Downstems

🔍 How to Pick the Perfect Downstem for Your Bong: A Simple Buyer’s Guide

Choosing the right downstem doesn’t have to be tricky—as long as you know the right size and length, you’re already halfway there. Let’s walk through everything you need to know:

1. Downstem Length: Fit Matters

The length of your downstem determines how well it works with your bong.

• Too long? It might not fit.

• Too short? It won’t reach the water, meaning poor filtration and more splashback.

How to measure it: Start from the bottom of the ground joint (the frosted part that goes into the bong) all the way to the end—including any built-in diffuser.

👉 Heads up: Some retailers list the total length differently, so always double-check their measurements before you buy.

2. Downstem Size: Get the Right Joint Fit

The joint size ensures a tight seal, which is key for airflow and performance.

Most bongs use a standard 18mm to 14mm downstem. This means:

• The downstem fits into an 18mm bong joint,

• And it holds a 14mm bowl.

Other combinations include 18mm to 18mm and 14mm to 14mm. If you’re unsure, check your bong’s specs—or grab a ruler and a guide to measure the opening.

3. Downstem Materials: Choose What Works for You

Just like water pipes, downstems come in various materials as well. Here are the most common downstem materials and their pros/cons:

• Glass – The most popular. Clean, pure taste and easy to clean, but fragile.

• Glycerin Glass – A step up. Chill it in the fridge for cooler, smoother hits.

• Metal – Super durable, great as a backup. Can affect flavor at high temps.

• Silicone – Tough and flexible. Best kept for emergencies.

• Plastic – Not recommended. May release harmful fumes when heated.

We stock high-quality glass and metal downstems at great prices—no compromises on performance.

4. Percolated Downstems: Better Filtration, Smoother Hits

Looking to upgrade your smoking experience? Try a percolated downstem. These are built with diffusers (also called percs) that break up the smoke into tiny bubbles, giving it more contact with water for cleaner, cooler hits.

Here are some popular types of percolated downstems you’ll find:

• Showerhead Downstem – Wide slits in a circular pattern, great for balanced diffusion.

• Matrix Perc Downstem – Offers intense bubbling and excellent filtration.

• Tree Perc Downstem – Multiple arms that deliver smooth, well-diffused hits.

• Fritted Downstem – Made with porous glass for ultra-fine bubbles and top-tier filtration.

• Honeycomb Downstem – Flat disc design with lots of small holes for even diffusion.

• Inline Downstem – Horizontal design that spreads smoke across a wider area.

• Open-Ended Downstem – Simple, unrestricted airflow with basic percolation.

💡 Pro tip: While you’re upgrading your downstem, consider grabbing a new bowl or ash catcher to take your setup to the next level.

Shop Bong Downstems Online at Smoke Meg

Looking for the perfect replacement or upgrade for your bong? At Smoke Meg, we’ve got you covered with a wide selection of high-quality downstems—available in all standard sizes, lengths, and percolator styles. Whether you need a basic glass downstem or something with more filtration power like a tree perc or matrix design, you’ll find it here at a great price.

All of our downstems are designed for smooth hits, easy cleaning, and long-lasting performance. Plus, we offer durable metal options and chill-ready glycerin styles for users who want more than just the basics.

🛒 Browse our collection today and find the perfect match for your bong—affordable, reliable, and shipped with care.

General FAQ’s

How do I know what size downstem I need?

Most bongs use either an 18mm to 14mm  downstem. To find the right size, check your bong’s joint size and the bowl size it uses. If unsure, use a ruler or caliper to measure the inner diameter of your bong’s joint.

How do I measure downstem length?

Measure from the bottom of the ground joint (the frosted part that fits into the bong) to the very tip, including the diffuser if there is one. Make sure the end reaches the water in your bong’s base, but doesn’t hit the bottom.

Will any downstem fit my bong?

Not always. The downstem needs to match your joint size and be the correct length to fit your bong’s design. Some bongs also require specific angles (like 45° vs. 90°), though most standard bongs use straight downstems.

What’s the difference between 18mm to 14mm and 14mm to 14mm?

This refers to joint sizes. For example:

18mm to 14mm means the downstem goes into an 18mm bong joint and holds a 14mm bowl.

14mm to 14mm means both the bong and the bowl joints are 14mm.

What’s the best material for a downstem?

Glass – Clean taste, easy to clean, but fragile.

Metal – Very durable, but may slightly affect flavor.

Silicone – Flexible and nearly unbreakable, best for travel or backups.

Glycerin – Chill in the freezer for extra smooth, cool hits.

Can I upgrade to a percolated downstem?

Absolutely! Percolated downstems (like tree, showerhead, matrix, or honeycomb styles) improve smoke diffusion and make each hit smoother. Just make sure the size and length still match your bong.