To clean your oil diffuser, first locate and read the manual that came with your machine, which will have specific care instructions that you should follow. It’s important to clean water-based oil diffusers in order to prevent mold, and both water- and oil-based diffusers in order to keep them running smoothly and to make sure that you remove any trace of one essential oil scent or blend before using another for the best experience. In general, ultrasonic water-based diffusers should be rinsed clean after each use, and thoroughly cleaned around once a month to remove dust and build-up. To clean a water-based oil diffuser, unplug the device, empty the reservoir, clean the inside with a damp cloth dipped in natural detergent and water, and wipe dry thoroughly with a clean cloth. Next, remove any excess oil build-up from the ultrasonic chip that breaks down essential oils into base molecules before they are diffused using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. To deep clean, empty the reservoir, fill it half full with water and 10 drops of vinegar, turn on the diffuser and allow it to run for 10 to 15 minutes to remove any oil build-up inside before unplugging it, emptying it, and drying it thoroughly. Then clean the ultrasonic chip with a cotton bud dipped in rubbing alcohol. Wipe down the outside of the machine with a damp cloth, reassemble, and it’s ready to go. An oil-based diffuser should also be wiped down regularly to remove oil build-up, and you can add a few drops of rubbing alcohol and turn it on for 10 or 15 minutes for a deep clean.