Aromatherapy can be just the right tool to use for an energetic morning wake-up, a midday pick-me-up, or a soothing bedtime routine. An essential oil diffuser allows you to get the benefits of spa-like aromatherapy right in the walls of your home at an affordable price. By releasing small amounts of essential oil into the air with an essential oil diffuser, you benefit from the natural mood-lifting properties of your oils while breathing them in safely.
We reviewed dozens of essential oil diffusers to identify the best of the best. Some of the features we considered in our search included price, size of the diffusers, coverage ability, operating time, lights, power source, and noise level. Although everyone’s needs for an essential oil diffuser differ, we believe these features are among the most important, and we chose our top five based on this search criteria.
Because of its stylish look, moderate water capacity, and long-lasting six-hour operation ability, we chose the Pure Daily Care Essential Oil Diffuser as our top pick. This diffuser has seven light settings that give your room a colorful, calming ambiance. The diffuser also doubles as a humidifier with its soothing steam emitting your favorite essential oils. You’ll even get 10 of the brand’s most popular essential oils with your diffuser to get you started.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Essential Oil Diffusers
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Essential Oil Diffuser Overall | Pure Daily Care Essential Oil Diffuser | 4.4 |
| Best Essential Oil Diffuser for Large Spaces | ASAKUKI 1500ml Essential Oil Diffuser | 4.3 |
| Best Budget Essential Oil Diffuser | URPOWER Essential Oil Diffuser | 4.4 |
| Best Glass Essential Oil Diffuser | Aroma Outfitters Essential Oil Diffuser | 4.5 |
| Best Ultrasonic Essential Oil Diffuser | EQUSUPRO Ultrasonic Cool Mist Essential Oil Diffuser | 4.4 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Essential Oil Diffuser Overall: Pure Daily Care Essential Oil Diffuser
As an all-around essential oil diffuser, the Pure Daily Care Essential Oil Diffuser takes the cake. This diffuser has just about every feature you could want in one designed for medium spaces, including a seven-color ambient lighting option, four timer options, and a beautiful wood-grain design. It also needs a low amount of power to operate, and its operation is quiet, making it perfect for a bedroom. Pure Daily Care even includes its ten most popular essential oils to start building your collection if you haven’t already.
If you’re new to essential oil diffusers, this one won’t throw you for a loop. Its operation is simple with front buttons to control the operating time and lights. You can choose between one hour, three hours, six hours, or non-stop usage, and the diffuser will automatically shut off when it detects low water levels for safety.
Pure Daily Care Essential Oil Diffuser Key Features:
- Ten essential oils included
- Wood-grain style
- BPA-free plastic
- Low-noise operation
- No-light option
Best Essential Oil Diffuser for Large Spaces: ASAKUKI 1500ml Essential Oil Diffuser
When you have a large space, like a living room or den, to cover, you’ll need an essential oil diffuser with a large water capacity and a steaming process that can cover large spaces. The ASAKUKI 1500ml Essential Oil Diffuser is one of the best options for large rooms with its 1500-mL water tank that allows it to operate for up to 20 hours without needing to refill it with water. When the unit does need water, it will automatically shut off for your safety.
This diffuser comes with seven LED lights that are ambient instead of bright to put you in a relaxed mood before bedtime. You can switch between auto-changing colors or a fixed color setting if you find one that you like. With an operation of less than 35 dB, the ASAKUKI diffuser is much quieter than others its size.Â
ASAKUKI 1500ml Essential Oil Diffuser Key Features:
- Water level window for monitoring
- One year of technical support
- Up to 20 hours of operation with low-mist setting
- Mist-control dial
- Rotatable mist outlet
Best Budget Essential Oil Diffuser: URPOWER Essential Oil Diffuser
The URPOWER Essential Oil Diffuser is an affordable option for people who have small spaces to cover for a few hours. The URPOWER diffuser can work for up to six hours and is ideal for small living spaces and bedrooms. Its seven color LED lights bring calmness to a room. You can switch between the colors or leave it on your favorite one using the buttons in the front of the machine.
