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17 Best Aromatherapy Diffusers to Give You All the Zen Vibes
Inhale the essential oils, exhale the BS.
Let's be real: life can get stressful sometimes! And while changing your environment isn't the solution for everything (sadly), sometimes small tweaks to your space can help you feel more relaxed. Something as small as lighting your favorite candle or tending to your plant collection can put you in a better state of mind. Or you can turn to aromatherapy to help you chill out a little bit. To help you upgrade the vibes of your space, we've rounded up a bunch of aromatherapy diffusers (sometimes also called essential oil diffusers) that will make any room smell and feel amazing.
Research suggests that inhaling essential oils can be helpful in alleviating pain, improving a person's mood, and promoting relaxation (which can also help you get better sleep!). Good stuff, right? One common way to reap the benefits of aromatherapy is by having an essential oil diffuser in your space. There are tons of them on the market, including humidifiers that can be used with essential oils, reed diffusers, and oil nebulizers. Luckily for you, many of our top picks for essential oil diffusers can be found on Amazon, so you'll be up and running in no time.
Our picks for the best aromatherapy diffusers in 2023:
From super affordable aromatherapy diffusers to luxe ones that might as well be placed in an art gallery, here are our picks for the best essential oil diffusers to shop in 2023.
HLS Aroma Diffuser
Pros
- Seven lighting options
- Turns off when water runs out
Cons
- Not wireless
This gorgeous essential oil diffuser gets tons of love on Amazon. Reviewers love the varied timer settings, the fact that it's quiet, and the unit's ability to function as a humidifier in small rooms.
THE REVIEW: I really like the automatic "off" feature after a prescribed period of time or if the the water level reaches the minimum level. It is extremely quiet, and provides a restful background sound for sleeping.
| Capacity | 550 ml |
|---|---|
| Run Time | Up to 12 hours |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 10 x 10 x 15 Inches |
MISIJI Aromatherapy Diffuser with 12 Essential Oils Set
MISIJI Aromatherapy Diffuser with 12 Essential Oils Set
Pros
- Seven lights and two misting modes
- Has four timer modes
Cons
- Some reviewers say the scents were not strong
The cool thing about this diffuser is that it comes with 12 vials of essential oils including eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint. It's perfect if you wanna start trying out different scents but don't want to drop a ton of $$$ figuring out which ones you like best.
THE REVIEW: I was looking for something small that would fill the room with wonderful aromatherapy and not be the focus of the room. This is perfect.
| Capacity | 550 ml |
|---|---|
| Run Time | Up to 12 hours |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 7 x 7 x 7.5 Inches |
URPOWER 2nd Version Essential Oil Diffusers
URPOWER 2nd Version Essential Oil Diffusers
Pros
- Affordable
- Several reviewers say it's easy to set up
Cons
- Shorter run time than many other essential oil diffusers
This sleek essential oil diffuser lets you choose between seven different colored lights, or set it to auto color-changing to enjoy the whole rainbow. It also has a continuous mode if you want a stream of mist going nonstop, or an intermittent mode which releases a burst of mist and scent every 30 seconds.
THE REVIEW: I like how it has the option of running intermittently or continuously. I also like the light feature. It adds to the calming effect and aesthetic. It's also pretty cute as far as design goes. I would definitely purchase this again for other rooms.
| Capacity | 100 ml |
|---|---|
| Run Time | Up to 6 hours |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 3.1 x 3.1 x 5.5 Inches |
Sierra Modern Home Smart WiFi Essential Oil Aromatherapy Diffuser
Sierra Modern Home Smart WiFi Essential Oil Aromatherapy Diffuser
Pros
- Reviews say it is easy to fill and to clean
- App is easy to set up and use
Cons
- A few reviewers complain about the product not working after several months
This essential oil diffuser can be controlled via app OR using your Google Home or Alexa devices. We really are living in the future! You can even set up a schedule for your diffuser, so that it always automatically starts running as you're going to bed or getting home from work, for example.
