Best Bong Cleaning Kits Reviewed

Bongs are among the most iconic cannabis paraphernalia – beloved by some, misunderstood by others, it's a smoking apparatus with a history as rich and potent as the herbs it delivers. For centuries, cultures across the globe have used these water pipes to experience smooth, filtered hits, making them a surprisingly resilient icon in the world of smoking.

However, that smooth hit comes at a cost. Bongs get dirty - really dirty. Resin builds up, chambers turn murky, and the once crystal-clear water becomes a stagnant swamp.

But cleaning? That's where things get interesting. From DIY concoctions to fancy commercial kits, there's a whole world of bong-cleansing options out there. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the best bong cleaning kits the market has to offer.

Why Cleaning Your Bong is Important

Holding onto a grimy bong might seem harmless, but it's more akin to harboring a Petri dish in your living room. Here's why cleaning your bong isn't just about aesthetics - it's about protecting your health:

1. Bacteria and Mold 

Stagnant bong water is a breeding ground for nasty microorganisms. Bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and legionella love the warm, moist environment, potentially causing respiratory infections, pneumonia, and lung abscesses.^1,2 Imagine inhaling a mini biohazard instead of a smooth herb; it is not exactly the chill vibe you were after.

2. Harsh Hits, Wasted Bud

Resin buildup hinders airflow, forcing you to pull harder for smaller, harsher hits. This not only hurts your lungs but also wastes precious bud. A clean bong ensures smooth, efficient puffs, maximizing your herbal enjoyment.

3. Tastes of Stale Residue

Remember the fresh, floral notes of your new flower? Yeah, they disappear in a dirty bong, replaced by a stale, acrid tang. Cleaning your bong restores its flavor profile, letting you fully experience the nuanced aromas of your herbs. 

So, how often should you clean your bong?

The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you use the bong and your personal preferences. You should always use fresh water each session and clean it at least once a week. Remember, even fresh water doesn't magically erase bacteria buildup.

What to Look for in a Bong Cleaning Kit

So, you're ready to ditch the grime and reclaim your bong's glory. But with shelves overflowing with cleaning kits, where do you start?

Essential Components:

• Cleaning Solution: The heart of the kit - breaks down resin and grime. Look for solutions with natural ingredients, avoiding harsh chemicals. Consider concentrated formulas for dilution, saving you money in the long run.
• Brushes: Your scrubbing squad! Some bong cleaning kits include brushes of varying sizes and shapes to reach every nook and cranny. Nylon bristles are gentle yet effective, while stiffer options like salt brushes tackle stubborn resin.
• Plugs or Caps: These seal your bong chambers, allowing you to shake with the cleaning solution without leaks. Silicone caps are durable and reusable, while disposable options offer convenience.
• Scraper: A scraper comes in handy for stubborn resin chunks clinging to the corners. Choose one with a pointed tip and a comfortable grip for precision scraping without scratching your precious glass.
• Extra Goodies: Some kits go the extra mile with cleaning pads, towels, or even resin-blocking solutions to prevent future buildup. These can be bonus points for convenience and long-term bong health.

Quality Counts:

Not all kits are created equal. Here's how to distinguish a champion from a chump:

• Material Matters: Opt for high-quality materials like nylon bristles and silicone caps. They'll last longer and avoid shedding or scratching your bong.
• Solution Strength: Consider your cleaning frequency and bong size. Concentrated formulas offer efficiency for heavy users, while pre-mixed solutions might be ideal for occasional cleaning.
• Brush Variety: The more shapes and sizes, the better! Look for kits with brushes designed for stems, downstems, and tight spaces.
• Reputation Matters: Research brands and read reviews. Opt for companies with a track record of quality and customer satisfaction.

The 5 Best Bong Cleaning Kits

Keeping your bong clean is essential for smooth hits and optimal flavor. To make your life easier, we've curated a list of the top 5 bong cleaning kits, each tailored to specific needs and budgets.

1. Formula 420 3-Pack Bundle (Top-rated, effective, multi-purpose)

This kit is a customer favorite for a reason. It includes the brand's AbrasivAction technology that eliminates the need for soaking and scrubbing, tackling everything from light grime to stubborn resin build-up. 

2. Blue Beetle Brushes Pro Kit (Versatile, thorough cleaning, scratch-free)

This kit prioritizes thorough cleaning with an arsenal of brushes in various shapes and sizes. From long stem brushes to angled scrubbers and bowl tools, it leaves no corner untouched.

3. Higher Standards Salt Rox (Chemical-free, eco-friendly)

Ditch the chemicals and embrace the power of nature with Salt Rox. These coarse rock salt granules are gentle on glass yet effectively grind away resin when shaken with water. 

4. Piece Water Solution (Preventative, easy to use, fresh taste)

Elevate your bong experience with this innovative liquid that replaces bong water. Its natural extracts prevent resin build-up, leaving your bong clean and your hits fresh. Simply pour, enjoy, and rinse for a quick refresh. 

