Nothing is worse than coughing and experiencing the intense sting in your throat and lungs when taking a bong hit. However, there are ways to lessen the harshness of the bong hit, so don't worry. These 9 pointers will help you enjoy your smoke session to the maximum, whether you're a seasoned smoker or brand-new to the world of bongs.
Here Are 9 Tips - Making a Bong Hit Less Severe
1. Start with Clean Glassware
The cleanliness of your bong plays a significant role in the quality of your smoking experience. Residue and buildup on the glass can make the smoke harsher and affect the taste. To make your bong hits less harsh, start by cleaning your glassware regularly. Use a cleaning solution specifically designed for bongs or a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and salt. Let the solution soak in the bong for a few minutes, then rinse it with warm water. Scrub off any remaining residue with a brush or pipe cleaner. Keeping your bong clean will ensure smoother hits and better flavor.
Additionally, changing the water in your bong frequently is essential. Stale water can accumulate bacteria and alter the taste of the smoke. Before each session, empty the old water and fill the bong with fresh, cold water. This simple step can make a significant difference in the smoothness of your hits.
As a bonus tip, you can also add ice cubes to the water chamber. The ice cools down the smoke, making it less harsh on your throat and lungs. It's important to note that you should never use hot or boiling water in your bong as it can damage the glass and potentially release harmful chemicals.
2. Use Cooler Water
When it comes to bong hits, the temperature of the water can greatly impact the harshness of the smoke. Using cooler water, preferably ice-cold, can help to cool down the smoke before it enters your lungs. Cooler smoke is less harsh on the throat and can provide a smoother hit.
Fill your bong with cold water, ensuring that the water level covers the downstem or percolator. The smoke will travel through the water, where it gets cooled, resulting in a less harsh hit. Remember to check the water level during your session and refill it if necessary.
If you prefer an even cooler hit, you can add ice cubes to the water chamber as mentioned earlier. The ice will enhance the cooling effect, providing you with an exceptionally smooth experience. Experiment with different water temperatures and ice levels to find the balance that suits your preferences.
3. Consider Using a Percolator
A percolator is an additional chamber in a bong that contains more water and intricate filtration systems. It helps to further cool down and diffuse the smoke, resulting in a smoother hit. When the smoke passes through the percolator, it gets broken up into smaller bubbles, increasing the surface area in contact with the water. This process filters out impurities and reduces the harshness of the smoke.
There are various types of percolators available, such as honeycomb, tree, and showerhead percolators. Each design offers a unique filtration and diffusion experience. Experimenting with different percolator styles can help you find the one that suits your preferences, delivering smoother hits with less harshness.
It's important to note that percolators can also increase the drag or resistance when inhaling, making it harder to pull smoke through the bong. If you're new to using a percolator, take smaller hits initially to adjust to the increased drag. Over time, you'll get accustomed to the different experience and enjoy smoother, less harsh hits.
4. Choose the Right Strain
The strain of cannabis you choose can significantly impact the harshness of your bong hits. Some strains are known for their smooth and mellow smoke, while others have a more intense and harsh flavor. When selecting cannabis for your bong session, consider opting for strains that are known to be smoother and less harsh.
Indica-dominant strains are generally associated with a more relaxing and soothing experience, making them a good choice for those looking for a less harsh hit. Sativa-dominant strains, on the other hand, can be more cerebral and uplifting but may have a stronger flavor profile that could be harsher to smoke.
If you're unsure about the strains available, consult with a knowledgeable budtender or do some research to find strains that are known for their smooth smoke. Exploring different strains will allow you to discover your personal preferences and find the ones that offer a smoother, less harsh bong hit.
5. Grind Your Cannabis Finely
The consistency of your cannabis grind can also affect the harshness of the smoke. Finely ground cannabis provides better airflow, allowing the smoke to pass through the bong more smoothly. On the other hand, larger chunks or unevenly ground cannabis can lead to a harsher and less enjoyable hit.
Invest in a high-quality grinder to ensure a consistent and fine grind. A grinder with sharp blades or teeth will break down the cannabis into smaller, more uniform pieces. This will increase the surface area of the cannabis, leading to better combustion and smoother hits.
If you don't have a grinder, you can use alternative methods to achieve a finer grind. Use scissors to finely chop the cannabis buds or break them up with your hands. Just remember to wash your hands thoroughly before handling the buds to prevent contamination or loss of trichomes.
6. Use Smaller Hits
One of the most effective ways to make a bong hit less harsh is to take smaller hits. Taking a smaller hit allows you to control the intensity of the smoke and prevent it from overwhelming your throat and lungs. It also reduces the chances of coughing or experiencing discomfort.
When inhaling from the bong, focus on taking slow, steady breaths. This will allow you to gauge your tolerance and adjust accordingly. It's better to start with smaller hits and gradually increase the size as you become more comfortable.
Remember, it's not a competition to take the biggest hit. The goal is to have an enjoyable experience without any harshness or discomfort. Take your time, listen to your body, and find the hit size that suits you best.
7. Use a Diffuser
A diffuser is an accessory that attaches to the downstem of a bong. It breaks up the smoke into smaller bubbles, increasing the surface area in contact with the water. This process cools down the smoke and reduces its harshness.
Adding a diffuser to your bong can make a noticeable difference in the smoothness of your hits. It's important to choose a diffuser that is compatible with your bong's downstem size. There are various types of diffusers available, including slitted, fritted, and multi-hole diffusers. Each type offers a different level of filtration and diffusion.
