Bong Usage & Basics
1. What are some common bong mistakes to avoid?
The biggest rookie mistake I see is overfilling the water. People think "more water equals more filtration," but really, it just equals dirty bong water splashing into your mouth (we call that "kissing the fish," and it’s nasty). The other major error is leaving smoke in the chamber "stale smoke" tastes bitter and hurts your lungs, so always clear the chamber fully. Also, stop packing your bowl so tight that you almost pass out trying to pull air through it. Airflow is everything. If you find yourself coughing up a lung or struggling to get a good hit, you’re probably committing one of the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Bong.
2. What is the principle of a bong?
It’s simple physics: Cooling and Filtration. When you pull, smoke travels from the bowl, down the stem, and bubbles through the water. This water acts as a radiator, absorbing the heat from the burning herb instantly. At the same time, the water traps heavier particles like ash and tar (which is why your water turns brown). The result is a hit that is significantly cooler and cleaner than a dry pipe. If you want to dive deeper into the science of how different designs handle this, check out our guide on Exploring the Different Types of Bongs.
3. Why were bongs invented?
Humans have been trying to cool down hot smoke for centuries. The earliest bongs were invented to filter out the harshness of dry tobacco and herbs, allowing people to take larger pulls without burning their throats. It was purely about comfort and efficiency. Over time, it evolved from bamboo tubes and coconuts to the Scientific Glass Bongs we use today, but the goal has always been the same: taking a massive hit that feels like breathing air.
4. What is a bong rip?
A "rip" is the complete cycle of taking a hit. It starts when you light the bowl and start inhaling (filling the chamber with milky white smoke) and ends when you pull the bowl out (the "slide") and inhale deeply to clear all that smoke into your lungs. A proper rip should be cleared in one go if you leave smoke behind, it gets stale instantly. If you are new to this and want to perfect your technique, read our Ultimate Beginner's Guide on How to Use a Bong.
5. Why do stoners use bongs?
Efficiency and power. A bong allows you to consume a larger amount of smoke in a single breath compared to a joint or pipe, which gets you "higher" faster. Because the smoke is cooled by water, you can inhale much more volume without coughing. Plus, the bubbling sound is just iconic. It’s the difference between sipping a beer and shotgunning one. If you’re wondering about the actual intensity difference, we broke it down in our article: Reasons Bongs Increase the Intensity of Your High.
6. Why do people use bongs instead of just smoking?
Joints and dry pipes are harsh. The smoke is hot, dry, and goes straight from the flame to your throat. A bong adds a layer of water filtration that removes ash and cools the smoke down, making the experience much smoother. It’s also about economy—bongs get you very high with less weed because you aren't losing smoke to the wind like you do with a burning joint. For a full showdown on this topic, check out Bong vs. Joint: Which One is Better?
7. What makes a bong smooth?
Two things: Percolation and Water Volume. A standard downstem creates big bubbles, but a "Percolator" (like a honeycomb or tree perc) breaks the smoke into thousands of tiny bubbles. More bubbles mean more surface area touching the water, which cools the smoke instantly. The smoother the hit, the less you cough. If you want the smoothest hit possible, you should be looking at our Percolator Bong Collection or a Recycler Bong which cycles water continuously.
8. Do bongs need water?
Yes. 100% yes. Without water, a bong is just a giant, awkward dry pipe. The water is the engine of the bong—it cools the smoke and filters out the ash. If you hit a bong dry, it will be incredibly harsh, hot, and probably the worst smoking experience of your life. Always fill it enough to cover the downstem slits. Not sure on the level? Read How Much Water Do You Put In A Bong?
9. Why do bongs have ice catchers?
That little pinched glass section in the neck? That’s an ice catcher. It allows you to drop ice cubes into the neck without them falling into the water chamber. As the smoke rises past the ice, it gets chilled to near-freezing temperatures right before it hits your lips. It turns a regular hit into a frosty, ultra-smooth breath. If you love cold hits, make sure you browse our Ice Catcher Bong Collection.
10. How to use a bong easily?
Don't overcomplicate it. Fill with water until the downstem is submerged about an inch. Pack your bowl loosely (don't cram it). Put your lips inside the mouthpiece to form a seal. Light the bowl while pulling gently to fill the chamber with smoke. Once it's full, pull the bowl out and inhale deeply to clear it. That’s it. If you need a visual step-by-step, we have it laid out in How to Use a Bong: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide.
