What is an Ash Catcher?
An ash catcher is a bong accessory that acts as a preliminary filtration system preventing ash from entering the main chamber of the bong. It gets its name from its primary function, which is to catch ashes and debris as smoke passes through.
Ash catchers are typically made of glass and contain percolation systems to further sift and cool the smoke for a better smoking experience. They are designed to fit onto the bong's joint and have an additional joint where the bowl can be attached.
By using an ash catcher, you not only enhance the purity of your smoke but also maintain the cleanliness of your bong, reducing the frequency of extensive cleaning sessions. However, it's important to clean your ash catcher regularly to ensure it works well.
Are Ash Catchers Easy to Clean?
Yes, ash catchers are relatively easy to clean, although the process requires some care and attention.
Here's a step-by-step process on how to clean an ash catcher:
- Empty the Ash Catcher: First, you'll need to remove any residual ash or debris from the ash catcher.
- Deconstruct: If your ash catcher has multiple parts, take it apart to ensure a thorough clean.
- Pre-Rinse: Rinse the ash catcher with warm water to remove ash and help loosen up any stuck-on residue.
- Alcohol and Salt: Fill the ash catcher with isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt. The combination works as an abrasive to scrub away the resin.
- Shake: Cover all openings of the ash catcher and place in a zip lock bong. Give it a good shake. The salt will scrub against the inner walls of the ash catcher, removing the residue, while the alcohol will dissolve the tar.
- Rinse: After a thorough shaking, rinse the ash catcher with warm water again.
- Dry: Allow your ash catcher to dry fully before using it again. Water trapped in a bong or pipe can lead to mold growth.
Do I Need a Male or Female Ash Catcher?
The gender of an ash catcher you need would depend on the gender of your water pipe joint. The terms "male" and "female" refer to the type of connection between your bong and ash catcher.
Water pipes and ash catchers either have male or female joints, which allow them to connect. If your water pipe has a male joint, you attach a female ash catcher to it, and vice versa. This is because a male joint goes inside a connection, while a female joint goes around the outside of a connection.
What Degree of Ash Catcher Is Right For Me?
The degree of an ash catcher that's right for you primarily depends on the angle of your bong’s joint. The two most common types of ash catchers are 45-degree and 90-degree ash catchers.
A 45-degree ash catcher is ideal if the joint on your bong comes out at an angle. This helps ensure the ash catcher sits correctly and doesn't tip over.
On the other hand, a 90-degree ash catcher is best if the joint on your bong is vertical and comes straight out at a 90-degree angle. This kind of ash catcher will sit upright and lined up with the bong.
What Joint Size Ash Catcher Do I Need?
The size of the ash catcher you need depends on the size of the joint on your bong. Ash catchers generally come in three standard sizes: 10mm, 14mm, and 18mm.
Here's how you can determine the right size:
Firstly, you need to know the gender of your bong's joint. Bongs usually have either male or female joints. If the joint on your bong is male, it means that you will need an ash catcher with a female joint, and vice versa.
Next, you'll need to measure the diameter of your bong's joint. The measurement will help you get the correct size. For example, if the joint of your bong measures 14mm in diameter, you will need a 14mm ash catcher.
Remember, getting the right-sized ash catcher not only ensures it fits properly but also that it functions effectively. Make sure you check the joint size and gender before purchasing your ash catcher.
