The fastest way to clean a bong with alcohol is to use 91% isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt. Pour both into the bong, cover the openings, and shake hard. The salt scrubs away resin while the alcohol dissolves it. Rinse with warm water. This method works on glass, silicone, and most metal parts.

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Prerequisites

  • 91% isopropyl alcohol (99% for severe buildup)
  • Coarse salt (kosher, sea, or Epsom)
  • Warm water
  • Nitrile gloves
  • Well-ventilated workspace
  • Corks or stoppers (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Empty the bong and rinse with warm water to remove loose ash and debris.
  2. Pour 1 to 2 cups of 91% isopropyl alcohol into the bong. For small pieces, use less.
  3. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of coarse salt. The ratio is about 1 part salt to 4 parts alcohol.
  4. Cover all openings with your hands, corks, or stoppers. You want a sealed chamber.
  5. Shake the bong hard for 1 to 2 minutes. The salt will scrub the interior.
  6. Let the mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes if resin is thick. Shake again after soaking.
  7. Pour out the alcohol and salt into a sink or trash. Do not pour down a drain if salt may clog.
  8. Rinse the bong with warm water until no alcohol smell remains. Rinse at least three times.
  9. Check for leftover resin. If present, repeat steps 2 through 8.
  10. Air dry the bong upside down on a clean towel. Or dry with a lint-free cloth.

Cleaning Percolators and Complex Glass

Percolators trap resin in hard-to-reach places. Use a separate bowl or bag. Add alcohol and salt. Shake. Then pour the mixture into the bong. Plug the downstem and mouthpiece. Shake. For very narrow passages, use a pipe cleaner dipped in alcohol.

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Removing Stubborn Resin

For heavy resin, use 99% isopropyl alcohol. Soak the bong overnight in a sealed container. Or add a few drops of dish soap to the alcohol. The soap helps break down oils. Rinse well afterward.

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Safety Tips

  • Work in a ventilated area. Alcohol fumes are strong.
  • Wear nitrile gloves. Isopropyl alcohol dries skin.
  • Keep alcohol away from open flames. It is highly flammable.
  • Do not ingest isopropyl alcohol. It is toxic.
  • Store alcohol in a cool, dark place.