Here’s Why Many Supermarket Reed Diffusers Don’t Last

Hello there, fellow fragrance enthusiasts! If you’re like me, and the scent of your space matters to you, then you’ve probably tried a reed diffuser or two. I’ve met so many people who complain about reed diffusers bought from shops not lasting long and that their scent evaporates fast even though there is still a lot of liquid left. Well, I believe I’ve found out why this happens, so keep reading.

The Price Tag Mirage

Let’s start with something that initially seems great: the price. Who doesn’t like a good deal, right? Many supermarket reed diffusers are so reasonably priced that it’s hard not to grab one during our weekly shop. However, these seemingly affordable aromas often prove to be false economies. The low cost often means that the scent doesn’t last long, and we’re left with a bottle full of fragrance-less liquid.

Bargain Ingredients, Bargain Experience

Here’s another sneaky secret: the ingredients. It’s no mystery that high-quality ingredients are more expensive. Unfortunately, this often results in supermarket diffusers being filled with cheaper, less effective alternatives. And let’s not forget the role of synthetic fragrances in this equation.

These artificially crafted scents, while often quite alluring initially, lack the depth and staying power of their natural counterparts. The cheap synthetic fragrances used in many budget-friendly diffusers can be harsh, lack the subtlety of natural essences, and, more importantly, fade away rather quickly. This means that the scent you fell in love with in the store can disappear before you’ve even had a chance to really appreciate it. The result? You’re left feeling a bit cheated, sniffing a liquid that no longer holds the magic it once did.

The Slippery Scent: The Cheap and Volatile Culprit

On to the next point: the volatility of the fragrance. Some scents are just more volatile than others, meaning they evaporate faster. And when it comes to the bases used in these diffusers, cheap and highly volatile ones like ethanol and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) often play a significant role.
These types of bases are very efficient at diffusing the scent into the air, which sounds great at first. But here’s the catch: they evaporate too quickly, taking your lovely scent with them. As a result, that heavenly aroma you enjoyed for the first few days disappears all too soon, leaving you with just a memory of the scent you once enjoyed.

This quick evaporation can also contribute to higher levels of indoor air pollution, which is something to consider if you’re mindful of the air quality in your space. So, while it may seem like you’re getting a great deal, the reality may be a little less sweet-smelling.

The Illusion of Abundance

Lastly, let’s talk about the diffuser sticks. You’d think having more sticks in your diffuser would mean more scent, right? Well, not always. More sticks can actually cause the fragrance oil to evaporate faster. Supermarket diffusers tend to pack in extra sticks, creating the illusion of a stronger, longer-lasting scent. But in reality, you’re just speeding up the evaporation process.

A Fragrant Conclusion

While these diffusers might seem like a good deal at first, they often leave us unsatisfied and out of pocket. But don’t let this dampen your fragrance journey. There are many high-quality, long-lasting diffusers out there. They may cost a little more, but the long-lasting fragrance will be worth every penny.

Our reed diffusers are a labour of love, meticulously handcrafted in our home-based lab. We use only the finest, responsibly-sourced natural ingredients, including 100% pure essential oils and a naturally derived diffuser base. Our diffusers emit a gentle, consistent scent for around four months, embodying our commitment to quality. Check our reed diffuser range here.

Remember, the joy of a beautiful scent is in its longevity, not just in its initial appeal.

Happy scent hunting, folks!