Depending on how often and thoroughly you clean your bong, there may be a glue-like residue build-up that can trap your downstem in the joint. When this happens, it may be instinct to free the stem by using pliers, potentially breaking it. However, I implore you to take a chance on this bong-cleaning hack that may save you a trip to the smoke shop.
Picture Via Zamnesia
Bong Cleaning Hack: Hot Water
The hot water hack is perfect if you are at home and have hot water accessibility. Just follow these steps and your downstem will be free in no time.
Instructions
First, take the bowl out of the stem and place it somewhere glass safe. Then, make sure the bong isn’t cold or had contact with ice so that the glass doesn’t potentially crack when hot water is applied. Next, turn your faucet to the hottest setting and allow the water to flow down the middle of the downstem for 30 seconds; being mindful of your hand’s proximity to the hot water. If the water doesn’t get hot enough, try boiling the water, letting it cool for one minute, and using that water instead of the faucet.
After the 30 seconds is up, the residue should be warmed; allowing the downstem to move more freely in the joint. Now, using a paper towel, twist the downstem up from the joint, testing if the residue became less adhesive. If twisting the downstem doesn’t work, rinse the middle of the downstem again for another 30 seconds and try again. Once freed, it would be best to thoroughly clean the downstem and bong so that it doesn’t get stuck when putting it back.
Preventative Measures: Bong Cleaning Solution
To prevent another downstem jam, you may want to add a bong-cleaning solution to your sanitizing methods. There are several brands that will typically have a liquid and scrubbing mechanism that are tough on grime. While some utilize magnets, others have a liquid and sand-like solution combination that may help effectively reduce organic matter build-up fast. For instance, Formula 420 is a regularly recommended brand that works great on Pyrex, glass, metal, and ceramic pieces.
Photo via Amazon.com
To use the product you would first, shake the bottle thoroughly. Then, pour the cleaner into your mouthpiece, ensuring there is an even distribution of liquid and crystals. After that, you would cover all openings and shake the bong filled with the solution for one minute. You can cyclically dump out the crystals, add more, and shake the bong again for a minute again until you are satisfied with the cleanliness. Before using the bong, thoroughly rinse the water pipe with warm water. Now, just wash your hands after the whole process, and you’re ready to smoke again.
It is important to clean your bong regularly and thoroughly. If you want to know how often you should clean your bong, you can check out this article for maintenance directions.
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