How to Clean a Dab Rig
For the cannabis enthusiast who wants a consumption method that packs a punch, dab rigs are the common choice. For newbies, a rig can feel intimidating. But dab fans know they are easy to use and require little upkeep beyond regular cleaning. We are breaking down the basics of a dab rig, how to clean a dab rig, dab rig cleaner types and dab rig cleaning solution options. Let’s go!
What is a dab rig?
A dab rig is a type of pipe used to vaporize cannabis concentrates. Much like a regular bong used to smoke flower, a dab rig works by filtering concentrate through the water, up the neck of the rig and then through the mouthpiece to the consumer. Instead of having a bowl where you would place dry flower, rigs have a small bowl called a dab nail or banger where the oil is placed to be heated. Dabbing wax concentrate is significantly stronger than the same amount of flower. A little goes a long way!
Why is cleaning your dab rig important?
Now that you’ve invested in a rig, why is cleaning important? First, like a traditional bong, cleaning your rig is vital to eliminate bacteria, to keep the smoking experience clean and to avoid clogs from resin buildup with frequent or daily use. Creating a routine cleaning schedule for your rig keeps your pipe clear and effective, prevents it from tarnishing the flavor of your concentrates.. Once you get into the habit of regularly cleaning your dab rig, the upkeep will take less time, leaving more time lighting up.
Dab rig cleaner & dab rig cleaning solution
When researching the best dab rig cleaning solution for your pipe, first identify your dab rig materials. For all glass dab rigs, you can make your own at-home dab rig cleaning solution with items you may already have around the house.
For glass dab rigs:
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Coarse sea salt or rock salt
- a resealable bag
- a few Q-tips
For glass and silicon rigs:
- a resealable bag
- a few Q-tips/cleaning brush
- a dab rig cleaning solution like this one!
How to clean a dab rig
For an all-glass rig: To start, remove your banger nail or cup and place it in a resealable bag with a combination of isopropyl alcohol and coarse sea salt or rock salt. Gently mix the solution around with the parts inside and then let soak. If your rig is exceptionally dirty, you may need to mix up the solution a few times. If there is still some stubborn residue left over, take a Q-tip soaked in isopropyl alcohol and gently remove it.
When it comes to the rig itself, start by dumping out any water already in the rig. For best results, you will want to clean your rig after each use.. If the rig has some residue in it, you can take the same isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt mixture mentioned above to clean the inside of your rig, letting it soak. Once the above process is complete, be sure to rinse the rig and banger nail or cup very well with a little bit of soap and water to make sure the isopropyl alcohol is completely gone.
For a rig with silicone pieces: When cleaning any silicone parts, avoid using isopropyl alcohol, as it will ruin your rig. Instead, start the cleaning process by soaking your rig in warm water, and then a specialized cleaning solution. After it has been soaking for a while, you can take a Q-tip or cleaning brush to gently clean off any stubborn residue, before rinsing one more time with warm water. How to clean a dab rig is easier than most think, whether you prefer the DIY option or a dab rig cleaning solution! Find cannabis accessories, make industry connections and attend an educational seminar at a CannaCon near you. CannaCon trade shows feature a large exhibition hall with exhibitors from around the country as well as seminars delivered by industry experts. Join us in Detroit this summer!