Keep It Clean! How to Clean a Bong Step-by-Step

Bongs are a staple of the cannabis community. For decades and probably longer than that, these iconic devices have stood out in their iconic design and functionality. It's no surprise that even as the cannabis world evolves and offers numerous ways to consume weed, many enthusiasts continue to go back to their bong regularly. From traditional glass pieces to innovative silicone designs to many alternative ideas, bongs truly cater to just about every smoker's preferences. However, bongs are notorious for getting dirty, leaving users to wonder how to clean a bong.

Ask any bong smoker, and they'll tell you that one of the only drawbacks is keeping them clean. Getting into the nooks and crannies of some of these sophisticated devices can be downright impossible at times. Even easy-to-clean bongs require more effort than some may like. Some say the best way to clean a bong is not to have one. 

Whether you're dealing with classic glass, newer-era silicone, or something else altogether, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the ins and outs of cleaning popular types of bongs.

How to Clean a Bong

Bong cleaning kits are available, but cleaning a bong at home doesn't have to be complicated. The relatively simple process can do wonders for your bong's longevity and the quality and flavor of your hits.

If you're looking for a smoother, more enjoyable smoke from a clean glass, start by gathering the following:

• Isopropyl alcohol (90% or greater concentration)
• Coarse salt (table salt works)
• Ziploc bags (Large to XL)
• Pipe cleaners or cotton swabs (ideally with a long handle)
• Warm water
• Towel or paper towels
• Plastic wrap
• Rubber stoppers or bong plugs (optional)

After you have all your items in order, dismantle your bong. Breaking down your bong will make cleaning hard-to-reach spots much more manageable. Start by disassembling your bong's components, including the bowl, downstem, and other removable parts. Lay the pieces out on paper towels until you're ready to begin cleaning. 

For a more straightforward cleaning, plug any openings with rubber stoppers or bong plugs after disassembly. This optional measure helps prevent the cleaning solution from leaking and splashing all over the place.

The Cleaning Process

1. Rinse the bong using warm water to remove any loose debris and residue
2. Fill the base of your bong up to its percolator or diffuser with isopropyl alcohol 
3. Add coarse salt to the base. The salt helps scrub away stubborn resin. Add as much as you see fit
4. Except for the mouthpiece, cover all openings with plastic wrap or plastic secured by rubber bands
5. Shake the bong enough that the alcohol and salt scrub away the resin. Some stubborn spots may require a Q-tip or cleaning brush after shaking. Repeat until the bong looks clean and the transparent liquid appears dark brown or black. 
6. Empty the bong's mixture into a sink or disposable receptacle 
7. Clean your bong with warm water to remove any leftover residue and salt
8. Put the removable parts (bowl, downstem, etc.) in a Ziploc bag(s) containing a new mixture of isopropyl alcohol and salt. Shake the bag until the pieces look clean and the mixture is dark brown or black
9. Repeat the cleaning process for your parts
10. Wait for the pieces to air dry, then reassemble the bong
11. Smoke when ready! 

Be sure to give these two areas an extra bit of elbow grease:

• The percolator or diffuser: this is where a significant sum of resin ends up
• The bowl and downstem: resin often ends up in this part of the pipe, adversely impacting airflow and taste.

What is the Easiest Way to Clean the Inside of a Bong?

The simplest method involves filling the bong with a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt, covering the openings, and shaking it to dislodge debris. For hard-to-reach areas, let it soak and use a pipe brush or cotton swab as needed.​

How Do You Clean Resin Out of a Bong?

To remove resin, fill the bong with isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt, then shake vigorously. For stubborn residue, let it soak for up to an hour. Use pipe cleaners or cotton swabs to reach tight spots, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.​

How to Clean Glass Bongs

To clean a glass bong effectively, use isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher) and coarse salt. Disassemble the bong, fill it with the alcohol and salt mixture, cover the openings, and shake vigorously to remove resin. Let it soak if needed, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.​

Take extra precautions to ensure your pieces don't fall, chip, crack, or break during the process. Glass bongs are particularly fragile and extra caution can prevent unwanted breakdage.

• Be careful when disassembling your parts, especially if any seem stuck or hard to move due to resin buildup.
• Place your disassembled parts on a flat surface, ideally with a towel.
• Avoid stacking pieces of the bong. When cleaning smaller parts in Ziploc bags, it's best to keep your parts separate so that they don't accidentally crash into each other when shaken up.

