Bubblers are a cross between pipes and bongs. But what makes a bubbler different from a traditional pipe or bong? Why should you have it in your weed-smoking arsenal? Read on to find out the inner workings of bubblers and why they would be a great fit for any of your stoner needs. 

What Are Bubblers? 

Bubblers are a nifty smoking contraption, they're a hybrid of pipe and a bong. These tools are typically bigger than your average pipe but slightly smaller than a bong, and share some of the same features, such as a bowl, and a water chamber which acts as a filter. When smoke passes through the water, it filters out any impurities, resulting in a cool, clean, and smooth hit. 

Compared to the average bong, bubblers are smaller. This means they’re the perfect travel size and even more affordable than a bong. Because of its compact size, bubblers tend to deliver hits that are better in texture and flavor. This is especially true when compared to pipes, which tend to deliver a much harsher hit. 

History of Bubblers

To better understand bubblers' cultural impact, we first have to go back to where it all started, we have to analyze its parent species: The Bong. It’s common knowledge the use of the bong wasn’t part of the cultural zeitgeist until the late 60s and early 70s. With a rising attitude in sticking it to the man also came an overall acceptance of Mother Earth's sweet sweet green nectar: marijuana, reefer, ganja, or pot, as it was often referred to.

But did you know bongs have been around for far longer than that? In fact, there are artifacts that prove the existence of bongs as far back as 2500 years ago. Can you believe it? The Scythian people were taking fat rips in bongs made of gold. Now that’s what we call a bespoke bingus. 

Aside from the Scythian people, bongs have also been found in African and Ethiopian civilizations. In Ethiopia, the version of bongs found by archaeologists were made from materials similar to those used in pottery. 

Despite everyone in antiquity toking and puffin’, it wasn't until the 16th century when the word “bong” was coined, which happened in Central Asia. Back then, Thai people used bamboo bongs they called “buang,” which eventually evolved into “bong”. 

You’ve probably heard of the Ming Dynasty, you know, one of the greatest Chinese dynasties of all time, responsible for the Forbidden City and the expansion of the Great Wall of China. That’s great and all, sure, but the most profound impact the Ming Dynasty had was the introduction of putting water in bongs thanks to their widespread use as a result of the Silk Road. Confucius always said, it is good to smoke a bong with no water, but even better to take rips from a bong with water. 

You surely don’t remember the days of old, when there were no bongs, and smoking was reduced to doobies and zig zags. Most of us have not known a life with no bongs, pipes, or bubblers. We never had to deal with ‘Reefer Madness’ and cops lighting synthetic weed at school assemblies urging us to ‘call us if you smell this.’ We have stores for weed now where you can place an order ahead of time and you can be sure it’ll be there when you arrive. Long gone are the days of yore when buying weed took anywhere from 2-12 hours of waiting for the plug at some undisclosed location. Now we’ve got all types of devices and bongs that would stupefy your Aunt Jean and Uncle Bob. Well, Americans have one man to thank, and that is Bob Snodgrass, who is often credited with the creation of glass bongs.

Smoking culture in America was at an all-time high once people began smoking weed and tobacco, which together is known as a chop or a spliff.  During this period, the glass industry reached its peak, making it a hot commodity for many, and the arrival of glass pipes and bongs all the more likely. Snodgrass was a lamp maker and engineer by trade, and a pot connoisseur by choice, who began his pipe work in the 20th century in the hopes of improving his own toking experience. 

With weed culture at an all-time high people began taking notice of Snodgrass's work, One such fellow toker was Cameron Tower. In the early 90s,  Snodgrass was well on his way to fine-tuning his version of a water pipe with early designs of a bong including the quintessential elements such as a stem, a chamber, and the neck of the bong through which the sweet smoke makes its way into your system. But it wasn’t perfect. In fact, it was cumbersome and hard to use. Not ideal for people who were high. 

With the help of Tower, he and Snodgrass created a  glass bong where all parts were connected, making it easier to smoke out of and clean. Looking at early designs of the glass bong, we see its resemblance to a hammer, which can easily be held, even by someone who is three bowls deep. 

And so the modern bong was born, revolutionizing the smoking experience for all stoners, and those yet to take their first puff. 

