A glass bong is a great way to enjoy your favorite herb or tobacco, but it can also be a source of germs and diseases if you share it with others. Whether you are smoking with your friends, family, or strangers, you need to take some precautions to keep your bong clean and prevent the transmission of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens. Here are some tips on how to share your glass bong safely and hygienically.
Tip #1: Clean Your Bong Regularly
One of the most important steps to keep your bong germ-free is to clean it regularly. Cleaning your bong not only improves the taste and quality of your smoke, but also removes any residue, dirt, mold, or bacteria that may be lurking inside. You should deep clean your bong at least once a week, or more often if you use it frequently or share it with others.
To clean your glass bong, you will need some isopropyl alcohol (at least 70% concentration), coarse salt, a resealable plastic bag, a pipe cleaner, and some dish soap and warm water. Here are the steps to follow:
- Detach the smaller parts of your bong, such as the bowl, the slide, and the stem. Rinse them with hot water to loosen any debris.
- Place the parts in a plastic bag with enough isopropyl alcohol to cover them. Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt and shake the bag gently for a few minutes. Let the parts soak for 4-5 hours or overnight.
- Pour out the old water from your bong and fill it halfway with isopropyl alcohol. Add 4 tablespoons of salt and plug the holes with your fingers or some paper towels. Shake the bong over the sink for 4-5 minutes.
- Scrub the inside of your bong with a pipe cleaner or a sponge to remove any stubborn residue.
- Rinse the bong and the parts with warm water and dish soap to get rid of any alcohol or salt. Let them air dry for an hour or until they don’t smell like alcohol.
You can also use a commercial bong cleaner or white vinegar instead of isopropyl alcohol, but they may not be as effective.
Tip #2: Change Your Water Often
Another simple way to keep your bong hygienic is to change the water often. The water in your bong can become dirty and stale after every smoke session, which can affect the flavor and quality of your smoke. Moreover, the water can harbor mold and bacteria that can cause infections or allergies.
You should change the water in your bong before every use, or at least once a day if you use it frequently. Use fresh and filtered water to fill your bong up to the desired level. Avoid using tap water, as it may contain chlorine or other chemicals that can alter the taste of your smoke.
Tip #3: Use Personal Mouthpieces
The mouthpiece of your bong is where most of the germs and diseases can be transmitted from one person to another. If you share your bong with others, you may be exposing yourself to saliva, blood, or mucus that can carry harmful pathogens such as colds, flu, herpes, hepatitis, or COVID-19.
To prevent this risk, you should use personal mouthpieces when sharing your bong. Personal mouthpieces are disposable or reusable covers that fit over the mouthpiece of your bong and create a barrier between your lips and the glass. You can buy them online or at some head shops or weed stores.
You should also avoid touching your mouth or face after using your bong, and wash your hands with soap and water before and after smoking.
Tip #4: Don’t Share Your Bong If You Are Sick
The last tip is to avoid sharing your bong if you are sick or have any symptoms of illness. Even if you use personal mouthpieces or clean your bong regularly, you may still pass on germs or diseases to others through coughing, sneezing, or breathing near them.
If you are feeling unwell, you should refrain from smoking altogether until you recover. Smoking can worsen your condition and impair your immune system. If you really need to smoke, you should use your own bong or pipe and keep it away from others.
Conclusion
Sharing your glass bong with others can be a fun and social experience, but it can also pose some health risks. By following these tips, you can enjoy your herb or tobacco without spreading germs or diseases. Remember to clean your bong regularly, change the water often, use personal mouthpieces, and don’t share your bong if you are sick. Stay safe and happy smoking!
