5 DIY Passive Diffusers You Can Make at Home
- Astrid van Essen
- Jul 14
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 21
If you’re like me, you love filling your home with natural scents—but you don’t always want the fuss of plug-ins or burners. That’s where passive diffusers come in: they release fragrance slowly and gently, no electricity or flame needed.
I’m (obviously!) a little biased towards concrete—it’s beautiful, minimalist, and handmade—but there are other fantastic alternatives worth sharing. Here are 5 beautiful DIY Passive Diffuser ideas you can make at home.
1. Concrete Diffuser
Concrete isn’t just for planters—it’s a surprisingly effective diffuser! Because it’s porous, it absorbs essential oils and releases them gradually.
How to make: Use a small handmade concrete object like a bowl, stone, or tray. Add a few drops of essential oil directly onto the surface. Refresh every few days as needed.
Bonus: It doubles as chic minimalist decor.
Hello, If you’re drawn to the slow rhythm of seasonal living and the beauty of natural scent, I’d love to introduce you to my sister site, Simmer & Stir. It’s a gentle space filled with simple recipes, herbal DIYs, and mindful rituals for scenting your home naturally—think simmer pots bubbling with citrus and spice, calming potpourri blends, and botanical brews for your tea or tipple. Whether you’re craving a moment of stillness or a new way to connect with the seasons, there’s inspiration waiting for you there.
2. Terracotta Stones
Terracotta clay is naturally absorbent, making it a perfect scent carrier.
How to make: Buy terracotta discs or shapes (or make your own with air-dry clay). Add 4–5 drops of essential oil onto each. Place them on a dish in your room or hang them with twine.
3. Reed Diffuser in a Glass Bottle
One of the most popular passive diffusers.
How to make: Fill a small bottle with a carrier oil (like sweet almond oil) and essential oils, then insert rattan reeds. Flip reeds every few days for a scent refresh.
4. Wood Blocks or Beads
Raw, untreated wood absorbs essential oils beautifully.
How to make: Use wooden beads, blocks, or even small slices of driftwood. Add drops of essential oil and place them in bowls or hang them on a string.
5. Lava Rock Diffuser
Lava rock is highly porous and ideal for diffusing scent.
How to make: Fill a small dish with lava rocks. Drip essential oils onto the stones, letting them absorb fully. These work well in bathrooms or small spaces.
Final Tips
Always start with a few drops—some materials absorb more than others.
Refresh the scent regularly to keep your space smelling lovely.
Experiment with blends: lavender for calm, citrus for energy, or eucalyptus for clarity.
Explore my handmade concrete decor at Botanical Blueprint — minimalist pieces designed to elevate your space and scent experience.
5 DIY Passive Diffusers You Can Make at Home FAQ
What is a passive diffuser?
A passive diffuser releases fragrance naturally into the air without heat, electricity, or flames. It works through evaporation and porous materials.
Can I make a concrete diffuser at home?
Yes! Handmade concrete items like bowls, trays, or stones can absorb essential oils and act as natural passive diffusers.
Which essential oils are best for passive diffusers?
Popular choices include lavender for relaxation, citrus for energy, eucalyptus for clarity, and peppermint for focus.
How long do DIY passive diffusers last?
Depending on the material, scents can last from a few days to a week. Refresh with new drops of essential oil when the scent fades.
Are passive diffusers eco-friendly?
Yes, they’re a sustainable option as they require no electricity or disposable parts, and you can reuse natural materials like concrete, terracotta, and wood.