Bubblers vs Bongs – Understanding the Differences

To a novice, a bubbler and a bong may look the same, especially when they share some of the same characteristics. But don't let appearances fool your untrained eye, as both devices provide a different smoking experience. 

Read and find out what makes each piece unique, and decide for yourself—what kind of smoker are you? Team bubbler or bong? 

Benefits of Using Bongs 

Bongs can be identified by their key components:  the chamber where the water goes, the bowl where you place your weed, a thin down stem, the mouthpiece, and the neck. You use it by putting your greens in the bowl, which acts like a little picnic basket for your weed, and then by placing your favorite lighter in the bowl and sparking the herbs. While you do this, you also pull, inhaling the smoke and allowing the water to be transported into the chamber. The smoke will then go through the water, which acts as a filter, allowing for a buttery smooth rip.  

You can find different kinds of bongs out there such as a silicone bong or rubber ones, but glass bongs tend to be the most popular. They are accessible and easy to use and are usually made from borosilicate glass, which means they will not easily shatter. Despite most bongs all functioning the same, they do come in different shapes and sizes. You have grandiose pieces resembling Victorian vases, otherwise known as artisanal bongs, you know, like artisanal cheese, but instead of fancy cheese, it's a bong. You can even have them custom-made pieces, allowing the user to cater their smoking experience to match their wants and needs.

The downside is that bongs, especially high-quality ones and custom-made pieces, tend to border on the pricey side. The price also tends to be higher with the number of percolators (filters) you get for your bong. Additionally, these aren’t designed for low-key smoking. Because of their size, they can attract attention. 

Bongs vs Bubblers vs. Dry Pipe 

Dry pipes are old, trusty, and reliable. They’ve been around since forever and have never let a stoner down. You need a quick smoke? Your pipes got you. Need to smoke on the go? Well, bring 

a pipe. You want to unwind after a long day of work and you’ve got no papers? You can always rely on your trusty pipe. Dry pipes are characterized by a long and complex stem which works as a filter. So no water chamber here. They’re compact and can fit in any pocket, making them perfect to smoke on the go. 

They are also easier to use, making them an attractive option for beginners. They also don’t make use of a water chamber or bowl, minimizing their parts, making cleaning easier for you. 

Compared to a bubbler or a bong, dry pipes might be cheaper, which means you can get a gaudy and intricate design for a fraction of the price. Want a pipe that looks like a Koi fish? Go for it. How about a joint-shaped pipe? You bet. If you can imagine, then there is probably a pipe out there that looks like it. Some dry pipes are even built-in mugs, which can end up being a nice, dual-purpose tool you can have at home. This puts a whole different meaning to wake and bake. 

The one downside is that dry pipes don’t filter out the smoke as well like bongs and bubblers. Because of their lack of a chamber, they don’t produce a cooling effect, so the smoke will be harsher on the lungs. 

Benefits of Using Bubblers 

Let’s take a closer look at these benefits of using bubblers: 

• Hits are Not as Intense - hits from a bubbler are not as intense as when you smoke out of a bong so Bubblers tend to be beginner-friendly. Some people prefer it this way so that it’s less harsh on their lungs. 

• Diffusion Is Not as Complex - A typical bong comes with multiple percolators, but bubblers only have one percolator which affects the quality of the smoke. This gives users  varying levels of smoking experiences without having to use multiple  percolators. 

• They are Quite Portable - They are palm-sized so they're easy to stash  when needed. Their smaller size also makes them perfect for an outdoor sesh.  

• Easier to Clean – Different strokes for different folks, but their smaller size makes bubblers easier to clean. Others might beg to differ, but there is no denying that the smaller surface area of a bubbler takes less time to clean than a full-sized bong

To better understand the similarities and differences of bongs and bubblers, here is a table that can give you the information you need at a glance: 

Materials Used in Making Bubblers 

When choosing bubblers, take into consideration the materials. It will tell you a lot about what kind of experience you will get. These are the most common materials used for bubblers: 

Silicone Bubblers 

Although they are called silicone bubblers , you might find that these types of bubblers also have some parts made from glass. But the body is  predominantly made from silicone, which can provide you with a smoother smoking experience. 

