How Ash Catchers Smooth Out Hits for Bongs

When your bong hits start to feel like sandpaper going down your throat, it's a tell-tale sign that you need to introduce a new player into the game: ash catchers.

An ash catcher is a little extra chamber that you attach to your bong. It sits between the bowl and the main chamber, acting like a filter. When you inhale, the smoke has to pass through this extra chamber before reaching your lungs. So, do ash catchers smooth out hits? Absolutely!

When you take a hit, the smoke travels from the bowl, through the bong, and into your lungs. But as it's traveling, it picks up heat and ash. This can make the hit feel harsh and can even irritate your throat.

The ash catcher now acts as a filter, trapping the ash and cooling down the smoke. This results in a smoother, more pleasant hit.

How Ash Catchers Improve Hit Smoothness for Bongs

The primary job of the ash catcher is to catch all the ash, debris, and other particulates that would normally make their way into your bong. This not only keeps your bong clean and tidy but also ensures that the smoke you're inhaling is cleaner and smoother.

Many ash catchers have something called percolators. The smoke has to pass through these little chambers inside the ash catcher. 

As the smoke passes through the percolator in the ash catcher, it gets broken up into smaller bubbles. This increases the surface area and allows it to cool down before it even reaches the main chamber.

Benefits of Using an Ash Catcher

Here are the top benefits of using an ash catcher:

Smoother smoking experience

Imagine taking a hit and feeling nothing but pure, smooth smoke. No coughing, no irritation, just pure bliss. That's actually what an ash catcher does for you.

And not only does it make your smoking experience way more pleasant, but it also keeps your bong cleaner. No more scrubbing out gunk every other day.  

Enhanced Flavor

One of the best things about an ash catcher is how it improves the taste of your smoke. When you filter out all that ash and debris, you're letting the true flavors of your herb shine through. 

It's like tasting your favorite strain in high definition. No more burnt-tasting smoke that masks the natural flavors. You get to taste your herb in its purest form, without all the burnt bits getting in the way.

Healthier Smoking 

Besides making your hits smoother and your bong cleaner, an ash catcher can significantly contribute to healthier smoking. By filtering out harmful particles, you're reducing the amount of toxins you inhale. This can have long-term benefits for your respiratory health.

Longer-Lasting Herb 

When you use an ash catcher, you're getting more out of your herb. Because it filters out the ash and debris, your herb burns more evenly and lasts longer. This means you'll save money in the long run.

Less Waste 

Using a dry ash catcher means less ash and debris ending up in your bong water. This reduces waste and makes cleaning up a breeze.

Peace of Mind 

Knowing that your ash catcher is protecting your lungs and keeping your bong clean gives you peace of mind. You can enjoy your smoke without worrying about the negative effects of harsh smoke or a dirty bong.

How to Choose an Ash Catcher for Your Bong

When it comes to selecting the perfect ash catcher for your bong, it’s all about finding the right fit—literally and figuratively. 

Here are the leading factors to use as criteria when you choose an ash catcher that's perfect for your bong:

Joint size

The first thing to consider is the joint size. This is crucial because the ash catcher needs to match your bong’s joint perfectly; otherwise, it just won’t work. Joint sizes usually come in 14mm or 18mm, so be sure to check your bong's size before you make a purchase. 

Once you’ve got the joint size figured out, think about the angle. If your bong’s joint sits at a 45-degree angle, you’ll need an ash catcher designed to match that. The same goes for a 90-degree joint. Getting this right ensures that the ash catcher is properly connected and this can enhance the smoking experience for you. 

Type of material

Most ash catchers are made from either glass or silicone, each with its own perks. Glass ash catchers are the most popular choice. Everyone loves them because of their clean, crisp look and how they keep the taste of your smoke pure. 

They also tend to offer better percolation options, which is a big plus if you’re after those ultra-smooth hits. 

On the flip side, silicone ash catchers are nearly indestructible, making them a solid choice if you’re a bit clumsy or plan to take your bong on the go. While silicone might not deliver the same level of percolation as glass, it’s incredibly easy to clean and virtually unbreakable.

Ease of Cleaning

Speaking of cleaning, this is another key feature to keep in mind. A good ash catcher should be easy to disassemble and clean, because let’s face it, no one wants to spend more time cleaning than smoking.

Percolation

When it comes to percolation, more isn’t always better, but it can make a difference. Some ash catchers come with intricate percolators designed to break up the smoke into tiny bubbles, which cools it down and makes each hit smoother. 

However, if you already have a bong with a complex percolation system, you might not need an ash catcher with a lot of extra filtration. It’s all about balancing what you already have with what you need. 

In the end, choosing the best ash catcher depends on your personal preferences and how you like to enjoy your sessions. 

Tips for Using and Maintaining Ash Catchers

Here are tips for using and maintaining ash catchers:

• Clean it regularly: Make it a habit to clean your ash catcher after every few sessions. A simple rinse with warm water might do the trick if it's a light buildup, but for more stubborn gunk, a soak in isopropyl alcohol with a bit of coarse salt can work wonders. 
• Keep an eye on the water levels: If you’re using an ash catcher with water filtration, make sure you’re not overfilling it. Too much water can spill into your bong or water pipe, which defeats the purpose of using an ash catcher in the first place. 
• Handle it with care and caution: Be mindful of how you handle your ash catcher. Because it’s an attachment that hangs off your bong, it can be a little more prone to accidents. When moving your beaker bongs around, detaching the ash catcher first is a good idea to avoid any accidental bumps or drops. 

FAQs

Do I need an ash catcher for my bong?

The answer really comes down to what you want from your smoking experience. An ash catcher is a fantastic addition if you’re looking for smoother hits and less cleaning. It acts as a filter, catching ash and debris before they reach your bong’s main chamber. This means you get cleaner, cooler smoke and your bong stays in better shape for longer. 

How often should I clean my ash catcher?

Cleaning your ash catcher regularly is key to keeping it functioning well. Ideally, you should rinse it out after every smoking session to remove any loose ash and debris. 

Can I use any ash catcher with my bong?

No, not all ash catchers are compatible with every bong, so you need to check a couple of things before buying one. The most crucial factor is the joint size and angle. Ash catchers come in different sizes, typically 14mm or 18mm, and at different angles (usually 45 or 90 degrees). Ensure the ash catcher you choose matches the joint size and angle of your bong.

What materials are best for ash catchers?

Glass and silicone are the most popular materials for ash catchers. Glass is durable, easy to clean, and offers a clear view of the filtration process. Silicone is also durable, flexible, and often more affordable than glass.

How does an ash catcher affect the flavor of my smoke?

An ash catcher can actually improve the flavor of your smoke by keeping your bong cleaner. By filtering out ash and debris before they reach the main chamber, an ash catcher helps maintain the purity of your smoke. This means you get to taste your herb’s flavors without the interference of burnt particles and residue. 

Shop for Different Types of Ash Catchers at Badass Glass

Are you ready to take your bong sessions to the next level? Check out our awesome selection of ash catchers at Badass Glass. We’ve got an impressive collection of ash catchers in a wide range of styles and sizes to suit your needs, all designed to give you that smooth, clean hit every time. 

When you visit our website, you’ll find detailed descriptions and clear photos to help you pick the perfect ash catcher.

Got questions or need some advice to find the right ash catcher? Our team is here to help! You can reach us at 1-877-885-8836 or drop us a message through our contact form. We’re always happy to assist you. 

And don’t forget, we offer same-day shipping so you can start enjoying your new gear as soon as possible.