5 Reasons Why Silicone Bongs Might Be Better Than Glass

These days, smoking cannabis is more popular and more socially acceptable than it has been within living memory. At present, 33 states plus Washington, D.C. have legalized marijuana. This process has led to enormous market growth. As a result, a mind-blowing variety of different strains, concentrates, and paraphernalia is now available.

Marijuana has received an immense degree of hype in recent years. Therefore, it is no surprise that companies constantly dream up ingenious ways to consume it. Thankfully, it is no longer necessary to watch your back before sneaking into a shop to buy a new piece in many locations.

Today, we are exploring a modern take on a classic smoking method: the silicone bong. Does it live up to the fanfare? Is it a better alternative to glass? Read on to find out more.

What Is a Silicone Bong?

Silicone is a compound known as a polymer. It is a combination of silicon, hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen. Silicon is a chemical element, although it is not found in isolation in the natural world. Silicon mainly exists in silicon oxide or silicate, which is one of the components of sand. However, silicon is among the most abundant elements on our planet and makes up around 25% of its crust!

In addition to being readily available, silicon is exceptionally versatile. We can use it to manufacture glass, concrete, bricks, enamel, and silicone, which is found throughout our homes.

Silicone is in everything from bathroom sealant to cookware. We even use it to make medical devices as it is unreactive and hypoallergenic.

Another useful feature of silicone is its resistance to both heat and cold. It can withstand extreme heat up to 600°F/315°C without losing its shape. That is part of the reason why it is perfect for making items such as bongs!

So, what are the key features of silicone bongs? Are they a better alternative to glass? Let’s take a look.

Why Silicone Bongs Are Potentially a Better Alternative to Glass

The word bong comes from the Thai word baung, meaning a tube or pipe made from the bamboo plant’s stem. Despite its link with bamboo, most people now associate the word ‘bong’ with glass. There is no doubt that this is the material of choice for many.

Glass bongs come in many shapes and sizes, are safe to use, and some are considered works of art. So, why is it that silicone bongs are becoming so popular? What advantages could they possibly have over glass? As it turns out, quite a few!

1. Silicone Bongs Are Almost Impossible to Break

Probably the most desirable feature of silicone bongs is that they are virtually indestructible. This is great news for clumsy individuals – it is all too easy to break a glass bubbler!

No matter how high-quality your glass bong is or how thick, glass is fragile. There is still a high chance that it will break if dropped. Silicone, on the other hand, has a rubber-like texture and is pretty much impossible to break. Therefore, if you drop it, the worst that will happen is you’ll have some dirty bong water to clean up.

2. Silicone Bongs Are Perfect for Travel

You can fold, twist, or bend silicone bongs without causing any permanent damage because of their rubbery texture. This feature means that they are great for travel. You can pack one into your luggage without taking up too much space.

Silicone bongs are also fantastic for parties. They will stay intact no matter what happens. Also, you can transport them far more discreetly than glass.

And if you enjoy an alfresco toke, you’ll be impressed by how lightweight silicone bongs are. This makes them ideal for keeping in your day pack for long hikes or camping trips.

3. Silicone Bongs Are Easy to Clean

One of the worst things about any bong is keeping it clean. Fortunately, silicone bongs are much easier to clean than their glass or acrylic cousins.

Because they are flexible, it is easy to get into every nook and cranny of your silicone bong. Cleaning one with warm water and mild dish soap is often sufficient. If your bong needs a deeper clean, you have two further options.

Since they are heat resistant, you can easily clean silicone bongs in a dishwasher. As they are also resistant to cold, you can place a dirty one in a freezer for up to 12 hours. Take it out and twist. This process allows frozen residue to crack and fall off.

The freezer method is excellent if you use concentrates. However, it is less effective if you smoke bud. This is because marijuana flower tends to leave a tarry resin on the inside of the bong; even freezing isn’t always enough to remove it.

4. Silicone Bongs Are Affordable

Glass bongs are often expensive, depending on what you want. You can pick up a basic bubbler for under $50. However, such pieces are usually of a low standard. It could cost over $100 for a decent piece. Some bongs cost thousands or even millions of dollars!

Silicone bongs are typically far more affordable, though. There are many options available for under $50, making these bongs great for anyone on a budget. If you decide to spend more on a striking silicone bong, at least you know it won’t break within a week!

5. Silicone Bongs Are Available in Various Shapes, Colors, and Sizes

You can mold silicone into a variety of shapes and sizes, not to mention flamboyant colors. Some silicone bongs are classy and understated, while others go for an all-out hippie, tie-dye vibe. You can even buy glow-in-the-dark silicone bongs for a truly cosmic experience!

Are Silicone Bongs Safe?

One reservation that many people have about silicone bongs is safety. This is because silicone looks and feels similar to plastic, which you wouldn’t want to smoke. However, silicone bongs are generally safe, providing you pay attention to a few things.

Firstly, look for a bong that has a non-silicone bowl. Even though silicone is heat-resistant up to 600°F, it cannot withstand a naked flame. Therefore, you must take care to only heat the non-silicone parts and not the bong itself. If you are using a silicone dab rig, we recommend a glass dropdown. It will keep the heat source further away from your piece.

Secondly, ensure that you choose a bong made from food-grade silicone, which is non-toxic and BPA free. Food-grade silicone shouldn’t leach into your bong water or emit any toxic gases, making this the safest choice by far.

Finally, purchase your silicone bong from a reputable supplier. Read plenty of online reviews before committing to a product. Not all silicone bongs are created equal. Although it is tempting to go for the cheapest option available, it probably isn’t the best move.  A silicone bong could last for several years. Therefore, you may as well invest in a product likely to stand the test of time.

Final Thoughts on Silicone Bongs: Are They Better Than Glass?

Some people believe that glass is the best material for bongs and will never be convinced otherwise. However, for clumsy people or those who like to enjoy cannabis outdoors, a silicone piece is a great alternative.

Silicone bongs will likely not be considered an art form in the way that some glassware is. However, they have a ton of advantages.

They are durable, affordable, and easy to clean. They also come in a variety of cool designs.

We want to know whether you have ever used a silicone bong and how the experience was for you. Are they worth the hype or still not a patch on glass? Let us know in the comments below.