Downstems are an important part of the anatomy of a bong. There are different types of Downstem, and they have an anatomy of their own! In this blog post, we will go over the elements of a Downstem and why we use them!
A Downstem is either a removable or a stationary piece of the bong. It is a stem that connects your bowl piece to your bong's joint and acts as a filtration system when you light and inhale.
You can get Downstems in different types with different filtration styles, such as these:
Open Ended Downstems: An Open Ended Downstem is exactly how it sounds, it is a downstem with an open end. This is one of the most common but also the least filtering of the downstems. It is easy to clean with two open ends.
Slit Downstems: A Slit Downstem is a downstem with a closed-off end but has cut slits anywhere from 2-4 typically that creates bubbles that allow your smoke to filter through the water as you inhale. The more bubbles the better the filtration and better hit.
Diffused Downstems: Diffused Downstems, also known as Popped Holes Downstems, have one of the best filtration systems of the different types of downstems. The popped holes in the bottom of the closed-ended downstem create tons of bubbles, allowing a smoother and cooler hit on inhale.
Step 1: Insert your clean Downstem into your bong if it is not already fixed in place.
Step 2: Place your bowl piece inside the joint of the Downstem, light, and inhale.
Step 3: Watch as the smoke diffuses through the water, resulting in an effortless hit.
Using a Downstem is practical due to the filtrating component it adds to your smoking experience. Without the Downstem, your rips would be harsher on your lungs vs a rip with a bong with a Downstem.
Although you can get Downstems in a variety of different sizes and lengths, these are the most common joint sizes and tube lengths:
Joint Size: The most common and recognized joint size is 14mm, but you can also get them in 10mm and 18mm.
Downstem Length: Downstem Tube lengths can range anywhere from 3 inches - 6 inches. The length you need will be determined by the bong piece and how much room you have to insert your Downstem.
Using a penny to determine the size of the joint you need is common. A ruler or tape measurer is used to determine the length. You can also use this method to determine the joint size, but a penny just seems easier!
When choosing a Downstem, there are a few things to remember. Firstly, double-check what joint size and length you need. Depending on where you purchase, you can get different colored Downstems to match your aesthetic. Lastly, get a Downstem with good filtration for the coolest hits!
Cleaning your Downstem is simple and easy. Follow these steps for easy cleaning:
Part 1: Remove your Downstem and place it into a plastic bag with isopropyl alcohol and a little bit of coarse salt or a cleaning solution of your choosing.
Part 2: Shake for a few minutes and watch the grime melt off. If it is extra dirty, you can allow it to soak for about five to ten minutes. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry.
For You: We also cover how to clean your quartz banger for a long-lasting banger.
There you have it, all things about Downstems! Downstems are important when it comes to functionality and ease of our seshes. If you don't have a Downstem, we definitely recommend getting one. Follow us to keep up with the latest!
This all depends on how your bong was made. Some bongs have removable, and some were made with fixed. Removable Downstem pieces are convenient because they are easily replaced if broken.
Yes, if it is removable, you can easily replace it yourself. If it is not removable or fixed, you will have to have an artist or glass blower to remove and replace the Downstem.
Yes. It is a beneficial piece of equipment that aids in filtration and joint connection.