Bongs are a staple for many smokers, and they offer an unparalleled smoking experience. However, as with any smoking device, regular cleaning is essential not only to maintain the flavor and potency of your herbs but also for your safety. Residues from burnt ashes and uncleaned bongs can cause unhealthy bacteria to grow, making it crucial to keep your bong clean and hygienic. In this article, we have compiled a comprehensive guide on how to clean a bong thoroughly.
1. Materials Required for Cleaning a Bong:
Before starting, you should make sure that you have all the materials required for cleaning your bong, including:
– Salt (Coarse or Epsom)
– Isopropyl Alcohol (minimum 90%)
– Cleaning plugs or rubber stoppers
– Ziplock bags
– A small pipe cleaner, brush, or toothbrush
– A pair of gloves
2. Empty the Bong:
The first step is to dispose of any dirty water and residue left in your bong and remove any loose ash using a paper towel or cleaning brush. Break down any large pieces of residue or clogs.
3. Dismantle the Bong:
Dismantle the bong; separate the different pieces of your bong like the bowl, down-stem, and base joints. It’s best to do this on a towel or table close to the sink so that it’s easier to rinse everything down the drain.
4. Use Salt and Isopropyl Alcohol to Clean the Bong:
Add salt into your bong using a funnel to get it inside if needed. A ¼ cup of sea salt or Epsom salt should be enough for most bongs. Add alcohol next, filling the bong up to the neck. Carefully plug or cover all openings, then carefully shake the bong following a swirling pattern. The salt works as an exfoliant, and the alcohol kills the bacteria. You’ll know that everything is dissolving once the salt disappears. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes if you feel like it needs more time.
5. Rinse Everything Thoroughly:
After swirling, remove the plugs or stoppers and add hot, clean water into the bong. Hold the bong’s openings tightly, then shake it to rinse everything out. Do this a few times, then remove all the plugs and shake out any water.
Cleaning your bong might seem daunting, but it’s an essential task that shouldn’t be overlooked. A dirty bong can not only affect your smoking experience but put your health at risk. Follow the above steps carefully, and you’ll have your bong looking as clean as new. Remember to clean it regularly, and you’ll enjoy the best smoking experience from your bong for years to come.
If you want to make sure your bong remains clean for longer, there are a few tips you can follow. First, use filtered water when filling the bong and avoid using tap water which contains minerals like calcium that can build up over time and cause problems. You should also consider adding ice cubes when smoking as these help keep resin from sticking to the sides of the bong. Finally, don’t forget to keep your bong in a dry and cool place as heat can also cause damage. Doing these simple things will make sure that you won’t need to clean your bong quite as often.
With some patience and regular maintenance, keeping your bong in top shape is easy! So get started today and enjoy the best smoking experience from your bong.