The Dangers Of Smoking With Dirty Bong Water
Here's what you're risking each time you smoke from a bong with swampy water.
Ever been mid-sesh, go to take a hit, and suddenly wonder, When was the last time I changed this water? It’s easy to ignore until the smell hits you or your throat burns a little extra.
I’ve been there. Back in college, I had a roommate who thought changing bong water was optional. Weeks would go by, and the once-clear water would transform into a murky, swamp-like brew that probably housed an entire ecosystem. I’m not gonna lie—sometimes I used it. And every time, it was a mistake: coughing fits, harsh hits, and that unmistakable taste of something that just wasn’t right.
Look, there’s no judgment here. But at Herb, we’re all about helping you enjoy your sesh in the healthiest, smoothest way possible. When it comes to smoking out of a bong, clean water isn’t just a suggestion—it’s the key to avoiding harsh hits, funky flavors, and even some serious health risks.
So, if you’ve been putting off that rinse, stick around. We’re about to dive into why fresh water makes all the difference—and why your lungs (and your taste buds) will thank you.
Why You Need Clean Bong Water For Each Sesh
Changing your bong water after each sesh might feel like a chore, but your health will thank you. Dirty bong water is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, much like stagnant water you’d never dream of drinking or swimming in.
When water sits still for too long, it creates the ideal environment for bacteria to multiply. Add ash, resin, and other debris into the mix, and you’re left with a swampy concoction that not only reeks but could harm your health with prolonged exposure.
It’s best to change out your water after each smoking session. If the bong water is sitting for more than an hour, it’s best to discard it and fill it with fresh water again. Fresh water keeps your bong cleaner, your hits smoother, and your lungs safer. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.
But, if you decide to skip it, read on for the risks associated with smoking out of a bong that has dirty water.
The Risks Of Smoking With Dirty Bong Water
Some people think that smoking with dirty bong water isn’t a big deal. But smoking with clean bong water goes beyond trying to upkeep aesthetics or have fresher hits (although, fresher hits are a big bonus to keeping your bong water fresh).
Smoking with dirty bong water can pose real risks to your health and overall smoking experience.
Here’s what you could be exposing yourself to:
Bacterial Infections
Water that sits completely still is a breeding ground for bacteria, which can make their way into your lungs during a hit, increasing the risk of respiratory infections. Tons of bacteria can be living in your bong water, including respiratory illness culprits Klebsiella pneumoniae and Mycobacterium.
Mold Exposure
Mold thrives in environments with moisture, warmth, and organic material—exactly what a bong with dirty water provides. The ash, resin, and debris left behind from smoking create the perfect breeding ground for mold spores. Over time, this can lead to the formation of a slimy biofilm, particularly in hard-to-clean spots like the downstem and percolator. Prolonged exposure to mold in a bong isn’t just gross; it can result in serious health issues, such as aspergillosis, a lung infection that can become severe, especially for those with weakened immune systems.
Harsh Hits
The main job of clean water is to cool and filter the smoke before it reaches your lungs. Dirty bong water, however, does the opposite—recirculating concentrated tar, ash, and harmful byproducts of combustion. This not only irritates your throat and lungs, making hits feel harsher but also distorts the natural flavors of your weed by masking the delicate terpenes that enhance its aroma and taste.
Cleaning Your Bong
Swapping out the water after every session is a great start, but it’s not enough to keep your bong in pristine condition. Over time, resin, tar, and ash build up in the nooks and crannies, which is something a quick water rinse can’t fix.
Cleaning your bong is easier than you think. The classic go-to method involves isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt—a combo so effective it’s the main ingredient in many store-bought bong cleaners. Just pour them into your bong, shake it like you’re making a cocktail, and watch the grime disappear. A very thorough rinse with warm water, then cold, and you’re back to a clean, sparkling piece.
Need a step-by-step guide? We’ve got you covered. Check out our article, How To Properly Clean A Bong, for all the tips and tricks to keep your bong looking (and hitting) like new.
Keep Your Hits Fresh And Smooth With Chill Steel Pipes
Chill Steel Pipes is the perfect way to smoke for those who want to enjoy their time without all of the unpleasantness a dirty bong brings.
These Chill Steel Pipes are made with high-quality stainless steel and designed specifically not to let your hit get too hot or harsh while still maintaining coolness. You won’t experience any coughing fits like most other smokers do when they’re unable to hold in enough air during intake, largely because it’s been kept at an uncomfortable temperature. These babies will give smooth refreshing hits every single go!
Plus, Chill Steel Pipes come in a bunch of different styles, so you can find the perfect one to match your personality. So whether you’re looking for something sleek and minimalist or something a little more flashy, they’ve got you covered.
Final Note
Smoking should be enjoyable, not a gamble with your lungs or taste buds. If you’ve been riding the dirty bong water wave, consider this your sign to break the cycle. It doesn’t take much effort, just a quick rinse and a refill, but the payoff is massive: smoother hits, better flavor, and the peace of mind that you’re not inhaling something out of a science experiment.
Your bong deserves a little love, and so do you. Treat it right, and it’ll return the favor every time.
Featured Brands:
Herb Recommended Products:
READ MORE