THE REVIEW: This diffuser is easy to operate, easily connects to you phone, looks good, and does its thing. You simply have to add water and your desired scent.
| Capacity | 400 ml |
|---|---|
| Run Time | Up to 12 hours |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 6.8 x 6.8 x 9 Inches |
EQUSUPRO Essential Oil Diffuser
EQUSUPRO Essential Oil Diffuser
Pros
- Four timer settings and auto shutoff
- Looks pretty even when the light is off
Cons
- A few reviews say it stopped working shortly after purchase
This diffuser is also pretty enough to double as art, tbh. It features a color-changing light, various timer options, and a medium capacity. Just saying, this would be a really thoughtful gift for anyone in your life!
THE REVIEW: This is seriously so good that I'm going to get more to give away as Christmas gifts this year for literally everyone I know. It's a truly beautifully and uniquely crafted work of art that seamlessly diffuses essential oils as a nice mist.
| Capacity | 120 ml |
|---|---|
| Run Time | Not included in product description, but one review says 5 hours |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 5.7480316 x 5.5905514 x 10.472441 Inches |
Vitruvi Stone Diffuser
Vitruvi Stone Diffuser
Pros
- Ceramic finish gives it an elevated look
- 4-hour and 8-hour run times
Cons
- Pricey compared to other units of similar size
This luxe stone diffuser is perfect for any minimalist home. It comes in a ton of different colors, and can disperse scents in rooms up to 5oo square feet. It also has an optional light to add some cozy candle-like vibes to your space.
THE REVIEW: Love my Stone diffuser. Looks like a piece of modern art and puts out a lot of fragrance.
| Capacity | 90 ml |
|---|---|
| Run Time | Up to 8 hours |
| Item Dimensions | 5"L x 5"W x 5"H |
Alo Yoga Aura Diffuser
Pros
- Super long run time
- Alo also sells essential oils to get you started
Cons
- Requires a lot of essential oils (up to 30 drops) to distribute scent
Betcha didn't know that Alo also made this diffuser in addition to their celeb-adored athleisure 'fits! This device has a super long runtime of 22 hours and can cover up to 700 square feet.
THE REVIEW: Love the product, love how easy it is to make your home smell like heaven and even my dogs love it! Plus looks so pretty on my kitchen counter!
| Capacity | 2.2 liters |
|---|---|
| Run Time | 22 hours |
| Item Dimensions | Not listed in product description, but photos and videos give you a sense |
AromaAllure Waterless Portable Mini Oil Diffuser
AromaAllure Waterless Portable Mini Oil Diffuser
Pros
- Doesn't need water
- Reviews say it's very quiet
Cons
- Only runs for 30 minutes at a time
This sleek little battery-powered diffuser is ideal for traveling. Take it with you on your next vacay to add some nice scents to your environment, no matter where you are.
THE REVIEW: It produces scent all day long. Not a heavy scent, but enough that I smell it at my desk, but the others in the room do not. It is perfect for what I needed!
| Capacity | N/A (uses scent pads, not water) |
|---|---|
| Run Time | 30 minutes |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 2.6 x 2.6 x 3.4 Inches |
AromaTech AroMini BT Bluetooth Essential Oil Diffuser
AromaTech AroMini BT Bluetooth Essential Oil Diffuser
Pros
- Doesn't need water
- Covers up to 1,000 square feet
Cons
- Expensive
This fancy-shmancy essential oil diffuser comes with all the bells and whistles. We're talking "scent intensity buttons" to release more or less fragrance, bluetooth connectivity, and nebulizing diffusion tech that releases scent without using heat or water.
