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17 Best Aromatherapy Diffusers to Give You All the Zen Vibes

Inhale the essential oils, exhale the BS.

By Arlette Hawkins and Jamie Ballard
an essential oil diffuser
Cavan Images

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:

  • HLS Aroma Diffuser

    This Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Diffuser

    HLS Aroma Diffuser

    $36 at Amazon
    Read more
  • MISIJI Aromatherapy Diffuser with 12 Essential Oils Set

    This Aromatherapy Diffuser That Comes With Essential Oils

    MISIJI Aromatherapy Diffuser with 12 Essential Oils Set

    Read more
  • URPOWER 2nd Version Essential Oil Diffusers

    This Under-$20 Aromatherapy Diffuser

    URPOWER 2nd Version Essential Oil Diffusers

    Read more
  • Sierra Modern Home Smart WiFi Essential Oil Aromatherapy Diffuser

    This Smart Aromatherapy Diffuser

    Sierra Modern Home Smart WiFi Essential Oil Aromatherapy Diffuser

    Read more
  • EQUSUPRO Essential Oil Diffuser

    This Gorgeous Aromatherapy Diffuser

    EQUSUPRO Essential Oil Diffuser

    Read more

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.

This Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Diffuser

HLS Aroma Diffuser

HLS Aroma Diffuser
This Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Diffuser

HLS Aroma Diffuser

Now 28% Off
$36 at Amazon
Credit: Amazon/HLS
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.

Capacity550 ml
Run TimeUp to 12 hours
Item Dimensions LxWxH10 x 10 x 15 Inches
This Aromatherapy Diffuser That Comes With Essential Oils

MISIJI Aromatherapy Diffuser with 12 Essential Oils Set

Amazon’s Choice
MISIJI Aromatherapy Diffuser with 12 Essential Oils Set
This Aromatherapy Diffuser That Comes With Essential Oils

MISIJI Aromatherapy Diffuser with 12 Essential Oils Set

Now 25% Off
Credit: Amazon/Misiji
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.

Capacity550 ml
Run TimeUp to 12 hours
Item Dimensions LxWxH7 x 7 x 7.5 Inches
This Under-$20 Aromatherapy Diffuser

URPOWER 2nd Version Essential Oil Diffusers

URPOWER 2nd Version Essential Oil Diffusers
This Under-$20 Aromatherapy Diffuser

URPOWER 2nd Version Essential Oil Diffusers

Now 20% Off
Credit: Amazon/URPOWER
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.

Capacity100 ml
Run TimeUp to 6 hours
Item Dimensions LxWxH3.1 x 3.1 x 5.5 Inches
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This Smart Aromatherapy Diffuser

Sierra Modern Home Smart WiFi Essential Oil Aromatherapy Diffuser

Sierra Modern Home Smart WiFi Essential Oil Aromatherapy Diffuser
This Smart Aromatherapy Diffuser

Sierra Modern Home Smart WiFi Essential Oil Aromatherapy Diffuser

Now 33% Off
Credit: Amazon/Sierra Modern Home
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.

Capacity400 ml
Run TimeUp to 12 hours
Item Dimensions LxWxH6.8 x 6.8 x 9 Inches
This Gorgeous Aromatherapy Diffuser

EQUSUPRO Essential Oil Diffuser

Amazon’s Choice
EQUSUPRO Essential Oil Diffuser
This Gorgeous Aromatherapy Diffuser

EQUSUPRO Essential Oil Diffuser

Now 13% Off
Credit: Amazon/EQUSUPRO
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.

Capacity120 ml
Run TimeNot included in product description, but one review says 5 hours
Item Dimensions LxWxH5.7480316 x 5.5905514 x 10.472441 Inches
This Luxury Ceramic Aromatherapy Diffuser

Vitruvi Stone Diffuser

Vitruvi Stone Diffuser
This Luxury Ceramic Aromatherapy Diffuser

Vitruvi Stone Diffuser

Credit: Vitruvi
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.

Capacity90 ml
Run TimeUp to 8 hours
Item Dimensions5"L x 5"W x 5"H
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This Aromatherapy Diffuser for Large Rooms

Alo Yoga Aura Diffuser

Alo Yoga Aura Diffuser
This Aromatherapy Diffuser for Large Rooms

Alo Yoga Aura Diffuser

Credit: Alo
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!

Capacity2.2 liters
Run Time22 hours
Item DimensionsNot listed in product description, but photos and videos give you a sense
This Travel-Friendly Aromatherapy Diffuser

AromaAllure Waterless Portable Mini Oil Diffuser

AromaAllure Waterless Portable Mini Oil Diffuser
This Travel-Friendly Aromatherapy Diffuser

AromaAllure Waterless Portable Mini Oil Diffuser

Now 24% Off
Credit: Amazon/AromaAllure
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!

