Taking good care of your oil diffuser helps it last longer and keeps the scents fresh. The easiest way to clean it is by using a mix of water and white vinegar. If you switch between oils often, regular cleaning helps the scents stay true. It’s important to know both how to clean it daily and how to do a deeper clean — let’s go over both.
But first, always check the instructions that came with your diffuser. Different models can be built differently and may need special care to keep the electronics from getting wet. Just like when cleaning a humidifier, be careful where the water drains so it doesn’t get into the air vent or power plug. And never put your whole diffuser in water.
How to Clean Your Oil Diffuser Regularly
After using your diffuser, always pour out any leftover water. If water sits too long, it can cause build-up, and leftover oil can mix with new scents and change the smell next time you use it.
Mix equal parts water and white vinegar to clean the empty water tank and the mist opening. Then wipe everything dry with a cloth or cotton ball, and let the diffuser fully air dry before putting it back together.
Next time you use it, the scent will smell its best.
How to Deep Clean Your Oil Diffuser
If you often use the same oil for a long time without cleaning your diffuser, it needs a deeper clean. You should also deep clean it if water has been sitting inside for a while. (It’s okay — it happens!)
First, unplug your diffuser and pour out any leftover water, following the instructions that came with it.
Fill the diffuser halfway with clean water and add a teaspoon of white vinegar. Let it run for 5–10 minutes so the vinegar can clean the inside. Then pour out the water.
Wash any removable parts, like the mist vent, with warm water and dish soap. Then dry them completely.
To clean the water tank, first wipe the inside surfaces with a cloth dipped in equal parts water and white vinegar. Then use a cotton swab dipped in white vinegar to gently clean the misting chip and remove any build-up on the sides.
Let the whole diffuser air dry before using it again. This helps get rid of the vinegar smell. Once it’s dry, you can fill it with fresh water and your favorite oils.