Pros of Silicone Bubblers

• Durable – Silicone is a flexible material, so they are not prone to breakage and cracks like other materials. 

• Lightweight – Silicone is a naturally light material, especially when compared to other materials like glass.

• Dishwasher-Safe – Don’t fancy cleaning your bubbler by hand? The good news is that most silicone bubblers are dishwasher-safe. 

• Comes with Many Designs – Match your style with your bubbler! There are plenty of silicone bubbler design choices out there. 

• Resistant to Heat – They can withstand higher levels of heat without causing any deformity to the material. 

• Affordable –Silicone bubblers are cheaper, allowing you to spend a little extra on weed. 

Cons of Silicone Bubblers

• Flavor – Some users might find that the flavor of smoke is different because of the material. 

• Aesthetics – Many will argue that the craftsmanship of glass bubblers can’t be beaten, making them more aesthetically pleasing. 

• Filtration – It’s important to note that filtration might not be as effective as glass.

• Cleaning– Silicone can accumulate grime over time, especially in those hard-to-reach spots. 

Glass Bubblers 

Glass bubblers are typically made from Borosilicate glass, which is a kind of glass that contains boron trioxide and silica. This is one of the most durable kinds of glass because of its high resistance to heat. It can withstand extreme temperatures, which is why you can see it commonly in cookware. 

Pros of Glass Bubblers 

• Flavor – Unlike silicone, you get clean and pure smoke all the time, which leads to a better-tasting smoking experience. 

•  Aesthetics – There is no doubt that glass bubblers are some of the most beautiful out there. You can even find high-end bubblers crafted by expert glass workers. To bubbler aficionados, they are a thing of beauty worthy of a spot at the Louvre. 

• Filtration – glass bubblers are crafted to have good water chambers that lead to better filtration. They effectively cool down the smoke, leading to smooth hits. 

• Long-Lasting – Glass is easy to break. Think of your favorite cup or coffee mug. You’ve probably nicked one or two in your lifetime. But borosilicate glass is more durable than other types of glass. Many people have had their glass bubblers for years without issues, often surviving a drop or two.

• Easy Cleaning – Glass is an easy material to clean. You don’t need special cleaning tools and products to remove any residue and impurities. 

Cons of Glass Bubblers 

• More Fragile Than Other Materials – Although it is durable and has a high thermal shock rate, you still need to be careful. Proper handling is needed to ensure that you don’t accidentally break it. 

• Heavier – They can be heavier than silicone but since they are smaller, many people still find them ideal, especially when compared to bongs. 

• Pricey – They can come with a heftier price tag. 

• Not as Portable – You need to be careful when transporting it. Make sure you secure it in a durable container so that it won’t break in transit. 

Ceramic Bubblers 

Ceramic bubblers have a unique appearance that gives your bubbler a classic flair. Although not as common as glass or silicone, they are still widely available for purchase. 

Pros of Ceramic Bubblers 

• Aesthetically pleasing– Ceramic has long been used to create beautiful decorative pieces. Ceramic bubbles are easy to use and will blend in with the rest of your home décor. 

• Retains Heat – It is a good heat conductor allowing you to retain heat without burning your weed. 

• Does Not Alter the Taste – Ceramic doesn’t alter the flavor profile of your weed allowing you to enjoy a stay in flavor town. 

• Durable – Although they are not completely shatter-resistant, they are scratch-resistant. 

Cons of Ceramic Bubblers 

• Heavy –  heavier than other bubbler materials 

• Expensive – Ceramic bubblers are more expensive, especially when buying high-quality ceramic materials. 

• Fragile - The material is highly breakable so extra care is needed when using it. 

Metal Bubblers 

Metal bubblers are made from stainless steel or aluminum but can also be made from a blend of different metals. Users primarily buy them for their durability. 

Pros of Metal Bubblers

• Durable – It is resistant to cracking and breaking. These bubblers are perfect for those of us who are a little on the careless side. 

• Resistant to Heat – They can withstand higher temperatures without the risk of burning or warping. 

• Lightweight – Metal bubblers are actually pretty lightweight. 

• Easy to Clean – Easy to clean it with regular dish soap and water. 

