Glass bongs are popular devices for smoking herb or tobacco, as they offer a smooth and flavorful experience. However, glass bongs are not without their drawbacks and challenges. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most common problems and issues that glass bong users face and how to solve them.
Problem: Broken or cracked glass
One of the biggest risks of using a glass bong is breaking or cracking it. Glass is fragile and can shatter easily if dropped, knocked over, or mishandled. A broken or cracked glass bong can not only ruin your smoking session, but also pose a safety hazard, as you may cut yourself on the sharp edges or inhale glass particles.
Solution: Depending on the extent of the damage, you may be able to fix your glass bong with some DIY methods. Here are some options:
- Food grade silicone: This is a non-toxic substance that can be used to seal cracks, chips, or joints in your glass bong. It is resistant to damage and does not crack, crumble, peel, or dry out. You can apply it to the affected area and let it cure for a few hours. However, this method is not suitable for large or complex breaks, as it may not hold the pieces together well.
- Duct tape: This is a cheap and easy option for repairing minor cracks or chips in your glass bong. You can simply wrap some duct tape around the damaged area and press it firmly. However, this method is not very aesthetically pleasing, and it may affect the airflow and flavor of your smoke.
- Epoxy resin: This is a strong and durable substance that can be used to glue broken pieces of glass together. You can mix the resin with a hardener and apply it to the broken edges, then clamp them together until they set. However, this method requires some skill and precision, and it may leave some residue or bubbles on the surface of your glass bong.
If none of these methods work for you, or if your glass bong is beyond repair, you may have to buy a new one. You can also look for more durable materials, such as acrylic or silicone bongs, that are less prone to breaking.
Problem: Dirty or clogged glass
Another common issue that glass bong users face is dirty or clogged glass. After smoking out of a glass bong for a while, tar and resin build up inside the device, making it harder to draw smoke, affecting the flavor and smoothness of your hits, and creating an unpleasant odor. A dirty or clogged glass bong can also harbor bacteria and mold, which can be harmful to your health.
Solution: The best way to prevent your glass bong from getting dirty or clogged is to clean it regularly. Here are some steps to follow:
- Pour out the water from your glass bong and rinse it with warm water.
- Pour some isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) and coarse salt into your glass bong. The alcohol will dissolve the tar and resin, while the salt will act as an abrasive to scrub away the dirt.
- Plug the holes of your glass bong with some paper towels or rubber stoppers and shake it vigorously for a minute or two.
- Pour out the alcohol/salt mixture and rinse your glass bong with warm water again.
- Let your glass bong dry completely before using it again.
You should clean your glass bong at least once a week if you use it frequently, or more often if you notice any signs of dirtiness or clogging. You should also change the water in your glass bong before every smoking session, as stale water can affect the quality of your smoke and harbor germs.
Conclusion
Glass bongs are great devices for smoking herb or tobacco, but they also come with some challenges and drawbacks. By knowing how to fix some of the most common problems and issues that glass bong users face, you can enjoy a better and safer smoking experience. Remember to always handle your glass bong with care, clean it regularly, and replace it if necessary.
