How to Choose the Right Bong for Beginners — A Complete Guide

Looking to get your first bong? That’s a great start! Picking the right piece not only makes your experience smoother and safer, but also gives you a clear path for future upgrades. This guide will walk you through all the key factors to consider when buying a bong, from material, size, and type, to budget, personal preferences, accessories, and cleaning tips.

Ask Yourself: How Will You Use It? (3 Key Questions Before Buying)

Before making a purchase, think about the following:

1. Main usage scenario: Will you mostly use it alone at home, with friends, or carry it around on the go?
2. Smoothness preference: Do you prioritize extra filtration for smooth hits, or do you want something simple and easy to clean?
3. Budget range: Are you ready to invest in a high-quality piece for long-term use, or do you want a cheaper option to try it out first?

Once you have a clear answer to these questions, choosing the right bong will become much easier.

Quick Recommendations for Beginners (by Usage)

• Easy to use, easy to clean, and stable: 8–12 inches, 4–5mm borosilicate glass, beaker (preferred) or straight tube, 14mm joint with a diffused downstem.

• Smooth hits without complicated cleaning: Straight tube or beaker with honeycomb/tree percolator (moderate complexity).

• For advanced filtration and visual effects: Recycler or multi-perc bongs, but they are harder to clean and not recommended as a first bong.
• Frequent on-the-go use / concerned about durability: Silicone or mini thick glass bongs; make sure to choose a shock-resistant material.

If you want to understand why these setups are ideal for beginners, keep reading.

What to Consider When Buying a Bong

1. Choosing Your Bong Material

The top choice is borosilicate glass, which is also the most popular. As a non-porous material, it won’t absorb or alter the taste of your herbs, providing the purest flavor. It’s also highly durable, heat-resistant, and—most importantly—safe to use. I recommend choosing a transparent or semi-transparent design so you can easily see when it’s time to clean.

Another major advantage of glass bongs is their versatility. You can upgrade and customize them with various accessories, such as multiple chambers, ash catchers, downstems, and percolators. Some even come with splash guards, allowing you to continuously enhance your smoking experience.

Silicone bongs are another option. While slightly inferior to glass in terms of flavor and durability, they are more affordable and extremely easy to clean—often dishwasher-safe. Their flexible, lightweight design makes them ideal for on-the-go use. However, if your primary use isn’t frequent outdoor smoking, silicone isn’t strictly necessary. Many small, portable glass bongs are just as convenient to carry and deliver better flavor.

Ceramic bongs are also common. They are durable, reliable, and perform well. Flavor-wise, ceramic is second only to glass. However, ceramic bongs are typically heavy and opaque, making it hard to tell when they need cleaning. These bongs are often better suited as collectible pieces, especially those with unique or artistic designs.

Finally, plastic or acrylic bongs are not recommended. While cheap and nearly unbreakable, they often give off an unpleasant plastic taste and, more importantly, heating plastic may release harmful chemicals that could seriously impact your health over time.

So when it comes to choosing a material, there’s little to hesitate about—glass is by far the safest and most reliable choice.

2. Choosing the Right Size

The size of a bong directly affects how much smoke it can hold and its portability. For beginners, it’s recommended to start with a smaller bong, making it easier to control your hits and adjust comfortably to the experience.

• Mini (4–10 inches): Lightweight and portable, budget-friendly, with smaller smoke volume—ideal for solo use. However, the smoke tends to be warmer, and water filtration is less effective.
• Medium (10–14 inches): Balances portability and performance, making it a versatile choice. Smoke is smoother, suitable for solo sessions or small gatherings.
• Large (14 inches and above): Best for experienced users or for home parties. Longer smoke paths provide better filtration, resulting in smoother and cooler hits.

If the bong is primarily for personal use, a height of 8–12 inches is sufficient. If you plan to share it with friends or roommates, opting for a larger bong will improve efficiency and make group sessions more enjoyable.

3. Common Bong Types and Who They’re For

Beaker Bong

• Pros: Stable structure, less likely to tip over; large water contact area for fuller, richer hits.
• Best for: Home use or beginners who want a stable, reliable smoking experience.

Straight Tube Bong

• Pros: Simple design, easy to clean, classic look.
• Best for: Beginners who value simplicity and easy maintenance.

Perc Bong / Recycler Bong

• Pros: Features circulating water flow for smoother hits and impressive visual effects.
• Best for: Users seeking maximum filtration and willing to spend extra time on cleaning.
  ⚠️ Note: Due to their complex design, recyclers are generally not recommended for first-time users.

If you want to learn more about different bong types and their features, you can check out a full guide to all bong types.

4. Budget and Buying Recommendations

Beginner Budget (Low): If you’re just starting out, opt for simple, durable mini or straight tube bongs with a focus on glass material. On Smoke Meg, you can find many glass bongs priced around $20–$30—affordable and perfect for beginners.

Mid-Range Budget: If your budget allows, consider thicker glass (7–9mm) beaker bongs with a diffused downstem or a simple percolator. These bongs balance stability and smooth hits. On Smoke Meg, you can get high-quality thick glass bongs for under $50. If you compare, you’ll see our products are very competitive in both quality and price.

High-End Budget: For those seeking artistic designs, recyclers, or complex percolators, these bongs require more effort to clean and maintain but provide the smoothest, most professional experience. Even high-end options on Smoke Meg are more affordable than comparable products elsewhere, while still guaranteeing top-notch quality and durability.