• Affordable – They are more affordable than the other alternatives. 

Cons of Metal Bubblers 

• Not the Most Visually Appealing – They can look utilitarian. 

• Change in Flavor – It might impart some of its metallic flavor to the smoke. 

• It Might Corrode – Low-quality metal bubblers might corrode easily. 

Types/Designs of Bubblers – Pros and Cons You Should Know 

Just like how bubblers can be made of different materials, they also vary in their designs. Some of the designs you will come across the most include: 

Hammer Bubblers 

A hammer bubbler is characterized by its hammer-like shape. It often has a “handle”, which is composed of the mouthpiece and stem. The “head” is made up of the downstem, chamber, and bowl. 

Pros of Hammer Bubblers

• Compact – They are typically smaller and more compact than your average bubbler, making them easier to bring around wherever you go.

• Filtration – The design allows the smoke to go through the water chamber effectively, allowing for cooler hits. 

• Stable – The unique hammer design means it has a wider base. This makes it more stable, reducing the   risk of the bubbler tipping over. 

• Aesthetically Pleasing – With a wide range of colors, it is easy to find one that matches your own personal style. 

• Easy Cleaning – The design also makes this easy to clean. 

Cons of Hammer Bubblers 

• Can Be Fragile – Since they are made from glass, these bubblers can break when not handled properly. 

• Small Water Chamber – They are smaller than the average bubbler so the water chamber may not hold as much water. 

• Pricier – Glass hammer bubblers are more expensive than your typical silicone bubbler. 

Sherlock Bubblers

 Known for his iconic pipe,the Sherlock Bubbler takes inspiration from one of fiction's greatest minds: Sherlock Holmes. The bowl for this type of bubbler is larger than most and has an   upright stem.

Pros of Sherlock Bubblers

• Design – Many people love the look of the Sherlock Bubbler, which has a curved neck that gives it an elegant flair. 

• Smooth Hits – Because of its large water chamber, It effectively cools and purifies the smoke, leading to smoother hits. 

• Portability – The design makes it easier to transport. 

• Stability – It’s stable because of the broader base so there are no risks of toppling over!

• Use – The design makes it easier to use. This is also a beginner-friendly bubbler. 

Cons of Sherlock Bubblers 

• Can Be Fragile – Because they are made from glass, they can be quite fragile. Proper handling is needed to prevent breakage. 

• Might Be Harder to Clean – Since the neck is curvier than others, it can be difficult to clean properly. 

Sidecar Bubblers

The sidecar bubbler offers a solution to splash back problems by positioning the mouthpiece and the stem right next to the water chamber. This piece is angled so users can get the perfect  hit.

Pros of Sidecar Bubblers

• User-Friendly – Because of how the mouthpiece is positioned, it’s easier to smoke. You don’t have to worry that you will feel the heat coming from the chamber and water. 

• Minimal Splashing – Splashing is a common issue with other designs This can be annoying since it gets in  your  mouth. If you prefer that the mouthpiece remains dry, this should be a good design choice for you. 

• Hits are smoother –  Because of its large water chamber, you can experience cooler and smoother hits. 

• Wide Base – Because of its wide base, it offers you more stability, so smoke away without worrying about your bubbler tipping over. 

• Visually Appealing – Sidecar bubblers are some of the most aesthetically pleasing, so make sure to leave room in your shelf for one! 

Cons of Sidecar Bubblers

• Can Be Fragile – The glass sidecar bubblers can be fragile so be careful not to mishandle it. 

• Tricky to Clean – Some parts of the bubble might be difficult to clean. 

• Bulkier – Compared to other bubbler designs, this one tends to be bulkier. 

Double Bubblers

As the name suggests, double bubblers come with double the filtration. This can enhance the overall experience of using the bubbler as there are two water chambers to purify and cool down the smoke. 

Pros of Double Bubblers

• Excellent Filtration – With two layers of filtration, you can get the coolest and smoothest hits possible. This makes it less harsh on your throat, making it an attractive option for beginners. 

• Flavor profile – If you want to get the most flavor from your weed, this type of bubbler can be a good choice. 

• Unique Designs – On its own, the double water chamber has that unique look to it. 

• Stable – There are no worries about the bubbler toppling over because of the wider base. 

