`
Silicone bongs are becoming more popular among herb and tobacco enthusiasts because of their durability, flexibility, affordability, and variety of colors and designs. Unlike glass bongs, silicone bongs are less likely to break, easier to store and transport, and cheaper to buy. However, silicone bongs also need regular cleaning to maintain their functionality and appearance. In this blog post, we will show you how to clean a silicone bong using simple methods and materials that you can find at home.
Why You Should Clean Your Silicone Bong
Cleaning your silicone bong is not only important for aesthetic reasons, but also for health and performance reasons. A dirty bong can harbor bacteria, mold, and other contaminants that can affect the quality and flavor of your smoke, as well as your respiratory health. A dirty bong can also clog the airflow and reduce the efficiency of your hits. Therefore, cleaning your silicone bong regularly will help you enjoy a smoother, cleaner, and more satisfying smoking experience.
How Often You Should Clean Your Silicone Bong
The frequency of cleaning your silicone bong depends on how often you use it and how dirty it gets. Generally, you should rinse your bong with warm water after every use to remove any ash and residue. You should also do a thorough cleaning at least once a week or whenever you notice a buildup of resin, stains, or odor. If you smoke heavily or use sticky or flavored herbs or tobacco, you may need to clean your bong more often.
How to Clean a Silicone Bong with Soap and Water
One of the easiest and most effective ways to clean a silicone bong is to use soap and water. This method works well for removing light to moderate dirt and resin from your bong. Here are the steps to follow:
- Remove the bowl and downstem from the bong and set them aside. You can clean them separately using the same method or using pipe cleaners.
- Dump out the old water from the bong and rinse it with warm water. Shake the bong to loosen up any resin.
- Pour some liquid dish soap into the bong and fill it with warm water. Swirl the water around to create bubbles and reach all the parts of the bong.
- Let the bong soak for 10 to 15 minutes or longer if needed.
- Use a baby bottle brush or any other soft-bristled brush to scrub the inside of the bong. You can twist and bend the silicone to access hard-to-reach areas.
- Rinse the bong thoroughly with clean water until no soap or dirt remains.
- Dry the bong with a paper towel or a cloth or let it air dry upside down.
How to Clean a Silicone Bong with Vinegar
Another simple and effective way to clean a silicone bong is to use vinegar. Vinegar is a natural acid that can dissolve resin and kill bacteria without harming the silicone material. Here are the steps to follow:
- Remove the bowl and downstem from the bong and set them aside. You can clean them separately using the same method or using pipe cleaners.
- Dump out the old water from the bong and rinse it with warm water. Shake the bong to loosen up any resin.
- Pour some white vinegar or apple cider vinegar into the bong and fill it with warm water. Swirl the water around to mix it with the vinegar.
- Let the bong soak for 10 to 15 minutes or longer if needed.
- Use a baby bottle brush or any other soft-bristled brush to scrub the inside of the bong. You can twist and bend the silicone to access hard-to-reach areas.
- Rinse the bong thoroughly with clean water until no vinegar or dirt remains.
- Dry the bong with a paper towel or a cloth or let it air dry upside down.
How to Clean a Silicone Bong with Freezer
A unique way to clean a silicone bong is to use your freezer. This method works by freezing the resin inside the bong, making it easier to peel off or break off. Here are the steps to follow:
- Remove the bowl and downstem from the bong and set them aside. You can clean them separately using the same method or using pipe cleaners.
- Dump out the old water from the bong and rinse it with warm water. Shake the bong to loosen up any resin.
- Shake out the excess water from the bong so that it is wet but not dripping.
- Place the bong in a plastic bag and seal it. This will prevent any smells or moisture from escaping.
- Put the bagged bong in the freezer and let it freeze for a few hours or overnight.
- Take the bong out of the freezer and remove it from the bag. You should see the resin frozen and brittle inside the bong.
- Use your fingers or a blunt tool to peel off or break off the resin from the bong. You can also twist and bend the silicone to crack the resin.
- Rinse the bong with warm water to remove any remaining resin or ice.
- Dry the bong with a paper towel or a cloth or let it air dry upside down.
Tips for Cleaning a Silicone Bong
Here are some tips to help you clean your silicone bong more effectively and safely:
- Avoid using harsh chemicals such as alcohol, acetone, or bleach to clean your silicone bong. These chemicals can damage the silicone material and leave harmful residues that can affect your health and taste.
- Avoid using abrasive tools such as steel wool, scouring pads, or knives to clean your silicone bong. These tools can scratch or tear the silicone material and create places for bacteria and mold to grow.
- Avoid exposing your silicone bong to high heat such as boiling water, microwaves, or ovens. High heat can warp or melt the silicone material and ruin its shape and function.
- Avoid storing your silicone bong in direct sunlight or near heat sources. Sunlight and heat can fade or discolor the silicone material and make it brittle over time.
Conclusion
Cleaning a silicone bong is easy and only takes a few minutes. By following the methods and tips we have shared in this blog post, you can keep your silicone bong clean and fresh for every use. A clean silicone bong will provide you with a better smoking experience and a longer lifespan. So, don’t neglect your silicone bong and give it some love and care every now and then!
“`
