Cleaning a bong regularly is essential to maintain smooth airflow and a clean taste. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
Materials Needed:
- Isopropyl alcohol (91% or higher)
- Coarse salt (Epsom or sea salt works well)
- Ziplock bags (for smaller parts like bowl and downstem)
- Hot water
- Pipe cleaners or cotton swabs
- Gloves (optional)
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:
1. Empty & Rinse
- Pour out any old water from the bong.
- Rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove loose debris.
2. Disassemble the Bong
- Remove the bowl and downstem (if detachable).
- Place these smaller parts into separate ziplock bags for easier cleaning.
3. Add Cleaning Solution
- For the bong: Pour isopropyl alcohol into the base and add a few tablespoons of coarse salt.
- For small parts: Add isopropyl alcohol and salt into each ziplock bag with the bowl and downstem.
4. Shake It Up
- Cover the openings of the bong with your hands or plastic wrap and shake vigorously.
- Do the same with the ziplock bags for small parts.
5. Let It Soak (If Needed)
- For tough stains or heavy resin buildup, let the solution sit for 15-30 minutes before shaking again.
6. Scrub If Necessary
- Use pipe cleaners, cotton swabs, or a small brush to scrub away stubborn residue, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
7. Rinse Thoroughly
- Dump out the alcohol-salt mixture and rinse the bong and parts thoroughly with warm water until all residue and alcohol smell are gone.
8. Dry & Reassemble
- Allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembling.
Bonus Tips:
✅ For Regular Maintenance: Change bong water daily to prevent buildup.
✅ For a Natural Alternative: Use lemon juice & baking soda instead of alcohol.
✅ For Hard-to-Clean Stains: Use boiling water (but be careful with sudden temperature changes to avoid cracking the glass).
Your bong should now be sparkling clean and ready for use! 🌿💨