Cleaning Marijuana Paraphernalia

By MK Thomson

April 19 2023

clean

Cleaning marijuana paraphernalia clean is essential for a smooth smoking or vaping experience. Resin buildup can not only cause harsh and unpleasant smoke, but it can also affect the flavor and potency of your herb. Regular cleaning of your gear can also prevent the buildup of dirt, mold and sticky resin, making sure that you consume only the purest and cleanest weed.

While it may be tempting to put off cleaning your bongs, pipes, and vaporizers, it’s important to make it a regular part of your routine. In this blog post, we’ll cover some tips and tricks for keeping your cannabis accessories and intake devices in top condition, so you can enjoy a cleaner, purer smoking experience.

Cleaning a bong

When it comes to smoking cannabis, using a bong is a long-time and popular way to consumer. But if you want to enjoy your bong hit to the fullest, it’s important to keep your device clean. Resin builds up quickly in a bong, which can make the smoke harsh and unpleasant. Cleaning your bong regularly not only helps to keep the smoke smooth but also extends the life of your bong.

There are lots of commercial cleaners out there, but a simple solution of rubbing alcohol (not drinking alcohol!) and regular table salt can be just as effective. The salt acts as an abrasive, helping to remove the resin, while the rubbing alcohol dissolves it. So, if you want to enjoy a clean and smooth hit from your bong, follow these simple steps to clean it.

dirty bong

Cleaning your pipes

It’s important to clean your pipes frequently to avoid resin buildup and the unpleasant taste and smell that come with it. Cleaning your pipes is also essential for maintaining their longevity and preventing any potential health hazards that could arise from using dirty pipes.

When it comes to cleaning metal pipes, you can use rubbing alcohol and salt. Simply fill a plastic bag with rubbing alcohol and add some table salt, then drop in the pipe and shake it for a few minutes. For wooden pipes, avoid using alcohol, as it can damage the wood. Instead, use a pipe cleaner, then wipe it down with a damp cloth. One-hitters are typically made of metal, so you can use the same method as with metal pipes.

dirty one hitter marijuana pipe

Hot Box Vaporizers

Hot Box Vaporizers aren’t as well-known as other table top vapes, but they are a great way to enjoy your cannabis – and my personal favorite way to consume. One downside of using a vaporizer is that the vaporizer tubes can get dirty over time due to the high temperatures involved. However, with regular cleaning, you can ensure that your vaporizer is always in good condition and ready for use.

To clean your hot box vaporizer, start by making sure the unit is completely cool and unplugged. Then use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the resin off the vaporizer tubes. Next, separate the tube from the glass vaporizer bowl attachment, and cut the brown end off the tube once or twice. You should eventually replace the tube, but for now, you can soak the bowl with some rubbing alcohol for a while in a plastic sandwich bag. Then shake it for a bit, rinse it, and replace the tube if needed.

Keep in mind that separating the glass parts of the “whip” from the rubber tubing is difficult, so it’s good to have a few extra whips on hand and toss out old ones once they are too dirty. Years ago whips were relatively inexpensive, but lately I’ve seen them being $15 or more for each. So it can become a bit pricey especially if you smoke a lot (like I do).

Vape pens

Cleaning a vape pen is important to ensure a better vaping experience. First, remove the cartridge and battery from the pen. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the outside of the cartridge and the connection points. To clean the inside of the cartridge, remove any excess oil and debris using a toothpick or a small brush. You can also soak the cartridge in warm water and let it dry completely before reattaching it to the battery. It’s recommended to clean the vape pen after every use, especially if you use different types of oil cartridges.

However, if you don’t want to go through the hassle of cleaning your vape pen, you can consider purchasing disposable pre-filled cartridges. These cartridges are affordable, super convenient, and can be easily disposed of after use, eliminating the need for cleaning.

Your grinder

Grinders are an essential tool in the cannabis consumer’s arsenal. To get the most out of your grinder, use a toothpick to collect any loose cannabis, and clean the teeth with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. However, if your grinder is well-used, a solution of rubbing alcohol and coarse salt can be used to soak the teeth and screen. After cleaning, rinse the grinder thoroughly and let it dry completely before reassembling.

used marijuana weed grinder

Cleaning marijuana paraphernalia

Other items that keep clean are your storage jars and joint rollers. Label your storage jars before cleaning to keep track of which strain is which. These items can usually be washed in hot soapy water, but if there’s any resin residue, use the rubbing alcohol and coarse salt solution.

Dispose of cotton balls, cotton swabs, and paper towels in a safe and secure trash can, away from children and pets. I usually use a plastic shopping bag and throw everything away in the general trash as soon as I’m done. It’s essential to keep your dedicated cannabis space clean and organized for a better smoking experience.

Lazy bones

If you’re a bit lazy, like me, consider purchasing a few small and inexpensive pipes to toss out once they become too clogged or too difficult to clean. I used to do the same thing with water bongs, buying several small and cheap ones and disposing of them when they became too dirty. Just be sure to dispose of them responsibly and in a way that won’t harm the environment.

And the easiest clean-up of them all: Edibles! Try some of CLOVR’s awesome edibles, drinkables, pre-rolls and concentrates.