You can also use this diffuser with no lights or use it only with lights, allowing it to double as a nightlight when you don’t need to diffuse your oils. When the water runs out, the unit will shut off automatically. To keep it running longer, press the Mist button twice to switch to an intermittent mist. Customers have left thousands of positive reviews for this essential oil diffuser with many of them mentioning how effective its coverage is in small spaces.
URPOWER Essential Oil Diffuser Key Features:
- Two mist strengths
- Intermittent misting option
- Quiet operation
- Changing or steady light settings
- 100-mL capacity
Best Glass Essential Oil Diffuser: Aroma Outfitters Essential Oil Diffuser
Glass essential oil diffusers are some of the most eye-catching, which is helpful if you’re looking to add extra style to your home. The Aroma Outfitters Essential Oil Diffuser has a smooth round glass globe with galaxy lighting that can turn your space into a room full of stars. You can choose between continuous running mode or one, three, or six hours of runtime. The diffuser will shut off automatically when the water runs low.
The majority of reviewers who have bought this diffuser give it positive remarks. A common praise is that the mist shoots steadily from the top of the diffuser, creating an elegant stream that doesn’t hit nearby furniture, electronics, or appliances. Customers also love its lights, which bring a calm glow to a room rather than overwhelming it with bright lighting.
Aroma Outfitters Essential Oil Diffuser Key Features:
- 3D glass
- Money-back guarantee
- Auto shut-off function
- 200-mL tank
- Runs up to eight hours on continuous mode
Best Ultrasonic Essential Oil Diffuser: EQUSUPRO Ultrasonic Cool Mist Essential Oil Diffuser
The EQUSUPRO Ultrasonic Cool Mist Essential Oil Diffuser has an ultrasonic operation using water and steam to create a mist that disperses essential oil particles within a room. A unique feature of this diffuser, though, is its cooler mist that emits from the top, which can be a safer option for homes with children or pets around. You can refill water from the top, too, so there’s no need to unplug the machine and bring it to the sink to refill.
This diffuser also has a distinctive style with its outer tree pattern that allows the colorful changing lights to shine through. You can cycle through all seven colors to find your favorite or leave it on a continuous color-changing mode. You can also choose between bright and dim lighting to suit your mood.Â
EQUSUPRO Ultrasonic Cool Mist Essential Oil Diffuser Key Features:
- Top-filling water tank
- 24-month guarantee
- Continuous or intermittent mist
- Compact 6-inch height
- BPA-free
Who Should Buy Essential Oil Diffusers
People who want to find a natural way to de-stress, relax, and take in the benefits of aromatherapy will probably find an essential oil diffuser helpful for their everyday needs. An essential oil diffuser can be an excellent addition to a foot spa, massage chair, and anything else you use for your at-home spa routine. Not only can essential oils diffused into the air help purify the air, but they can also get you into a calm state of mind for ultimate relaxation.
Unlike many air fresheners, essential oil diffusers don’t release harmful chemicals into the air. These chemicals can be dangerous for adults and children, and they may even be toxic to pets. Essential oil diffusers release the power of pure and natural essential oils into the room, so you get their natural benefits in a safe way.
Important Features to Consider
An essential oil diffuser should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting an essential oil diffuser for your home:
- Noise level. Some essential oil diffusers are louder than others, which can be a potential problem if you’ll use it in a bedroom while sleeping. Check the dB (decibel) level on the diffusers you’re considering. It’s best to look for ones that produce no more than 30 dB if you plan to use it to sleep with.
- Room size. Whether you have a small or large room in which you’ll use your diffuser, you’ll want a diffuser to match it. Most diffusers have a maximum square footage they’ll cover, but extra-large spaces of 300 square feet or more might warrant the use of two units.
- Operation time. You may want your essential oil diffuser to continue operating for a few hours. If so, look for one that’s large enough to hold enough water for an extended period of time. Some diffusers are only designed to operate for one to two hours and will shut off automatically after that time.
- Diffuser type. There are a few types of essential oil diffusers on the market. Perhaps the most common, an ultrasonic diffuser uses water and its steam to disperse the oil into the air. These diffusers create a fine mist like a humidifier, which can be helpful in battling colds and sinus ailments. Another popular type of diffuser is a nebulizing diffuser, which sends essential oil particles into the air with an atomizer. Because they don’t need another liquid to move the oil, your essential oils remain at full strength.
