How to clean a dry herb vaporizer

With use, resin residue builds up in the chamber, the screens and the vapour path. A dirty vaporizer draws less freely, produces less vapour and gives a bitter or burnt taste. Regular cleaning takes just a few minutes and extends the life of the device. The guidance below is general: for disassembly, materials and permitted products, the manufacturer's instructions always take precedence.

When cleaning is needed

• the draw is harder than usual;
• the vapour is less dense or has a bitter, toasted or “stale” taste;
• there is visible residue on the screens, the mouthpiece or the chamber walls;
• the device keeps a strong smell even when it is switched off.

What you need

• the brush supplied with the vaporizer, or a soft-bristled brush;
• cotton buds and thin pipe cleaners;
• isopropyl alcohol, only for the parts on which the manufacturer allows it;
• a small container for soaking and a lint-free cloth.

The quick clean after each use

With the device switched off and the chamber no longer hot, empty out the used material and brush the residue off the walls and the screen. It only takes a few seconds, but it stops resin from building up and hardening. Every now and then, also wipe the mouthpiece with a dry cotton bud.

The deep clean, step by step

From time to time, depending on how often you use your vaporizer, a more thorough clean is worthwhile.

• Switch the device off and let it cool down completely.
• Remove the detachable parts: mouthpiece, screens, adapters and, where applicable, the seals.
• Soak in isopropyl alcohol only the parts specified by the manufacturer, usually those made of glass or metal. Silicone and some plastics can be damaged: for these, lukewarm water and mild soap are usually enough.
• Clean the chamber with a slightly dampened cotton bud, without ever pouring liquids into the device.
• Rinse and dry: rinse the washed parts and leave them to air-dry until every trace of alcohol and water has evaporated.
• Reassemble the device and, if the manual recommends it, run an empty heating cycle to get rid of any lingering odours.

Mistakes to avoid

• immersing the device or pouring liquids into the chamber: this damages the electronics;
• using sharp metal objects that scratch the chamber or its coatings;
• reassembling parts that are still damp;
• using harsh cleaning products not approved by the manufacturer.

Spare parts and wear

Screens, seals and mouthpieces are parts subject to wear. If a screen is deformed or permanently clogged, or a seal no longer holds, it is best to replace it. Spare parts are generally available for models from the most popular brands. If you have any doubts about your device, you can contact us.

Frequently asked questions

How often should you clean a vaporizer?

A quick brush after each use and a regular deep clean, for example when the draw gets harder or the taste changes. How often depends on how frequently you use it.

Can you use alcohol on every part?

No. Isopropyl alcohol should only be used on the parts for which the manufacturer allows it, usually glass and metal. Seals, plastics and electronic parts can be damaged.

Why does the vapour taste burnt?

Often because of old residue in the chamber or the vapour path. If the taste does not improve after cleaning, check the temperature setting and the condition of the screens and seals.

In our selection of vaporizers you will find both portable and desktop devices. To choose the right model, also read How to choose a dry herb vaporizer. Vaporizers are sold exclusively to adults.