How to Clean an Electric Diffuser
O Olly Hudson

How to Clean an Electric Diffuser

Jan 22, 2025

Electric diffusers are a fantastic way to fill your space with delightful scents that uplift your mood or help you relax. In order to maintain this,  keep your diffuser running efficiently, and ensure the purity of your essential oils, regular cleaning is essential. If you’ve been wondering how to clean an electric diffuser, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step by step.

Understanding the importance of cleaning your diffuser might motivate you to make it a regular habit. If you’ve invested in an electric diffuser with scents you love, keeping it clean will help you make the most of it for a longer period of time.

This is because residue from essential oils can clog the diffuser and reduce mist production, affecting its performance. This buildup can also damage the internal components, which will impact its longevity. If residue from previous uses is not removed, you might be met with unpleasant or muddled scents if this is mixed with new essential oils.

Most importantly, there’s a hygiene consideration here too. Stagnant water or oil residue can harbour bacteria and mould, potentially making the air in your home less safe to breathe.

Contents

  • Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean an Electric Diffuser

  • Tips for Electric Diffuser Maintenance

  • Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Pick up the Perfect Oils for your Electric Diffuser at The Essence Vault

 

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean an Electric Diffuser

Ready to learn how to clean an electric diffuser? Simply follow these steps:

 

Cleaning the Reservoir

Before you do anything, make sure the device is turned off and unplugged! This might sound obvious, but it’s important to avoid any risk of electric shock or damage.

Once the electric diffuser is unplugged, carefully pour out any leftover water and essential oils from the reservoir. Always pour away from the air outlet to prevent water from entering sensitive areas.

Use a soft microfibre cloth and warm water to gently wipe the inside of the reservoir to remove any visible residue. 

 

Perform a Deep Clean

White vinegar is a natural and effective cleaner for breaking down oil residue and disinfecting the diffuser. Here’s how to use it:

  • Fill the reservoir halfway with water.

  • Add a tablespoon of white vinegar.

  • Turn on the diffuser and let it run for 5–10 minutes. This allows the vinegar solution to loosen stubborn buildup.

  • Turn off the diffuser and pour out the mixture.

Dip a cotton swab in the vinegar and use it to clean the ultrasonic plate or other small, hard-to-reach components. These areas can accumulate residue that affects mist production.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to use vinegar for the above steps, you can substitute it for water with a drop of all-natural washing-up liquid.

 

Rinse Thoroughly and Air Dry

Rinse the reservoir with warm water to remove any remaining vinegar or residue. Avoid submerging the entire diffuser in water, as this can damage the electronics.

Wipe the reservoir and outer surface of the diffuser with a clean, dry towel. Allow the diffuser to air dry completely before reassembling or using it again.

 

Tips for Electric Diffuser Maintenance

There are a number of things you can do to help keep your electric diffuser in excellent condition and prolong its lifespan. We recommend that you empty the reservoir and wipe it down after every use to prevent residue buildup. If you use your diffuser daily, aim to deep clean it with vinegar, following the steps mentioned above, at least once a week.

When you plan to use the electric diffuser, ensure you only fill the reservoir to the recommended level to prevent leaks and ensure optimal performance. When not in use, store in a cool, dry place to protect it from dust and moisture.

 

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A thorough clean can resolve some common issues you might encounter with your electric diffuser. For example, if you’re getting a weak mist output, use a cotton swab with vinegar to gently clean the ultrasonic plate to ensure it’s clean and free of residue. 

Similarly, if it’s emitting an unpleasant odour, you should give your diffuser a deep clean with vinegar and rinse thoroughly to remove any lingering scents.

In any case, it’s important you take care to ensure water doesn’t seep into the electrical components. If you find that your electric diffuser won’t turn on, checking the power connection to see if there has been any water damage is a good place to start.

 

Pick up the perfect oils for your Electric Diffuser at The Essence Vault

Did you know that releasing essential oils at home using an electric diffuser can help clean the air and support better air quality? Many essential oils, such as lemongrass, have antibacterial properties that encourage a stronger immune system.

With our beautiful range of ceramic electric diffusers and potent essential oils, you’ll notice the health-boosting benefits straight away. Why not try our best-selling 3x Electric Diffuser Fragrance Oil Bundle to transform your space with luxury scents?  Or maintain calm in the craziness of the New Year with Calming Essential Oil, which helps you feel super chilled. It’s also vegan and cruelty-free.


Indulge in new arrivals for your home—shop our latest designer-inspired diffuser oils now.

 

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