Even though bongs and water pipes seem different, they are essentially the same device. They refer to a smoking device that uses water as a filtration system to cool and purify the smoke. It is interesting to know that they look like an apparatus suited for a laboratory when seen from a distance. Some people believe it is one of the safest and most enjoyable ways to smoke tobacco or herb.

So what makes bongs and pipes so popular among ardent smokers, and what are some things you must know about them?

Why are bongs or water pipes so popular?

Water pipes have a distinct advantage over standard ones because they filter the smoke with the help of water, thereby removing the harmful toxins from your tobacco. Every hit you take is highly relaxed and pure when it reaches your mouth, thus giving you a pleasant experience. That is particularly helpful for people who want to enjoy smoking without risking any harmful effects found in other devices. For example, you risk inhaling tar or burnt ash from pipes or cigars, which is not the case with these. The bongwater present in the device also traps the bacteria and mold harmful, both harmful to your health and can cause serious problems.

What are the different types of bongs?

You will find bongs in different shapes and sizes, and it is helpful to know what they are before you can find one to your liking.

• Scientific bongs

Scientific bongs get their name after the high-quality glass used to make them is usually found in laboratories. Glassblowing is a meticulous and time-consuming process where every bend has to be thoroughly worked to perfection. However, these kinds of bongs offer the smoothest rips as they come with a wide variety of percolators. Their curious shape immediately attracts you. If you are concerned regarding the quality of smoke entering your mouth and lungs, these are the safest option because they provide the best filtration and diffusion of the smoke.

• Colorful bongs

If you prefer colorful things in life, you could try colorful bongs. But why are they called so? Because these are available in a wide selection of colors, including green, gold, clear, blue, candy cane, black, blue, and amber. They are also elaborately designed and become the center of attraction wherever you take them. To make these colorful water pipes, glass artists use fritted glass (frit is a mixture of fluxes and silica that are fused at high temperatures to make glass). The frit melts into the cullet (recycled glass) and lends color to the equipment. 

• Big bongs

Big water pipes or bongs are for smokers who have smoked bongs for a considerable period. Beginners should avoid them unless they find it comfortable and don’t find the hit overwhelming. Most big bongs are available between 14 inches to 21 inches in size and come with different kinds of percolators. The measurement of the water pipe is directly related to the percolation it offers. Because of optimal percolation, bigger water pipes provide an intense, smoother, and better hit.

• Mini bongs

Do you have to travel often and find it challenging to carry your water pipe wherever you go? If you do, you need a mini or small-sized bong. Although they work quite the same way as a traditional water pipe, you must cover the hole on the side to control the airflow to ensure the chamber is filled with smoke. To inhale the smoke, release your finger from the hole, just as you would with a pipe.

Conclusion

Knowing about the different bongs and pipes is essential before buying one for yourself. You must choose a device, keeping in mind your requirements, preferences, and smoking experiences. Once you get used to it, every hit will feel like a journey into pleasure and paradise.