11. How do you pack a bong?
The key is the "airflow check." Before you light it, take a pull. If it feels like sucking a milkshake through a tiny straw, it's too tight. You want to sprinkle your ground herb into the bowl lightly and press it down very gently just enough so it doesn't fall through, but loose enough for air to pass. A good grinder makes this huge difference. Check out our Best Weed Grinders to get the perfect consistency.
12. How do you pack a bong correctly?
Use the "cornering" method if you are sharing. Don't torch the whole bowl at once. Pack it evenly, and light just a small edge (the corner) of the bowl so everyone gets a "green" hit. Also, never plug the hole at the bottom of the bowl with a nugget—use a screen if the hole is too big. For a deep dive on getting this right, read How to Properly Pack a Bong for the Best Hits.
13. Can you use juice in a bong?
Technically, yes, but I don't recommend it. Sugary drinks like fruit juice or soda make your bong incredibly sticky and promote bacteria growth almost instantly. It’s a nightmare to clean later. If you really want to experiment with flavor, try adding a few drops of essential oils or fruit peels to the water, or stick to Tea Water or Flavored Water, but always clean it out immediately after the session.
14. Can you use tap water in a bong?
Yes, tap water is fine for 99% of smokers. However, if you live in an area with "hard water" (lots of minerals), it will leave stubborn white water stains on your glass that are hard to scrub off. If you cherish your piece, use filtered or distilled water. It keeps your glass sparkling clean for longer.
15. What kind of water should you use in a bong?
The best water is cold, distilled water. Cold water cools the smoke (obviously), and distilled water has no impurities or minerals, so it won't leave water spots or affect the taste of your herb. Some people swear by warm water for a "humidifier" effect that is easier on the throat, but for a crisp hit, stick to ice-cold distilled water. We tested this extensively in our guide: What's the Best Water for A Bong? Let's Find Out.
16. How hot should bong water be?
Ideally, it shouldn't be hot at all. Most people prefer cold water. However, some smokers with sensitive throats actually prefer warm water (think warm tea temperature, not boiling). The steam adds moisture to the smoke, making it less dry and scratchy on your throat. It sounds weird until you try it. Just never use boiling water, thermal shock can crack your glass instantly.
17. Can you freeze a bong?
NO. Do not put your glass bong in the freezer. Water expands when it freezes, and it will shatter your glass rig into a million pieces. Even if you empty the water, taking a frozen glass bong and hitting it with a hot flame creates "thermal shock" that can snap the glass. If you want a frozen hit, use a Glycerine Coil Bong (designed for freezing) or just use the Ice Catcher.
Buying & Selection: Finding Your Perfect Piece
1. What type of bong is best for me?
There is no single "best" bong, but there is definitely a best bong for your lifestyle. If you are clumsy, have pets, or travel a lot, a Silicone Bong is the undisputed champion because it’s indestructible. If you smoke purely for flavor and want the smoothest hits possible, a Recycler Bong is the top-tier choice because it constantly filters smoke to cool it down. However, for 90% of daily smokers, the classic Beaker Bong is the best all-rounder. It holds plenty of water, clears easily, and has a wide base that is stable on your coffee table. If you are still stuck, read our deep dive: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Bong.
2. Which is the strongest bong?
If durability is your #1 priority, you have two real options: Silicone or Thick Borosilicate Glass. Silicone bongs are literally unbreakable—you can throw them off a roof, and they’ll bounce. They are perfect for hiking, parties, or clumsy friends. If you hate plastic and demand glass, look for "Scientific Glass" or thick-walled pieces (5mm to 9mm thickness). These can survive a knock off the table that would shatter cheaper glass. We curated a specific list of "tanks" in our guide: Best Unbreakable Water Pipes.
3. What is the best material for a bong?
Borosilicate Glass is the gold standard. Unlike soft glass (used for vases) or acrylic (cheap plastic), Borosilicate is engineered to handle extreme temperature changes without cracking. It doesn't off-gas chemicals, doesn't hold odors, and gives you the cleanest, purest taste. Silicone is a close second for utility—it's safe, heat-resistant, and dishwasher safe, but it doesn't look as premium. Avoid acrylic or cheap metal if you care about flavor. We broke down the pros and cons of each material here: Bong Materials Breakdown.
4. What makes a bong "high quality"?
You can spot quality instantly by looking at the joints (where the parts connect). A high-quality bong has thick, reinforced joints that won't snap when you pull the bowl out. Also, check the glass clarity—it should be crystal clear without bubbles or warps. Finally, look at the welding on the percolator; it should be seamless and sturdy. At SmokeMEGA, we inspect every piece for these details before it ships. You don't have to spend a fortune to get quality, either; check out our Best Glass Bongs Under $100.
