Silicon water bongs have become popular because they are durable, affordable, and easy to maintain and use. Silicon bongs tend to be nearly indestructible, thus they are a preferred option for those on the go or who are prone to breaking bongs. Although silicon bongs may not have the same function and aesthetic appeal as the Terratokes Katana bamboo bong, silicon bongs are typically lightweight and collapsible, which makes them an affordable and practical option for many. Additionally, many enjoy that silicon bongs are extremely customizable and come in a wide range of styles and colors.
The materials used to craft water bongs tend to influence their durability and functionality greatly. While glass and bamboo bongs tend to be the most commonly preferred water bong materials, acrylic, silicon, ceramic, water bottles, and plastic can also all be used to make water bongs. Silicon bongs are typically made from food-grade or medical-grade silicon, which is typically non-toxic, BPA-free, and highly heat-resistant. The flexible nature of silicon allows for a wide range of designs, shapes, and colors.
Although silicon can withstand high temperatures, the downstem and bowlpiece are typically made of metal or sometimes glass that can withstand direct flame. The modular components of most silicon bongs, such as the downstem, bowl piece, and sometimes percolators, are typically detachable, which can make silicon bongs a bit easier to clean and customize. While most silicon bongs are straight tubes that offer easy rips, you may find that some silicon bongs have a beaker base that allows for additional cooling.
The use and functionality of silicon bongs depend on their structure as well as the quality of materials used. Although they will function in the same manner as other bongs, the tube structure will determine how smooth your hit is from a silicon bong.
While silicon bongs may offer some level of filtration, their functionality typically pales in comparison to bamboo and glass water bongs. This is because silicon can sometimes affect the taste of your dry herbs, especially if the resin is built up in your bong. While silicon may appear to be a great option to pass around with friends, taking a rip from a silicon bong that has a soft structure can often result in splashing or the tube collapsing inwards.
Cleaning a silicon bong can be done in the same manner as any other water bong. Some silicon bongs are dishwasher-safe if the downstem and bowlpiece are removable, however, you can use isopropyl alcohol and salt, lemon juice, or any other market bong cleaner just as well. As with any other water bong, it’s recommended to change your water after each session and to clean your bong regularly to maintain its health. If you’re cleaning a silicon bong with a metal bowl and downstem, you may find that soaking the bowl and downstem in a bag or cup with alcohol or bong cleaner will help speed up the cleaning process as metal can be harder to clean than glass.