Cons of Double Bubblers 

• Bulkier – An extra chamber means extra bulk. They might not be as travel-friendly as other single-chamber bubblers. 

• Pricier – The additional chamber makes this more expensive. 

Mini Bubblers 

As its name suggests, these bubblers are just smaller versions of traditional bubblers. 

Pros of Mini Bubblers 

• Portable – They are compact and easy to transport. 

• Beginner-Friendly – They are generally easy to use. Simply add water to the chamber, heat up your weed, and you are good to go. 

• Stable – Despite its small size, this type of bubbler is quite stable.

• Not as Pricey – Because of its small size, mini bubblers are cheaper than your standard bubbler. 

Cons of Mini Bubblers

• Filtration– Because the water chamber is smaller, it does not have the most effective filtration. 

• Smaller Weed Capacity – You can only smoke a small portion of weed at a time. This means you need to keep on smoking.

• Can Heat Up Quickly – Since it is smaller, you need to be careful about the heat. It can get too hot easily. 

• Fragile – because of its thinner parts, it can make the bubbler just a tad bit more fragile. 

Freeze Bubblers 

Freeze bubblers are a bubbler that can be cooled. It is typically used by adding glycerin. It is then placed in the freezer to allow it to create small icicles. This then  enhances the cooling effect of the bubbler. 

Pros of Freeze Bubblers 

• Better Cooling Effect – When placed in the freezer to cool down the glycerin, it produces a stellar cooling effect. This delivers smoother hits. 

• Minimizes the Harshness of the Smoke – The cooling effect is soothing to the throat, minimizing the harshness of the smoke. 

• Unique – If you are looking for something unique, you will like the effects of this bubbler.

• Aesthetically Pleasing – You can find many of these bubblers are carefully created by glass craftsmen, lending them a unique shape and design. 

• Easy to Use – It might sound daunting, but it just requires filling it with water, adding glycerin, and then freezing it. 

Cons of Freeze Bubblers 

• Difficult to Clean – It can be a challenge to remove the residues of the glycerin. 

• Limitations to Usage – Since you need to freeze it to enjoy it, it might not be the best for spontaneous use. 

• Pricier – They tend to be more expensive than your average bubbler. 

Fumed Color-Changing Bubblers 

These are beautiful bubblers that boast of intricate color patterns. This is  achieved by exposing molten glass to either gold or silver fumes. The result is a unique color pattern that creates a visually stunning bubbler. 

Pros of Fumed Color-Changing Bubblers 

• Visually Appealing – If you are looking for unique bubblers that you can proudly call your own, this is the perfect candidate.

• Changes Overtime – The more you use it, the more the appearance will change, allowing it to truly reflect its owner—you. 

• Smooth and Pure Hits – Since they are made from glass, they deliver quality hits. 

• Quality Craftsmanship – You can be assured that these bubblers will stand the test of time. 

Cons of Fumed Color-Changing Bubblers 

• Fragile – Since they are made from glass, they can be more fragile

• Cleaning – Because you can’t easily see the inside of the bubbler, cleaning it might prove to be trickier. 

• Price – Generally pricier than standard glass bubblers. 

• Unpredictable – You might not know how it will look after many uses. Some might not like this unpredictability. 

Pendant Bubblers 

Pendant Bubblers fall under mini-mini bubblers. They are small enough to wear around your neck, allowing you to take it anywhere you want. because of their small size, they are typically used in conjunction with dry herb vaporizers like the DynaVap. 

Pros of Pendant Bubblers 

• Portable – Their small size makes them easy to carry around.

• Perfect For Concerts/Gatherings – It comes with a pendant so you can lug it around, perfect for those attending concerts and gatherings. 

Cons of Pendant Bubblers 

• Size – Since it is very small, you won’t be able to put a lot of water or weed in it. 

• Fragile – While you can find good-quality pendant bubblers  out there, their smaller size and glass construction might still make them prone to breakage. 

• Cleaning – The compartments are small, making them difficult to clean. 

• Possible Spillage – Since you will be wearing them on your neck, there is a chance you might spill some of the water. 

