If you’re new to the world of bongs, welcome aboard. Whether you’re curious about smoother sessions or just want to try something new, a bong can be a great place to start — but only if you choose the right one.
Many beginners fall into one of two traps: they either spend too much on complicated pieces they don’t understand, or they go too cheap and end up with low-quality products that break or disappoint. The good news? You don’t need to overspend to get a solid, satisfying experience.
In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before buying your first bong — from basic anatomy to cleaning, budgeting, and where to buy affordable options that don’t sacrifice quality.
What Exactly Is a Bong?
A bong is a type of water pipe used to filter and cool smoke before you inhale it. It typically includes:
- Bowl – where you pack your material
- Downstem – a tube that carries smoke into the water
- Water chamber – where the smoke is filtered
- Neck or tube – the part you inhale through
- Mouthpiece – the top opening for inhaling
When you light the bowl and inhale, smoke is drawn through the water, which removes some harsh particles and cools it down, making the experience smoother and easier on your lungs.
Why Bongs Are Great for Beginners
If you’re just starting out, you might be wondering why people even use bongs when pipes or joints exist. Here’s why bongs are often the better choice:
- Smoother hits – thanks to water filtration
- Cooler smoke – less irritation for your throat and lungs
- Stronger effects – larger hits compared to pipes
- Less waste – more efficient use of your materials
- Reusable & eco-friendly – no rolling papers required
What to Look for in Your First Bong
Not all bongs are created equal, and as a beginner, you don’t need something with a dozen chambers or advanced percolators. Instead, look for these key features:
1. Size & Height
For beginners, smaller or medium-sized bongs are usually best:
- 6–10 inches: Ideal for daily use, easy to handle and clean
- 12 inches and above: Suitable for those who want big hits, but might be overwhelming at first
Tip: Bigger bongs often produce more smoke, which can be intense for a beginner. Starting small allows you to ease into it.
2. Material: Glass vs Silicone vs Acrylic
Each material has pros and cons. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Glass | Pure taste, easy to clean, visually clear | Breakable, can be pricey |
| Silicone | Nearly unbreakable, flexible, travel-friendly | Slightly affects flavor |
| Acrylic | Cheap, lightweight | Prone to scratching, less clean taste |
For beginners, borosilicate glass is often the sweet spot — it’s affordable, durable, and gives a clean smoke. And yes, you can find plenty of quality glass bongs under $40.
3. Simple Designs Work Best
Start with something that’s easy to use and easy to clean. We recommend:
- Straight tube bongs – great airflow, easy maintenance
- Beaker bongs – stable base, holds more water
Avoid complex designs with multiple percolators or recyclers until you’re more familiar. They might look cool, but they’re harder to clean and use.
4. Joint & Bowl Size Compatibility
Most beginner bongs use 14mm or 18mm joints, which are industry standard. Make sure any additional parts (bowls, downstems, ash catchers) match the size and gender (male vs female joints).
5. Ice Pinches or Ice Catchers (Optional)
Some bongs include notches inside the neck to hold ice cubes. This further cools the smoke and makes hits extra smooth. It’s a nice bonus — but not essential for beginners.
How Much Should You Spend on Your First Bong?
As tempting as it is to go big, the truth is — your first bong doesn’t need to cost more than $30–$50. In fact, you can find great quality pieces at lower prices if you know where to look.
We recommend browsing trusted online shops with curated selections for budget-conscious buyers. For example:
👉 Smoke Meg’s Cheap Bongs Collection offers a wide range of beginner-friendly bongs that are affordable, durable, and stylish. Whether you’re into minimalist straight tubes or colorful beaker styles, there’s something here to match your vibe and your budget.
🧼 Cleaning: The Key to a Great Bong Experience
No matter how much (or little) you spend, a clean bong is a good bong.
Why clean regularly?
- Prevents bacteria buildup
- Preserves flavor
- Keeps airflow smooth
- Extends the life of your piece
Basic cleaning tools:
- Isopropyl alcohol (91% or higher)
- Coarse salt
- Ziplock bags or bong plugs
Quick cleaning steps:
- Pour alcohol + salt into the bong
- Cover all openings
- Shake well for 30–60 seconds
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water
- Repeat if needed
Pro tip: Clean once a week if you use your bong regularly.
Where to Buy Your First Bong
If you’re looking for convenience, variety, and good prices, online shopping is a great choice — especially if you’re trying to stay under budget.
Here’s why we recommend SmokeMeg:
- ✅ Budget-friendly bongs under $50
- ✅ Borosilicate glass for better durability
- ✅ Fun, beginner-safe designs
- ✅ Direct-from-factory pricing = better value
- ✅ Free shipping on orders over $79
You can explore their cheap bongs collection here.
Final Thoughts: Start Simple, Upgrade Later
Your first bong doesn’t need to be flashy or expensive. The goal is to start with something simple, reliable, and affordable. As you gain experience, you’ll figure out what you like — whether it’s a larger chamber, a new percolator, or a more artistic design.
Until then, keep it smart, keep it budget-friendly, and keep it clean.