How to Use a Bong: A Beginner's Guide

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT PARTS OF A BONG?

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced bong user, knowing these different parts can improve how you choose and use your bong. Here’s a quick rundown of the important parts of a bong for a more effective smoking session:

• Bong bowl: The bong bowl is where you place your ground herb. It’s designed to hold your blend and allow air to flow through as you light it up.
• Downstem: The downstem is a long tube that directs the smoke into the water chamber. This piece is important for filtering and cooling the smoke.
• Water chamber: The water chamber is the base where the bong water sits. As the smoke passes through, the water cools it down for a smoother hit.
• Percolators: Percolators, or percs, are additional filters inside the bong. They help break up the smoke further, making it even cooler and smoother.
• Ice catcher: The ice catcher or ice pinches hold ice cubes above the water chamber. This feature cools the smoke even more for a chilly, refreshing hit.
• Carb: The carb hole is a small opening on the side of some bongs. Cover it while inhaling, then release it to clear the chamber for a full, controlled hit.

MY BONG SHOP’S TOP BONG TYPES FOR SMOOTHER HITS

Our experts have put together a list of the best bong types to match your smoking style. These options are designed to enhance how you use a bong and offer a unique experience that suits your personal preference.

Check out the table below to see our top picks and how they can improve your smoking sessions.

 

HOW DOES A BONG WORK?

Bongs work by using water to cool and filter the smoke, which makes each hit smoother and less harsh. When you light the bowl, the smoke travels down through the downstem into the water chamber.

The water cools the smoke and filters out some of the particles before it reaches your lungs. As you inhale, the smoke rises up through the mouthpiece for a cleaner hit.

The design of a water pipe also helps with airflow, which can make bong smoking more efficient. With options like percolators, ice catchers and an ash catcher, bongs can offer even more filtration, which cools the smoke for a better smoking experience.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO SETTING UP YOUR BONG

Getting your bong ready is a simple process that sets the stage for a smooth experience. If it’s your first time setting up a bong, it’s important to start with the basics. Here’s what you need to do before you start using your bong:

FINDING THE RIGHT WATER LEVEL FOR YOUR BONG

Getting the water level right in your bong is important for smooth and effective water filtration. The amount of water you add affects how well the smoke is filtered and how much harshness is removed. Too much fresh water can lead to unwanted splashes, while too little won’t filter the smoke effectively.

To find the perfect balance, start by adding enough water to cover the downstem. This allows the smoke to pass through the water and cool down.

Some people prefer warm water for a smoother hit, while others stick to cold. Adjust until you find the balance that provides the experience you're looking for.

HOW TO LIGHT A BONG CORRECTLY

Lighting a bong is not just about flicking a lighter. It involves getting an even burn and avoiding harsh hits. With the right technique, you can control how smoothly your hits go. Here’s how:

1. Use a medium flame: Hold the jet lighter or electronic lighter close to the edge of the bowl for better control. A hemp wick is a good alternative to avoid inhaling butane fumes.

2. Inhale gently: Light the bowl and inhale slowly to draw the flame toward the herb.

3. Avoid overheating: Keep the flame just above the herb to maintain a steady burn.

4. Rotate the bowl: Move the lighter around the edge for an even burn.

5. Watch the smoke: Once the chamber fills, remove the flame and inhale deeply to clear it. Get some fresh air between hits to stay comfortable.

SMOKING A BONG WITHOUT WATER

Start smoking your bong without water by setting it up as usual, but skip adding water. Pack the bowl and light it as you normally would.

Inhaling without water means the smoke is harsher since it's not filtered or cooled. This method lets the smoke travel directly through the bong, resulting in a more intense hit.

If you try this approach, be mindful of the stronger impact and take smaller inhales to manage the experience. You can also use a vaporizer if you prefer vaping as an alternative to avoid the harshness altogether.

USING A BONG WITH A CARB HOLE

A carb hole adds an extra step to your process. After packing the bowl and lighting it, cover the carb hole with your finger while inhaling to let the chamber fill with smoke.

When you’re ready to clear the bong, remove your finger from the carb hole. This releases the smoke in a smooth flow for a fuller, more controlled hit.

SMOKING CONCENTRATES AND OILS IN A BONG

Using concentrates or oils in a bong is a bit different from smoking dry herbs. You'll need a dab rig or an attachment specifically designed for concentrates.

Heat the nail or banger with a torch until it's hot, then apply the concentrate with a dab tool. Inhale slowly as the concentrate vaporises, filling the chamber with smoke. This method can produce a more potent experience, so start with smaller amounts and adjust as needed.

HOW TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN YOUR BONG

A clean bong is important for getting the best results. Whether you have a glass bong, acrylic bong or silicone bong, regular bong maintenance keeps it in top shape.

After each use, rinse with warm water to clear out loose debris. For a thorough clean, combine isopropyl alcohol with coarse salt and shake it through the bong to remove stubborn buildup. Use pipe cleaners to reach tight spots like the downstem.