The present invention is drawn to a device for perfuming ambient air or closed spaces. The said device comprises water or an appropriate hydrophilic solvent containing said volatile active ingredient and an absorbing material chosen from superabsorbents, starch based systems, chemically modified cellulose and natural gum and which are capable of forming a gel with water or said hydrophilic solvent, both components being adapted to be mixed with each other in order to achieve the diffusion of said volatile ingredient from the said gel. The components are mixed with each other to form said gel from which the perfume or a deodorizing or sanitizing agent, or an insect repellent, diffuses uniformly and over a prolonged period of time into the surrounding air.