On the legality of glass bongs, UK law is fairly straightforward. There is no specific Home Office definition as to what constitutes 'drug paraphernalia' and provided that you honestly believe any equipment you sell will not be used for taking a prescribed drug then you are behaving within the law.
Smoke is drawn through the downstem of the bong. A percolator at the base of the bong contains water through which the smoke passes, cooling the smoke and acting as a form of filter. It continues its journey up through the mouthpiece into the mouth and lungs, giving a smoother experience and stronger hits.
There are many different types of bong, the main ones being straight, tube, beaker and recycler. The choice depends on the effect your consumers wish to achieve. Straight tubes produce dense smoke and will clear quickly. Beakers are larger, produce less smoke, take longer to clear and create bigger hits.
Glass bongs have been used to enjoy tobacco and other substances for centuries. They are now popular because they can improve the experience by producing a cleaner, smoother and more flavoursome experience.
Glass thickness is very important because it will determine the longevity of the bong. If it is going to be mostly kept in one place then the thinnest models with 2-3mm thick walls will be fine. The average thickness is 3-5mm. If your consumers need something really robust go for 5-7mm. For most purposes, anything thicker than 3.5mm is going to be fine.
Both materials have their advantages. Glass is more fragile and needs more thorough cleaning but in terms of function, glass bongs give a very good performance, guaranteeing a very smooth intake of smoke. They also tend to have more extras such as percolators and diffused downstems. They also tend to look better than plastic.
It is important to add just enough water to cover the downstem and its slits. If it has no slits then make sure the bottom of the downstem is at least half an inch below the water level.
The water in a bong acts as a filter for the smoke, cooling it and giving a cleaner, smoother hit.
A percolator is situated in the tube or the base of the bong and is a small glass element through which water passes to create a filter, diffusing the vapour into hundreds of bubbles.
The cheapest ones start at a little over £10 but pieces can rise well above £100 for the more advanced models. At JM Wholesale, our wholesale glass bongs start in the region of £2, going all the way up to more expensive models at £60.
Glass bongs are often considered a premium choice due to their superior performance, aesthetic appeal, and versatility. Glass as a material does not retain flavours or odours, which means every session delivers a clean and untainted experience. The transparency of glass bongs also allows users to monitor the cleanliness of their device and appreciate the intricate designs that many high-quality glass bongs feature. Additionally, glass bongs can incorporate advanced features like percolators, diffusers, and ice catchers, which enhance the smoking experience by providing smoother, cooler, and more filtered hits. While they require careful handling due to their fragility, the overall experience they deliver makes them a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts.
To extend the lifespan of a glass bong, proper care and handling are essential. Always place the bong on a stable, flat surface to prevent accidental tipping. When cleaning, use non-abrasive cleaning solutions like isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt, avoiding harsh chemicals or scrubbing tools that could damage the glass. Rinse thoroughly with warm water after each use to prevent residue buildup, as this can weaken the structure over time. It's also a good idea to store the bong in a padded case or secure area, especially if it is frequently transported. By adopting these practices, users can maintain their glass bong’s functionality and appearance for years to come.