Cannabis 101: How to Put Out a Joint for Later

Sometimes you only need a few puffs off the joint and want to save the rest for another time. This remaining portion of the joint is commonly called a ‘roach’. 

While the integrity of a roach is often an afterthought, with a few small steps and the right storage, consumers can maintain the leftover joint’s quality and minimize the typically prominent odor. This can also extend the use to two or even more smoke sessions. 

How to Put Out a Joint for Later

Cannabis joints can easily be put out for later. It’s all about removing heat and blocking airflow until the red “cherry” and the smoke have gone out. This process stops the burn and protects the remaining joint. 

Joints can be put out in various ways, with some methods considered better than others. Common go-tos typically include:

• Pressing the lit end against a clean, flat, nonflammable surface such as an ashtray.
• Tapping the ash gently from the tip, then letting the ember fade as oxygen runs out.
• Placing the unfinished joint into a storage container, AKA a “doob tube” in this scenario, and closing the lid tightly to remove any oxygen flow.

While each works, considering which is most effective for your goals is always helpful. A clean, flat surface works well, as friction can quickly extinguish the joint’s ember. However, sometimes an unclean surface is used, like a wall or the ground. While these can certainly do the job, they may add unwanted contaminants to the joint. 

A storage “doob tube” can also work well to put out a joint and will help keep it safe when you need to move your stash from one place to another. If you purchase prerolls, you may already have this item lying around, or they can be easily found at smokeshops. Once you’re finished with your joint sesh, place the remainder inside the tube and close the lid tightly to remove the oxygen. It will burn for a few seconds longer, leaving a dense aroma inside the tube. 

No matter the method, the goal is to leave the joint dry and intact. With the ember now out, the joint can be stored for later.

Can You Use Water to Put Out a Joint?

Yes, you can. 

Water can put out a joint’s ember, but it can also soak the tip. Wet paper is a joint’s kryptonite. It weakens the remaining paper and flower, absorbing moisture. If this happens, the joint may become unusable.

A wet tip can increase the risk of uneven burning when relit, leading to burning on one side (known as “canoeing”) or outright collapse. Instead of water, use a flat surface or place the remaining joint into a doob tube to prevent oxygen from flowing.  

How to Save a Joint

A simple, straightforward method of saving a joint goes as follows:

• Step one: Tap off any loose ash. Lightly press the joint onto a clean surface to extinguish the ember. Don’t press too hard or aggressively so that it bends or breaks the remaining joint.  
• Step two: Best practice is to then place the joint into a dry, airtight container. However, you can also leave the joint in an ashtray or other open surface, but this will increase the noticeable aroma in the area.
• Step three: Place the container in a cool, dark spot. Keeping cannabis away from air, moisture, and UV rays helps slow down the degradation process, which can convert THC into the non-intoxicating cannabinoid CBN. 

And sure, you can let a joint lie anywhere until ready for re-lighting. But a joint left out is at risk of exposure to the elements and can get crushed or otherwise destroyed when outside a tube. 

While some are built sturdy, even they can get messed up when jostled or knocked about. That’s why a doob tube or protective container is always the best method to save a joint, especially if it’s airtight and UV-protected.

Avoiding the Smell

Put-out joints still create a smell, particularly during the first few minutes. Plus, burnt paper and remaining resin are known to continue releasing strong aromas long after the smoke has stopped. 

To keep smells to a minimum, once the joint is out, place it into a tube until ready for re-use. The best storage is doob tubes, but other options include:

• Smell-proof bags or pouches
• Glass jars with locking lids
• Silicone containers 

Each option can reduce airflow and trap in much of the aroma while keeping the joint safe. 

Can a Joint Be Re-lit?

Yes. A joint can be relit as long as it is dry, and not bent or broken when put out. That said, the experience can change a bit after that first light.

A clean and stable joint tip is ideal for re-lighting. This allows the joint to burn smoothly.

When re-lighting, do the same you did during that first smoke. Many people rotate the joint slowly above the flame, helping evenly spread the heat around the joint’s edge. This consistent, balanced heat prevents canoeing without overburning any parts of the joint’s edge.

Even when re-lit perfectly, flavor changes should be expected. That’s because critical plant compounds, like terpenes, which shape a strain’s aroma, flavor, and effects, evaporate during the initial session. This leads to a re-lit joint tasting more resinous than before. Because of the flavor changes, some consumers prefer not to consume partially consumed joints.

How Many Times Can a Joint Be Re-lit?

In theory, a joint can be lit as many times as needed. 

As long as the flower remains and the joint is intact, it should be able to be relit and consumed as needed. 

That said, each turn has its impact, as each re-light dries the paper further and changes the flavor to a degree. So, while the first time that joint is lit, it could smell like gas, fruit, nature, or whatever the strain is known for, re-lit joints may smell burnt more than anything else. 

Rolling papers matter as well. Joints with thicker paper or tighter rolls typically may handle multiple re-lights better than thin or loosely packed ones. 

That said, with a bit of care and know-how, joints can be put out and re-lit several times, with the experience changing slightly along the way.

3 Best Storage Containers to Save an Unfinished Joint

Choosing the right container for your half-smoked joint is essential for preserving its taste, potency, and aroma. From sleek and portable to airtight and odor-proof, here are the top 3 options to consider:

1. Tightpac Smell Proof TP1 Case (Best Design)

Best Design: The TightPac Smell Proof Case is a go-to for discreet smokers. This airtight and crush-proof container keeps your joints fresh and private with a secure seal and sleek design. Available in various sizes, it easily tucks into pockets or backpacks for convenient, odor-free carrying.

2. Doob Tubes (Best Budget Option)

Doob Tubes are your wallet's best friend. These affordable yet effective tubes come in various sizes to accommodate different joint lengths. Their durable, odor-proof plastic construction protects your herb from light, air, and moisture, while the simple screw-on cap keeps everything secure. While not as sleek as some other options, Doob Tubes excel in value and functionality, making them a perfect choice for budget-conscious smokers who prioritize practicality.

3. Full Stori (Best Quality)

Stori is an award-winning cannabis storage box that harmoniously combines aesthetics and practicality. This collection features a beautifully crafted case, color-coded pods, and tubes and is designed to effortlessly integrate into your lifestyle at home and on the go. Crafted from food-grade aluminum, they keep UV rays out while maintaining an airtight seal to preserve freshness and aroma. While on the pricier side, Stori caters to those who demand the ultimate in cannabis preservation and convenience.

Bonus Tip: No matter which container you choose, consider purchasing a humidity control pack to regulate moisture levels and prevent your joint from drying out or becoming moldy.

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.