If you enjoy smoking herbs or tobacco from a glass bong, you probably know how important it is to keep your bong clean and in good condition. A glass bong can offer a smooth and satisfying smoking experience, but it also requires some care and maintenance. You can’t just leave it out in the open or stash it away without proper preparation. Doing so can lead to your bong getting dirty, dusty, moldy, or even broken.
Fortunately, there are some simple tips and tricks you can follow to store your glass bong safely and discreetly when not in use. Here are some of the best practices for keeping your bong in optimal shape and avoiding any unwanted attention.
Clean your bong before stashing it away
One of the most important steps for storing your glass bong is to clean it thoroughly before putting it away. This will prevent any residue, bacteria, or odor from building up on your glass piece. It will also make your next smoking session more enjoyable, as you won’t have to deal with a dirty or clogged bong.
To clean your bong, you’ll need some rubbing alcohol, coarse salt, and hot water. Pour some alcohol and salt into the bong and shake it vigorously to loosen up any gunk inside. Then rinse it with hot water until it’s clear and sparkling. You can also use a pipe cleaner or a cotton swab to reach any hard-to-clean spots. Make sure you dry your bong completely before storing it.
Don’t store your bong with herbs or tobacco inside
Another common mistake that many bong users make is to leave some herbs or tobacco inside the bowl or the stem of the bong. This can cause several problems, such as:
- Your herbs or tobacco will lose their flavor and potency over time, as they are exposed to heat, light, oxygen, and air.
- Your bong will get dirtier faster, as the burnt material will stick to the glass and create more residue.
- Your bong will smell more strongly, as the herbs or tobacco will release their aroma into the air.
To avoid these issues, you should always empty the bowl and the stem of your bong after using it. You can store any leftover herbs or tobacco in a small container, preferably airtight and opaque. Don’t mix them with fresh herbs or tobacco, as they might affect their quality.
Find a cool, dry storage space for your bong
Once your bong is clean and empty, you need to find a suitable place to store it. The ideal storage space for your glass bong should be:
- Cool: Avoid storing your bong in places where the temperature is too high or too low. Extreme temperatures can damage the glass or cause it to crack. Aim for a temperature slightly below room temperature, but not so cold that your bong freezes.
- Dry: Avoid storing your bong in places where there is too much moisture or humidity. Excess moisture can cause mold or mildew to grow on your glass piece, which can be harmful to your health. Aim for a relative humidity between 55% and 62%, which is the optimal range for preserving herbs and tobacco.
- Dark: Avoid storing your bong in places where there is too much light or direct sunlight. Light can degrade the cannabinoids and terpenes in your herbs or tobacco, making them less potent and flavorful. It can also fade the color of your glass piece over time. Aim for a dark location that blocks out any light sources.
Some examples of good storage spaces for your glass bong are:
- A cupboard or a cabinet: These are usually dark, cool, and dry enough for storing your glass piece. They also keep it out of sight and out of reach from children or pets.
- A padded box: A box with some padding can protect your glass piece from any bumps or shocks that might occur during storage. You can also find boxes that are airtight and odorproof, which will help keep your stash discreet.
- A small safe or lockbox: If you want to be extra secure and discreet about your glass piece, you can store it in a small safe or lockbox that only you have access to. Just make sure it’s padded and has some ventilation holes to prevent moisture buildup.
Be careful if you travel with your bong
If you need to take your glass bong with you on a trip, you should be extra careful about how you pack and transport it. Glass bongs are fragile and can easily break if they are not handled properly. Here are some tips for traveling with your glass bong:
- Clean your bong before you leave: As mentioned before, cleaning your bong will prevent any residue, bacteria, or odor from accumulating on your glass piece. It will also make it less likely for you to get in trouble with the law or the airport security if they inspect your luggage.
- Wrap your bong in bubble wrap or foam: To protect your glass piece from any impact or pressure during transit, you should wrap it in bubble wrap or foam. You can also use towels, clothes, or newspapers as padding. Make sure you cover the entire bong and secure it with tape or rubber bands.
- Put your bong in a hard case: To add another layer of protection, you should put your wrapped bong in a hard case, such as a suitcase, a backpack, or a briefcase. This will prevent your bong from getting crushed or bent by other items in your luggage.
- Carry your bong with you: If possible, you should carry your bong with you instead of checking it in. This will give you more control over how your bong is handled and reduce the risk of losing it or having it stolen. However, be aware that some airlines or countries might have restrictions on carrying glass items or smoking paraphernalia on board.
Conclusion
Storing your glass bong safely and discreetly when not in use is not hard if you follow these simple steps. By cleaning your bong, emptying it, finding a suitable storage space, and being careful when traveling with it, you can ensure that your glass piece will last longer and perform better. You can also avoid any unwanted attention or trouble from others who might not appreciate your smoking hobby.
A glass bong is a valuable and enjoyable accessory for any herb or tobacco lover. Treat it well and it will treat you well in return.
