Are Reed Diffusers Safe for Cats and Dogs? Where to Put Them

Updated 27 October 2026

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Written by IVNA London

If you have pets or young children, keep reed diffusers and candles out of their reach. That is the simplest and most important rule for any home fragrance you bring into the house. A bottle that gets knocked over spills its liquid, and a candle can be knocked, brushed by a tail or left burning, but good placement prevents both. To see what goes into a reed diffuser before you buy, read our guide to British made reed diffusers.

Where should you put a reed diffuser if you have pets?

Up high, on a stable shelf, mantelpiece or console that pets and children cannot reach or jump onto.
Not on the floor or a low table. Anywhere a wagging tail, a curious cat or small hands can reach is too low.
Away from where pets sleep and eat. Keep reed diffusers out of the rooms or corners where their bed, bowls or litter tray sit.
On a coaster or tray. This protects your furniture and catches any drips that run down the bottle.
Flip the fibre reeds over the sink. Then wipe up any drips straight away, before a pet can find them.

How do you use candles safely with pets?

Never leave a burning candle unattended. Put it out whenever you leave the room, even for a moment.
Keep it out of reach, well away from the edges of tables, low shelves and anywhere a pet can jump.
Keep it clear of anything that can catch fire, including curtains, tails and fur.
Keep matches and lighters out of reach too.

What if there is a spill?

Move pets and children away first, then wipe up the spill with kitchen roll and wash your hands. If you have any concern about your pet, speak to your vet, and for a child, call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency. Have the bottle or product with you when you call, so you can read out what is in it.

Quick answers

Where should I put a reed diffuser if I have pets?

Put it up high, on a stable surface they cannot reach, and away from where they sleep and eat.

Can I burn candles with pets in the house?

Yes, but only where pets cannot reach them, and never leave them burning unattended.

Are your reed diffusers pet safe?

We do not label any home fragrance as pet safe, and that includes our own. Keep all reed diffusers and candles out of reach of pets and children, and ask your vet if you have questions about your own pet.

Placement advice on every product

Every IVNA London product page repeats the same simple care steps for your home. Stand reed diffusers on a coaster and keep them out of reach of children and pets, and never leave a candle burning unattended. Browse our Mayfair Library reed diffuser, our Belgravia Linen reed diffuser and the full reed diffuser collection to find a scent you love.

You will find more answers in our reed diffuser FAQs.

New to IVNA London? Every scent we make comes as a reed diffuser and a matching luxury scented candle, both handmade in England.

Related guides

This guide is general information, not veterinary or medical advice.

Frequently asked questions

What reed diffuser scents are safe for cats?

Cats are more sensitive to fragrance oils than dogs, and some essential oils are harmful to them. We do not claim any scent is pet safe. Place any reed diffuser high, out of reach and away from where your cat sleeps, and ask your vet if unsure.