Make your home smell delightful

How do fragrance lamps work?

Scents can strongly influence our daily lives, as the sense of smell is one of the most important human senses. It is therefore no surprise that fragrance lamps are so popular today. 

A fragrance lamp consists of a frame on which a small bowl sits. A small candle or an electric heat source warms the oil-water mixture in the bowl. The evaporated essential oils spread a pleasant scent throughout the surrounding area.

What are the advantages of a traditional candle fragrance lamp?

A traditional fragrance lamp uses a candle as the heat source. Standard tealights are best suited. Larger candles will not fit between the bowl and the candle holder. These classic lamps are usually made of wood or ceramic. The larger the bowl, the more water can evaporate. 

Be careful that the water does not evaporate completely, otherwise oil residues can burn into the bowl. This lamp is the most affordable option and is available in many colours and shapes to suit any interior. 

Why is the electric fragrance lamp a practical alternative?

A practical alternative is the electric fragrance lamp, which is mains-powered and can also serve as a warm, atmospheric night light in the bedroom. 

The advantage of this lamp is that it does not require constant supervision: the water-oil mixture is warmed by electrically generated heat and there is a built-in on/off switch.

How does a catalytic fragrance lamp clean the air?

A catalytic fragrance lamp not only produces a pleasant scent but also cleans the air. In the 19th century it was used in hospitals to reduce the microbial load in the air without chemicals. A catalytic lamp can even remove particularly stubborn cigarette odours. 

Inside this lamp there is a perfume or oil solution connected via a wick to a burner. Using this flameless, coated porous ceramic burner, which can reach up to 300°C and cleans the air, harmful molecules are destroyed and microorganisms such as mould and yeast in the room air are killed. At the same time a pleasant scent is released into the room.

What are the features of ultrasonic nebulisers (diffusers)?

There are also ultrasonic nebulisers (diffusers) equipped with a timer and that can even change their light. They break the oil into small molecules that mix with the water and discreetly distribute the mist of essential oils into the room. 

These devices are easy to use: add the recommended amount of water and a few drops of fragrance oil or essential oil into the diffuser and switch it on.

Using fragrance lamps correctly: tips for a relaxing atmosphere

• Note that essential oils can lose their effectiveness if heated above 40 °C, as many active ingredients may be lost. The pleasant scent may remain, but ultrasonic nebulisers are more effective and have a positive effect on the body.
• It is advisable to place a candle plate under the fragrance lamp. This prevents oil and wax stains on your furniture.
• Besides essential oils, there is a special scented wax (scent melt). It is placed in the bowl and melts slowly. It does not need to be diluted with water and is therefore easier to use.
• A fragrance lamp is a product for many years. Therefore, when choosing a lamp, pay attention to high-quality materials. They should be heat-resistant and well made. Ceramic is ideal as a base material. The glass bowl is easy to clean but does not tolerate large temperature differences and it is important to ensure that there is always liquid in the bowl.
• For the burner of a catalytic fragrance lamp to function correctly, the lamp should only be filled to 75% with a fragrance solution. After replacing the liquid, the wick must be soaked for 20 minutes before the lamp is put into operation.
• A bowl can be cleaned with warm water and a little dishwashing liquid. If the bowl is not removable, the entire lamp should be wiped with a damp cloth or soaked in very hot water.
• The outer walls of a catalytic fragrance lamp are cleaned with a damp cloth. Occasionally the burner should also be cleaned by simply burning it until it turns a light grey colour.
• When choosing an aroma nebuliser, select models with a capacity of at least 150 ml, otherwise they will need frequent refilling. To prevent limescale and extend the life of the nebulisers, the use of distilled water is recommended.
• Use only pure, natural essential oils. Synthetic oils are cheaper and also produce a pleasant scent, but they do not have beneficial effects on health and can even be harmful.
• Always keep an eye on the candle when using a traditional fragrance lamp, otherwise there is a risk of fire.
• Change the water daily, empty and dry the device after each use. Otherwise there is a risk of contamination. Alternatively, you can opt for an electric fragrance lamp that works without water: essential oils are sprayed onto a pad.
• Please note that essential oils are not suitable for children and people with asthma. People with pre-existing conditions should consult a doctor for advice on using essential oils.

A fragrance lamp provides aromatic variety, improves indoor air quality and helps to reduce everyday stress!