Silicone Bongs

In recent years silicone water bongs have gained popularity due to their durability, affordability, and general ease of maintenance and use. While there are numerous advantages and disadvantages to using silicone bongs, they tend to be a popular option mainly due to their durability. Silicone bongs tend to be nearly indestructible, so they are  an ideal option for those who travel or who are prone to breaking water bongs. They are typically lightweight and collapsible, so silicone bongs are one type of bong that are easy to shove in a backpack. Although silicone bongs may not have the same function and aesthetic appeal as the Terratokes Katana bamboo bong, silicone bongs offer an affordable option that can be completely collapsed and easily hidden.

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Silicone Bongs Material & Design

The materials used to craft water bongs tends to influence their durability and functionality greatly. While glass and bamboo bongs tend to be the most commonly preferred water bong materials, acrylic, silicone, ceramic, water bottles, and plastic can also all be used to make water bongs. Silicone bongs are typically made from food-grade or medical-grade silicone, which is typically non-toxic, BPA-free, and highly heat resistant. Although silicone can withstand high temperatures, the downstem and bowlpiece are typically made of metal or sometimes glass that can withstand direct flame. 

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Additionally, the flexible nature of silicone allows for a wide range of designs, shapes, and colors. The modular components of most silicone bongs, such as the downstem, bowl piece, and sometimes percolators, are typically detachable, which can make silicone bongs a bit easier to clean and customize. 

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Silicone Bong Use & Functionality

Although silicone bongs will function in the same manner as most other water bongs, their use and functionality depend on how frequently they are maintained as well as the structure of the tube. While silicone bongs may offer some level of filtration, their functionality typically pales in comparison to bamboo and glass water bongs. The silicone can sometimes affect the taste of your dry herb, especially if the resin is built up in your bong. Additionally, while silicone bongs may seem great to pass around with friends, taking a rip from a silicone bong can often result in splashing or the tube collapsing inwards.

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Cleaning a Silicone Bong

Cleaning a silicone bong can be done in the same manner as any other water bong. Some silicone 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 silicone 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.