THE REVIEW: When I walk into my house now, it smells like a high end hotel. This unit is way more powerful and potent than previous diffusers I've had, looks a lot more sleek and attractive, and is super easy to use.
| Capacity | 120 ml |
|---|---|
| Run Time | Aroma oil will last 4 weeks, with daily usage running about 8 hours a day |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 2 x 2 x 12 Inches |
Lava Rock Diffuser
Pros
- Tons of color and scent options available
- Doesn't require water or heat to operate
Cons
- Scent distribution may not be quite as powerful as mechanical diffusers
This unique handmade diffuser uses natural lava rocks to distribute fragrance throughout the space. Plus, your order comes with a 13ml vial of essential oil to get you started, available in scents like French lavender or eucalyptus.
THE REVIEW: She is amazing! Her products are great, smell so fragrant and look adorable. Her customer service is spectacular. I’ll be ordering again!
Amazon Basics Amazon Basics 100ml Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser
Amazon Basics Amazon Basics 100ml Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser
Pros
- Reviews say it's quiet
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Smaller size means it needs to be refilled more frequently
This simple little essential oil diffuser can run continuously for up to eight hours, or intermittently for up to 16 hours. Additionally, it has seven different color options and an auto-shutoff feature when the water runs out.
THE REVIEW: I’ve bought 5 different diffusers in this same price range in the past few weeks. This little guy has outperformed all the others. It’s the only one I haven’t had even one issue with.
| Capacity | 100 ml |
|---|---|
| Run Time | Up to 16 hours on intermittent mode (up to 8 hours continuously) |
| Item Dimensions | 3.3"L x 3.3"W x 5.6"H |
Everlasting Comfort 50-Hour Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifiers for Bedroom
Everlasting Comfort 50-Hour Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifiers for Bedroom
Pros
- Runs for 50 hours before it needs a refill
- Has separate tray for essential oils
Cons
- Needs to be cleaned regularly to avoid gross buildup on the base of the unit
This extra-large humidifier can run for days — literally. I have this in my office and can confirm, it makes the environment practically tropical. It also has a small tray for you to add your own essential oils.
THE REVIEW: I love that it doubles as an essential oil diffuser, as the mist and strong aromas work together to eliminate bacteria in the air, and improve the smell and my mood.
| Capacity | 6 liters |
|---|---|
| Run Time | 50 hours |
| Item Dimensions | 11.02"D x 6.69"W x 13.02"H |
Reed Diffuser
Pros
- Doesn't need to be refilled very often
- Five scent options and three reed options
Cons
- Won't really disperse scent through large spaces
If you're looking to add scent but not humidity to your space, you might wanna check out reed diffusers. They disperse fragrance oil (made with essential oils), and you can add more reeds for a stronger scent, or take some out of the bottle for a more mild smell.
THE REVIEW: Najah was very attentive to our order and made sure we were satisfied completely.
| Capacity | 3.5 oz bottle of essential oil/fragrance |
|---|---|
| Run Time | N/A |
| Item Dimensions | Reeds are 10 inches long |
SpaRoom Onyx Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser
SpaRoom Onyx Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Refilling is simple
Cons
- No timer function
This diffuser looks wayyyy more expensive than it actually is. If you've got marbled countertops or decor, this will fit right in. Plus, it's super quiet.
THE REVIEW: The design is so cute and looks like an actual decoration. The light is also such a nice touch, love this diffuser!
| Capacity | 200 ml |
|---|---|
| Run Time | 8 hours on continuous mode, 16 hours on intermittent mode |
| Item Dimensions | 4.53 x 4.53 x 4.84 inches |
Wooden Goods Ultrasonic Moon Essential Oil Diffuser
Wooden Goods Ultrasonic Moon Essential Oil Diffuser
Pros
- Has options for built-in batteries or plug-in
- Large capacity
Cons
- If you go with the plug-in option, the cord is visible while using
If someone says they love you to the moon and back, send them this link. Besides looking incredible, it also has three light settings you can change by touch. Choose between three stands to display this diffuser.
