A bong is a water pipe: smoke is drawn down through water, which cools it before you inhale. Many people find it smoother than a joint, but it also delivers a larger amount at once, so go easy if you are new.
The parts of a bong
- Bowl – holds the ground flower.
- Downstem – the tube that carries smoke from the bowl into the water.
- Chamber – the base, filled with water.
- Tube and mouthpiece – where the smoke collects and where you inhale.
- Carb – on some bongs, a small hole you uncover to clear the chamber; on others you lift out the bowl instead.
The basics
- Add water. Fill the chamber until the end of the downstem sits about an inch under the water.
- Pack the bowl. Fill it loosely with ground flower; packing too tight blocks airflow.
- Light and draw. Place your mouth inside the mouthpiece, light the edge of the bowl and inhale gently so the chamber fills with smoke.
- Clear it. Release the carb or lift the bowl and inhale the remaining smoke in the chamber.
Good habits
- Change the water after every session. Stale bong water smells bad and harbors bacteria.
- Take smaller pulls than you think you need, and wait a few minutes before going again.
- Clean your bong regularly – see How to Clean Your Bong.