Bongs

A bong is a smoking device used to smoke cannabis, hash, or herbs through water filtration. It typically consists of a tube with a water chamber at the bottom and a bowl for your weed or hash. The smoke passes through the water, which cools and filters it before you inhale. This provides a smoother smoking experience compared to a joint or pipe.

A bong works using water filtration. You put weed or hash in the bowl, light it, and inhale through the mouthpiece. The vacuum created draws the smoke through the water, which cools it and removes some harmful substances like tar. You then inhale the filtered smoke.

1. Fill the bong with water (see below for the right amount).
2. Grind your weed or hash and place it in the bowl.
3. Hold a flame above the bowl while slowly inhaling through the mouthpiece.
4. Once the chamber fills with smoke, remove the bowl or open the kickhole (depending on the model) and inhale the smoke.

There are many types of bongs, each with unique features:

• Glass bongs: Popular for their clean taste and ease of cleaning.
  Acrylic bongs: Lightweight, durable, and budget-friendly.
• Ice bongs: Designed to hold ice cubes, cooling the smoke for a smoother hit.
• Ceramic bongs: Often artistically crafted and durable.
• Silicone bongs: Flexible, unbreakable, and great for travel.
• Mini bongs: Compact bongs for discreet or on-the-go use.
• Percolator bongs: Advanced models with extra filters for even smoother smoke.

When buying a bong, consider:

• Material: Glass for flavor, acrylic or silicone for durability.
• Size: Larger bongs give stronger hits.
• Type of percolator: For extra filtration and cooling.
• Kickhole or click system: Depends on your preferred smoking style.
• Ease of cleaning: Some designs are easier to clean than others.

The main benefits of using a bong are:

• Smoother smoke: Water cooling makes it less harsh on the throat and lungs.
• Stronger effects: You inhale more smoke in one go.
• Less waste: No papers or filters needed.
• More efficient: You get more effect from less weed.

While smoking is never truly healthy, a bong is often seen as a healthier alternative to a joint. Why? The water filters out some harmful compounds, and you avoid inhaling burning paper or tobacco. Still, inhaling smoke is always a burden on the lungs.

Clean your bong by filling it with warm (not boiling) water and a few drops of natural cleaner. Cover the openings with a cloth and shake it well. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, shake again, and rinse with warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can be toxic. For stubborn residue, add coarse salt or rice after cleaning and shake again. Use a pipe cleaner or brush for hard-to-reach areas.

Fill the bong so that the bottom of the downstem or chillum is submerged about 2–3 cm. Too little water won’t filter properly; too much makes it harder to draw smoke.

• A bong filled with water
• Grinder (optional but recommended)
• Weed or hash
• A flame (lighter or hemp wick)

Some people also use a screen in the bowl to prevent small particles from being inhaled.

Yes, you can smoke hash with a bong, but most types of hash don’t burn well on their own. It’s often mixed with weed or placed on a special screen for effective smoking.