How to use a bong

A bong cools and lightly filters smoke through water, which many people find smoother than a joint. The mechanics are simple once you understand the airflow.

Parts

• Bowl — holds the flower; pulls out to let air rush through (the "pull")
• Downstem — carries smoke from the bowl into the water
• Chamber — fills with smoke; the water sits at the bottom
• Mouthpiece — top opening you inhale from

Steps

1. Fill with water until the downstem is submerged about 2–3 cm — enough to bubble, not so much it splashes up.
2. Lightly pack ground flower into the bowl — not too tight or air won't pull through.
3. Put your mouth to the mouthpiece, sealing it.
4. Hold a flame to the edge of the bowl and inhale slowly to draw smoke into the chamber.
5. When the chamber is full, pull the bowl out (or release the carb hole) and inhale the smoke in one smooth breath.

Care

• Change the water after every session — stale bong water tastes terrible.
• Clean with coarse salt + isopropyl alcohol, shake, rinse well.
• Corner the bowl: light only part of it each time so it lasts several hits.