How to Clean a Bong: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping your bong clean isn’t just about looks — it’s about health, flavour, and performance. A dirty bong can ruin the smoothness of your sessions, create harmful bacteria build-up, and even shorten the life of your glass bongs.

If you use a Sweet Puff pipe, check out our How to Clean a Sweet Puff guide for specific care instructions.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about cleaning a bong properly, including the best methods, products, and expert tips.

Why Cleaning Your Bong Matters

• Better taste – A clean bong keeps flavours fresh and smooth.

• Healthier sessions – Prevents mould, bacteria, and resin build-up.

• Longer lifespan – Protects glass, acrylic, and silicone from damage.

• Smoother airflow – Clear percolators and downstems work as intended.

For additional safety and cleaning insights, Healthline offers an excellent overview of bong hygiene and best practices — see their guide here.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather a few simple supplies:

• Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher is best)

• Coarse salt (rock or sea salt)

• Cotton swabs and pipe cleaners

• Rubber stoppers or bong plugs

• Warm water

• Bong Cleaning solution (optional – e.g. Agung No Pong Bong)

  
  

Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Bong

1. Empty and Rinse

Pour out any old water and rinse the bong with warm water to remove loose debris.

2. Disassemble

Carefully remove the bowl, downstem, and any detachable parts. This makes each piece easier to clean.

3. Add Cleaning Solution

Fill the main chamber with isopropyl alcohol and a couple of tablespoons of coarse salt. This combination loosens sticky resin.

4. Shake Gently

Cover openings with stoppers and shake the bong for 30–60 seconds. The salt acts as a scrubber, while the alcohol dissolves residue.

5. Clean Small Parts

Place bowls and downstems in separate resealable bags with alcohol and salt. Shake until clean.

6. Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse all parts with warm water until no alcohol or salt remains.

7. Dry and Reassemble

Let everything air-dry before putting it back together.

How Often Should You Clean a Bong?

• Daily users: Rinse after each use and deep clean every 2–3 days.

• Occasional users: Deep clean at least once a week.

• Silicone bongs: Wash with mild soap and warm water — avoid alcohol, which can degrade silicone.

  
  

Alternative Cleaning Methods

• Boiling water soak (for glass bongs only, never acrylic)

• Lemon juice & baking soda – natural, alcohol-free option

• Specialised cleaners – fast but pricier solutions

  
  

Pro Tips for Easier Cleaning

• Use fresh water every session to reduce build-up.

• Keep cotton swabs nearby to wipe small spots straight away.

• Store your bong in a cool, dry place to prevent mould.

• Invest in an ash catcher to keep your main chamber cleaner for longer.

FAQs About Bong Cleaning

Q. How do I clean a bong without alcohol?

A. Use lemon juice and baking soda, or boil water for a natural alternative.

Q. Can I put my bong in the dishwasher?

A. No — heat and pressure can crack glass and damage acrylic.

Q. What’s the fastest way to clean a bong?

A. Use isopropyl alcohol and salt — shake for one minute, rinse, and you’re done.

Q. Why does my bong smell bad even after cleaning?

A. Lingering odours often mean resin is trapped in percolators. Use a pipe cleaner or soak longer.

Invest in an ash catcher or percolator bong to keep your main chamber cleaner for longer — explore more in our Percolator Bongs Guide.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your bong regularly is the key to better flavour, smoother hits, and a longer-lasting piece. Whether you prefer quick rinses or full deep cleans, the steps above will keep your bong in top condition.

Regular maintenance isn’t just about taste — it protects your investment. Explore Bong Empire’s full range of Bong Cleaning Products for safe, effective options to keep your gear spotless.

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.