Diffusing Essential Oils Around Babies?

This is a question we get a lot. We know you love your family and want the best for them. If you have babies and toddlers in your home, it’s natural to wonder what is safe for them. Whether you are just getting started with essential oils, or have been a loyal user for years, babies change everything! And now you might have new questions about the best ways to use essential oils in a home that includes young children.

Babies are different than adults (as any parent knows well!). Their immunity is different, their senses are different, and their skin is different. In general, they are much more sensitive to the world around them than older folks. And, generally, the younger the person, the more sensitive they will be to things like scents, lotions, etc. That’s why it’s important to be extra careful when deciding what is safe to use around your baby.

Is It Safe To Diffuse Essential Oils Around Babies

First of all: Ask a doctor. When I was a new parent, I learned that went for basically anything new, from laundry detergent to foods. You will be introducing a variety of items to your baby’s world, and in order to know what’s safest, it’s best to consult their pediatrician.

Next, do your own research. Reach out to those you trust and who are informed properly about essential oils. Beyond that, do your own reading and be sure to use the highest quality oils like Young Living. We know that once you complete your research, you’ll find that Young Living provides therapeutic grade oils with their Seed to Seal promise, so you can always trust their ingredients and processes.

Here are a few rules of thumb when it comes to introducing essential oils to your baby’s wellness routine.

Read every label. Start by closely reading anything you are considering using with your child. Information on labels is mandated by our federal government, and it’s purpose is to keep you and your family safe. Some labels will state that products are designed for adults over 18 years - it’s important to heed those warnings.

The FDA does not recommend children ingest any essential oil. Oils are not intended for internal use unless their label specifies.

Once you plan to try a new oil, pay close attention to your child’s reaction. Make sure you are in an area where you can access fresh air and water, to dilute the oils if kids experience a bad reaction. Like with foods, introduce one oil at a time, so that if there is a negative reaction you understand which oil caused it.

Safe Essential Oils To Diffuse Around Babies

Similarly, there are many oils that should only be introduced later in life. Because of the strong effect they can have, these oils should only be used on adults and those with a healthy immune system. From labored breathing to blood pressure problems, these oils can have negative results that will cancel out the benefits they are known to bring to adults.

Using A Diffuser With Babies

Babies are extra sensitive to smell. Diffusers are great for aromatherapy or adding your favorite wellness oils to the air - but those smells might be a bit too much for a new baby. For this reason, we recommend using an ultrasonic diffuser. You can use these with just water to add much-needed moisture to the air.

Once babies are over 3 months, it’s safer to introduce aromatherapy using a diffuser. Many people find essential oil blends can help with sleep support, immunity, and calmness. Lavender in particular is known to have a calming effect and help with sleeping. Diffusers are also helpful when children are suffering from cold symptoms. There are many oils that can be added to a diffuser that, along with the humidity released, will help with illness and restlessness. Simply add a few drops to your favorite diffuser in your baby’s room. For detailed instructions on how to use a diffuser for sleep support, read our post on diffusers here.

Disclaimer: Be sure to diffuse in a well-ventilated space, and make sure the diffuser is on a hard surface away from little hands! The lights and mist emitted by diffusers can be enticing to mobile babies and toddlers, so it’s important to keep them out of reach.