How Long Can You Leave A Diffuser On? Is it Bad to Sleep with A Diffuser On?

Diffusers have largely become a useful appliance for administering essential oils and other pleasant substances in our homes for healthier and pleasant air. While it is known to provide therapeutic benefits, there have been so many questions surrounding the use and efficiency of diffusers.

Many people want to know how they work, what oils they can use, how big or small they are, how much they cost and even how they are maintained.

Most importantly, a recurring subject generating lots of attention, but not getting the appropriate response is, “how long can you leave a diffuser on?”.

How long does it need to be on at any particular time for you to enjoy its benefits? How long can it work before requiring a rest?

We will provide a comprehensive response to this question, as well as the best spot to place a diffuser and whether or not you can leave it on overnight.

How long can you really leave a diffuser on?

If you’re using your diffuser simply to provide some humidity in your home, then you can leave it on for as long as the device can take or until you achieve the level of humidity you desire.

However, if you’re diffusing essential oils, it is important to apply caution. You should leave your essential oil diffuser on for only between 30 and 60 minutes and then turn it off.

You can do this after every one hour to ensure adequate exposure to essential oils, but also prevent overexposure which can cause allergies and other side effects.

For smaller rooms, like a dorm room, a small office or bathroom, you may leave your diffuser on for 20 minutes and turn it off for an hour before turning it back on.

Don’t get it wrong, overexposure to most essential oils in themselves may not harm you, but they can accentuate asthma and other respiratory allergies or make some other health conditions worse.

They have also been cases of chemical burns and other toxic reactions reported by some users. So, while essential oils are a great component of aromatherapy, you should not overdo it.

Can you leave a diffuser on overnight?

The answer is No. The average person sleeps for about 6 or 7 hours, and that would be too much exposure.

We know how tempting it can be to want to enjoy more of the benefits of essential oils, but you should always be careful so you don’t overdo it.

If you fear you might sleep off after turning on your diffuser, it is best to set an auto timer to automatically turn it off after about 30 minutes or 1 hour, at most. This means purchasing a diffuser that has a timer.

Is it bad to sleep with a diffuser on?

We would normally say Yes, it is bad to do so, except you have plans of turning it off after not later than 1 hour after. This is a tricky subject, so we’ll break it down.

Sleeping while a diffuser is on is not a problem in itself, the problem is leaving the diffuser on for longer than it should be.

So, if you intend to go to sleep while your diffuser is on, you should ensure there’s someone who would turn it off after a while or set your timer to turn it off automatically.

Sleeping while a diffuser is on is not harmful in itself, but we fear you risk overexposure to essential oils, and this may lead to headaches, increased heart rate and blood pressure and skin reactions and irritations.

Where should a diffuser be placed in a bedroom?

There are three factors we recommend you consider:

1. Proximity

Direct contact of essential oils on the skin should be avoided at all cost. What you need is to inhale the fragrance and not have the vapors on your skin. Place the diffuser some feet away from your bed for the best results.

2. Height

It is best to place the diffuser on an object above the ground- with a flat surface.

You should ensure the surface is one that will not be damaged by water and will be stable enough to prevent the appliance from falling off. It should also be kept below eye level.

3. Room Positioning

In order to have a good spread of the essential oils in the room, we advise you place it as close to the center of the room as possible. This will ensure the essential oils are released to every part of the room.

Top 3 Aromatherapy Diffusers

Here are 3 of the best aromatherapy diffusers on the market.

1. Pure Daily Care Ultimate Aromatherapy Diffuser [Value for Money]

The diffuser is made of wood and is beautifully crafted to effectively atomize essential oils for smooth diffusion and inhalation. With this product, you get 10 essential oils, including orange, eucalyptus, jasmine, lavender, lemongrass, peppermint and clove.

Specifications

• 7.09 x 6.93 x 6.69 inches in dimensions
• 2.03 pounds in weight
• 400ml water tank
• Made of wood
• 15 mood lights to choose from

Key Features

• Pleasant antique appearance
• 10 different essential oils for different purposes
• Timer can aid night use
• Very easy to use
• Available timer (4 settings)
• Adjustable output

2. InnoGear Essential Oil Diffuser [Best Price]

As a cold mist diffuser, it is also extremely energy efficient and has the capacity to emit mist continuously for up to 4 hours. And if you want the best mist experience, ensure the water does not go above the Max line of the tank.

Specifications

• 300ml water tank
• 4 timer settings
• 3.94 x 5.51 x 3.94 inches in dimensions
• 0.46 pounds in weight

Key Features

• Budget diffuser
• Easy to use
• Adjustable and maneuvrable.
• Portable and lightweight
• Waterless Auto off function for safety
• 2 misting modes
• Colorful mood light

3. ASAKUKI 500ml Premium Essential Oil Diffuser [Best Features]

This diffuser can work for as long as 16 hours cumulatively before refilling is required. It is a big enough appliance for bedrooms, living rooms, and medium offices.

Specifications

• 4 level timer
• 5-in-1 functionality
• 6.61 x 6.61 x 4.76 inches in dimensions
• 1.5 pounds in weight
• 7 LED Lights with different modes
• 2-level mist function
• 500ml water tank

Key Features

• Amazing coverage at 300 feet
• Large water tank for prolonged use
• Highly adjustable
• Quite budget friendly
• Superior ultrasonic technology
• Also works as humidifier and vaporizer

Final Words:

A diffuser is a great appliance, providing effective aromatherapy and very healthy benefits for users. As tempting as the idea may seem, you shouldn’t use your diffuser for longer than 1 hour at any particular point in time. Ideally, keep it between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on the size of your room and the size of your diffuser.

For very big rooms, you may let that run for 1 hour. Whatever the case, you must be sensitive to your body and skin. If you notice any reactions, you should stop use and see a doctor immediately.