What does a downstem do in a bong?
The downstem creates suction between your bowl and water chamber. Smoke travels through the downstem into water, forming bubbles that cool and filter before reaching your lungs. Better diffusion means smoother hits with less coughing.
How do I know what size downstem I need?
Measure from where the ground joint meets the stem down to the tip. Check your bong's joint size (14mm or 18mm) and whether it's male or female. The downstem should reach water without touching the bottom of your bong.
What's the difference between slitted and diffused downstems?
Slitted downstems have thin vertical cuts that create bubbles. Diffused downstems feature multiple small holes for finer bubbles and better filtration. Diffused downstems deliver smoother hits but take slightly more effort to pull through.
Can I use a silicone downstem instead of glass?
Silicone downstems handle drops without breaking, making them perfect for clumsy sessions or travel. Glass delivers cleaner flavor and doesn't retain smells. Silicone is harder to clean thoroughly. Choose based on your priority: durability or taste.
How often should I replace my downstem?
Replace your downstem when it cracks, chips, or develops buildup you can't clean. Glass downstems break easier but last years with care. Check for cracks after cleaning. Having a backup downstem saves sessions when your main one breaks.
Do I need a percolator downstem or is a regular one fine?
Regular slitted downstems work perfectly for most smokers. Percolator downstems with tree percs or showerhead designs add extra diffusion for ultra-smooth hits. Beginners should start with basic diffused downstems before upgrading to complex percs.
How do I clean a downstem?
Pour isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt into a plastic bag with your downstem. Seal and shake for two minutes. Let soak for an hour, then rinse with warm water. Use pipe cleaners for stubborn resin in small holes.