CapacityN/A (uses scent pads, not water)
Run Time30 minutes
Item Dimensions LxWxH2.6 x 2.6 x 3.4 Inches
This High-End Aromatherapy Diffuser

AromaTech AroMini BT Bluetooth Essential Oil Diffuser

AromaTech AroMini BT Bluetooth Essential Oil Diffuser
This High-End Aromatherapy Diffuser

AromaTech AroMini BT Bluetooth Essential Oil Diffuser

Now 15% Off
Credit: Amazon/AromaTech
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.

Capacity120 ml
Run TimeAroma oil will last 4 weeks, with daily usage running about 8 hours a day
Item Dimensions LxWxH2 x 2 x 12 Inches
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This Natural Aromatherapy Diffuser

Lava Rock Diffuser

Lava Rock Diffuser
This Natural Aromatherapy Diffuser

Lava Rock Diffuser

Credit: Etsy/NMT Candles
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!

This Affordable Aromatherapy Diffuser

Amazon Basics Amazon Basics 100ml Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser

Amazon Basics 100ml Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser
This Affordable Aromatherapy Diffuser

Amazon Basics Amazon Basics 100ml Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser

Now 26% Off
Credit: Amazon
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.

Capacity100 ml
Run TimeUp to 16 hours on intermittent mode (up to 8 hours continuously)
Item Dimensions3.3"L x 3.3"W x 5.6"H
This Long-Lasting Aromatherapy Diffuser

Everlasting Comfort 50-Hour Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifiers for Bedroom

Everlasting Comfort 50-Hour Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifiers for Bedroom
This Long-Lasting Aromatherapy Diffuser

Everlasting Comfort 50-Hour Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifiers for Bedroom

Now 40% Off
Credit: Amazon/Everlasting Comfort
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.

Capacity6 liters
Run Time50 hours
Item Dimensions11.02"D x 6.69"W x 13.02"H
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This Refillable Reed Aromatherapy Diffuser

Reed Diffuser

Reed Diffuser
This Refillable Reed Aromatherapy Diffuser

Reed Diffuser

Credit: Etsy/NMT Candles
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.

Capacity3.5 oz bottle of essential oil/fragrance
Run TimeN/A
Item DimensionsReeds are 10 inches long
This Uniquely Designed Aromatherapy Diffuser

SpaRoom Onyx Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser

SpaRoom Onyx Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser
This Uniquely Designed Aromatherapy Diffuser

SpaRoom Onyx Ultrasonic Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser

Credit: Amazon/Spa Room
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!

Capacity200 ml
Run Time8 hours on continuous mode, 16 hours on intermittent mode
Item Dimensions4.53 x 4.53 x 4.84 inches
The Aromatherapy Diffuser That’s Out of This World

Wooden Goods Ultrasonic Moon Essential Oil Diffuser

Wooden Goods Ultrasonic Moon Essential Oil Diffuser
The Aromatherapy Diffuser That’s Out of This World

Wooden Goods Ultrasonic Moon Essential Oil Diffuser

Credit: Wooden Goods
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!

Capacity880 ml
Run TimeUp to 8 hours
Item DimensionsNot included in product description, but photos give you an idea
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The Traveling Diffuser

Oneself Wonderful Scents Portable Essential Oil Nebulizer Diffuser

On Sale
Oneself Wonderful Scents Portable Essential Oil Nebulizer Diffuser
The Traveling Diffuser

Oneself Wonderful Scents Portable Essential Oil Nebulizer Diffuser

Credit: Wooden Goods
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.

 Capacity10 ml max
Run Time15 hours
Item DimensionsNot included in description, but photos give you a sense
The Sleek Diffuser

Eco Modern Essentials Nebulizing Diffuser

Eco Modern Essentials Nebulizing Diffuser
The Sleek Diffuser

Eco Modern Essentials Nebulizing Diffuser

Credit: Eco Modern Essentials
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.

This Anti-Anxiety Aromatherapy Refill for Your Diffuser

Zen AF Anxiety Relief Essential Oil Blends

Zen AF Anxiety Relief Essential Oil Blends
This Anti-Anxiety Aromatherapy Refill for Your Diffuser

Zen AF Anxiety Relief Essential Oil Blends

Credit: Etsy/BlkGrlMagick
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.

Capacity1 to 4 oz
Run TimeN/A
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How to choose the best aromatherapy diffuser

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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?

    line

    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.

    Headshot of Jamie Ballard
    Jamie Ballard
    Contributing Writer

    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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