How to clean your diffuser!

Updated October 2026 · Reviewed for safety and accuracy by the Lively Living team

A clean diffuser simply works better. Over time, essential oil residue and minerals from tap water build up in the tank and on the ultrasonic plate, which can weaken the mist, dull the scent and shorten your diffuser's life. The good news is that keeping it clean only takes a few minutes. Here's our quick clean and deep clean routine, which works for every diffuser in our range, from the compact Aroma-Recharge to the 1.8 litre Aroma-Haven and the award-winning Aroma-Snooze.

Lively Living essential oil diffuser range

Quick clean (every few days)

If you use your diffuser daily, do this every few days, or whenever you change oils.

Step 1. Switch off and unplug the diffuser.

Step 2. Pour out any leftover water and oil, tipping it away from the air vent and buttons.

Step 3. Wipe the inside of the tank with a soft, dry cloth.

Step 4. Wipe the outside with a clean, damp cloth. Use plain warm water only on the outer cover, as many of our diffusers have glass, pearl or wood-look finishes that oils and cleaners can mark.

Step 5. Rinse the tank, wipe it dry and leave the lid off to air dry.

Deep clean (every 2 to 4 weeks)

Step 1. Switch off, unplug and empty the diffuser.

Step 2. Fill the tank about 1cm deep with a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water.

Step 3. Either run the diffuser for 10 to 15 minutes in a ventilated room, or leave the solution to sit in the tank for a few hours (or overnight for stubborn build-up). Then switch off and unplug.

Step 4. Dip a cotton bud in white vinegar and gently clean the ultrasonic plate (the small disc in the base) and any tight spots, including under the lid. Never scratch the plate with anything hard.

Step 5. Pour out the solution, then rinse with clean water. Run the diffuser briefly with plain water to flush it through.

Step 6. Wipe everything dry and let it air dry before using it again.

Removing oil stains

Pure essential oils can sometimes discolour the inside of the tank over time. To lift the stain, make sure the tank is completely dry, put a drop or two of lemon or sweet orange oil on a dry cloth, and wipe out the inside of the tank. Rinse and dry afterwards.

Tips to keep your diffuser running well

Use pure essential oils only. Fragrance oils and oils mixed with carrier oils can clog the ultrasonic plate. Our certified organic single oils and blends are 100% pure.
Don't leave water sitting in the tank for days between uses. Empty it and let it dry.
Stick to the fill line. Overfilling can stop the diffuser from misting.
Weak mist? It's usually residue on the ultrasonic plate. A deep clean normally fixes it.
Storing it away? Clean and dry it thoroughly first.

For more troubleshooting tips, see our diffuser guide for beginners, and for blend ideas, read how to use an essential oil diffuser for a fresh home.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I clean my diffuser?

Give it a quick clean every few days if you use it daily, and a vinegar deep clean every 2 to 4 weeks.

Can I clean my diffuser with dishwashing liquid?

A tiny drop of mild detergent on a cloth is fine for the tank, but rinse very well so no suds are left. White vinegar is usually all you need. Never put the base in water or the dishwasher.

Why is my diffuser not misting?

Check that it's plugged in, the water is between the minimum and fill lines, and the ultrasonic plate is clean. If it still won't mist after a deep clean, get in touch with us.

Does the same routine work for humidifiers?

Yes. Humidifiers have bigger tanks, so empty and dry them daily and clean them weekly. Our guide to the benefits of a humidifier includes humidifier cleaning tips.

Lively Living pioneered cool mist ultrasonic diffusers in Australia in early 2013. Our diffusers are made through our exclusive partnership with Ultransmit, they all come with a 12 month warranty, and our team is always happy to help. Browse our full diffuser range.

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