Concentrate Bubblers 

These bubbles are designed for smoking t concentrates such as oil or wax. Some designs come with a bowl but you can also find those that come with a “nail”  or “banger” where the concentrates are placed. 

Pros of Concentrate Bubblers

• Flavor – Smoking concentrates is usually the purest form of THC, making for a flavorful hit. Using a bubbler specifically for concentrates only elevates the flavor profile, allowing you to taste every terpene. 

• Smooth Hits – The water filtration allows you to enjoy smooth hits every time you use it.

• Efficient – Smoking concentrates usually means you’re getting the highest THC content money can buy, which means you only need one small hit to be as high as a kite. 

• Portable – These are smaller and more compact, and bubblers, making them easier to store and carry around. 

Cons of Concentrate Bubblers

• Higher Learning Curve – if you are used to dry herbs, you might find using concentrates more challenging. That is because you need to figure out how much to use, which might require some trial and error. . 

• Can Be Fragile – Since most concentrate bubblers are crafted from glass, they can be prone to breakage. 

• Hard to Clean – Cleaning the concentrate can be more difficult because of its viscosity. The residues can build up when the material is not properly cleaned. 

• Price – Entry-level sets can cost at least $50 and the more advanced ones are sold at $300 apiece. 

• Not Versatile – You will only be able to use concentrates, not dry herbs, which limits its usage to wax or oil. 

Rattlecan/Diffusion Pump Bubblers 

This bubbler brings better diffusion and filtration to the table, which is why many people prefer buying it. It produces a sound similar to that of a rattle-can when it is being used, hence the name. Pros of Rattlecan Diffusion Pump Bubblers

• Filtration – Because it features multiple diffusion pumps, it has superior filtration giving you smoother hits. 

• Better Cooling – Bigger water chambers mean better cooling. It is capable of cooling the smoke so you get smooth hits all the time. Many find that the smoke goes down easier and doesn’t irritate the throat. 

• Looks Artistic – It might look simple at first glance but its simplicity and clean lines make this bubbler stand out. 

• Versatile – If you alternate between concentrates and dry herbs, you will like this because it can accommodate both. 

Cons of Rattlecan Diffusion Pump Bubblers

• Complex Design – The design might be too complex for beginners. 

• Cleaning Can Be Challenging – Some people might find the design too challenging to clean. There are points and stems that might be difficult to access. 

• Fragile – Again, these bubblers are made from glass so users need to be extra careful when using them. 

• Size – They are more on the bulky side. They might not be the best choice if you want something portable. 

• Expensive – Standard rattle-can bubblers can set you back by at least $100. 

Comparing Bubbler Types at a Glance 

For a quicker comparison of these bubbler types, refer to this table: 

User Preferences for  Bubblers

When it comes to bubblers, it all boils down to your own personal preferences. Below are stats showing the general public's preferences when it comes to bubblers:

Interpretation: 

• 22% of buyers prefer the sturdy and compact design of Hammer Bubblers

• 18% of buyers love the shape, style, and ergonomics of Sherlock Bubblers

• 15% of buyers prefer the reduced splashback of a Sidecar Bubbler

• 12% of buyers prefer the double filtration and smooth hits of Double Bubblers 

• 10% of buyers add Mini Bubblers to their arsenal due to their compact design and portability 

• 8% of buyers like Freeze bubblers because of the smooth and cool hits 

• 6% of buyers prefer the aesthetics of Fumed Color-Changing Bubblers

• 4% of buyers like the wearability of Pendant Bubblers 

• 3% of buyers prefer Concentrate Bubblers because of the intense experience.

• 2% of buyers prefer Rattlecan Bubblers because of their functionality and distinct appearance. 

How to Use Bubblers 

While bubblers might look intimidating at a glance, they’re fairly simple to use. Here are the steps you can follow: 

Step 1: Identify the water chamber and fill it. 

Arguably the most important thing you can do is to fill the water chamber with the right amount of water. This will depend on the design, type and size of the water chamber. Ideally,  you would want to fill it up until the water is at the middle part of the stem. 

Caution: Don’t put too much water or the smoke will have a stale aftertaste. But make sure you are not skimping on water as well because this will make the hits harsher on the throat. 

