How to Start Smoking a Bong for New Users

You’ve been invited to a weekend gathering, and everyone’s excited about trying out a bong for the first time. The bong gets passed around, and as it’s your turn, you realize you have no idea how to use it. While everyone waits, you fumble with the parts, unsure of what to do. What was supposed to be a fun moment turns into stress and awkwardness.

This is what happens when you jump into bong smoking without knowing the basics. Taking a little time to learn can save you from confusion and make your experience enjoyable and stress-free.

Learning the Parts of a Bong for New Users

Learning about the parts of a bong is important for new users to get the best experience. Each part plays a role in cooling, filtering, and delivering smoke smoothly. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the key parts of a bong and how they work together.

Mouthpiece

The mouthpiece is the part of the bong where you place your mouth to inhale the smoke. Smoke travels through the bong tube and exits at the mouthpiece. Most bongs have a straight, horizontal mouthpiece, but some come with angled designs. Angled designs let you inhale without bending or hovering awkwardly over the bong.

Bong Tube

The bong tube connects the water chamber to the mouthpiece. After smoke passes through the downstem and water chamber, it travels up the tube to be inhaled.

Usually, the tube and mouthpiece are made as one piece. The tube is often the longest part of a bong, starting at the base. It may also include a percolator to filter the smoke.

Most bong tubes are straight, but some are curved or bent for a different look and feel. They're often made from borosilicate glass, which is durable and allows you to see the smoke moving through, adding a fun visual element to the experience.

Percolator

A bong percolator makes smoking smoother and cooler by cooling, moisturizing, and filtering the smoke, reducing harshness when inhaling. The main downside is that it needs regular cleaning to prevent clogging. Percolator bongs come with a built-in perc, while modular bongs let you add more if you like.

Percolators come in different shapes and sizes. If you're new to bongs, choose a design with fewer small holes, as they're easier to clean. A UFO perc is a good beginner-friendly option.

Base Water Chamber

The base of a bong, also called the water chamber, is located at the bottom of the water pipe. This is where the water is added, making it one of the most important parts of the bong.

The water in the base filters and cools the cannabis smoke before you inhale it. Some smokers like to add ice cubes here to make the smoke even cooler and smoother. The base also holds the smoke that comes from burning the dry herb in the bowl, preparing it for inhalation.

Joint

The joint is the part of the bong that connects the base to the downstem and bowl. In most bongs, the downstem fits into the joint, but some bongs don’t need a downstem, so the bowl is placed directly into the joint instead.

It’s important to know the size of your joint to ensure the downstem or bowl fits properly. Joint sizes are typically 10mm, 14mm, and 18mm. The 14mm size is the most popular because it offers smooth airflow and is easy to use. The 18mm size, while larger, can burn herbs too quickly, which some users may find less ideal.

Downstem

The downstem is the part of a bong that connects the bowl to the water chamber. It carries smoke from the burning cannabis in the bowl into the water, where it is cooled and filtered.

The downstem must match the size of the joint and bowl. For example, a 14mm joint needs a 14mm downstem to fit properly. When you take a hit, the gurgling sound you hear comes from the downstem creating bubbles filled with smoke. This process, called percolation, helps to make the smoke smoother.

Bong Bowl

The bowl is the part of a bong where you place your cannabis for smoking. It’s one of the most important parts of the bong because it holds the ground dry herbs. Bowls come in different shapes, styles, and sizes, but they all serve the same purpose.

After packing your herb into the bowl, you place it into the downstem or directly into the bong joint. Common bowl sizes are 10mm, 14mm, and 18mm. Bowls have either male or female joints, and they must match the opposite type on your bong (male bowl with a female joint, or female bowl with a male joint).

Carburetor

A carburetor, or carb, is a small hole in a bong or bubbler that helps control airflow. This allows the user to regulate the heat and how quickly the herb in the bowl burns.

Some bongs have a removable bowl that works like a carb, while others have a small hole near the bowl or on the neck close to the mouthpiece. To use a carb, cover it with your finger while filling the chamber with smoke, then release your finger to inhale.

Ash Catcher

An ash catcher is an extra attachment for bongs that catches ash and resin before it reaches the water chamber. This keeps the bong cleaner and prevents clogs. It’s especially useful for frequent smokers because cleaning an ash catcher is easier than cleaning the entire bong.

Ash catchers are placed on the downstem before adding the bowl. Some come with built-in percolators for extra filtration, improving the smoothness of your smoke. The most common type is a male 14mm ash catcher, which fits most bongs with a female joint or downstem.

Splash Guard

A splash guard keeps the bubbling water in the base from reaching the mouthpiece while still allowing smoke to pass through.

It’s usually found in bongs with multiple percolators. Splash guards can also double as ice catchers, holding ice to cool the smoke even more for an extra smooth and chilled smoking experience.

How to Choose the Right Bong for Your Smoking Style?

Choosing the right bong can make a big difference in your smoking experience. With so many options, it’s important to find one that fits your style and needs. If you’re new to this, learning how to use a bong can help you make the most of your choice and enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable session.

1. Consider the Types of Bongs

When looking at bongs, new smokers will find three main materials: glass, acrylic, and ceramic. Glass bongs offer a clean taste and often have beautiful designs that look like art, but they need careful handling and regular cleaning to prevent grime buildup. 

Acrylic bongs are durable and a good choice for those who might drop them. Ceramic bongs combine strength with style, often featuring unique shapes. Each material provides a different feel, from the cool touch of glass to the warm feel of ceramic, letting personal preference decide.

