Short answer
A bong is a water pipe for cannabis or hemp flower. You fill the base with water, load ground flower into the bowl, apply flame to the edge of the bowl, and inhale through the mouthpiece. The pull moves smoke down the downstem, through the water, and into the chamber. Lift the bowl or release the carb to clear the chamber, then exhale.
Parts of a bong
- Bowl: holds the ground flower. Cone or straight shape.
- Downstem: tube from the bowl into the water. Slits at the bottom.
- Chamber: the main tube above the water line. Holds smoke before you inhale it.
- Percolator: extra disc or tree with holes. Splits smoke into smaller bubbles.
- Mouthpiece: opening at the top. Some models use a carb hole instead of a removable bowl.
- Base: beaker, straight, or bubble. Holds the water.
How to use a bong
- Fill the base with water. Cover the lowest slit on the downstem by 1 to 2 cm. Cold water is fine. Add ice only if the tube has ice notches.
- Grind flower to a medium grind. Remove stems and seeds.
- Load the bowl. Fill it, but do not pack it tight. Air must move through the flower.
- Sit the bong upright on a table. Put your mouth on the mouthpiece.
- Hold flame to the edge of the bowl, not the center. Inhale at a slow, steady rate. The water should bubble, not splash.
- Lift the bowl, or pull the carb, when smoke fills the chamber. Inhale to pull the smoke into your lungs.
- Exhale. Wait 5 to 10 minutes before the next bowl.
Water level and temperature
Too little water gives hot smoke and a weak seal at the downstem. Too much water pulls into your mouth. Cold water and ice lower the smoke temperature. They also add condensation, so the chamber clouds up faster.
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Cleaning
Pour out the water after each session. Standing water grows bacteria and mold within a day or two. Do a deep clean every week or two. Use 91% isopropyl alcohol plus coarse salt. Shake for 60 seconds, then rinse with warm water. Replace the water between users. Do not use a bong with a cracked base or a chipped joint.
Hemp flower and CBD
Bong use applies to hemp flower the same as cannabis flower. Hemp flower sold in the US carries THC at or below 0.3% by dry weight under federal law. Combustion destroys part of the cannabinoid content. A vaporizer with a 14 mm or 18 mm joint does the same job at lower temperatures.
Risks
Water does not filter out tar, carbon monoxide, or carcinogens. Cannabis smoke carries many of the same toxins as tobacco smoke. Sharing a mouthpiece passes saliva, herpes, and respiratory infections. State laws on possession and use differ. Check your state before you buy or use a bong.