There’s A Right and a Wrong Way to Use a Water Pipe

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Learn how to get the most out of your water pipe.

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Chances are, if you’ve never used abong, you have seen one at a smoke shop or friend’s house.

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Water pipes can look intimidating, especially larger ones.

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The shape and size can vary, along with the materials.

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Not all bongs are constructed from glass. Even the number of percolators can vary.

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Add everything up, and it can leave beginners questioning how to use a water pipe.

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How Does a Water Pipe Work

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A water pipe may look intimidating, but how it functions is relatively simple.

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Grind your dry herb and place it in the attached bowl. Don’t over-pack the bowl. This can make it harder to get a proper hit.

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Hold the flame to the bowl using a lighter and inhale on the mouthpiece.

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Smoke travels through the water chamber and up to the mouthpiece.

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Don’t forget about the carbonator. The carb is the small hole on the bong you cover with your finger.

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Cover the carb as you inhale and remove your finger when you are ready to draw smoke into your lungs.

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Do You Have to Use Water

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Bongs are designed for use with water.

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You can use one without filling the water chamber, but be prepared for a hot, dry hit.

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Along with a burning sensation in your throat, you may also experience a painful coughing fit.

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The water acts as the filtration system. It cools and removes the harshness from your hit.

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However, you are not limited to water. You can also fill the water chamber with ice cubes.

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Adding ice cubes to the water often produces an even smoother hit.

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If you don’t mind paying extra, you can find water pipes with dedicated chambers for ice cubes.

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The Right Way to Hold a Bong

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Some water pipes have intricate designs, while others are simple. Regardless of the design, how you hold a water pipe rarely changes.

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Hold the chamber close to the base in your non-dominant hand. For example, your left hand if you write with your right one, and the opposite if your left is the dominant hand.

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Larger water pipes often require additional support, so get ready to bend over a bit as you draw a hit. Placing the water pipe on a stable surface, like a counter, will provide the necessary support.

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Use your dominant hand to light the flame as you hold it over the bowl.

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When it comes to covering the carbs. Place your non-dominant hand where you can easily reach the small opening.

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Inhale and exhale when the smoke fills the chamber.

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Water Pipe Etiquette

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Most smokers share their water pipes with friends, so knowing the proper etiquette is a good idea.

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Wipe the mouthpiece down before passing the water pipe, and always empty the bowl.

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The next person in line shouldn’t have to empty your ashes from the bowl. Replacing the water after a few uses is also a good idea.

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