Buying guide for best usb car essential oil diffusers
There are many reasons why an essential oil diffuser for your car is a good idea. It can help eliminate unpleasant odors, add moisture to the air, and help calm and focus you in stressful situations. Some essential oils might even be able to help you overcome motion sickness. You're going to be in your car for your commute anyway, so why not use that time to help you get to the best version of you?
But not all essential oil diffusers are appropriate for the car. Some are better suited for home or office use.
Reading through this article will provide you with the information you need to pick the best essential oil diffuser for your car. It will also answer your questions, offer some usage tips, and list the essential oils that may be better for use while driving.
What is aromatherapy?
The sense of smell has been called our most powerful sense. Perhaps that is why aromatherapy has been in use for thousands of years. It is the practice of using natural plant extracts to improve the mind, body, and spirit.
Essential oils are potent because they work on an emotional and a physical level at the same time. Proponents of aromatherapy often profess that it's as much of an art as it is a science.
The four types of essential oil diffusers
The best way to reap the benefits from essential oils is by inhalation. There are four types of essential oil diffusers: nebulizing diffusers, ultrasonic diffusers, evaporative diffusers, and heat diffusers.
Nebulizing diffusers
This type of diffuser uses pressurized air to disperse the oil in a fine mist. This method tends to dispense the oil more evenly than other types of diffusers. These models cost considerably more than other types of diffusers.
Ultrasonic diffusers
This type of diffuser uses water and ultrasonic vibrations to dilute and dispense the essential oil into the air as a mist. This method also functions as a humidifier. In most instances, this is the type of diffuser that is used in vehicles.
Evaporative diffusers
With an evaporative diffuser, the oil slowly evaporates into the air. Often, a fan is used to help hasten evaporation. This method of diffusion is not as effective as the other methods.
Heat diffusers
Heat diffusers speed up the evaporation process using heat. Unfortunately, higher levels of heat can change the chemical composition of the essential oils, making them less effective. Lower heat models work best.
Key features
Now that you have a better understanding of what aromatherapy is and how diffusers work, there are a few key features you will want your essential oil diffuser to have.
Appealing design
Essential oil diffusers come in a variety of shapes and styles. You can find one with a wood grain finish, one that looks like a cactus, and you can even find one that looks like a cup of coffee. Look for the diffuser that best meets your aesthetic needs.
Auto shutoff
If you don't shut off your ultrasonic essential oil diffuser when the water gets low, you run the risk of damaging it. The best models have an automatic shutoff feature so you don't have to worry.
BPA-free
The current stance on BPA is that it is bad. Until conclusive evidence is found that reveals otherwise, BPA-free items are the desired option.
Ease of operation
There are already enough things going on while you're driving that can distract you. You do not want to be fumbling for a control switch and be forced to take your eyes off the road just to adjust your diffuser. Look for a model that has easily accessible controls, preferably on the top of the unit.
Lights
While it doesn't affect the way a diffuser works, many people enjoy the soothing lights of a color-changing model. If this sounds like something you'd enjoy, look for an essential oil diffuser that can light up and change colors.
Misting modes
The best ultrasonic diffusers have two operating modes: continuous and intermittent. In the confined space of a vehicle, continuous mode might be a little too much for some users, so having an intermittent option is usually preferable.
Quiet operation
Look for a model that is quiet. You don't want to miss important sounds, such as car horns and sirens, because your diffuser is too loud.
Timer
A timer is not essential, but it can be nice to have. This feature will make sure you don't inadvertently leave the diffuser on for extended periods of time when you're on a long road trip.
Expert Tip
STAFF
BestReviews
The best essential oils for driving
Each essential oil can be used to treat a variety of ailments and conditions. We've created a list to help you decide which essential oils might be best for driving.
To help you stay calm
Allspice
Amyris
Angelica Root
Basil
Bergamot
Blue Tansy
Frankincense
Pine
Rose
Rosewood
Vetiver
Ylang Ylang
To help you stay alert and focused
Basil
Bergamot
Cinnamon
Clary sage
Coffee
Douglas Fir
Lemon
Patchouli
Rosemary
Sage
To help you stay awake
Cinnamon
Eucalyptus
Grapefruit
Lemongrass
Orange
Peppermint
Pine
Rosemary
To help combat motion sickness
Basil
Cardamom
Cassia
Clove Bud
Coffee
Fennel
Ginger
Nutmeg
Orange
Peppermint
Spearmint
Vanilla Absolute
Note: Certain essential oils, such as lavender and chamomile, may make you feel drowsy. If any of the essential oils listed above make you feel tired or in any way adversely affect your driving, stop using immediately.
USB car essential oil diffuser prices
The pricing corridor of USB car essential oil diffusers is very narrow. As a matter of fact, there is only about a $6 difference between the low end and the high end of most models.
Decent units start at $14 and can cost up to $23. As with any product, there are outliers, but the sweet spot to look for the best value is $15 to $20. In that range, you should be able to find everything you need.
Other products we considered
There are two essential oil diffusers that we haven't mentioned yet that might fit your needs. These two models are both outliers, with one residing below the average price and one residing above. If budget is your primary concern, one of the lowest priced models that still has favorable reviews is GenLed's Portable Car Essential Oil Diffuser. This tiny, positionable fan unit might just be your best budget-conscious choice. On the other end of the price spectrum, you’ll find Organic Aromas' Rechargeable Nebulizing Diffuser. This diffuser uses no heat, no water, and no plastic. It is also not a USB device. Rather, it uses two rechargeable lithium batteries that can last up to 18 hours per charge.
FAQ
Q. How long should I run my diffuser?
A. Moderation is the key. Users can develop sensitivity if they are overexposed to essential oils. There are no set times, but around 15 to 20 minutes is currently the agreed upon average time to let your diffuser run.
Q. My car is a little older and doesn't have a USB port in it. What do I do?
A. You have two options. The first is to get a USB charger for your car. This will convert the lighter to a USB port so you can power your diffuser. The other option is to get a model that can hold a charge or run off of batteries.
Q: Do I need to clean my essential oil diffuser?
A: Yes, you do. Often, it only requires a wipedown or a gentle cleaning with a dab of dish detergent or white vinegar once or twice a month. However, to be sure you do not accidentally damage your essential oil diffuser, always consult your owner's manual for the recommended cleaning practices.
