Choosing the Right Bong: A Complete Buyer’s Guide

Finding the perfect bong can be a game-changer for your smoking experience. Whether you’re new to smoking or upgrading your setup, the right design, material, and size all play a role in how smooth and enjoyable your sessions will be.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about bongs, including how they work, the different types available, and what to consider when choosing one.

What Is a Bong?

A bong (or water pipe) is a filtration device that uses water to cool and clean smoke before it’s inhaled. The concept is simple yet effective — by drawing smoke through water, impurities are filtered out, and the result is a smoother, cooler hit.

A standard bong includes:

• A bowl (cone piece) for holding your material

• A downstem to carry smoke into the water

• A chamber to hold water

• A mouthpiece for inhaling

  
  

When you light the bowl and inhale, the smoke bubbles through the water, cooling down before it reaches your lungs. This process makes bongs one of the most efficient and comfortable ways to smoke.

How to Use a Bong

Using a bong is straightforward once you understand the basic process:

1. Add water: Fill the base until the end of the downstem is submerged about 2–3 cm.

   
   

2. Pack the bowl: Grind your material and pack it lightly into the cone piece.

   
   

3. Light and inhale: As you inhale, the smoke travels through the water, cooling and filtering along the way.

   
   

4. Clear the chamber: Remove the bowl to clear the remaining smoke for a full hit.

   
   

To keep the experience smooth, change the water regularly and clean your bong often to prevent buildup.

Different Types of Bongs

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution — the best bong for you depends on your preferences and how you like to smoke. Below are the most common types you’ll find in Australia.

1. Beaker Bongs

Recognisable by their wide, triangular base, beaker bongs are known for stability and large water capacity. They offer smoother, cooler hits and are ideal for beginners due to their easy maintenance.

2. Straight Tube Bongs

As the name suggests, these bongs feature a simple cylindrical design. They’re sleek, efficient, and deliver fast, powerful hits. Straight tubes are great for experienced users who prefer a more direct experience.

3. Percolator Bongs

Percolator bongs have built-in filtration systems that break smoke into smaller bubbles, cooling it further. They deliver exceptionally smooth hits but require a bit more cleaning due to their intricate design.

4. Acrylic Bongs

Durable and budget-friendly, acrylic bongs are perfect for casual smokers or travel use. While they don’t offer the same flavour purity as glass, they’re nearly unbreakable and easy to maintain.

5. Silicone Bongs

Flexible, portable, and unbreakable — silicone bongs are ideal for outdoor use. Many designs feature removable parts, making them simple to clean and store.

6. Ceramic Bongs

These are often hand-crafted and artistic, making them both functional and decorative. Ceramic bongs tend to hold heat well but are heavier and more fragile.

7. Glass Bongs

The gold standard for flavour and performance, glass bongs are made from high-quality borosilicate glass that resists heat and provides unmatched smoothness.

Explore the full range of glass bongs at Bong Empire — featuring everything from simple, classic tubes to advanced multi-percolator designs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bong

When picking your ideal bong, a few key factors will help narrow down your choices.

1. Material

• Glass: Best for taste and aesthetics, but fragile.

• Acrylic or Silicone: Affordable and durable, perfect for travel.

• Ceramic: Beautiful and traditional, but not as portable.

  
  

2. Size

• Small Bongs: Easier to handle and store, ideal for quick sessions.

• Medium Bongs: Offer balance between smoothness and portability.

• Large Bongs: Deliver the coolest, smoothest hits but are less travel-friendly.

  
  

3. Filtration

If you want ultra-smooth hits, look for a bong with percolators or an ice catcher to enhance cooling and diffusion.

4. Ease of Cleaning

Detachable or wide-mouthed bongs make maintenance easier. Keeping your bong clean preserves flavour and prevents harsh hits.

Why Choose Glass Bongs

Glass remains the most popular material among experienced smokers — and for good reason.

For those seeking both performance and craftsmanship, investing in a glass bong is worth it.

Tips for First-Time Buyers

• Start simple: Choose a design that’s easy to clean and use before moving to advanced percolators.

• Set a budget: You don’t need to spend a fortune — there are durable, high-performing options for every price range.

• Buy from reputable sellers: Ensure you’re getting genuine materials, safe shipping, and quality craftsmanship.

  
  

Australian stores like Bong Empire provide secure checkout, fast delivery, and discreet packaging, so you can shop with confidence.

FAQs About Bongs

Q. What is a bong?

A. A bong is a water-based smoking device that filters and cools smoke for a smoother inhale.

Q. How to use a bong?

A. Fill the chamber with water, pack the bowl, light it, and inhale gently as smoke filters through the water.

Q. Which type of bong is best for beginners?

A. Beaker bongs or straight tubes are great starter options — simple, stable, and easy to clean.

Q. Are glass bongs better than acrylic ones?

A. Yes, glass bongs provide cleaner flavour, better cooling, and are easier to clean, though they’re more delicate.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right bong is about finding the perfect balance between comfort, performance, and personal preference. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a straight tube or the elegance of a multi-percolator glass piece, the right bong can elevate every session.