How Long Do Reed Diffusers Really Last? (+ How to Make Them Last Longer)

Reed diffusers are one of the easiest ways to keep your home beautifully scented — no flames, no electricity, just effortless fragrance. But one question comes up again and again:

How long do reed diffusers actually last?

The truth is: a high-quality diffuser should last anywhere from 8 to 16 weeks, depending on the fragrance, room temperature, and how you use it. Here’s everything that affects your diffuser’s lifespan — and how to make yours last longer.

1. The Type of Oil Matters

Not all fragrance bases evaporate at the same rate.

Norshire Co. diffusers use a premium, eco-friendly base that:
✔ evaporates slower than standard bases
✔ gives a stronger scent throw
✔ diffuses evenly

This naturally gives you a longer-lasting diffuser.

2. Room Temperature Makes a Big Difference

Diffusers work through evaporation — so heat speeds them up.

Your diffuser will empty faster if it’s placed:
• near radiators
• in direct sunlight
• in warm kitchens
• in bathrooms with hot showers

For longest life, keep it somewhere cool, shaded, and consistent.

3. Airflow Helps… but Too Much Will Reduce the Life

A gentle flow (like in a hallway) spreads the scent well.
A strong draught (by a window or vent) burns through oils more quickly.

Place your diffuser somewhere with light natural airflow.

4. How Often You Flip the Reeds Changes Everything

Flipping reeds refreshes the scent — but it also accelerates evaporation.

Best practice:
• Flip once a week for consistent strength
• Flip before guests arrive for a stronger burst
• Avoid flipping daily unless you’re happy for it to run out quicker

5. Reeds Need Replacing Too

Over time, reeds become saturated and stop drawing up fragrance effectively.

Replace reeds every 2–3 months or when you switch to a new oil.

All Norshire Co. diffuser refills come with a fresh set of six reeds for this exact reason.

6. When the Scent Stops “Throwing” Well

If your diffuser still has liquid but the scent throw has faded, it’s usually because the reeds are spent.

Switch them out and you’ll notice instant improvement.

How to Make Your Reed Diffuser Last Longer

Follow this simple checklist:
✔ keep away from heat
✔ avoid direct sunlight
✔ flip reeds weekly
✔ replace reeds when refilling
✔ don’t place in high-draught areas
✔ choose a good-quality diffuser base (like ours!)

Enjoy Long-Lasting Fragrance, the Easy Way

A well-looked-after reed diffuser gives you beautiful, continuous fragrance for weeks — sometimes months. With a few simple tricks, you’ll get the most from your scents and keep your home smelling wonderful every day.

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