- Lights. If your diffuser comes with a light function, you can use it as a night light or to create a calming, spa-like atmosphere in any room. Some diffusers come with just one light color while others offer multiple colors to switch between.
- Power type. Most essential oil diffusers use electrical power plugged into an outlet, but some have portable designs powered by disposable or rechargeable batteries. Battery-powered diffusers are easy to move from room to room, but they’re often much smaller and not as powerful as electric diffusers.
- Style. Essential oil diffusers are available in a range of styles to match the decor of your home. You can find diffusers made from glass, wood, or plastic, and in various shapes and sizes.Â
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an essential oil diffuser and how does it work?
An essential oil diffuser releases essential oil particles in the air for you to smell and breathe in. Most essential oil diffusers are ultrasonic diffusers that require water to operate. This type heats the water and disperses the oil into the air through steam. A nebulizing diffuser doesn’t use water. Instead, this diffuser creates smaller particles out of the oil using an atomizer, creating a full-strength release of the oil.
What is the purpose of an essential oil diffuser?
Essential oils may be harmful to inhale directly into the body through the respiratory system. However, a diffuser’s purpose is to turn essential oil drops into smaller particles that are more gentle on your body when they enter. You can think of it like diluting the oil to allow you to inhale it safely and still reap the benefits of the essential oil, such as mental clarity, mood-lifting, and calmness.
Can you leave an essential oil diffuser on overnight?
Many experts recommend only using an essential oil diffuser on a limited basis because inhaling too much oil for an extended period of time may be harmful. However, some diffusers are designed to emit low strengths of oil for a longer period of time, which could be better for overnight use. Be sure to read the recommended usage instructions for your diffuser’s operation and oil strengths before leaving it on overnight.
What size essential oil diffuser do I need?
Most essential oil diffusers come with a maximum recommended room size. Generally, smaller diffusers may not cover large spaces as well as a larger diffuser with more strength can. You can usually determine the area size your diffuser will cover based on its capacity measured in milliliters (mL). A 100-150 mL diffuser is usually a good bet for small rooms, while medium rooms may need 300 mL or more. Large spaces work best with diffusers that hold 500 mL or more.
Other Essential Oil Diffusers We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other essential oil diffusers. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best essential oil diffusers list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your home. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Essential Oil Diffusers with Lights
- Portable Essential Oil Diffusers
- Battery Operated Essential Oil Diffusers
- Essential Oil Diffusers for Large Spaces
Essential Oil Diffusers with Lights
ASAKUKI Essential Oil Diffuser
The modern cube shape of this essential oil diffuser paired with its unique lighting will make it look great in any room, while its large capacity allows it to cover large spaces well.
Key Features:
- 700-mL capacity
- Seven colors
- Automatic shut-off
Cost: $29
BlueHills Premium Essential Oil Diffuser
A color-changing top and wood-grain base give a unique look to this essential oil diffuser. You can have the lights stay on your favorite color or let them rotate on their own.
Key Features:
- Multiple mist settings
- Seven LED light colors
- Continuous mode setting
Cost: $30
HEUNG HOI Essential Oil Diffuser
This dome-shaped diffuser emits space-like lighting that bounces off the ceilings and walls of a dark room – perfect for a bedroom nightlight.
Key Features:
- 100-mL tank
- 30-day refund guarantee
- Seven LED colors
Cost: $26
Pure Enrichment PureSpa Essential Oil Diffuser
This diffuser cycles through four colors with a soft glow, or you can opt to shut the lights off to keep your space darkened.
Key Features:
- Quiet operation
- Covers up to 250 square feet
- Two-year warranty
Cost: $30
PUSEAYZ Essential Oil Diffuser
Ambient lighting shines behind the picturesque art on this essential oil diffuser, creating a soothing view as you enjoy aromatherapy with your favorite essential oils.
Key Features:
- Seven soft-glow light colors
- Four operation time settings
- 100-mL capacity
Cost: $22
Portable Essential Oil Diffusers
Actpe Portable Travel-Size Diffuser
This small diffuser is close to being pocket-sized, which makes it perfect for moving anywhere you need it around the home without needing to find a spot to plug it in.
