Essential oil diffusers have grown in popularity over the years as more people have realized the aromatherapy and health benefits of essential oils and the dangers of burning candles.
According to the EPA, the levels of indoor air pollutants are often 2 to 5 times higher than outdoor levels, and in some cases, these levels can exceed 100 times that of outdoor levels of the same pollutants.
The high levels of pollutants are primarily due to chemicals in the home, many of which are found in candles.
There are three main problems with candles…
The Wax
Many scented candles are made with paraffin wax. Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum, coal, or shale oil and has been found to contain known carcinogens, such as benzene.
A South Carolina State University study states, “The paraffin candles we tested released unwanted chemicals in the air. For a person who lights a candle every day for years or just uses them frequently, inhalation of these dangerous pollutants drifting in the air could contribute to the development of health risks like cancer, common allergies, and even asthma.”
The Wick
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, “Candles with a lead-core wick release five times the amount of lead considered hazardous for children and exceeded EPA pollution standards for outdoor air.” In addition, exposure to high amounts of lead has been linked to hormone disruption, behavioral problems, learning disabilities, and numerous health problems.
In 2003 the US banned lead wicks. However, many wicks are imported and still may have lead wicks.
The Fragrance
The Children’s Environmental Health Network states, “Many synthetic chemicals in fragrances are derived from petrochemicals (petroleum-based) chemicals found in man-made fragrances include phthalates, which are endocrine disruptors, and benzene derivatives, aldehydes, and toluene, which are known carcinogens.”
These are just a few reasons why many have turned to diffusing essential oils. When choosing your diffuser, you have many options, the most popular being wood diffusers and electric diffusers. This article breaks down the pros and cons of each and shares why we love wood diffusers for diffusing essential oils.
Electric Essential Oil Diffusers
Electric essential oil diffusers are likely the most popular diffusers. This type of diffuser uses water and electronic frequencies to create a fine mist from the essential oil and water. A small disk creates ultrasonic vibrations under the surface of the water, which causes the essential oil to break into tiny micro particles. Electric diffusers come in various shapes and sizes, depending on the look you desire.
Pros of an electric diffuser: Electric diffusers only use a small amount of essential oils and create a scent that can fill an entire room. These types of diffusers can also act as a humidifier, bringing moisture to dry air. These diffusers are excellent for large spaces and often have a timer feature for controlled diffusing.
Cons of an electric diffuser: Electric diffusers require an electrical outlet, meaning you can only use them in certain areas. They also need water, making them inconvenient and potentially messy. Because they dilute the oil with water, it can affect the potency and aroma of the oil. They require regular care and cleaning to avoid buildup. Electric diffusers often have at least a small amount of noise, which can be distracting or irritating to some.
Wood Essential Oil Diffusers
Wood diffusers, too, come in various shapes and sizes, but with a much simpler and sleek design that doubles as a decor piece while filling your room with your favorite scent. No cords, plugs, or electricity is needed. Instead, they slowly absorb essential oils and naturally disperse aromas in small areas to create a serene ambiance for your room or workspace.
Pros of a wood diffuser: Wood diffusers are travel-friendly, more sustainable, and double as decor. They require no electricity, meaning no sounds and no messy cords. They don’t need water, which means no mess and a more pure, potent scent.
Cons of a wood diffuser: A wood diffuser may not be ideal if you like to change scents often or want to diffuse in a larger area.
Vörda Wood Diffusers
If you’re looking to purchase a wood diffuser, Vörda offers several sizes, shapes, and varieties to fill your home with style and scent.
Each wood diffuser is sustainably made, cordless, waterless, and plastic-free. With our handcrafted wood diffusers, you can enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy while conserving water and energy.
The wood absorbs essential oils slowly but naturally disperses aromas in small areas to create a serene ambiance.
Vās Handcrafted Wood Diffuser
The Vās Wood Diffuser is simple and elegant, inspired by “vās,” the Latin word for a vessel often used for carrying flowers.
Okiagari Handcrafted Wood Diffuser
The Okigari Handcrafted Wood Diffuser is playful and whimsical, inspired by “okiagari-kobōshi,”a traditional Japanese doll from the 14th century where its name means “the little magician who gets back up.” the doll was designed to always return to an upright position when knocked over, a symbol of resilience and perseverance!
The design of the Okiagari wood diffuser features a rotating movement that helps spread essential oil around the diffusion basin. Gently tap the lower half of the diffuser to watch it wobble and spin!
Vörda wood diffusers are made with not just any wood but thoughtfully sourced wood from around the world. Our unique woods are perfect for absorbing, dispersing, and storing your essential oils. Each of our diffusers comes in 4 different wood tones to match any decor style.
Japanese Hinoki Cypress
Japanese Hinoki Cypress is native to Japan in East Asia. It has been long cherished for its subtle lemon scent. This wood offers a delicate pale yellow color, adding a touch of light to your decor.
Canadian Walnut
The Canadian Walnut diffusers are made from the heartwood and sapwood of the Canadian walnut tree. This tree comes from the moist bottomlands in southwestern Canada, scattered inshallow valets and waterway borders. The black walnut tree is known for its dark wood, traditionally used for hardwood furniture and veneer. Walnut wood has a unique feature where the heartwood and sapwood are very distinct in coloration, offering an elegant mix of colors in a single diffuser.
German Beech
The German beech tree can be found in the ancient beech forests of Germany. The wood is durable and beautiful, offers an elegantly bright golden-brown tone, and carries a warm malty scent with fruity-floral nuances.
African Rosewood
Grown on the southernmost tip of the African continent, the African Rosewood is a tropical hardwood often used as a luxury veneer. It has a rich grain, high density, and beautifully vibrant chocolate brown color, making it the perfect decorative lumber that adds a touch of warmth to your home.
