How to Clean a Silicone Bong

Silicone bongs are becoming more popular among herb and tobacco enthusiasts because of their durability, flexibility, affordability, and variety of colors and designs. However, silicone bongs also need regular cleaning to maintain their functionality and appearance. Unlike glass bongs, silicone bongs can’t be cleaned with alcohol or acetone, as these solvents can damage the material and leave behind harmful residues. So, how do you clean a silicone bong without ruining it? Here are some simple and effective methods that you can try at home.

Method 1: Dishwasher

One of the easiest ways to clean a silicone bong is to put it in the dishwasher. Most silicone bongs are dishwasher-safe, meaning they can withstand high temperatures and water pressure without melting or deforming. However, before you toss your bong in the dishwasher, make sure to remove the bowl and downstem, as these parts are usually made of glass or metal and may not be suitable for the dishwasher. You can clean these parts separately using alcohol or hot water and salt.

To clean your silicone bong in the dishwasher, follow these steps:

1. Place your silicone bong on the top rack of the dishwasher.
2. Add some dish soap or detergent to the dispenser.
3. Run the dishwasher on a normal or hot cycle.
4. Let the bong air dry or wipe it with a clean cloth.

The dishwasher method is especially effective for silicone bongs that are used for oil and wax, as the hot water and soap can dissolve and remove the sticky residue. However, this method may not be enough for heavily stained or smelly bongs, so you may need to use another method for a deeper cleaning.

Method 2: Vinegar and Baking Soda

Vinegar and baking soda are natural and safe cleaning agents that can help you get rid of the dirt, grime, and odor from your silicone bong. Vinegar is acidic and can break down the tar and resin that accumulate in the bong over time. Baking soda is alkaline and can neutralize the vinegar and also act as a mild abrasive to scrub away the stubborn stains.

To clean your silicone bong with vinegar and baking soda, follow these steps:

1. Remove the bowl and downstem from the bong.
2. Pour some white vinegar or apple cider vinegar into the bong until it is about half full.
3. Add a few tablespoons of baking soda to the vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble, so be careful not to overflow the bong.
4. Cover the mouthpiece and carb hole with your hands or some plastic wrap and shake the bong vigorously for a few minutes.
5. Let the bong sit for another 10 minutes or longer if it is very dirty.
6. Empty the bong and rinse it well with hot water.
7. Repeat the process if needed until the bong is clean and odor-free.

The vinegar and baking soda method is suitable for silicone bongs that are used for dry herbs or tobacco, as these substances tend to leave more residue and smell than oil or wax. However, this method may not be enough for removing hard water stains or mineral deposits from your bong, so you may need to use another method for a more thorough cleaning.

Method 3: Boiling Water and Lemon Juice

Boiling water and lemon juice are another natural and safe way to clean your silicone bong. Boiling water can kill any bacteria or mold that may be growing in your bong, as well as loosen up any stuck-on residue. Lemon juice can add a fresh scent to your bong and also help dissolve any remaining tar or resin.

To clean your silicone bong with boiling water and lemon juice, follow these steps:

1. Remove the bowl and downstem from the bong.
2. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil on the stove.
3. Add some lemon juice to the boiling water. You can use fresh lemon juice or bottled lemon juice, depending on your preference.
4. Carefully submerge your silicone bong into the boiling water. Make sure that all parts of the bong are covered by the water.
5. Let the bong boil for about 15 minutes or longer if it is very dirty.
6. Use a pair of tongs or gloves to remove the bong from the water and let it cool down.
7. Rinse the bong well with cold water.
8. Repeat the process if needed until the bong is clean and odor-free.

The boiling water and lemon juice method is ideal for silicone bongs that have hard water stains or mineral deposits, as these can be dissolved by the acidic lemon juice. However, this method may not be enough for removing oil or wax residue from your bong, so you may need to use another method for a more complete cleaning.

Conclusion

Silicone bongs are great for herb and tobacco lovers who want a durable, flexible, and affordable smoking device. However, silicone bongs also need regular cleaning to keep them in good shape and prevent any health risks. Fortunately, cleaning a silicone bong is not difficult and can be done with some simple household items. You can use the dishwasher, vinegar and baking soda, or boiling water and lemon juice to clean your silicone bong, depending on the type and level of dirtiness. By following these methods, you can enjoy a clean and smooth smoking experience every time.