5. What is the best size for a bong?
The "Goldilocks" size for most smokers is 10 to 14 inches. This height allows enough room for the smoke to cool down before it hits your lips, but it isn't so massive that it's hard to clear. A small "mini rig" (under 8 inches) is great for travel and dabs but can be harsh with flower because the smoke hits you instantly. A massive 18-inch giant looks cool but requires huge lung capacity to use comfortably. If you aren't sure which category you fit into, check out Which Bong Size is Perfect for You?
6. What is similar to a bong but smaller?
If a bong feels too big, you are looking for a Bubbler. A Bubbler is the perfect hybrid—it has the portability and shape of a hand pipe but includes a built-in water chamber like a bong. You get the water filtration and smoothness of a water pipe without the bulk. They are perfect for personal sessions where you don't want to set up a massive piece. Curious about the trade-offs? Read Bubbler vs. Bong: What's the Difference?
7. How much does a good bong cost?
You don't need to break the bank. You can get a solid, functional daily driver for $30 to $50. These will usually be simple beaker styles or basic silicone pieces. If you want advanced filtration (percolators, recyclers) or thicker glass, expect to spend $80 to $150. Anything over $200 usually involves artisan glass or brand names. We pride ourselves on having premium glass for every budget. See for yourself in our Bongs Under $50 Collection or read our pricing guide: How Much Do Bongs Cost?
Cleaning & Maintenance: Keeping It Fresh
1. What is the best way to clean a bong?
The "Gold Standard" method is Isopropyl Alcohol (90% or higher) and Coarse Salt. The alcohol dissolves the sticky resin, and the salt acts as a scrubber to scrape the glass clean. Pour them in, plug the holes, and shake it like you mean it. It works better than almost any expensive store-bought cleaner. If you need a walkthrough, read our Ultimate Guide: How to Clean a Bong. For those who hate chemicals, you can try Hot Water and Salt, but alcohol is faster.
2. Can I pour boiling water into my bong?
Absolutely NOT. This is the fastest way to break your piece. Glass expands when heated, and boiling water (212°F) creates "thermal shock" that can snap even thick borosilicate glass instantly. Always use warm hot tap water, but never boiling. If you are trying to loosen tough resin, let the alcohol soak overnight instead of risking heat damage.
3. Why does my bong taste bad?
If your hit tastes like a wet basement, you have Biofilm. That nasty smell isn't just "old weed" - it is a colony of bacteria and mold growing in your water. Biofilm can start forming in as little as 24 hours. The other culprit is resin buildup in the downstem or bowl. If you can smell your bong from a foot away, it’s time to clean it. Learn more about keeping it fresh in How Often Should You Change Bong Water?
4. How often should you clean your bong?
You should change your water every single day. No exceptions. As for a deep cleaning (Alcohol + Salt), aim for once a week if you are a daily smoker. If you let it go longer, the resin hardens and becomes a nightmare to scrub off. A clean bong doesn't just look better; it gets you higher because you are inhaling pure smoke, not mold spores.
5. Can mold or bacteria grow in a bong?
Yes, and faster than you think. Stagnant water is a breeding ground for bacteria like Pseudomonas and black mold. If you see white or black fuzz floating in your water, or a slimy film on the glass, do not smoke out of it. Inhaling mold spores can lead to a lung infection. Dump the water, clean it with 99% Isopropyl Alcohol to kill the spores, and let it dry completely.
6. Can I clean my bong in the sink?
You can, but be careful. Resin is sticky and waterproof. If you pour heavy resin chunks down your drain, they can harden and clog your pipes over time. It is much smarter to pour your dirty bong water into the toilet and flush it. Also, sinks are slippery - most broken bongs happen because they slipped out of wet hands and hit the ceramic sink or faucet. We recommend using a plastic tub or gripping the bong with a towel.
7. How to clean a bigger bong?
If your bong is too big to shake effectively (like a 18-inch beaker), you need to plug the openings. You can buy silicone cleaning plugs or just use rubber bands and plastic wrap. Fill it with alcohol and salt, plug the holes, and let it soak for 30 minutes. The soak does the heavy lifting so you don't have to shake a heavy 5lb piece of glass. Check out our Big Bong Collection if you are looking to upgrade.
8. How to protect a bong?
Glass breaks; it’s a sad fact of life. The best protection is a dedicated Bong Bag with thick padding. These are essential if you ever plan to take your piece to a friend's house. For home protection, simple habits save lives: never leave it on the floor, and always place it on a dedicated "bong mat" or mousepad to cushion it when you set it down on a hard table. If you break pieces often, consider switching to an Unbreakable Silicone Bong.
