Common Bong Mistakes Beginners Make (and How to Fix Them)
- John S
- Nov 3
- 4 min read
Bongs are designed to make smoking smoother, cooler, and easier — but even the best piece can deliver a rough experience if it’s not used or maintained properly. Whether you’ve just picked up your first bong or you’re still figuring out the finer details, this guide covers the most common beginner mistakes and how to fix them.
Throughout this article, you’ll find links to other BBM guides that expand on design, cleaning, and buying tips so you can get the most from your setup.
1. Using the Wrong Amount of Water
Too much or too little water is one of the most frequent beginner errors.If you overfill your bong, you’ll experience splashback. Underfill it, and the smoke won’t cool properly — leading to harsh hits.
How to fix it:Aim to have the end of the downstem submerged about 1–2 cm below the waterline. You should hear a light bubbling sound when you inhale, not a deep gurgle.
For a deeper dive into water levels, diffusion, and airflow, check out our Choosing the Right Bong: A Complete Buyer’s Guide.
2. Neglecting Regular Cleaning
A dirty bong not only looks bad but affects taste, airflow, and hygiene. Residue buildup can cause unpleasant odours and even harbour bacteria.
How to fix it: Rinse your bong after every few sessions and give it a deep clean weekly using isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt. Disassemble all removable parts for best results.
Need a full walkthrough? Our How to Clean a Bong: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide explains everything in detail — including the safest cleaning methods and drying tips.
Want additional science-based cleaning advice? See HowStuffWorks’ guide to cleaning a bong for a neutral reference on glass care.
3. Ignoring Material Differences
Not all bongs are made equal. Acrylic and silicone models are durable and travel-friendly, while glass bongs provide the cleanest flavour and are easier to accessorise.
How to fix it:
Think about how you’ll use your piece. If you want a long-lasting, premium feel, go with thick borosilicate glass. For portability or outdoor sessions, silicone might suit you better.
4. Packing the Bowl Too Tight (or Too Loose)
A common frustration for beginners is inconsistent airflow. Packing your bowl incorrectly can block the draw or cause uneven burning.
How to fix it:
Grind evenly, then pack lightly so air can flow through the material. If you’re still struggling, a small glass screen or filter can help maintain a consistent burn.
Check our Different Types of Cone Pieces: A Complete Guide for advice on bowl sizing and how to improve airflow.
5. Forgetting About Maintenance Tools
Many new users don’t realise how much easier upkeep becomes with the right accessories. Brushes, plugs, and cleaning caps save time and prevent accidental spills.
How to fix it:
Keep a small maintenance kit handy. Regular rinsing combined with monthly deep cleans will keep your glass looking clear and performing like new.
6. Not Matching the Bong to Your Experience Level
Jumping straight into complex multi-percolator setups might look impressive, but they can be harder to pull and maintain. Beginners often prefer simpler models that still deliver smooth hits.
How to fix it:
Start with a single-chamber piece or a basic percolator until you’re comfortable. Then experiment with advanced designs as your technique improves.
If you’re not sure where to begin, revisit our Cheap Bongs Australia: Finding Quality on a Budget for practical starter recommendations.
7. Using Poor-Quality Water or Letting It Sit Too Long
Leaving old water in your bong is a fast track to stale flavour and unpleasant odours. Tap water with high mineral content can also leave cloudy deposits on glass.
How to fix it:
Change your water every session and rinse your piece after use. Distilled or filtered water keeps the glass cleaner and the flavour fresher.
8. Holding or Lighting the Bong Incorrectly
Beginners often light the bowl unevenly or pull too hard, which can waste product or cause water to splash up.
How to fix it:
Hold your lighter at an angle, touching only part of the bowl while drawing slowly. Rotate the flame for an even burn, and release the carb (if your bong has one) near the end of the pull.
For lighting tips and lighter comparisons, see our internal feature on Jet Lighters: The Ultimate Guide to Powerful and Reliable Flame Technology.
9. Forgetting That Size and Shape Affect the Experience
Large bongs deliver cooler smoke but require more lung power. Smaller designs are easier to clear but may feel warmer or harsher.
How to fix it:
Choose a size that suits your comfort and frequency of use. Many smokers keep one compact travel piece and one taller home unit for variety.
Explore options and functionality in our internal comparison of Double Chamber Bongs: Design, Benefits & How to Use Them.
Final Thoughts
Every beginner makes mistakes — it’s part of learning what works best for your style. The key is understanding why each detail matters: water levels, airflow, cleaning, and design all influence how enjoyable your sessions are.
By avoiding these common missteps and following the fixes above, you’ll protect your glass, enjoy better flavour, and get smoother hits every time.
Keep learning with our related BBM resources:
About the Author
John S is a Melbourne-based writer and glassware enthusiast with extensive experience reviewing smoking accessories for Australian consumers. He focuses on clear, practical advice for choosing, maintaining, and understanding quality glass pieces and related products.
