www.marissa.co DIY Reed Diffuser Refill Recipe

DIY Reed Diffuser Refill Recipe

This month I had a self-imposed moratorium on ingredients shopping. I wanted to clean out my freezer, cupboards, and rethink anything that finished, and assess if a replacement was needed—or if I looked around the house and through the cupboards, I would find a replacement for it. I only bought bought milk, bread, fruit, vegetables, and a bit of protein.

Today though, my reed diffusers ran out. So, could I make a DIY version with what I have indoors?

I did a quick online search, and the recipes were aplenty. I am obviously late to the DIY reed diffuser refill party.

There are two DIY methods. One where you can use a carrier oil, distilled water, and scent, or the other you can use rubbing alcohol/vodka and your scent. I opted for the rubbing alcohol base, as in theory, these ingredients would be easier to clean and change fragrances.

I had rubbing alcohol indoors and a wonderful Habitat Geranium Basil Oil. I love it; it makes the air feel clean and smells so crisp.

Using 100ml of rubbing alcohol, which I divided between two diffusers, I added 10 drops of Habitat Geranium Basil Oil to each container.  I swirled the mixture around with my reeds—nothing vigorous, just a little stir. I turned the reeds over and had a sniff to see if I could smell the scent. I was able to achieve the desired scent, so I didn’t need to add any more. If I had needed to, I would have added five additional drops of scent. The good news is that after 30 minutes, I could already smell the fragrance, especially in my small downstairs loo. Every time I pass the diffusers, I turn over the sticks until they are completely saturated.

I called my local pharmacy to see if they sold rubbing alcohol and sadly, you can no longer purchase rubbing alcohol from pharmacies—although you have to buy it online.

I must say, I was felt good to use what I had indoors, not add add to landfill by topping up the diffusers with shop bought refills, and my rooms are gently scented without any potent chemicals.

So next time you think you need something, do a quick online search and see if there’s a homemade recipe using what you already have in the house. Just a little cautionary note: always clean out containers well, as mixing chemicals together can cause chemical  reactions.

DIY Reed Diffuser Refill Recipe
 
A quick, effective and easy way to refill your reed diffuser using just two ingredients.
Marissa:
Ingredients
  • 100ml rubbing alcohol (or vodka)
  • 10 drops of essential oil (e.g., Habitat Geranium Basil Oil)
  • empty reeds diffuser or a glass container and wooden skewers
  • If needed, add 5 additional drops of essential oil
Method
  1. Divide the 100ml of rubbing alcohol between two diffuser containers (50ml in each).
  2. Add 10 drops of your chosen essential oil to each container.
  3. Gently swirl the mixture with the reeds to combine—no need for vigorous stirring.
  4. Flip the reeds over to help the scent diffuse.
  5. Test the strength of the scent by having a little sniff. If needed, add 5 additional drops of essential oil to each container and repeat the swirling process.
  6. Place the diffusers in your desired locations and enjoy the scent.
Tips
If using vodka, opt for a neutral variety.
Always clean diffuser containers thoroughly before refilling to avoid chemical reactions or lingering scents.
Experiment with different essential oils to create your own custom fragrance blends.
Give using what you have indoors a try—it really gives you a great feel-good boost.

Happy homemade reed differ refill making.

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