9. How to dispose of bong water?
Flush it. Do not pour it outside on your plants (the alcohol and resin will kill them) and avoid the kitchen sink (it smells and clogs pipes). The toilet is the safest place for dirty bong water.
10. What happens if you never clean a bong?
Besides looking gross, a dirty bong is a health hazard. You are filtering your smoke through a "soup" of tar, ash, and bacteria. This can lead to respiratory infections, headaches, and a harsh, burning throat. Plus, the flavor is terrible - you lose all the terpenes of your expensive weed because the dirty resin overpowers the taste. Treat your glass with respect!
Smell & Hygiene
1. Can my neighbors smell my bong? (And how to hide it)
Let's be honest: Yes, but significantly less than a joint. A joint burns constantly, releasing "sidestream smoke" into the air for 10 minutes straight. A bong only produces smoke when you actually hit it and exhale. However, a dirty bong sitting on a table smells like a wet dog and will stink up your room. To hide the smell, keep your piece spotless, exhale out a window or through a "sploof" (filter), and change your water daily. If you need stealth, a Small Bubbler produces less ambient smoke than a giant tube.
2. What does bong water smell like?
If you let it sit for more than 24 hours, it smells like a mix of mildew, ash, and rotting plants. It is arguably the worst smell in the smoking world. This happens because the water traps tar and resin, which immediately start growing bacteria. If your water smells, your smoke tastes like garbage. We explain why this happens in How Often Should You Change Bong Water?
3. Do bongs make you smell?
Yes, but not as bad as other methods. Because the smoke is filtered through water and you aren't holding a burning paper stick between your fingers, your hands won't stink as much as a joint smoker's. However, the smoke you exhale still sticks to your clothes and hair. If hygiene is a priority, consider using Glass Screens to keep your bowl clean and reduce the amount of ash you have to scrape out.
4. How can I make my bong smell better?
Cleaning is the only real fix, but you can add things to the water to mask the odor during a session. A few drops of lemon juice or cranberry extract can help keep the water smelling fresh and actually prevent resin from sticking to the glass (making it easier to clean later). Just don't use sugary drinks, or you'll create a bacterial nightmare.
Effects & Comparison
5. Is a bong better than a joint for your lungs?
The "Bong God" answer? It feels better, but it's still smoke. The water cools the smoke down and filters out heavy particulate matter (ash and tar), which is why a bong hit feels so much smoother and causes less coughing than a dry joint. However, you are still inhaling combustion products. If you want the healthiest possible option, you should be looking at vaporization. But strictly between smoking methods? The bong wins on smoothness every time. Read the full battle here: Bong vs. Joint: Which One is Better?
6. How long do you stay high from a bong?
Bong highs are known for being intense and fast-acting. Because you can inhale a massive amount of smoke in one breath, the effects hit you almost instantly (the "head rush"). Typically, the peak lasts for 2 to 3 hours, which is often longer and heavier than the lighter buzz from a pipe. If you want to understand why it hits so hard, check out Reasons Bongs Increase the Intensity of Your High.
7. What is "Bong Sickness"?
This usually refers to one of two things: "Greening Out" or "Swallowing Smoke." If you take a hit that is too big for your lungs, you might accidentally swallow some of the smoke into your stomach. This causes instant nausea and burping. It’s not dangerous, but it feels terrible. The cure? Drink water, get fresh air, and take smaller hits next time.
8. Is it OK to share a bong?
Socially? Yes, it's a tradition. Hygienically? It's risky. You are sharing saliva and germs with every person in the circle. If you are sharing, use an alcohol wipe on the mouthpiece between hits, or get a bong with a removable mouthpiece (though those are rare). Or, just buy a cheap "guest bong" from our Bongs Under $20 Collection so you don't have to share your expensive glass.
9. Do bongs burn your lips?
They shouldn't! If you are burning your lips, you are either using a bong that is way too small (too close to the flame) or you are getting "splashback" (dirty water hitting your mouth). A Bent Neck Bong fixes both of these problems by angling the mouthpiece away from the heat and water.
10. How long does a bong stay in your urine?
Using a bong doesn't change how long THC stays in your system compared to a joint. It depends on your metabolism and frequency of use. Generally, for a casual smoker, it's a few days; for a heavy daily smoker, it can be 30 days or more. The delivery method (bong vs. pipe) doesn't change the chemistry of the drug, only how fast it hits you.
