What does a bubbler do?
A bubbler filters smoke through water before you inhale. This cools the smoke and removes harshness, giving you smoother hits than dry pipes. Bubblers are smaller than bongs but bigger than hand pipes, perfect middle ground for portable sessions with water filtration.
Should I get glass or silicone?
Glass tastes cleaner because it doesn't affect flavor. Choose glass if taste matters and you'll be careful. Silicone is nearly indestructible and costs less. Choose silicone if you travel a lot, smoke outdoors, or don't want to stress about breaking glass. Both filter through water and hit smooth.
How much water goes in a bubbler?
Fill until water covers the bottom holes or slits - usually about halfway up the chamber. Too much water creates splashback. Too little gives harsh hits. Start with less water, take a test pull, then add more if needed. Change water after each session for best flavor.
Are bubblers easy to clean?
Yes. Pour out old water after each use. For deep cleaning, add rubbing alcohol (90% works best) and coarse salt. Cover the holes, shake hard for two minutes, then rinse with hot water. The salt scrubs residue while alcohol dissolves it. Clean every few sessions to keep hits tasting fresh.
What size bubbler should I get?
Mini bubblers (under 6 inches) fit in pockets and bags, perfect for travel. Standard bubblers (6-8 inches) balance portability with smoother hits. Larger bubblers (8+ inches) give maximum cooling but take up more space. Think about where you'll use it most: home sessions or on-the-go smoking.
Do bubblers hit as smooth as bongs?
Bubblers hit smoother than dry pipes but not quite as smooth as full-size bongs. Bongs have bigger water chambers and more percolation for maximum cooling. Bubblers trade some smoothness for portability and convenience. If you want bong-level smoothness in a portable package, bubblers are your best option.
Can I travel with a bubbler?
Yes. Mini bubblers and silicone styles travel easily in bags or padded cases. Empty the water before packing. Glass bubblers need more protection, wrap in clothes or use a padded case. Silicone bubblers handle travel better since they won't break. Always check local laws about traveling with smoking accessories.