You can do a simple test to get that sweet spot in the water chamber. Try filling it up with water until the midpoint of the  stem and then inhale. Find the carb hole and then cover it with your hand. Take a deep inhale. Check if there is a water splash. If there is a water splash, you have too much water. If it has the right amount of water, it should have a nice bubble. 

Step 2: Put weed in the bowl. 

Get your weed grinder and freshly grind your weed. Put the bubbler on a stable surface, making sure that the bubbler is also sitting stable and not tipping. Pack the bowl with weed. Don’t pack too tightly or the air won’t be able to pass through. If it is too loose, you could end up with burnt weed. 

Step 3: Heat the weed. 

Get your trusty lighter and heat the flower. The best way to make sure that you don’t immediately burn the flower is to start at the corners first and then progress to the weed in the middle. This ensures that the burn is even. 

Step 4: Use your finger to cover the carb hole and inhale. 

This should be done simultaneously when you ignite the weed. Use one hand to light up your lighter and then the other hand to cover the carb hole. As you inhale, you will hear the water bubbling. The deeper and longer you breathe in, the heavier the hit will be. For beginners, it’s better to go with shorter inhales so the hits are not as intense. 

Step 5: Remove your finger from the carb hole. 

Removing your finger from the carb hole will allow air to get into the bubbler, which will then push the vapor in the mouthpiece. 

Depending on the type of bubbler you are using, it might take a couple of tries before you get the hang of it. But make sure you allow the weed to take effect first. You should start feeling the effects after just a couple of minutes but if you don’t, you can repeat steps 3-5. 

Cleaning Your Bubblers Effectively 

Silicone Bubblers 

Cleaning silicone bubblers is much like cleaning silicone bongs. You can’t use your cleaning solvents because they might be harsh on the material. Don’t soak them in cleaners as well. You would also want to check if your silicone bubbler is dishwasher-safe and follow the instructions in the manual

The best way to clean silicone bubblers is still the traditional way: hand washing. That way, you can really reach every nook and cranny of your piece. Other ways to clean a silicone bubbler include: 

Hot Water 

We can use boiling water to clean and disinfect silicone bubblers but make sure you do it carefully since boiling water is dangerous. You may also want to put on a pair of cleaning gloves to protect your hands from the heat.  

If your bubbler comes with non-silicone parts, make sure you remove them first. Some bubblers may also come with glass and plastic attachments. 

Pour the boiling water into the downstem. Some of the build-up might start to loosen. You can also pour it down the mouthpiece. Keep pouring until all the residue is washed out. 

Soaking Overnight 

Soaking may not be the best method. However, it can be done safely by using a gentler cleaning product or a cleaning product intended for silicone materials. If you don’t have one, a dishwashing liquid mixed with hot water should be good enough. 

Just make sure the bubbler is submerged. Keep it there overnight. The next morning, you will see the gunk in the water. Wash it completely with clean water. 

Wash it by Hand 

Get a soft-bristled brush that can reach the inside of the bubbler. Use your dish soap and hot water to clean it thoroughly. Make sure you clean the down stem and the mouthpiece. Check the areas where gunk tends to accumulate and use your cleaner to reach those areas. You can keep on washing and then soaping until you are satisfied. Make sure to wash it thoroughly so there is no soapy residue left. 

Freeze It 

Freezing it hardens up the accumulated residues in the bubbler, making them easier to dislodge and remove. Dry up the bubbler first before sticking it in a freezer. After a few hours, remove the silicone and then remove the hardened residues. 

What Not To Use: Don’t use bleach, acids, or rubbing alcohol. It might damage your silicone bubbler. 

Glass Bubbler 

Isopropyl Alcohol + Coarse Salt 

Isopropyl alcohol works well because it helps in loosening up hardened gunk. But you can take it up a notch by adding coarse salt. Just combine the two and then pour the solution into your bubbler. Shake it well, making sure you don’t drop the glass bubbler. The salt will also act as a scrub. Its abrasive properties will remove the residues on the inside walls of the bubbler. 

Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Follow the steps e until you are satisfied with the results. 