Key Features:
- Two-touch controls
- USB and AC adapter compatible
- 100-ml capacity
Cost: $23
CkeyiN Mini Essential Oil Diffuser Â
You can recharge this diffuser’s battery with a USB cable when it runs low, so you won’t need to stock up on batteries to get it to keep working.
Key Features:
- Seven light colors
- Two misting strengths
- Quiet operation
Cost: $19
MADETEC Ultrasonic Car Diffuser for Essential Oils
This diffuser is not only portable, but it’s also small in size, which makes it perfect for use on small end tables or nightstands.
Key Features:
- Ultrasonic
- BPA-free
- Auto shut-off with low water
Cost: $19
MissRhea Mini USB Essential Oil Diffuser
The unique design of this mini and portable diffuser makes it convenient for you to store in a purse or bag to take with you when and where you need it.
Key Features:
- USB charged
- Seven colorful light options
- Tap to operate
Cost: $16
weljoy Portable Diffuser for Essential Oils
This tiny square diffuser needs no water. Instead, place a few drops of your favorite oil on the absorbing pad, and it’ll release the particles into the air in your home, car, or office.
Key Features:
- Waterless operation
- Rechargeable battery
- Runs up to 5.5 hours
Cost: $20
Battery Operated Essential Oil Diffusers
The Air Wick Essential Mist diffuses the brand’s own essential oils and blends and uses only three AAA batteries to draw power and scent your home.
Key Features:
- Batteries included
- No-water operation
- Refills last up to 45 days
Cost: $16
AromaAllure Essential Oil Diffuser
This simplistically-styled diffuser uses a quiet fan operation instead of water and heat to offer gentle aromatherapy with your favorite oils.
Key Features:
- Quiet operation
- Uses three AAA batteries
- Small size
Cost: $22
Scentcares Essential Oil Diffuser
You’ll get up to 50 hours of runtime on a single charge with this essential oil diffuser from Scentcares, leaving you using less time charging its battery and more time to focus on aromatherapy.
Key Features:
- White or black design
- Large 2000 mAh rechargeable battery
- Auto shut-off when water is low
Cost: $50
SpaRoom Aromafier Essential Oil Diffuser
You can choose to power this diffuser with a USB cable or switch to battery power when you need to take it with you.
Key Features:
- Compact model
- Uses absorbing oil padsÂ
- Quiet fan operation
Cost: $17
Weftnom Essential Oil Diffuser
This diffuser may be small, but its fragrance emission is mighty, utilizing a rechargeable battery and molecular diffusion to keep your space infused with essential oil.
Key Features:
- Waterless
- Quiet operation
- Automatically shuts off after two hours
Cost: $26
Essential Oil Diffusers for Large Spaces
BlueHills Premium 2000 ML XL Large Essential Oil Diffuser
This large diffuser has the capacity and power to run for up to 40 hours consistently when you use the low mist setting.
Key Features:
- Woodgrain base
- Waterless shut-off
- 2200-mL water tank capacity
Cost: $40
Homasy 4.5L Cool Mist Humidifier
This cool mist humidifier from Homasy can run with essential oils added to double its benefits with aromatherapy and is designed to cover spaces of more than 530 square feet.
Key Features:
- Runs at 28 dB
- Night mode turns light off
- Up to 30 hours of runtime
Cost: $40
Mixigoo 1000ML Essential Oil Diffuser
With its 1000-mL tank capacity, this Mixigoo essential oil diffuser can cover large rooms and run for several hours using the high mist setting.
Key Features:
- Up to 30 hours of continuous runtime
- BPA-free
- High and low misting functions
Cost: $33
YHW 1900 mL Large Essential Oil Diffuser Humidifier
The unique design of this essential oil diffuser makes it possible to have a 1900-mL tank and cover a large space to add aromatherapy and moist air to almost any room in your home.
Key Features:
- Three mist level settings
- Soft night light
- One-year guarantee
Cost: $38
Exqline Essential Oil Diffuser
Seven LED colors rotate with a soft glow in this essential oil diffuser while its large tank creates continuous mists to scent large rooms.
Key Features:
- 1500-mL tank
- Up to 20 hours of operation
- One-year warranty
Cost: $43
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