Diffuser FAQ's

We want you to love every scented moment of your room diffuser. We have compiled a list of FAQ’s to help put your mind at ease and ensure you get the most out of your diffuser experience. If your questions aren’t answered below, just drop us an email

How do reed diffusers work?

There are 3 main components to a room diffuser – a vessel, a set of reeds and the oil. The reeds are porous with microscopic channels that absorb the oil and push it up to the top of the stick. Once it gets to the end the scent is emitted creating a beautiful ambience for you to relax in. And when you go to bed you don't need to worry about blowing them out or switching the power off. Reed diffusers are a no flame no plug-in alternative, you simply add the reeds to the fragrance oil and the rest takes care of itself.

What are the advantages of Apsley’s reed diffusers?

Unique to Apsley and Company is our superior library of designer fragrances, developed by working closely with world renowned international perfumers using the same premium quality elements found in designer perfumes.

Containing no water, and a minimal amount of ethanol derived from the cassava plant, ensures our diffusers’ long-lasting effectiveness. The superior formulation is totally free of artificial colouring and a no animal testing policy is applied to all our products and their ingredients.

Our diffusers are not only stunning in scent but also in vessel design. Each piece is carefully crafted by an artisan to become a treasured part of your home décor.

We are always looking to develop and extend our ranges so you will never be bored. The next inspiration is just round the corner.

Are your room diffusers good value?

It truly is a case of you get what you pay for. We use only the finest fragrance formulations. Cheaper solutions tend to contain more water and therefore the fragrance will evaporate much quicker, you will just be left with unfragranced liquid in the bottle.

The diffusers you may consider to be expensive actually aren't if you work out longevity vs price. Our superior fragrance solution will not only perform much better but will evaporate at a reduced rate. Abode Aroma, Apsley and Company and Scented Space diffusers last for anything from 4 to 9 months depending on the volume, if you break that down to $/day it really is a few cents. They truly are good value.

Why aren’t they 100% natural oil diffusers?

We include 10% alcohol as this lifts the fragrance ensuring a heightened sense of smell. Our long-established blend of 10% alcohol and 90% fragrance oil is ideal for delivering the best scent performance and longevity.

What should I look for when selecting a diffuser? (or) How do I choose a reed diffuser?
  • Fragrance - Fragrance is very personal. The best advice to give is to choose a scent that compliments your space, the mood you would like to create, and something you know you will like! Choose something that resonates with you and gives you pleasure.
  • Fragrance Formula - Alcohol based diffusers evaporate much faster than oil-based diffusers. They also lose their fragrance after a short time so all you will be left with is a vessel of unscented liquid.
  • Reeds - Rattan tends to perform better than bamboo as they are not hollow but have around 20 channels inside the stem that absorb oil from the bottom and slowly permeate the scent into the room.
  • Looking Good - As well as fragrance, aesthetics are also important. You can choose a vessel that makes a statement and becomes a key piece in your room or opt for a more subtle approach where it sits in a room unnoticed whilst giving out a magical scent.
  • Vessel Shape - the vessel design does impact the evaporation rate of a fragrance so if you're looking for longevity you would be better to opt for a bottle with a narrow neck reducing the amount of fragrance loss through the opening.
  • Size & Quantity - Bottle size is key - a 120ml would be ideal for a bathroom or study, whereas kitchens and spacious bedrooms may need a 200 or 300ml vessel. Consider the size of the room you want to fragrance. For large open spaces like the lounge you may need two diffusers to make an impact, place them on opposite sides/diagonal corners of the room to create a balanced fragrance.
How long will a diffuser last?

As a guide, our 100ml/140ml diffusers last up to 4 months and our 200ml/230ml up to 6 months but there are a number of factors that can affect this.

  • Oil formulation - The more water there is within a solution the quicker the oil will evaporate. Apsley and Company's superior fragrance formulation contains no added water and therefore they will last longer than a standard room diffuser solution.
  • The environment - the climate of your room is a large contributor - hot, dry or air-conditioned spaces will increase the evaporation rate.
  • Fragrance natural base - Deep woody fragrances like Abode Aroma’s Amber Mahogany, or the Neroli Teak fragrance of Scented Space, will last longer than fragrances with fresh citrus or aquatic fragrances like Apsley and Company’s Santorini.
How many reeds should I put in the bottle?

You determine the strength of the scent by reducing or increasing the number of sticks you put in the bottle.

The number of reeds depends entirely on the strength of scent you want in your room. For optimum fragrance performance and impact we recommend you use all the reeds provided. However, if for any reason you wanted to control the fragrance just remove a few sticks to help get the right fragrance balance for you.

Can I refill a diffuser?

Absolutely, just follow these simple steps:

  • Ensure the oil has fully evaporated as it is strongly recommended you do not pour oil down drains.
  • Throw away the old reeds, they will be totally saturated with fragrance and performance will be hindered.
  • Wash the bottle thoroughly. Simply use dishwashing liquid and hot water - you may need to soak it for longer to ensure it is totally fragrance-free (especially if you are going to use a new scent).
  • Don't be tempted to dilute the oil with water. It will just separate from the oil and sink to the bottom of the vessel.
  • With this in mind, ensure the bottle is totally dry and fragrance free before adding the new oil
  • Then just add the oil and new reed sticks.
  • Your diffuser is as good as new and ready to go!
Can I buy refills from Apsley and Company?

