With our hot summer days in full force, a popular alternative to scented candles are the fast-growing reed diffuser category.
What is a reed diffuser? First and foremost, you don’t light it like a candle! Reed diffusers are a method of distributing scented oil throughout an environment, either home, office or wherever fragrance is desired (which is almost everywhere).
Up to a dozen bamboo or willow/rattan reeds are placed in the mouth of the container of the oil, so that the tips tend to array in a circular motion. The reeds transfer the scent up to the surrounding air by capillary action. This is much like a celery stick that wicks up water.
Why is there so much price difference on diffusers? Most retailers carry this category because of the popularity of this flame- free alternative, and consumer demand continues to grow season after season. The best diffusers are alcohol free and use premium fragrance oils and the finest ingredients. When looking at diffuser options, ask the associate in the store what the liquid base is, if there is any alcohol in it (which dilutes the fragrance and causes faster evaporation) how the “fragrance throw” is, and how long it will last. Fragrance throw is the term “experts” use to define how large of a space the fragrance will cover. For example, Archipelago Botanicals reed diffusers have a fragrance “throw” of over 500 feet, which are one to two large rooms. Impress the store staff with your diffuser knowledge!
Once you get the diffuser home, follow this process: Open the container, place the reeds in the liquid for several hours, and then “flip” the reeds so the oil that has been absorbed begins to fragrance. Do it over a sink or where dripping is not an issue as some oils can stain. The reeds should be “flipped” weekly, or as needed to maintain the fragrance “throw.” If more fragrance is needed, flip the reeds more often or place near a ceiling fan or an air conditioner vent where the air circulation will intensify the fragrancing.
Reed diffusers make the perfect gift: thoughtful, flame free, elegant, fragrant and long lasting.
For more information, visit Candleman in the Gateway Village center at Newhall Ranch Road and Rye Canyon at 28269 Newhall Ranch Road. The store is located between New Moon Restaurant and George’s Bistro.
For more information, call the shop at 661-257-9420 or visit the website at www.candlemanvalencia.com .