Although these machines come in several different varieties, their purpose remains the same: to disperse an essential oil's fragrance through the air. By simply breathing the air, aromatherapists and holistic health practitioners believe that you can absorb the oil's properties, from relaxing lavender to energizing peppermint. (Not sure what you're looking for? Check out our guide to essential oils and their properties.)
For the record: A few small studies have found that certain diffused essential oils can help repel bugs and decrease anxiety, but the research on aromatherapy's health benefits remains relatively limited. That said, a great-smelling home never hurt anyone.
Ahead, we've rounded up our favorite diffusers for anyone looking to imbue their living space with the restorative vibes of their choice, whether they're relaxing or invigorating ones. Read on to figure out which diffuser is right for you.
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The Starter Diffuser
This diffuser is about as straightforward as they come. Ultra-quiet and compact, it can infuse a room with a scent of your choice for up to six hours.
Serene House Ranger Essential Oil Diffuser, $, available at Urban Outfitters
The Timed Diffuser
You set your coffee maker to switch on when you wake, so why not have an essential oil diffuser that does the same? This Grove Collaborative model can be set for continuous misting over 4 to 5 hours, or for 1-, 2-, or 3-hour intervals.
Grove Co. Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Diffuser - LED Light Levels and Timer Settings, $, available at Grove Collaborative
The Mini Diffuser
Almost out of sight, but definitely not out of mind. This giftable set comes with one sleek Pura diffuser (which plugs into a wall outlet) and two refill pods of fragrance brand Capri Blue's Volcano scent.
Pura Home Diffuser X Capri Blue Volcano Starter Kit, $, available at Ulta
The Bamboo Diffuser
In addition to the mood-boosting effects that accompany any diffuser, the tranquil design of this compact bamboo device seamlessly blends into your room's decor and adds a touch of elevated simplicity to any room.
Syntus Essential Oil Diffuser, Real Bamboo Diffuser 160ml, $, available at Amazon
The Combo Humidifier-Diffuser
This no-mist diffuser does double duty as a humidifier, making it a perfect pick for the dry winter months, when your sinuses and skin are constantly craving hydration.
Canopy Humidifier Starter Set, $, available at Violet Grey
The On-The-Go Diffuser
This cupholder-friendly, USB-chargeable diffuser was made for long rides in the car, when the air can start to feel a little stale. Whether you like a continuous or intermittent mist, you can enjoy your preferred fragrance for hours on end — your next road trip just got a lot more relaxing.
Campo Travel Diffuser, $, available at Nordstrom
The High-Tech Diffuser
In addition to being a high-end, ultrasonic essential oil diffuser, this Alexa-enabled model can be hyper-customized based on your room size and schedule with an accompanying app. In other words, say bye to cloying, overpowering scents and hello to an elevated olfactory experience.
Aera Aera Diffuser, $, available at Aera
The Illuminated Diffuser
If you're going for the Lana-from-Too Hot To Handle look, we've got you covered. This diffuser boasts seven changing LED lights, on top of its continuous run time of three hours and automatic shut-off feature.
SpaRoom PureMist™ Directional Mist Ultrasonic Diffuser, $, available at Bed Bath & Beyond
The Ceramic Diffuser
At this point, it's almost as if Vitruvi invented diffusers. Behold, the simple yet stunning ceramic diffuser that took the world by storm.
Vitruvi Porcelain Essential Oil Diffuser, $, available at Nordstrom
The Nebulizing Diffuser
Nebulizing diffusers are said to keep essential oils in their "purest" form while dispersing them, which basically means that this variety of diffuser doesn't dilute or break down oils to the extent that others do. With that in mind, this isn't a great pick if your favorite oils tend to be thicker or more viscous (like vetiver oil), as these can easily clog nebulizing diffusers.
Organic Aromas Raindrop - Nebulizing Diffuser®, $, available at Organic Aromas
The Aesthetic Diffuser
Is it a diffuser, or a dramatic sculpture? We would expect nothing less from the result of Saje's collab with Kourtney Kardashian's wellness destination, Poosh.
Saje Positively Poosh White Diffuser Kit, $, available at Saje
The Desk-Friendly Diffuser
If you need a calming scent to get through your workday (and your nearby deskmates don't mind a little fragrance in the air), this near-silent, terrazzo-printed diffuser is an excellent choice.
Project 62 100ml Mini Terrazzo Diffuser, $, available at Target
The Status Diffuser
This diffuser-meets-objet-d'art allows you to infuse any space with Diptyque's most storied scents. (House hits include Baies, Ambre, Figuier, and more.) Plus, the sculpted body and window accent make this an especially elegant pick for your bedroom or living area.
Diptyque Un Air de diptyque: Home Electric diffuser, $, available at Diptyque
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