Manufacturing
11. How are bongs made?
It depends on the material. Glass bongs are either "hand-blown" (where an artist shapes molten glass on a tube) or "scientific" (where precise glass tubes are fused together on a lathe for perfect symmetry). Silicone bongs are made by injecting liquid silicone into a 3D mold. Hand-blown glass is art; scientific glass is for performance; silicone is for durability. Curious about the craftsmanship? We break it down in Handmade vs. Machine-Made: What Should You Choose?
Smell, Health & Effects
1. Does dabbing smell strong? (And can neighbors smell it?)
Here is the truth: Dabbing does smell, but it is much subtler than smoking flower. Because you are vaporizing oil rather than burning dry plant matter, you don't get that clinging "burnt campfire" smoke that sticks to walls and clothes. The smell of a dab is pure terpenes, smelling like fresh pine, lemon, or skunk, but it dissipates from the room in about 10 to 15 minutes. Your neighbors are unlikely to smell it unless they are standing right outside your door the moment you exhale.
2. Do dab rigs leave a lingering smell?
If the rig is clean, no. If the rig is dirty, yes. The vapor itself clears out quickly, but the "reclaim" (leftover oil) inside your rig has a stale, musky odor. If you leave a dirty rig sitting on your coffee table with old water in it, it will absolutely stink up your apartment. Keep your glass clean and use a Carb Cap to vaporize efficiently so you aren't leaving puddles of oil behind.
3. Why do dabs burn so much?
If dabbing hurts your throat, you are doing it wrong. This is the classic rookie mistake of taking a "Red Hot Dab." If your banger is glowing red when you drop the wax in, you are burning the oil instantly (combustion), not vaporizing it. This creates harsh smoke that destroys the flavor and burns your lungs. You need to let the quartz cool down for 30 to 60 seconds after heating. Dabbing should feel like breathing warm air, not fire.
4. Is it healthier to smoke dabs?
"Healthier" is a strong word, but most experts agree that dabbing is cleaner than smoking flower. When you smoke a joint, you are inhaling burning plant material, carbon, paper, and ash. Dabbing is vaporization, meaning you are only inhaling the active ingredients (THC and terpenes) without the carcinogens from burning leaves. However, you must dab at low temperatures; high-temp dabs can release irritants that are bad for your lungs. Compare the methods in Dab Rig vs. Bong: Which Should You Buy?
5. Why are dabs so strong?
Dabs are the espresso shot of the cannabis world. While high-grade flower is about 20% to 25% THC, concentrates range from 60% to 90% THC. You are inhaling pure potency with zero filler. This is why the high hits you instantly (the "rush") and feels much heavier than a joint. It is efficient, but it demands respect.
6. How long does a dab high last?
Because of the massive dose of THC, the peak effects typically last 1 to 3 hours, which is often longer than a flower high. However, the "afterglow" (feeling relaxed but not high) can last for several hours after that. The duration depends heavily on your tolerance and the size of the dab.
7. Do dabs make your tolerance higher?
Yes, and very quickly. Because you are flooding your receptors with such a high volume of THC, your body adapts fast. If you dab daily, you will find that flower (joints/bowls) barely gets you high anymore. To manage this, keep your dab sizes small or take tolerance breaks.
8. Is dabbing the "best" high?
This is subjective, but for "flavor chasers" and those with high tolerances, yes. The high is described as "cleaner" and "cerebral" (head-focused) compared to the groggy "body load" you might get from the smoke and CBN in a joint. Plus, you get to taste the true profile of the strain without the taste of ash. If you want to experience the peak of flavor, try dabbing with a Quartz Banger, which offers the purest taste retention.
9. How long will 1 dab stay in your system?
Many people think dabs leave your system faster because it's vapor, but the opposite is true. Because dabs are so concentrated, you are introducing a massive amount of THC into your body. Since THC is fat-soluble, it takes your body longer to break down that high volume compared to light flower usage. If you are a daily dabber, it can take 30 to 60 days to clear a drug test.
10. Does dab expire? (Do dabs get better with age?)
No, dabs do not get better with age like wine; they degrade. Heat, Light, and Air are the enemies. If you leave your wax out, the terpenes evaporate (causing loss of flavor) and the THC degrades into CBN, which just makes you sleepy and groggy. Dabs are best consumed fresh.
11. How to tell if your dab is bad?
"Bad" dabs will turn dark brown or black, dry out into a crumble powder, or taste harsh and flavorless. However, the biggest red flag is a sulfur smell (rotten eggs) or a loud crackling sound when dabbing. This indicates the concentrate was not purged correctly and still contains solvents or impurities. If it tastes like chemicals, throw it away.
