What are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts known for their aromatic and therapeutic properties. They capture the scent and essence of their source - and just a few drops can make a room feel calmer, fresher, or more energised.
Essential oils have become a must-have in many Singapore homes - and not just for the scent.
Their uses and benefits range from promoting relaxation to improving sleep. Whether you’re winding down after work, freshening up your wardrobe, or trying to make your bedroom smell like a resort spa, essential oils can make all the difference.
Pure Essential Oils vs. Water-Soluble Essential Oils
Before diving into the do’s and don’ts, it’s important to understand the difference between pure essential oils and water-soluble oils - especially if you’re using them at home.
Pure essential oils are highly concentrated, and are derived directly from plants, offering natural scents and potential therapeutic benefits. They’re typically used in aromatherapy and do not mix well with water on their own.
Water-soluble essential oils, like Pristine’s aroma concentrates, are specially formulated with additional ingredients that help the oil blend evenly into water - perfect for use in diffusers. While they’re excellent for home fragrance, they’re not designed for ingestion or topical use.
💡 Reminder: Even pure essential oils can cause adverse reactions if ingested - so whichever type you’re using, always follow the recommended guidelines.
Using Them Safely
While both types can enhance your space, they’re meant to be used differently - and like any powerful tool, they come with best practices.
Here's your quick guide to what you should (and definitely shouldn’t) do when using essential oils in daily life.
DO: Use a Proper Essential Oil Diffuser
Diffusers are one of the easiest, safest and most effective ways to enjoy essential oils. Whether you’re working with a humidifier, ultrasonic diffuser, or misting device, make sure it’s designed to handle aroma oils and not just plain water.
Because Pristine’s aroma concentrates are water-soluble, they’re best paired with water-based diffusers like this coral diffuser, which help disperse the scent more evenly and project it further throughout your space.
You can also add a few drops to your clay or crystal diffusers for a softer, more subtle fragrance - though the intensity won’t be as strong.
📍Wondering where to buy a quality diffuser in Singapore? We recommend exploring Pristine’s curated range , made for scenting everything from open-plan living rooms to cosy corners.
DON’T: Use Undiluted Oils on Your Skin (Unless They’re Formulated for It)
Pure essential oils are highly concentrated. Applying them directly can lead to skin irritation (and no, that tingling isn’t a good sign).
If you want to use them topically, always dilute with a carrier oil - and always make sure to do a patch test first.
⚠️Important Note: Pristine’s aroma concentrates are crafted for diffusion and ambient use, not skincare - so keep them for your home, not your face.
DO: Store Oils Properly
Heat, humidity, and sunlight can break down oils and alter their scent over time. Keep your essential oils in a cool, dark place (like a drawer or cabinet) to preserve their potency and fragrance for longer..
DON’T: Mix Random Oils Without Knowing Their Notes
Not all scents play nicely together. Before mixing oils in your diffuser, make sure they’re complementary.
If you’re unsure where to start, go for a curated set like Pristine’s Signature Collection, where each oil is carefully crafted to work beautifully on its own - no mixing required.
DO: Clean Your Diffuser Regularly
It’s easy to forget, but your diffuser needs cleaning too. Water and oil sitting around is the perfect recipe for gunk, cloudiness, and an “off” smell. Make sure to give your diffuser a quick rinse every few uses.
Bonus tip: Use vinegar and warm water for a deeper clean once a week. Your diffuser (and your nose) will thank you.
DON’T: Leave Your Diffuser Running Overnight
It’s totally fine to diffuse as part of your evening wind-down, but running oils all night while you sleep can lead to overexposure, especially with stronger blends. Instead, just let your diffuser run for 30 to 60 minutes before bed. You’ll still get all the benefits, without overdoing it.
DO: Match Your Oils to the Mood (and the Room)
Scents are emotional - and they work best when you pair them with the right space.
For instance, Pristine’s Himalayan Tea Concentrate (which smells exactly like ION Orchard) is perfect for the living room, while Casa Particular from the Hotel Series is ideal for the bedroom, when you want the space to feel cosy and lived-in.
Not sure where to start? Try the Hotel Series 6-Pack for boutique-hotel-inspired scents designed to suit every corner of your home.
DON’T: Go Overboard With the Drops
More oil doesn’t mean a longer-lasting fragrance. Overloading your diffuser will just lead to headaches, fatigue, and increased risk of a clogged diffuser. Stick to recommended guidelines, especially in smaller or enclosed spaces like bathrooms.
A good rule of thumb: Start with 3–5 drops per 100ml of water and adjust based on the size of your room
DO: Try Unexpected Uses Around the House
Diffusers are great, but they’re not the only option. Here are a few alternative ways to use essential oils in your daily routine:
-
Add a few drops to a cotton ball and tuck it into your wardrobe or drawers
-
Create your own linen or room spray with water and rubbing alcohol
-
Drop oil onto paper towels and place in the trash bin or shoe cabinet
DON’T: Use Essential Oils Around Babies or Pets Without Research
Some essential oils - especially eucalyptus, tea tree, or peppermint - can be harmful to small children or pets if overused or used in enclosed spaces.
Always check safety guidelines, use in well-ventilated rooms, and opt for lighter scents.
⚠️Important Note: Pristine’s aroma concentrates are safe for use in diffusers around pets and children when used as directed. However, always ensure bottles are kept out of reach to avoid accidental ingestion or contact with skin.
DO: Buy From a Trusted Source
Not all oils are created equal. Avoid cheap, artificial blends that just smell nice, and go for high-grade oils that are tested, stable, and designed for safe home use.
If you’re wondering where to buy essential oils in Singapore, Pristine’s oils are made for safe, daily home use, with award-winning blends like Himalayan Tea, famously “likened to the scent of ION Orchard” by The Straits Times.
Bonus: every essential oil set comes with a free mini humidifier - perfect for your work desk, nightstand, or as a thoughtful gift.
Scent Your Home, Safely and Beautifully
Essential oils are one of the easiest ways to bring peace, luxury, and freshness into your space. Just follow these do’s and don’ts (and invest in high-quality blends) and create a space that feels calm, comforting, and entirely yours.