Experimenting with different diffuser styles can help you find the one that suits your preferences and provides the smoothest hits. Some bongs come with built-in diffusers, while others require separate attachments. Consult with a smoke shop or online retailer to find the right diffuser for your bong.
8. Take Breaks Between Hits
It's important to give your throat and lungs a break between bong hits, especially if you find them harsh. Continuous smoking without breaks can lead to irritation and discomfort. Taking breaks allows your respiratory system to recover and reduces the chances of experiencing harshness or coughing.
Take a few minutes to rest and breathe before taking another hit. This will give your body time to adjust and reduce any irritation or harshness you may have experienced. Additionally, drinking water or herbal tea during these breaks can help soothe your throat and hydrate your body.
Remember to listen to your body and take breaks as needed. It's better to have a smooth and enjoyable smoking experience than to push through discomfort and irritation.
9. Experiment with Different Accessories
There are various bong accessories available that can enhance your smoking experience and make it less harsh. These accessories may include ash catchers, percolator attachments, ice pinches, and carbon filters, among others. Experimenting with these accessories allows you to customize your bong hits and find the combination that provides the smoothest smoke.
Ash catchers, for example, can trap ash and debris before it enters the bong, resulting in cleaner hits. Ice pinches provide a convenient way to hold ice cubes in the bong, delivering cooler and smoother hits. Carbon filters are designed to remove impurities and reduce the harshness of the smoke.
Research and explore different accessories that are compatible with your bong. Consult with smoke shop experts or browse online retailers to find the right accessories for your needs. With the right combination of accessories, you can enjoy a less harsh and more enjoyable bong hit.
While these tips can help make your bong hits less harsh, it's essential to remember that everyone's preferences and tolerances are different. Experiment with different techniques and adjustments to find what works best for you. Whether you're a seasoned smoker or new to the world of bong hits, these tips can enhance your overall smoking experience and provide a smoother hit.
Key Takeaways:
- Use ice cubes in your bong's water to cool down the smoke.
- Try using a percolator to filter out impurities and make the hit smoother.
- Use a smaller bowl to reduce the amount of smoke you inhale.
- Take smaller hits and pace yourself to avoid coughing and harshness.
- Clean your bong regularly to prevent buildup and maintain smooth hits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our frequently asked questions about how to make a bong hit less harsh. Whether you're new to smoking or a seasoned enthusiast, these tips will help you have a smoother and more enjoyable experience. Read on to learn how to reduce the harshness of your bong hits.
1. How can I make my bong hits smoother?
One effective way to make your bong hits smoother is by adding ice to your water. The ice cools down the smoke as it passes through, reducing its harshness. Additionally, you can try using a percolator bong, which filters the smoke and provides a smoother hit. Be sure to clean your bong regularly to prevent buildup that can make hits harsher.
Another tip is to take smaller hits and inhale slowly to give your lungs time to adjust. If you find that your hits are still harsh, consider using a vaporizer instead, as it produces cooler and less irritating smoke.
2. What are some natural remedies to reduce bong hit harshness?
One natural remedy is to add a few drops of honey or mint extract to your bong water. Honey can help soothe the throat, while mint provides a cooling sensation. Additionally, some users find that adding a slice of lemon or a few drops of lemon juice can also reduce harshness.
You can also try using a different type of herb in your bong, such as chamomile or lavender. These herbs have calming properties that can help reduce the harshness of the smoke.
3. Is there a specific water level that can make bong hits less harsh?
Yes, the water level in your bong can affect the harshness of your hits. It's best to fill your bong with enough water to cover the downstem, but not too much that it splashes into your mouth. Experiment with different water levels to find the one that provides the smoothest hits for you.
You can also try using warm or hot water instead of cold water. Some users report that warm water helps to soothe and moisturize the throat, resulting in less harsh hits.
4. Are there any breathing techniques that can make bong hits less harsh?
Yes, practicing proper breathing techniques can help make your bong hits less harsh. Take slow and deep breaths before inhaling the smoke, allowing your lungs to expand fully. Then, exhale slowly and steadily to release the smoke. Avoid coughing or exhaling forcefully, as these can exacerbate the harshness.
You can also try inhaling the smoke through your nose instead of your mouth. This may reduce the irritation in your throat and make the hit smoother.
5. How can I prevent coughing after a bong hit?
If you find yourself coughing after a bong hit, there are a few things you can do to prevent or alleviate it. First, remember to take smaller hits and inhale slowly. This will give your lungs time to adjust to the smoke and reduce the likelihood of coughing.
You can also try drinking water or sucking on a throat lozenge before and after taking a hit. This can help soothe your throat and reduce the urge to cough. If you're experiencing persistent coughing, it may be a sign of an underlying issue, and it's best to consult a healthcare professional.
So there you have it, 9 tips on how to make a bong hit less harsh. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable smoking experience. Remember to start with clean glassware, use ice or cold water to cool the smoke, and take slow, controlled inhales. Additionally, using a percolator or ash catcher can help filter and diffuse the smoke, making it less harsh on your throat and lungs.
Other tips include using smaller bowls for smaller hits, using a vaporizer or water pipe attachments, and experimenting with different strains that may have a milder smoke. Finally, don't forget to take care of your overall health by staying hydrated, using mouthwash or throat lozenges if needed, and taking breaks between hits to give your body a chance to recover. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy a smoother, less harsh bong hit every time.
