No diffuser? No problem!

If you’re wondering, “How can I use essential oils without a diffuser?” you’ve come to the right place! This guide covers practical and creative methods to enjoy the aromatic benefits of essential oils. Whether you’re traveling or on a budget, these tips offer great alternatives to electronic diffusers. They will help you enjoy the benefits of essential oils anywhere.

Steam Inhalation of Essential OIls

One of the simplest and most effective ways to enjoy essential oils is through steam inhalation. This method is perfect for relieving congestion from a cold or promoting relaxation.

How to Use:

 
1. Fill a bowl with hot water.
2. Add 2-3 drops of essential oil (like eucalyptus for colds, or peppermint for nausea)
3. Lean over the bowl, cover your head with a towel, and breathe deeply for 5-10 minutes.
 

DIY Spa Tip:

Transform your showering routine at home into a luxury spa experience! Use a clean hand towel, washcloth, or sponge and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Place in your shower in a location away from the direct spray of water. Enjoy your DIY steam room!
 
 
steam inhalation of essential oils
steamy shower
Recommended oils:

Refresh and energize your morning shower routine with citrus oils like lemon or yuzu essential oils!

Make a diy room refresher spray

room spray

 A  homemade room refresher spray is a versatile way to use essential oils without a diffuser.

You can use this spray on your linens too! (Just make sure to test on an inconspicuous area first if concerned about possible staining.)

use cotton balls or tissues

For a quick, easy and portable way to enjoy your favorite essential oils, just add a few drops of oil to a cotton ball or tissue! 

Toss into your purse, car, or on your desk and enjoy the passive diffusion of your favorite aroma!

essential oil infused cotton balls

Add Essential Oils to a Bath

Transform your bath into a relaxing aromatherapy experience by adding essential oils. 
woman in bath

When you add essential oils to your bath water, you benefit from steam inhalation as well as from topical absorption through your skin!

**Use CAUTION when adding oil to your bath tub, because it can make surfaces extra slippery!

How to Use:

1. Mix 5-10 drops of essential oil with a tablespoon of carrier oil (like coconut or almond oil).
2. Add the blend to your bathwater.
3. Soak for 20-30 minutes to enjoy the therapeutic benefits.
 
Recommended OILS
Peppermint and eucalyptus are great to add to a bath soak for sore muscles. To boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and promote lymphatic drainage, try a blend of Frankincense, lemon, and eucalyptus essential oils. 

Apply to Household Items

Household items can double as makeshift essential oil diffusers.
 
Examples:
 
. Pillows or Sheets: Add a drop of essential oil to a pillow case or your sheets for nighttime relaxation.
 
Rose oil is a strong and long lasting oil that can set the scene for relaxation and romance.
 
(Test on an inconspicuous area first if you’re concerned about damaging the fabric.)
 
· Potpourri: Revitalize dried potpourri with a few drops of essential oil.
 
Try palo santo or nag champa for complex woody, spicy, resinous, and sweet aromas. Perfect for an entry way, mediation room or altar.
 
. Lamp Shade: Place a drop of oil on a lampshade, turn on the lamp, and let the heat disperse the aroma.
 
(Note: I would not recommend applying oil directly to light bulbs, because it could become a fire hazard!)
 
. Toilet Paper or Paper Towel Rolls: Add a few drops of oil to the inside of toilet paper or paper towel rolls for a burst of fresh aroma every time you pull paper from the rolls! A great bathroom/kitchen refresher. 
 
Citrus oils, like our lemon, yuzu, and orange essential oils are great for bathrooms and kitchens because they are powerful deodorizers. They’re also light, refreshing and clean scents. 

Use Essential Oils in Cleaning

Essential oils can enhance your cleaning routine while adding natural fragrance.

How to Use:

 
  • Add 10 drops of tea tree, lemon, or lavender oil to your mop water or cleaning spray.
  • Refresh surfaces with a cloth sprinkled with essential oils.
 
Not only will your home smell amazing, but you’ll also avoid synthetic chemicals.
add oils to cleaning spray

Make a DIY Massage Oil

Use essential oils for self-care by creating a personalized massage oil.

How to Use:

 
  • Mix 10-15 drops of essential oil with 1 ounce of carrier oil.
  • Massage onto pulse points, sore muscles, or dry skin.
 
Popular choices include peppermint for muscle tension or ylang-ylang for stress relief.

Freshen Laundry with Essential Oils

You can use essential oils to naturally freshen your laundry with your favorite scents.

How to Use:

  • Add 2-3 drops of essential oil to your laundry detergent or add directly to the washing machine AFTER filling it with water. (Don’t add it to your clothes without the water, because it could cause staining to your laundry.)
  • Add 2-3 drops of oil to wool dryer balls.
  • Toss the dryer balls into the machine with your clothes.

Freshen Your Drains

If your drains in your shower or sinks are stinky, essential oils can be used to deodorize them.

How to Use

  • First, run cold water down the drain for about a minute to flush the stagnant water that collects in the pipes. 
  • Add 2-3 drops (or more if you prefer) to the drain and allow it to sit. 

Deodorizing citrus oils, like lemon, yuzu, and orange are best, and will leave your bathroom or kitchen smelling refreshed. 


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