Let’s face it—no one enjoys cleaning their bong. But keeping it clean is essential if you want flavorful hits, a healthy smoking experience, and a piece that lasts. And when it comes to maintenance, the type of bong you choose can make a world of difference. Glass bongs and silicone bongs are the two most common options on the market today, each with their own unique advantages—and challenges—when it comes to cleaning.
So, which one is easier to maintain? In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about cleaning glass vs. silicone bongs, from cleaning methods to odor retention and long-term durability. Whether you’re a daily user or an occasional smoker, this guide will help you make a smarter, cleaner choice.
Before we dive into cleaning strategies, it’s important to understand how glass and silicone bongs differ in terms of materials and usage.
Typically made from high-quality borosilicate glass
Known for delivering pure, clean-tasting hits
Visually appealing and transparent (easy to see buildup)
Fragile and prone to breaking if dropped
Often includes percolators, ash catchers, and other add-ons
Made from food-grade silicone; flexible and nearly indestructible
Best suited for travel, outdoor use, or clumsy users
Usually lightweight and unbreakable
Opaque or semi-transparent—harder to spot resin buildup
Easy to fold or collapse for storage
Glass bongs are the most popular type for a reason—they’re easy to clean if you’re consistent.
Non-porous surface makes it harder for bacteria to stick
Compatible with strong cleaning solutions like isopropyl alcohol (91%+)
Visibility of grime, mold, or resin buildup
Can be cleaned deeply with the right tools (pipe cleaners, brushes)
Prone to breakage during cleaning
Complex percs and chambers can be hard to reach
If left dirty too long, resin can become hard to remove
Tools Needed:
Isopropyl alcohol (91% or higher)
Coarse salt (Epsom or sea salt)
Ziplock bags (for small parts)
Bottle brush or pipe cleaners
Steps:
Add alcohol and salt to the bong.
Shake vigorously for 1–2 minutes.
Soak smaller pieces in a bag with the same solution.
Rinse with hot water until clean.
Silicone bongs are loved for their convenience and toughness—but not necessarily for ease of cleaning.
Can be bent or folded for easier scrubbing
Unbreakable—no stress about cracking during cleaning
Many models are dishwasher safe (check for metal parts)
Retains odor more than glass
Porous surface can trap resin and bacteria
Some cleaning agents (like strong alcohol) can damage silicone
Tools Needed:
Dish soap and hot water
Silicone-safe pipe brush
Optional: freezer for resin removal
Steps:
Disassemble the bong.
Rinse with hot water to loosen resin.
Use dish soap and a brush to scrub all surfaces.
Optionally, freeze the bong for 2–3 hours, then bend it to break off hardened resin.
Let dry completely before reassembling.
When it comes to long-term hygiene, glass bongs have a clear advantage:
They’re non-porous, meaning they don’t trap bacteria or odor.
You can see when they’re dirty and clean them accordingly.
Effective disinfection is easier with alcohol and boiling water.
Silicone bongs, on the other hand, are more likely to retain:
Smells from frequent use
Biofilm, a thin layer of bacteria and resin that’s hard to remove
Discoloration over time that looks and feels dirty
If hygiene is your top concern, glass is the better option—provided you clean it regularly and handle it carefully.
Cleaning frequency depends on usage, but here's a general rule of thumb:
|
Bong Type |
Cleaning Frequency |
|
Glass Bong |
Every 1–2 sessions |
|
Silicone Bong |
After every session |
Letting residue sit too long—especially in silicone—can result in irreversible odor buildup and a funky taste during your next hit.
For Glass Bongs:
Isopropyl alcohol (91%+)
Coarse salt (abrasive)
Formula 420 or Orange Chronic (store-bought cleaners)
Pipe brushes, Q-tips, bottle brushes
For Silicone Bongs:
Dish soap + hot water
Freezer (for solidifying resin)
Eyce Cleaner (silicone-safe formula)
Non-abrasive sponges
Avoid harsh chemical cleaners like bleach or acetone on either material.
Whether glass or silicone, these are some universal mistakes that can ruin your bong—or your smoke session:
Using boiling water on cold glass (can cause cracking)
Soaking silicone in alcohol for too long
Not cleaning small parts like downstems, bowls, or percs
Leaving water inside the bong after rinsing → causes mold
Scrubbing with sharp objects → leads to micro-scratches, odor retention
Remember: a little care goes a long way in preserving your bong’s performance and lifespan.
Let’s wrap it up with a summary:
Want the cleanest taste and purest hits
Don’t mind frequent, thorough cleaning
Prefer using strong cleaning agents
Are careful and don’t mind fragility
Travel often and need something durable
Are prone to dropping your gear
Prefer something low-maintenance (but okay with lingering smell)
Don’t mind occasional deep cleaning with mild soap
Still unsure? Why not try both and see which fits your routine better?
Whether you prefer the sleek transparency of glass bongs or the rugged flexibility of silicone bongs, one thing is clear—keeping your bong clean is non-negotiable. A clean bong isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about flavor, hygiene, and the quality of every hit.
If you prioritize pure taste, easy-to-spot buildup, and long-term hygiene, glass bongs are your best bet—just be ready to handle them with care. If you're all about durability, portability, and convenience, silicone bongs offer an easy-to-clean option that's nearly impossible to break.
No matter what type of bong you use, keeping it clean ensures:
Better flavor
Safer smoking
Longer lifespan for your gear
Looking for cleaning supplies or a new bong? Check out our bongs collection at bongs.ca.
How to Keep Your Bong Clean and Smelling Fresh
Best Bong Cleaning Solutions (DIY vs. Store-Bought)
What Happens If You Don’t Clean Your Bong?
How Often Should You Change Bong Water?
How to Remove Resin and Tar Build-up Effectively
Bong Cleaning Mistakes That Damage Your Piece