2. Choose the Right Bong Size for Your Comfort

Choosing the right bong size is key to a comfortable and enjoyable session. Large bongs look impressive but can be bulky, while smaller options, like bamboo or silicone, are beginner-friendly and easy to handle. 

A catcher helps trap debris for smoother hits, and a snug mouthpiece adds comfort. Pick a size and style that fits your needs for a hassle-free, relaxing experience.

3. Pick the Right Bong Shape

Choosing the right bong shape is important for both how it looks and how it works. Straight tube bongs are great for strong hits and are loved by experienced users. Beaker-shaped bongs, on the other hand, hold more water, which helps cool and filter the smoke for a smoother inhale. 

The shape also affects how easy it is to clean, which is important because of the residue left behind from use. Pick a bong shape that not only looks good but also matches your smoking style, making every session smooth and enjoyable.

4. Extra Features Percolators and Ice Catchers

For a better smoking experience, consider features like percolators and ice catchers. A percolator, made from durable glass, filters the smoke through water, making it cooler and smoother, similar to how a good cup of coffee feels comforting. 

Ice catchers let you add ice above the water, further cooling the smoke for a chilled, smooth hit that's gentle on the throat. These additions aren't just for looks—they improve each session, making it more enjoyable and satisfying.

5. Find the Right Bong for Your Budget

Before buying a bong, set a budget to make your choice easier. Bongs come in many styles and prices. Simple glass bongs offer a clean smoking experience without being expensive. 

If you want something long-lasting and easy to clean, spending a little more could be worth it. The goal is to find a balance between quality and affordability, so you get a durable bong without overspending.

4 Steps to Set Up Your Bong Correctly

Setting up your bong the right way is key to having a smooth and enjoyable smoking session. If you're wondering how to set up a bong, follow these 4 easy steps to do it properly and enjoy a smooth and satisfying experience:

• Fill with the Right Amount of Water: Add water to your bong until it covers the bottom of the downstem by 1–2 cm. Too little won’t filter smoke, and too much makes inhaling harder. Listen for a gentle bubbling sound to know it’s just right.
• Secure the Downstem and Bowl: Ensure the downstem and bowl fit snugly to prevent leaks and improve filtration. Clean them regularly to avoid buildup and enjoy a smoother, cleaner smoke.
• Check the Airflow: Test the airflow by drawing through the mouthpiece before lighting. If it feels tight, adjust the downstem or bowl. Keep your bong clean to prevent clogs and improve airflow.
• Prepare Your Herb or Tobacco: Use a grinder to break your herb into even pieces for smooth burning. Remove seeds to avoid harsh smoke and improve the flavor. Preparing your material ensures a better experience.

How to Smoke a Bong?

1. Place Your Mouth Correctly on the Mouthpiece

Start by placing your lips gently inside the mouthpiece to create a seal. This prevents smoke from escaping and ensures you pull in every bit of smoke through the bong. Avoid pressing too hard; the seal should feel natural and comfortable. 

If the seal isn’t tight, smoke might leak out, and the hit won’t be as effective. Think of it like using a straw—just like using a bong, you want all the airflow to go through it, not around it.

2. Light the Bowl and Inhale Slowly

Lighting the bowl is all about timing and control. Hold the flame just above your herb or tobacco without touching it directly. As you inhale slowly, the flame is pulled toward the bowl and ignites the material. 

This controlled burn allows the smoke to flow smoothly into the chamber. Take your time—rushing can make the smoke harsh and unpleasant. Watch the chamber fill with smoke; this means the bong is working to cool and filter the smoke for a smoother hit. Beginners can practice inhaling steadily to get the hang of it.

3. Remove the Bowl to Clear the Chamber

When the chamber is full of smoke, it’s time to clear it. Remove the bowl by lifting it gently to let fresh air flow into the bong. This pushes the smoke up through the mouthpiece and into your lungs. 

Inhale deeply to clear the chamber completely, but don’t rush—it’s about smooth and steady airflow. Make sure to handle the bowl carefully to avoid spilling any leftover herb. Clearing the chamber fully ensures you get the most out of your hit.

4. Exhale Smoothly and Prepare for the Next Hit

After inhaling, exhale slowly and steadily. This helps avoid coughing and allows you to enjoy the cooled filtered smoke. Take a moment to relax and savor the flavors before preparing for your next hit. 

If you’re smoking with others, pass the bong along carefully, making sure it’s clean and ready for the next person. For solo sessions, take your time between hits to keep the experience enjoyable.

5. Practice Proper Breathing for Comfort

Proper breathing makes the entire process more comfortable and enjoyable. Take deep breaths before starting to relax your lungs and throat. During the session, maintain a slow and steady breathing pattern to control your inhalation. 

This helps avoid harshness in your throat and ensures a smoother experience. For new users, practicing breathing techniques before using the bong can make a big difference in your overall comfort.

Turn Frustration into Relaxation

Trying something new can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure where to start. Many beginners struggle with bong smoking because they don’t know the basics, turning what should be an enjoyable moment into frustration.

The solution is simple. Learn the steps to set up and use a bong correctly. With the right knowledge, you can turn confusion into confidence and enjoy smooth, satisfying sessions every time. Take the first step to a better experience by equipping yourself with these essential tips.

New to bong smoking? Start with the basics and see how our high-quality bongs can make your sessions smoother and frustration-free. Learn the steps, gain confidence, and enjoy every moment. Shop now to find the perfect bong for your needs!