in. Ensure your power adapter is securely plugged into the wall socket.
  • Secure the other side of the adapter. Check the other end of the power supply to make sure it is securely plugged in.
  • Test the power source. Make sure there is adequate power being supplied to the unit.

Want to get a better understanding of how diffusers actually work? Read our guide to find out the mechanics of your diffuser…

1 Comment

  1. Jenny

    I didn’t know about this. Thanks!

    Reply

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