How Long Do Oil Diffusers Last

If you have delved into the universe of aromatherapy, it is most likely that you have heard of oil diffusers and essential oils. Diffusion refers to any method, technique, or device that releases aromatic molecules into the air. It is an easy way to incorporate a beguiling yet prominent aroma to any space that allows you to personalize your blend. Besides, according to science, it is very healthy to diffuse specific blends as they can help fight unwanted germs, enhance your concentration, and alleviate insomnia. Furthermore, inhaling by diffusion is one of the easiest and most effective ways to benefits from using essential oils. Also, we firmly believe that it is the fastest way to get the oil into your bloodstream. However, in this article, we will talk explicitly about how long these oil diffusers last for and the various factors responsible for its longevity.

Let’s dive right in!!

Diffusion often requires a semi-permeable or porous medium. These media could be water, air, or other substances that will allow the passage of certain aromatic compounds. There is no exact science associated with diffusing; neither is there a known standard recommendation for how long you can distribute your oils. Although, the general practice is to spread your oils for about 15 to 20 minutes, which should be enough time to saturate a room-size space with scented molecules adequately. Here is a tip from us, It diffuses 4 to 6 drops of essential oil in water when using an ultrasonic diffuser and 6 to 12 drops when using a nebulizer depending on the note of the oil. However, we strongly recommend that you follow the manufacture’s instructions and then get creative with your oil. Remember, little drops of water make an ocean.

Modern-day diffusers now come with a timer that enables you to personalize your preferences. Here are a few factors that determine how long your oil diffusers will last.

  • The note of the oil
  • The environmental factor
  • The type of oil diffuser

The Note of the Oil

How Long do Oil Diffusers Last

Based on the type of notes, the different essential oil will stay in the air for a different time.

  • Top Notes

Essential oils that fall into this category usually evaporate between an hour or two. Examples of top notes oil are lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, cajuput, cinnamon, coriander, basil, bergamot, and an endless list of others.

  • Middle Notes

These groups of essential oils usually aromatically diffuse within two to four hours. Examples are geranium, rosemary, chamomile, bay, fennel, ho leaf, cardamon, black pepper, cypress, etc.

  • Heavy Base Notes

Heavy base note oils are usually diffuse within five hours or more, and they can remain in the air for days. Examples include cedarwood, myrrh, ginger, frankincense, and many more.

However, creating a balanced combination can boost the therapeutic benefit of using diffusion oil. Also, a balanced combination will make a scent last longer than usual. For instance, synergizing top notes with complementary base notes help to stabilize the more volatile top note chemical, thereby, increasing its longevity in air.

Environmental Factor

Environmental factors such as room temperature and air circulation rate can be vital determinants of how long your oil diffusers last long. In basic science, we were taught that the higher the temperature, the more rapid the molecules move. In this case, a warm or hot room will create more considerable excitement between the bonds of the aromatic molecules, thereby causing the diffusion rate to be high. We strongly advise you to add a few extra drops of your essential oil if you plan to diffuse it in a hot room. Furthermore, the case is the same if you plan to diffuse in a room with a highly powered HVAC system. The air conditioning system will vastly accelerate the spread of the aromatic molecules, releasing the scented molecules to vanish rather too quickly. In summary, rapid air movements will cause the scent to last for less time and vice versa.

Type of Oil Diffuser

The type of oil diffuser used will also play a significant role in the diffusion rate and how long it will last. We will discuss two major types of oil diffusers out there.

Ultrasonic Diffusers

How Long do Oil Diffusers Last 1

This is the most common oil diffuser in today’s market. The ultrasonic diffuser (view product) is very easy to use, as it depends on water to create a beautiful aromatic mist that diffuses into the air. All you have to do is fill the container with water, add few drops of essential oils, then press the mist button to do the job.

Advantages of Ultrasonic Diffuser

  • It requires little drops of essential oil to produce a subtle yet prominent aroma.
  • The ultrasonic diffuser also acts as a humidifier.
  • It requires occasional cleaning.

Disadvantages of Ultrasonic Diffuser

  • The aromatic scent molecules are diluted with water. Therefore, top notes such as peppermint oil, cinnamon oil, and citrus oil will be extremely volatile and have a faint scent. However, to get a stronger scent, you will have to add more drops of the oil or replace the top notes oil more frequently than usual.
  • Ultrasonic diffuser often requires water to operate. The availability of water can sometimes be challenging.


How Long do Oil Diffusers Last 2

The most potent oil diffuser out there is the Nebulizer (view product). It employs an electric pump to atomize the scent molecules, and spray them into the air. Nebulizer releases about 3 milliliters of oil per hour into the air, which is more than any other diffusing device. The Nebulizer comes with an automated system. All you have to do is put the essential oil, and this diffuser will do every other thing, unlike the ultrasonic diffuser, where you have to be conscious of the water level and the scent intensity.

Advantages of Nebulizer

  • Does not depend on water or heat to release the scent molecules into the air
  • It is highly recommended for therapeutic purposes

Disadvantages of Nebulizer

  • It is more expensive than other diffusers
  • It is easily breakable
  • It uses up your oil at an alarming rate.


When purchasing your oil diffuser, it is imperative to keep the factors that we have discussed in your mind. This will help you in making the right choice. Make sure you diffuse your oils in a well-ventilated area and ensure that whatever you are spreading is safe for children and pets.

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