Cleaning your bong properly: 5 tips

Regular cleaning of a bong prevents harmful bacteria, improves airflow and provides a cleaner, better taste. A clean bong reduces throat and lung irritation and extends the life of the device.

What do you read in this article?

In this article you will discover:

• How to clean a bong step-by-step

• What materials you need

• How often to clean a bong

• Why a clean bong is healthier and more sustainable

There are several reasons to regularly clean your bong:

1. Health: Although much research focuses on tobacco or bongs, these principles also apply to bongs. One study showed that when cannabis is used through a bong or bong, the amount of fine particles (PM₂.₅) in a room could average around 1,300 µg/m³. That’s 37 times higher than the U.S. EPA 24-hour standard of 37 µg/m³, writes expert Suzyann Schick. In addition, according to Bill Shapiro it is important to clean your bong, as stagnant water and dirt can otherwise develop into a biofilm of bacteria and fungi. This can get deep into your lungs when inhaled and, of course, is not good for your health.
2. Taste and effect: A contaminated bong with deposits of resin or residue affects taste. An inhalation may taste bitter or even ashy as a result.
3. Device preservation: In addition, it is important to clean your bong so that you can use it longer. Residues can build up otherwise, making your bong difficult to clean or damaging glass parts.

You now know why it’s important to use a clean device, so how can you clean your bong? With these tips!

1. Change water on time

Every time you use your bong, you need water. After a while this may change in color or smell, it is then a sign that it is better to throw it away. Actually, it is even better to change the water after every use.

2. Dismantle and remove loose parts

Every now and then you need to thoroughly clean your bong. You should then first take apart all the dismountable parts, including the bowl. This makes the cleaning process more efficient and prevents moisture or cleaner from getting trapped in corners.

3. Use alcohol and salt for the glass

If you have a glass bong, you would do well to clean the device with a combination of alcohol and salt. Fill the base chamber with isopropyl alcohol (preferably more than 70% alcohol) and coarse salt (e.g., table salt or sea salt). Here, the alcohol acts as a solvent for resin residue, while the salt acts as an abrasive. Shake gently, soak briefly if necessary, and rinse well with warm water. Do not use this method on a plastic or acrylic bong; alcohol can damage the material. Instead, wash all parts with warm water and detergent.

4. Clean the bowl and downpipe separately

These parts get the most heat and tarnish and thus are often the viest. Place them together in a sealed bag or container with the same solution. Then you can shake it or let it soak for a while. If necessary, use a cotton swab to clean the small corners. Make sure you also flush any flues well.

5. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry

Now that you have cleaned all parts of the bong, it is wise to rinse everything again with lukewarm water. This way you will remove the residues of alcohol and salt. In addition, make sure that all parts are dry before using again (preferably let it air dry). This prevents replenishing new water while there is still moisture in parts, which can promote mold.

How often you use the bong should clean with these 5 tips depends on your usage:

• In any case, change the water after every use.
• For frequent use, clean the bong once a week with the solution of alcohol and salt.
• If you use the bong infrequently, it is better to clean it lightly before and after a use. Then use only warm water and detergent, for example.
  
  

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. The use of a bong or other smoking devices carries health risks. The author does not support or promote the use of illegal substances or violate local laws. When in doubt, always consult a physician.