A reed diffuser should feel effortless: a steady, elegant fragrance that quietly lifts the room from morning to evening. With a little care, you’ll get a cleaner, more consistent scent throw and better longevity.
Before you start
· Place your diffuser on a stable surface, away from pets and little hands.
· Protect delicate surfaces (wood, marble, painted finishes) with a small tray or coaster.
· Keep away from direct sunlight, radiators and other heat sources.
Set-up (for the best scent throw)
1. Remove the stopper and insert the reeds.
2. Allow the reeds to absorb the fragrance oil for 30–60 minutes.
3. For a stronger start, carefully flip the reeds once (see flipping guidance below).
How many reeds should you use?
Reed count controls intensity and longevity.
· Small rooms: start with fewer reeds for a softer scent.
· Medium rooms: use a standard number of reeds for balanced fragrance.
· Large rooms / open-plan: use more reeds, or place two diffusers in different areas for even coverage.
More reeds = stronger scent, but the diffuser will typically finish sooner.
How often should you flip the reeds?
Flipping refreshes the scent throw quickly.
· For everyday fragrance: flip reeds once a week (or every 10–14 days).
· For a lighter scent: flip less often, or reduce the number of reeds.
· For a stronger scent: flip more often, but expect reduced longevity.
How to flip reeds (without mess)
1. Wash and dry your hands.
2. Flip reeds one at a time.
3. Wipe any drips from the bottle neck.
Where to place your diffuser
Placement can make the difference between “subtle” and “noticeable.”
· Choose a spot with gentle airflow: near a doorway or on a console table works well.
· Avoid strong drafts (open windows, extractor fans) if you want maximum longevity.
· Avoid direct heat and sunlight to help preserve the fragrance.
How to make your diffuser last longer
· Keep it away from heat sources and sunny windowsills.
· Use fewer reeds if the scent is strong enough.
· Flip less frequently for a slower, steadier diffusion.
· Don’t shake the bottle.
When to replace reeds
Over time, reeds can become saturated or dusty, which reduces performance.
Replace the reeds if: - The scent throw noticeably drops even after flipping. - The reeds look dusty or discoloured. - You’re switching to a different fragrance.
Switching scents (best practice)
If you’re changing fragrance, it’s best to start fresh: - Use new reeds (always). - If reusing the vessel, wash thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before refilling.
Safety and surface care
· Diffuser oils can mark some surfaces. Always use a coaster or tray.
· Wipe spills immediately with a damp cloth.
· Keep away from flames and sources of ignition.
· Avoid contact with skin and eyes; wash hands after handling reeds.
Quick checklist
· Place away from heat and direct sunlight
· Adjust intensity with reed count
· Flip weekly (or less for a softer scent)
· Replace reeds when performance drops
· Use a tray/coaster to protect surfaces
Need help choosing the right diffuser?
If you’d like a recommendation by room size or fragrance family, explore our reed diffusers and find the scent that suits your space.