Vinegar with baking soda 

Vinegar and baking soda has long been used to clean and disinfect dishware and even appliances. Pour baking soda down the stem and make sure it goes into the hard-to-reach areas. Then pour vinegar. It will fizz and loosen the gunk up. Let it sit there for a few minutes before washing. Make sure you rinse it off completely with water. 

Use pipe cleaners. 

Pipe cleaners can help reach those tight areas. Alternatively, you can also use cotton swabs. Rub it on the areas you can reach. 

Lemon juice with water 

Mix lemon juice in water and then soak your bubbler in it. This will restore the shine of the glass and get rid of water spots. 

Tips for a Longer-Lasting Bubbler

• Bubblers are an investment. They typically last long but with the following maintenance steps, you should be able to get more out of it. 

• Bubblers should be thoroughly cleaned at least once a week or more frequently, depending on how often you use it. This will ensure that gunk will not accumulate and  prevent the growth of bacteria. 

• Empty the bubbler after using it. You can rinse it and then put it on a drying mat. 

• Use hot water when rinsing your bubbler to remove gunk. 

Things to Consider When Buying Bubblers

Choosing a bubblers is a personal journey. What works for others might not work for you. But to make sure that you are making the right decision in buying, here are some things to consider: 

1. Consider which material is right for your needs. 

Now that you know the pros and cons of silicone and glass materials, decide which one would work best for you. If you have more room in your budget, you can even buy both and assess their benefits. Having both in your arsenal also gives more flexibility. But if you are on a tight budget, figure out which material better suits your needs in terms of design, budget, portability, and durability. 

2. Consider the size. 

Do you want something you can easily hold in your palm? Or do you prefer something that has a bigger water chamber? It all boils down to personal preference. If you opt for the smaller bubblers, you might sacrifice the smoothness of the hits. But if you are truly after the whole experience, getting a full-sized bubbler with a large water chamber could be the better choice for you. 

3. Consider your budget. 

Take a look at the price range of the bubblers out there. Do some research on what makes them more expensive than others and don't just immediately choose the cheapest ones. Make sure to invest in a good-quality bubbler that can stand the test of time and fit your needs.

4. Consider usage. 

With some bubblers, you can use both dry herb and concentrates while others might only accommodate one or the other. If you don’t want to limit your weed usage to just concentrate or flower, then you might want to opt-out for a bubbler that can be used to smoke both.  

Frequently Asked Questions About Bubblers 

Can Bubbler Bongs Give More High?

The level of high you can get from weed depends on a lot of factors such as the strain, the method, the dosage, and your tolerance. The bubbler doesn’t really influence the level of high but it may be a contributing factor for some. 

Can Bubblers Filter Out the THC in Weed? 

Bubblers come with a water chamber that filters the smoke and rids it of impurities. But because of this, many wonder if it also filters out THC along with it. It does filter out THC but is not significant enough to have an impact on the effect of THC. The amount, according to experts, is negligible. 

What is more significant when it comes to THC getting lost in the bubbler is the overall design and construction of the bubbler. In a similar fashion to bongs, some of the THC might get stuck in the non-glass materials of the bubbler. 

What Is the Best Water to Use in Your Bubbler? 

Distilled or filtered water is the best option since they don’t have impurities. 

Conclusion 

Whether you are smoking weed for recreational or medicinal purposes, it’s a good idea to have bubblers in your arsenal. You don’t want to miss out on their many benefits such as the ability to deliver clean hits all while ensuring portability with its small and compact design. With so many great design options out there, it shouldn’t be too hard to find the one that best suits your needs. 

Sources: 

https://www.royalqueenseeds.com/blog-bubblers-what-are-they-and-why-use-them-n863

https://thefreezepipe.com/blogs/buyers-guides/history-of-the-bong-who-invented-the-bong?srsltid=AfmBOopC_n7SBjok3IClBN84Ck9CdCKRHu7bJtDqPpOs1_9Oxa4gZXVF

https://www.thestranger.com/weed/2017/05/17/25146696/the-guy-who-invented-the-bong-lives-in-white-center-and-might-lose-his-house

https://www.badassglass.com/blogs/learn/how-much-water-bubbler

https://www.gearpatrol.com/home/a41650251/what-is-a-bubbler-pipe/

https://tools420.com/best-bubbler-for-weed-vapes/#age-verification