How to use ice or glycerin tubes to cool down the smoke from your glass bong without diluting it?

Posted on by Brian Bernstein

If you enjoy smoking herb or tobacco from a glass bong, you might have wondered how to make the experience more smooth and pleasant. One of the common ways to cool down the smoke is to use ice cubes in the water chamber or the neck of the bong. However, this method has some drawbacks, such as melting ice, water spillage, added weight and longer cleaning time. Is there a better alternative to ice that can keep your smoke chilled and fresh without diluting it? The answer is yes: glycerin tubes.

What are glycerin tubes?

Glycerin tubes are cylindrical glass attachments that have a spiral coil inside. The space inside the cylinder is filled with glycerin, a non-toxic fluid made up of fatty acids. Glycerin is a common ingredient in cosmetics and some food items. It has the property of freezing quickly and staying colder longer than ice. As a pipe accessory, the glycerin tube is removable, so you don’t need to put your whole bong in the freezer. You just need to detach the tube and freeze it for a few hours before using it.

How do glycerin tubes work?

After freezing the glycerin tube, you can attach it to your bong or pipe. The glycerin tube acts as a cooling system for the smoke that passes through it. As you pull from the pipe or bong, the smoke travels through the coil where it transfers its heat to the glycerin. The longer air path also cools the smoke further, and the constriction traps some of the debris from the smoke as well. The result is a smooth, clean and refreshing hit that doesn’t burn your throat or lungs.

How to use glycerin tubes?

Using a glycerin tube is relatively easy and convenient. Here are some steps to follow:

  1. Place the glycerin tube inside the freezer for 2-4 hours, depending on the size of your tube. Bigger tubes need longer freezing hours, while smaller ones rarely need overnight freezing. You know that your glycerin tube is ready for use when the bubble inside moves at a slow snail’s pace.
  2. Take out the tube and attach it to your bong or pipe. For glycerin bongs, you attach the tube right at the joint on top of the base. Secure the connection with a keg clip, and you’re ready to roll.
  3. Pack your herb or tobacco in the bowl and light it up. Enjoy the icy smooth hits from your glycerin-cooled bong or pipe.
  4. After using, detach the tube and rinse it with warm water. You can store it in the freezer again for later use, or let it dry and store it in a cool place.

How to clean glycerin tubes?

To keep your glycerin tube working in tip-top shape, you need to clean it regularly. The slender coils are prone to clogs when you neglect to clean your tube. The usual 95% alcohol or stronger plus salt will do the trick. Here are some steps to follow:

  1. Place the glycerin tube in a Ziploc bag and completely cover it with isopropyl alcohol. Add a good amount of salt, with the grains small enough to go through the coils, yet with the right coarseness to scrub the resin from the coils.
  2. Seal the bag and hold the tube as you shake it to allow the solution to pass through. Do this for 2-5 minutes, depending on how dirty your glycerin tube is.
  3. Leave the tube to soak for 15-30 minutes, or 4 hours to overnight to soften the debris.
  4. Shake the bag again to remove the dirt. Take out the tube and rinse it with warm running water.
  5. You may have to do the cleaning and rinsing several times until the coils are clean.
  6. If alcohol doesn’t flow through the coil, hold the coil upright with the joint end on your palm. Blow into it gently until you see bubbles coming out of the other end.

Where to buy glycerin tubes?

If you are interested in trying out glycerin tubes for yourself, you can find them online or in some local head shops. There are different types and sizes of glycerin tubes available, so you can choose one that suits your preferences and budget. Some examples are:

Conclusion

Glycerin tubes are a great way to enhance your smoking experience with a glass bong or pipe. They can cool down the smoke without diluting it, making it smoother and more enjoyable. They are easy to use, clean and store, and they come in different shapes and sizes. If you are looking for a way to take your smoking to the next level, you should give glycerin tubes a try. You won’t regret it.

Related Posts