DIY Citrus Spice Holiday Reed Diffusers

Homemade Holiday Reed Diffuser – A Scented Gift for the Season

The scent of the holidays has a way of transforming a space—bright citrus, subtle spice, and crisp evergreen notes that create a sense of comfort and calm. Rather than using synthetic fragrances, this simple DIY reed diffuser offers a natural way to bring seasonal aromas into your home. Made with just a few ingredients, it’s an elegant addition to any mantel or side table and makes a thoughtful handmade gift for friends and family.

You’ll Need:

• 1 small 4 oz glass bottle with a narrow neck (this helps slow evaporation). (Recycled drink bottles, diffuser vials, or mini swing-top bottles work great!)

• 5–8 wooden reed sticks (you can also use bamboo skewers with the ends trimmed)

• 1/4 cup carrier oil (like fractionated coconut oil, safflower oil, or sweet almond oil)

• 1 tbsp alcohol (optional, helps thin the oil—use vodka or rubbing alcohol)

• 2 tablespoons distilled water (helps thin the mixture for better absorption)

• 20–30 drops essential oils (single oil or blend)

• Optional: small funnel or dropper

Instructions:

• Add Essential Oils: 
Add 20–30 drops of essential oil to your bottle. You can keep it simple or mix your own seasonal blend.

• Citrus Spice: 15 drops orange + 10 drops cinnamon + 5 drops clove

• Relaxing blend: 20 drops lavender + 10 drops cedarwood

• Winter Wonderland: 6 drops Fir Needle, 5 drops peppermint, 4 drops sweet orange

• Add Carrier Oil
: Pour in 2 tablespoons of your chosen carrier oil. This helps slow the evaporation of essential oils and makes the scent last longer.

• Add Water (optional)
: Add 2 tablespoons of distilled water to help thin the mixture. The water makes it easier for the reeds to draw up the liquid and release scent into the air. (Tap water works too, but distilled helps prevent bacteria growth.)

• Mix Well
: Swirl the bottle gently to combine the oils and water. You may need to stir or swirl it periodically, as oil and water naturally separate over time.

• Insert the Reeds
: Place 5–8 reeds in the bottle and let them soak for about an hour. Then flip the reeds so the saturated ends are exposed. This helps start the diffusion process.

• Enjoy and Refresh
: Place your diffuser in a spot where it won’t be knocked over. Flip the reeds every few days for a stronger scent. Replace the liquid every 2–4 weeks, or as needed.
  

  Why Add Water?

  While traditional reed diffusers use only oil, adding water helps thin the solution, especially when using thicker carrier oils. This makes it easier for the scent to travel up the reeds—resulting in a more noticeable aroma. Just remember to use distilled water when possible, and shake or swirl regularly since oil and water don't naturally mix.

  Tips & Notes:

• Display on a shelf, desk, or windowsill—somewhere it won’t be knocked over.

• Avoid placing near open flames, as essential oils are flammable.

• Use a dark glass bottle if displaying in direct sunlight to protect the oils.

Other ways to embellish your bottles:

Use a glue gun to attach cinnamon sticks and/or dehydrated fruit to the bottle for added scent and seasonal flare.