5. Choosing a Bong Based on Personal Preferences (Practical Tips)

Easy to Maintain and Durable: If you prioritize easy cleaning and durability, go for a straight tube or beaker bong. Avoid overly complex designs, such as multi-chamber recyclers. While these look cool, they are difficult to clean. Simpler designs are easier to disassemble and maintain, making them ideal for beginners.

Smooth Hits (Gentle on the Throat): If you want smoother hits that are easier on the throat, consider bongs with tree or honeycomb percolators, or a recycler. Using a moderate amount of water can further enhance filtration. Bongs with ice catchers allow you to add ice for cooler smoke, creating a more comfortable experience.

Aesthetic and Collectible: If you want a bong that’s not only functional but also visually appealing, consider pieces with themed prints or handcrafted artistic designs, such as Hello Kitty, Barbie, Rick and Morty, Butterfly, or Mushroom designs. Make sure the material is high-quality—preferably borosilicate glass—so that the bong remains both beautiful and practical.

Accessories and Upgrade Recommendations

Removable Diffused Downstem

A removable downstem is easy to clean and significantly improves filtration. For beginners, it’s convenient to maintain while enhancing the smoking experience. At Smoke Meg, we offer affordable replacement glass downstems, making upgrades simple and cost-effective.

Bowl Size and Material

Prioritize glass bowls. For about 90% of bongs, the standard size is a 14mm male bowl. Choosing a unique bowl can instantly change the style of your bong. On Smoke Meg, we offer a range of stylish and eye-catching bowls that are both affordable and high-quality. If you prefer a standard clear bowl, we also provide budget-friendly replacement options.

Ash Catcher (Filter / Debris Collector)

An ash catcher helps keep the main chamber clean and is easy to replace and wash. For beginners, it’s a great tool to extend the life of your bong and improve flavor.

Cleaning Tools

Good cleaning habits are essential. Equip yourself with brushes, plugs, isopropyl alcohol or specialized cleaning solutions, and coarse salt. These tools ensure your bong and accessories stay clean, providing the best experience every time you use them.

Where to Buy a Bong ?

If you prefer to shop in person, you can visit licensed dispensaries or specialized smoke shops. Take some time to talk to the staff and let them help you choose the right bong. Most employees at cannabis retail stores are not just there to make a sale—they love the industry and enjoy sharing their knowledge. So don’t be shy; let them recommend the best options for your needs.

If you choose to shop online, Smoke Meg offers a wide selection of bongs. The advantage of online shopping is that you can get the same quality at a better price, as it saves on labor, rent, and other overhead costs. At Smoke Meg, we only take a reasonable profit, ensuring every customer can buy a high-quality bong at an affordable price. Additionally, we offer a variety of bong accessories, including ash catchers, downstems, bowls, as well as bangers and carb caps for dab rigs!

How to Maintain Your Bong

1. Regularly Change the Water: Change the water in your bong at least every two to three days. This basic hygiene step helps prevent inhaling smoke filtered through stagnant or moldy water. For the cleanest experience, consider emptying and refilling the water after each use.
2. Remove Residue and Build-Up: Over time, residue and oils will accumulate inside your bong. If you use it daily, it’s recommended to clean it once a week. For less frequent use, cleaning every few weeks is sufficient.
3. Cleaning Glass or Ceramic Bongs: Remove all detachable parts, such as the bowl and downstem. Mix isopropyl alcohol (91–99%) with coarse salt and pour it into the bong. Place the removable parts in a sealed bag with the same mixture. Seal all openings and gently shake for a few minutes—salt scrubs off residue while alcohol disinfects. Afterward, rinse thoroughly with soap and clean water to ensure no residue remains.
4. Cleaning Silicone Bongs: Isopropyl alcohol can damage silicone, so silicone bongs are best cleaned with dish soap and water. Fill the bong with water and let it soak for a few minutes. Then, use a cotton swab or a specialized brush to remove any leftover residue, and rinse thoroughly.
5. Handle with Care to Avoid Breakage: While bongs let you enjoy carefree sessions, they are fragile. You don’t need to treat them like antique glassware, but glass and ceramic bongs can break just like any other fragile item. Keep your bong in a stable, secure place—such as the center of a coffee table or a high shelf out of the way—and avoid moving it frequently. After all, nobody wants to see broken glass scattered across a carpet or in a backpack.

Conclusion

Choosing the right bong doesn’t have to feel overwhelming — especially when you understand what truly matters: material quality, thickness, size, functionality, percolation style, and your own personal preferences. Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone upgrading your setup, taking the time to understand these factors ensures you’ll end up with a piece that fits your lifestyle, your budget, and the kind of experience you enjoy.

Remember, the best bong for you is the one that feels right in your hands, suits your daily habits, and delivers the smooth, enjoyable sessions you’re looking for. And if you ever need reliable, high-quality, and affordable options, Smoke Meg is here to make the process easier. From durable glass bongs to downstems, bowls, ash catchers, and more, we’re committed to helping every beginner take their first step with confidence — without overpaying.

A well-chosen bong isn’t just a tool; it’s a long-term companion for countless enjoyable moments. Take your time, explore your options, and choose a piece that you’ll love using every single day.

Related Articles You Might Be Interested In

Anatomy of a Bong: 12 Key Parts and Their Functions

Different Bong Types: The Complete Guide

How to Properly Pack and Light a Bong Bowl: A Complete Guide for Smooth Hits

How Much Water Do You Put in a Bong? A Complete Guide for Beginners

Male vs. Female Bong Bowls: A Clear Guide for Beginners

How to Prevent Floaters in a Bong: Keep Your Smoke Clean

How to Measure a Downstem Size and Length | Step-by-Step Guide