THE REVIEW: Easy to use, diffuses scent into the room very quickly and a full water tank lasts longer than a day!
| Capacity | 880 ml |
|---|---|
| Run Time | Up to 8 hours |
| Item Dimensions | Not included in product description, but photos give you an idea |
Oneself Wonderful Scents Portable Essential Oil Nebulizer Diffuser
Oneself Wonderful Scents Portable Essential Oil Nebulizer Diffuser
Pros
- Doesn't need water
- Easy to transport
Cons
- Internal glass bottle needs to be cleaned frequently
Ditch your air freshener for something that will last longer. This diffuser fits in most car cup holders and is easy to transport from the car to the office. Just don’t confuse it with your coffee tumbler.
THE REVIEW: I love the ease of just putting essential oil in it and not having to add any water. It is also very quiet.
| Capacity | 10 ml max |
|---|---|
| Run Time | 15 hours |
| Item Dimensions | Not included in description, but photos give you a sense |
Eco Modern Essentials Nebulizing Diffuser
Pros
- No water necessary
- Easy to use
Cons
- Certain oils will clog the nebulizer
Just like my tequila, I like my oils straight-up. This diffuser produces the oils directly from the bottle. Its sleek design makes it attractive and easy to complement any room. The bottom of the diffuser features a soft, warm light.
THE REVIEW: This nebulizing diffuser is the perfect way to fill a room with aroma in seconds! Super simply, quick and easy.
Zen AF Anxiety Relief Essential Oil Blends
Zen AF Anxiety Relief Essential Oil Blends
Pros
- Available in sizes from 1oz to 4oz
- Safe to use on your skin
Cons
- Comes with a brush instead of a dropper
When it's time to restock essential oils for your new diffuser, check out some of the herbal blends available on Etsy from BlkGirlMagick. This relaxing blend includes white sage and lavender essential oils.
THE REVIEW: Smells absolutely amazing! I know I will be using this oil often.
| Capacity | 1 to 4 oz |
|---|---|
| Run Time | N/A |
How to choose the best aromatherapy diffuser
When it comes to buying an essential oil diffuser, there are a few factors to consider before you hit "add to cart."
Consider whether you also want it to add humidity to the air.
Many aromatherapy diffusers work by pumping a mist of essential oils and water into the air, which has the bonus effect of humidifying your environment. But if you don't want a diffuser that adds humidity to the air, you might consider reed diffusers or oil nebulizers.
Take the size of your room into account.
If you're getting an essential oil diffuser for your bedroom or bathroom, it's safe to say a small diffuser will do the trick. But if you're trying to diffuse scent through an airy home or living space with high ceilings, you may need to invest in a larger diffuser to get the effect you want. Be sure to note how much square footage the diffuser can cover in the product's description.
Be realistic about how often you'll be willing to scrub it out.
Most aromatherapy diffusers will need to be cleaned out with some frequency. Not to get all TMI, but I didn't clean my humidifier/diffuser for a while when I first got it, and it grew some nasty stuff in the base where the water was drawn in. Now, I'm happy to clean it weekly, but if you know you won't, maybe look at reed diffusers instead.
Make sure your essential oils are healthy for everyone in your household (pets included).
Some people have allergies to specific essential oils, so it's best to double-check that your oils won't irritate anyone before adding them to your diffuser. Additionally, the ASPCA notes that essential oils can be harmful to pets if ingested, so you should ideally have your diffuser in a place where it can't be knocked over. And if you have birds or pets with breathing problems, a diffuser might be a no-go altogether.
Why trust Cosmopolitan?
Jamie Ballard is a freelance writer and editor at Cosmopolitan with several years of experience researching and writing articles about home goods for a variety of publications. She's worked on stories ranging from the best humidifiers for bedrooms to the best candles on Amazon. She obsesses over product reviews and loves to test out home items whenever possible.
Jamie Ballard (she/her) is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle, and entertainment topics, including sex and relationships, TV, movies, books, health, pets, food and drinks, pop culture, shopping, and personal finance. She regularly contributes to Cosmopolitan, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, and YouGov, among other publications. When she’s not working, you can find her running, traveling, or scrolling TikTok. Follow her on Twitter.
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