How to Clean a Silicone Bong

Silicone bongs have found their way into the hearts of many cannabis consumers. This is especially true for anyone looking for a durable bong to smoke on the go or keep at home.

People often favor silicone pieces because they are more straightforward to clean. While regular cleaning is still recommended, the cleaning process of silicone bongs isn’t as laborious as that of glass. 

To get started you'll need to have on hand:

• Dish soap
• Warm water
• Cleaning brush or pipe cleaners with soft bristles
• Towel or paper towels

Once you gather your supplies, follow these steps:

1. Disassemble the removable bong parts
2. Rinse the silicone under warm water to remove any loose debris and residue
3. Fill your sink or basin with warm water, adding a mild soap as it fills
4. Sink your bong and its parts in the soapy water
5. Use your brush or pipe cleaner to scrub the bong in and out, stopping when all residue is gone
6. Remove the pieces from the sink or basin, then wash them with running warm water
7. Allow parts to air dry, then reassemble

Cleaning silicone bongs is much easier than glass. Still, you need to be aware of some critical areas; harsh chemicals and abrasive soaps can damage your silicone. Stiff bristle brushes or pipe cleaners can also be used. Be sure to stick to mild (maybe fragrance-free?) or soft choices in both cases.

How to Clean a Bong with Household Items

What if you don't have some of the needed items to clean your bong? It is possible to clean a bong using basic household items. First, you'll want to have on hand:

• Hot water
• Baking soda
• Dish soap
• Paper towels or a cloth
• Plastic wrap
• Q-tips

Once you have your supplies ready, take the following steps:

1. Disassemble the removable bong parts
2. Rinse the silicone under warm water to remove any loose debris and residue
3. Fill the bong's base with hot water
4. Add 2-4 tablespoons of baking soda and one or two drops of dish soap to the water 
5. In addition to the mouthpiece, cover all openings with plastic wrap secured by rubber bands
6. Shake the bong enough that the water and baking soda scrub the resin. Some stubborn spots may require a Q-tip after shaking. Repeat until the bong looks clean and the clear liquid appears dark brown or black. 
7. Remove the plastic wrap and empty the bong's mixture into a sink or disposable receptacle.
8. Clean your bong with warm water to remove any leftover residue and salt
9. Separately clean the removable parts, soaking each in a baking soda and dish soap mixture
10. Use a cloth or paper towel to remove any remaining residue or debris 
11. Rinse the parts in hot water
12. Wait for the pieces to air dry, then reassemble the bong

Best DIY Bong Cleaner Alternatives

If you don't have a commercial bong cleaner available, a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt is an effective DIY solution. Alternatively, you can use hot water with baking soda and a few drops of dish soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach, which can leave harmful residues.​

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Why Should You Clean Your Bong After Use?

Neglecting to clean your bong can lead to harmful bacteria and mold buildup, posing health risks. Additionally, residue affects the taste and quality of your smoke, leading to a less enjoyable experience. Regular cleaning ensures both safety and optimal performance.​

Can Mold Grow in a Bong?

Yes, mold can develop in a bong, especially when water is left stagnant for extended periods. Mold exposure can lead to respiratory issues and other health problems. To prevent this, change the water daily and clean your bong thoroughly at least once a week.​

How Often Should You Clean Your Bong?

Cleaning your bong after each use is ideal. However, not everyone will stick to this regimen. If that's the case, base your answer on your frequency of use. If you use your bong daily, several weekly cleanings will do the trick. If you're using your bong only once or twice a week, you can get away with cleaning it every week.

Can I Put My Bong in the Dishwasher?

Putting your bong in the dishwasher is probably not a great idea, as glass bongs are delicate enough and run a high risk of breaking in the dishwasher. Silicone and plastic bongs may hold up during the wash but risk melting or losing shape once exposed to hot water at a specific temperature. Overall, the risk is probably not worth the reward.

Can I Boil My Bong to Clean It?

Boiling a bong is not recommended, especially for glass pieces, as rapid temperature changes can cause cracking or shattering. Instead, use isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt for effective cleaning without risking damage to your bong.​

What Is the Best Bong Cleaner: Alcohol, Salt, or Vinegar?

Alcohol and salt are often considered the winning combination. Some DIY smokers would prefer not to use chemicals of any kind. You can also try using vinegar and lemon juice if you prefer. 

Where Should I Store My Bong?

You can store your bong anywhere safe, be it a padded box or some flat surface out in the open. Just be sure to put it in an area where it doesn't risk being bumped or knocked over.

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.