A Complete Guide to Glass Bongs for Beginners

Are you new to the world of smoking and want to try out something new, or maybe you already have several different water pipes but glass bongs have peaked your interest? Then glass bongs are the perfect choice for you! Glass Bongs not only offer an enjoyable smoking experience for all your different strains and flavours, but also are super convenient and easy to use, and they don't have to be expensive!

If you're just starting out, the world of glass bongs can be overwhelming. From different types of bongs to the various bong materials used in their construction, there's a lot to learn before you can find the perfect piece for your smoking needs.

In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about glass bongs for beginners, from the different types of bongs available to the benefits of using a glass bong over other bongs of different materials.

 
There are a plethora of different types of glass bongs, each type with its own unique features and benefits. The most common types include:

These are the most traditional and classic types of bongs, featuring a simple straight tube design. They are easy to use and clean. The classic straight tube bong is the most plentiful type of glass bong too so there are many to choose from to suit all sorts of tastes making them a popular choice among beginners.

 The beaker bong has a wider base that narrows towards the top, providing a larger water chamber for filtration. This makes them perfect for smoking concentrates. Beaker Base Bongs have that cliche and typical shape just like a flask you'd find in a scientific lab. The extra capacity for water really does go a long way and offers insane levels of water filtration that helps to cool your smoke and give you a smooth hit.

Percolator Bongs: These bongs have additional chambers and filters that help to cool and filter the smoke for a smoother smoking experience, this extra filtration goes a very long way for beginners who haven't trained their lungs for bongs yet. Percolator Bongs can be a bit more complicated to use and clean, but the additional filtration is worth it for many smokers; strictly speaking, the best bongs around have percolators.

Ice Bongs have an ice catcher halfway up the central chamber that works as an ice pinch and suspends ice cubes, allowing smoke to be filtered through to cool down and smooth your hits. Ice Bongs are a great choice for beginners because your hits won't be as hot and harsh when smoking marijuana or tobacco.

There are of course many other types of bong materials such as silicone, acrylic, ceramic and more. For more information on different types of bong materials check out our other bong guide.

Using a glass bong to smoke cannabis or other herbs can offer several benefits compared to other bongs made from other materials. Glass bongs are the most popular material for bongs. Here are some of the most notable advantages of using glass bongs:

1. Smooth Smoke: Glass bongs are designed to filter and cool the smoke as it passes through the water chamber, resulting in smoother and cooler smoke that's easier on the throat and lungs. This can be especially beneficial for users who find smoking joints or blunts to be too harsh.
2. Better Flavour: Glass is an inert material that doesn't add any additional flavours or smells to the smoke. This means that the natural flavours and aromas of the cannabis or herbs can be fully appreciated, without any interference from the smoking device.
3. Durability: Glass bongs are typically made from high-quality borosilicate glass that is resistant to heat, impact, and scratches. With proper care and maintenance, glass bongs can last for years, making them a cost-effective and sustainable smoking option.
4. Versatility: Glass bongs come in many shapes and sizes, with different features and accessories that can be customized to suit different smoking preferences. For example, percolator bongs can offer additional filtration for smoother hits, while recycler bongs can recycle smoke for a more efficient smoking experience.
5. Easy to Clean: Glass bongs are easy to clean and maintain, making them a hygienic and convenient smoking option. Unlike other smoking devices, which can be difficult to clean and may require special tools or solutions, glass bongs can be easily disassembled and washed with soap and water.

 Overall, using a glass bong can offer a more enjoyable and efficient smoking experience, with less harshness, better flavour, and greater durability compared to other smoking devices.

Here are some tips for using a glass bong like a pro:

1. Fill the bong with enough water: Fill the water chamber with enough water so that the downstem is submerged, but not so much that the water level reaches the mouthpiece. The water should be enough to provide adequate filtration, but not too much that it causes splashing or leaks. Use Ice Cubes if your bong has an ice catcher for super smooth delicious bong hits.
2. Grind your herb: Use a herb grinder to break up your herb into small, evenly-sized pieces. This will allow for better airflow and more even burning, resulting in a smoother and more consistent smoking experience.
3. Pack the bowl with the herb: Fill the bowl with enough herb so that it's packed loosely but not too tightly. This will allow for good airflow and more even burning.
4. Apply heat and inhale: Apply a flame to the herb while inhaling through the mouthpiece. Take a slow and steady draw, being careful not to inhale too deeply, as this can cause coughing or irritation due to the hot smoke.
5. Clear the chamber: After taking a hit, remove the bowl from the downstem and inhale to clear any remaining smoke from the chamber. This can help prevent stale or harsh hits, and make for a cleaner overall experience.
6. Clean your bong regularly: Glass bongs can get dirty and clogged over time, especially with frequent use. Regular cleaning with isopropyl alcohol or other cleaning solutions such as Dr Green Bong Cleaner can help keep your bong functioning properly and maintain its lifespan. Generally speaking, empty your dirty bong water as often as possible, bong water is a breeding ground for bacteria.

By following these simple tips, beginners can enjoy a more satisfying and hassle-free smoking experience with their glass bongs.

If you're new to smoking, a glass bong is an excellent choice for a smooth and enjoyable smoking experience. With the right type of bong and proper care and maintenance, you'll be able to enjoy years of happy smoking.

Overall, the best glass bong to buy for beginners will depend on their personal preferences and needs, while experts may want to consider more advanced and customized options to enhance their smoking experience. By choosing a bong that's easy to use and clean, and provides a smooth and flavorful smoking experience, beginners can start their journey into the world of glass bongs with confidence.

If you're still unsure what glass piece is the best bong for you then feel free to get in touch with Ali Bongo for some expert advice; we have over 30 years of experience and love to give recommendations, we also have free UK shipping on all orders of £40 or over with other next-day delivery options available.