Smoking concentrates has become increasingly popular in recent years, and one of the most common ways to enjoy them is by using a banger. A banger is a glass bowl-like attachment that goes on top of a dab rig and is heated with a torch. While a banger can provide a great dabbing experience, it’s important to keep it clean to ensure the best flavor and longevity of use. In this article, we’ll discuss step-by-step how to clean a banger.
Why Clean Your Banger?
Before we get into the how-to, let’s talk about why you should clean your banger. Over time, the residue from your dabs, also known as “reclaim,” will build up on the banger. This buildup can affect the taste of your dabs, making them harsh and unpleasant. Additionally, a dirty banger can cause your rig to clog and decrease the overall quality of your smoking experience.
What You’ll Need
Before you get started, you’ll need a few things:
- Isopropyl alcohol (at least 91% concentration)
- Cotton swabs
- Paper towels
- Heat-resistant gloves (optional)
Step 1: Heat the Banger
The first step is to heat the banger. This will loosen the reclaim and make it easier to clean. Use a torch to heat the banger until it’s red hot. Then, let it cool down for at least 30 seconds. You want it to be warm but not too hot to touch.
Step 2: Wipe Away Loose Residue
Using a cotton swab or paper towel, wipe away any loose residue that you can see. This will make it easier to clean the banger thoroughly.
Step 3: Soak the Banger
Next, put the banger in a container that’s large enough to submerge it completely in isopropyl alcohol. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes. The alcohol will break down the reclaim and make it easier to remove.
Step 4: Scrub the Banger
After the banger has soaked, it’s time to scrub it. Put on your heat-resistant gloves (if you have them) and use a cotton swab or small brush to scrub the inside of the banger. Be gentle but thorough, making sure to get all the sticky residue off. Don’t forget to clean the outside of the banger as well. Use a paper towel or cotton swab to wipe it down.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry the Banger
Once you’ve scrubbed the banger, rinse it thoroughly with hot water to remove any leftover alcohol or residue. Dry it with a paper towel or let it air dry completely before using it again.
Tips for Keeping Your Banger Clean
Cleaning your banger regularly will help keep it in good condition, but there are a few other things you can do to make sure it stays clean:
- Use a carb cap to reduce the amount of reclaim that builds up on the banger
- Don’t overheat the banger, as this can cause the reclaim to burn and stick to the surface
- Use a q-tip to clean the banger after every dab
- Consider investing in a reclaim catcher to prevent buildup in the first place
Conclusion
Now that you know how to clean a banger, you can enjoy your dabs with a clean, smooth-tasting banger every time. Remember to clean it regularly and take steps to prevent buildup, and you’ll get the most out of your smoking experience.