You absolutely can!

To replenish your diffuser, we offer a collection of refills in our Abode Aroma and Apsley and Company reed diffuser collections! Like our candle ranges our design-driven fragrance diffuser vessels are carefully crafted to be used over and over again, and our finest quality fragrances produced to be continuously enjoyed.

You can go for your all-time favourite or mix it up a little and try something totally new!

Can I dilute the diffuser with water to make it last longer?

Please don't be tempted to dilute the oil with water you won’t get any benefit from it. Just like balsamic vinegar and oil, it will separate from the oil and sink to bottom of the vessel. Once the oil has fully diffused you will be left with water.

Why did my diffuser change colour?

Our diffusers are free from artificial colours. The colour change is caused by the fact the essential oils in the fragrance darken over time. This can also be enhanced by exposure to elements such as sunlight and heat. Please don't worry it is a natural occurrence and will not change the fragrance, however it might decrease the longevity of the product.

Why can’t I smell the fragrance?
  • You can become accustomed to a scent the longer you have it. Your nose may be used to the fragrance whereas visitors may be able to get a strong aroma.
  • Try flipping the reed sticks, this exposes the oil saturated ends which immediately release fresh fragrance.
  • Smell is a unique thing and people's noses pick up different fragrance notes at different levels of strength. You may need to change the type of fragrance you go for.
Where is the best place to put a diffuser?
  • Where you place your diffuser can affect the speed of evaporation. The hotter and drier the environment the quicker the diffuser will evaporate so avoid direct exposure to air conditioning, sunny windows, heat sources.
  • On a flat and secure surface avoiding wood/natural tops.
  • In a place with traffic flow, like a hallway. As we walk past we create an airflow which will help circulate the scent, the fragrance also acts as a warming welcome to guests.
  • Out of reach of children and pets.
  • Fragrance oils can be flammable (please refer to the diffuser packaging) so ensure you avoid anything that could be potentially hazardous.
Are there any special precautions I need to take when using my diffuser?
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets.
  • If you have perfume sensitivity use caution when using this product.
  • Place the diffuser on a coaster to protect surfaces.
  • Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces. Do not light the diffuser reeds.
  • Do not ingest the diffuser oil and avoid contact with your eyes.
  • Do not pour oil down the drain, it is not suitable for groundwater.

We also include a list of cautions and safety hints on all our packaging for your reference.

Why should I flip the reed sticks?

Reed sticks breath fragrance into the room, as they do this the reeds will start to dry out. By flipping your sticks you will expose the saturated end to the air and the newly immersed end can start to absorb more fragrance, ready for its next rotation! If you do this every two weeks or so, the diffuser performance will be magnified and you will have a constant scent during the diffuser's life.

How often should I flip the reeds?

This is simply down to the level of fragrance you want in your space so there is no right or wrong answer. At Apsley and Company we recommend once a week to ensure a zjoosh of fragrance in your room. For a more subtle scent turn the sticks less often.

How often do I change the sticks (or) How long do sticks work for?

Top quality reeds like ours should really last for the diffuser oil's full lifespan. However, if you feel your sticks are fully saturated/clogged and no longer releasing fragrance it wouldn't do any harm to replace them. When you do take the old ones out of the container, never place them on any polished wooden or natural surfaces as the oil can cause marks/damage.

Can I reuse my sticks?

I'm afraid it's a no. Once reeds are totally saturated with oil, they will not be able to pull the scent up the channels. Also, if you were to put them into a different fragrance the reeds will be holding the original fragrance and would not disperse the new fragrance.

How do I dispose of fragrance oil remnants?

The chemical composition of scented oil varies between brands and fragrances. We strongly recommend you don't dispose of fragrance oils, just let it run its course and fully evaporate into the atmosphere.

They should not be poured down the drain as the solution is not suitable for groundwater or waterways. Packaging on your reed diffuser will highlight any environmental/hazard issues.

What should I do if I knock over the diffuser?

Be cautious when placing or moving a room diffuse and when flipping your sticks. Oils can remove the finish of some surfaces., particularly on wood and fabric surfaces. However, accidents do happen so for spillages act as soon as you can:

Carpets:
  • Soak up the excess oil with non-flammable absorbent material like a paper towel.
  • Put cat litter, corn starch or baking soda over the spill to absorb any remaining oil.
  • Leave for 15-30 minutes.
  • Use a dry paper towel to push the powder onto a dustpan and put in your bin.
  • Cover the remaining spill with dish washing liquid.
  • Get a warm wet sponge and scrub the spill.
  • Rinse in hot water, scrub again and continue you to do this until the oil is removed.
Walls:
  • Dish soap should be fine if you act immediately and the oil’s not soaked into the wall to leave a stain.
  • For stains that have been left for a few hours try White Wine Vinegar. For longer a corn starch/baking soda paste.
  • Wipe off the oil with a warm, wet cloth.
  • Apply a few drops of dish soap and scrub off all remaining oil.
Wood:
  • Timing is key with this one as oil stains wood pretty quickly.
  • Try any of the cleansers discussed and if not successful try something a little more hard core like mineral spirits or lacquer thinners
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