5. BoroBuddy Mini (Compact, portable, convenient)

For the discreet smoker or travel enthusiast, the BoroBuddy Mini is a pocket-sized powerhouse. This magnetic cleaning pad attaches to the inside of your bong, effortlessly collecting resin as you smoke. Compact and convenient, it's perfect for on-the-go cleaning.

How to Clean Your Bong

Keeping your bong clean is key to a smooth and flavorful smoking experience. Regular cleaning not only enhances the taste but also ensures the longevity of your beloved piece. 

While there are various cleaning kits available, here are some step-by-step instructions on how to clean your bong using the most common components of these kits.

What You'll Need:

1. Bong Cleaning Solution: Many specialized cleaning solutions are available, such as isopropyl alcohol or commercial cleaning agents designed explicitly for bongs.
2. Pipe Cleaners or Cotton Swabs: These are essential for reaching tight spots and cleaning down stems and intricate parts.
3. Coarse Salt: Acts as an abrasive to scrub away resin and build-up.
4. Plastic Ziplock Bags or Sealable Containers: To soak smaller parts of your bong.
5. Rubber or Silicone Bong Plugs: Useful for sealing openings to prevent leaks during the cleaning process.

Steps to Clean Your Bong

Step 1: Disassemble Your Bong

Carefully take apart your bong, separating the bowl, downstem, and any other removable parts. This makes it easier to clean each component thoroughly.

Step 2: Dispose of Residue

Empty any remaining water and residue from your bong into a sink or toilet. Rinse the bong under warm water to remove loose debris. In some cases, it may be possible to put your dab reclaim to use.

Step 3: Pre-Soak Small Parts

Place smaller components, such as the bowl and down stem, into a plastic bag or container. Add enough cleaning solution to submerge them fully. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes.

Step 4: Plug Openings

Use rubber or silicone plugs to seal any openings on your bong, such as the mouthpiece and joint. This prevents the cleaning solution from leaking out during the cleaning process.

Step 5: Add Coarse Salt

Add a generous amount of coarse salt to your bong's main chamber. The salt acts as an abrasive agent, helping to break down stubborn resin and deposits.

Step 6: Pour in the Cleaning Solution

Carefully pour the bong-cleaning solution into the main chamber until it's about halfway full. If using isopropyl alcohol, ensure it has a high percentage, such as 90% or higher.

Step 7: Shake and Swirl

Hold the plugged openings securely and shake the bong vigorously. Ensure that the cleaning solution and salt reach all areas. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before shaking again for added effectiveness.

Step 8: Scrub with Pipe Cleaners

Use pipe cleaners or cotton swabs to reach tight spots and clean the downstem and other intricate parts. The abrasive action of the salt will help loosen any remaining residue.

Step 9: Rinse Thoroughly

Once the cleaning process is complete, thoroughly rinse all parts under warm water. Ensure that no cleaning solution or salt residue remains.

Step 10: Reassemble and Enjoy

After a final rinse, reassemble your bong, making sure all parts are dry and clean. Fill it with fresh water and your preferred smoking material, and enjoy a clean and flavorful experience.

DIY Bong Cleaning

While store-bought cleaning kits are readily available, crafting your own DIY bong cleaning kit can be a cost-effective and practical alternative. Here's a guide on materials and methods for a successful DIY bong cleaning session:

Materials for DIY Bong Cleaning Kit:

1. Isopropyl Alcohol (Rubbing Alcohol): This powerful solvent effectively breaks down resin and grime.
2. Coarse Salt: Acts as an abrasive agent to scrub away stubborn residue.
3. Ziplock Bags or Sealable Containers: Essential for soaking and shaking parts of the bong.
4. Pipe Cleaners or Cotton Swabs: Ideal for reaching narrow and intricate parts.
5. Warm Water: A crucial component for rinsing and final cleaning.

Cleaning Without a Store-Bought Kit:

1. Disassemble the Bong: Separate all removable parts, such as the bowl, downstem, and any other detachable components.
2. Soaking: Place these parts in a ziplock bag or container filled with a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes.
3. Shaking and Scrubbing: After soaking, vigorously shake the bag or container to dislodge stubborn residue. Use pipe cleaners or cotton swabs for detailed cleaning.
4. Main Chamber Cleaning: For the main chamber of the bong, pour a generous amount of isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt into it. Plug the openings and shake the bong, allowing the mixture to reach all surfaces.
5. Rinse Thoroughly: Once cleaned, rinse all parts and the bong thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining cleaning solution.

References

1. Kumar AN, Soo CI, Ng BH, Hassan T, Ban AYL, Manap RA. Marijuana “bong” pseudomonas lung infection: a detrimental recreational experience. Respirology Case Reports. 2017;6(2):e00293. doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/rcr2.293 ↩︎
2. Nguyen LT, Picard-Bernard V, Perriot J. Legionnaires Disease in Cannabis Smokers. Chest. 2010;138(4):989-991. doi:https://doi.org/10.1378/chest.10-0410 ↩︎

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.