FAQs

Are glass bongs best?

Most smokers would say that glass bongs offer the best performance - with a cleaner taste, and a consequently better hit. The main drawbacks for glass bongs are simply cost and to some degree durability.

Do glass bongs break easily?

Glass bongs can break just like any other kind of glassware. Silicon bongs have a degree of natural flexibility meaning they can better survive drops. But it's still not very easy to smash a glass bong: if you're careful they will last as long as any other glassware such a drinking glasses etc.

Will boiling water break a glass bong?

There is a small chance that a glass bong could break with the addition of boiling water - but it is a very small chance: modern glass bongs are made with tempered glass that can handle rapid temperature changes. Probably not worth worrying too much about!

How often should you clean your glass bong?

A glass bong is unlikely to stain or gain any of mould that can't be washed off with a damp cloth or a careful fingertip. The best reason to clean your bong is basically taste: if not cleaned properly you could end up with stale tasting hits, so it's generally a great idea to rinse your bong clean with warm water after every session.

Glass Bongs: Quality, Craftsmanship, and Performance

Glass bongs are a top choice for smokers who seek a refined, smooth, and flavourful experience. Shiva Online offers a curated range of high-quality glass bongs from reputable brands like ROOR, Grace Glass, and Black Leaf, known for their durability, innovative designs, and performance. With options like straight tube, beaker, and recycler bongs, each type offers a unique experience – from powerful, direct hits to cooler, smoother inhales. Popular models, such as the ROOR Little Sista and Grace Glass Honeycomb Bong, showcase precision craftsmanship and effective percolation, enhancing both taste and smoothness.

Proper care is essential for maximising the performance and longevity of your glass bong. Regular cleaning with isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt will help remove residue, while a bong brush can reach intricate areas. To maintain optimal quality, change the water frequently and store your bong on a flat surface. Shiva Online prioritises quality and customer satisfaction, offering exclusive brands and limited-edition items. For smokers across the UK, our glass bong selection combines aesthetic appeal with reliable performance, providing a trusted source for premium glassware and a superior smoking experience.

Popular Brands and Products

Leading Brands

ROOR: Known for durable, handcrafted glass bongs, ROOR delivers precision engineering for a seamless smoking experience.
Grace Glass: A favourite for innovative designs and high-quality filtration, combining aesthetic appeal with functionality.

Types of Glass Bongs and Their Benefits

Different bong styles offer unique experiences:

Straight Tube Bongs: Simple yet efficient, these provide powerful, direct draws.
Beaker Bongs: Known for stability, these are beginner-friendly and offer larger hits.
Recycler Bongs: Ideal for those who prioritise smoothness, as they continuously cycle smoke for a cooler inhale.

Performance Maintenance: Care Guide for Glass Bongs

Cleaning Supplies

To maintain the quality of your glass bong, use the following supplies:

Isopropyl Alcohol (90% or higher): Essential for breaking down resin.
Rock Salt or Coarse Salt: Helps dislodge residue in hard-to-reach areas.
Bong Brushes: Useful for thorough cleaning of intricate designs and percolators.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Rinse Thoroughly: Empty all water, then rinse with warm water to loosen residue.
Add Cleaning Solution: Mix isopropyl alcohol and salt in the bong; shake gently to dissolve build-up.
Use Brushes for Detailing: For bongs with percolators, gently scrub to remove any remaining resin.
Rinse and Air Dry: Rinse thoroughly and let air dry to avoid water spots.

Regular Maintenance Tips

Change Water Frequently: Replace water after each use to prevent bacteria build-up.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stick to alcohol-based cleaners to prevent damage.
Store Safely: Keep your bong on a flat, stable surface to prevent breakage.

Top Glass Bong Brands

Basil Bush Bongs – A classic UK brand known for its affordable and durable glass designs.
Cheeky One Bongs – A fan-favourite for unique, high-quality designs at great prices.
Chongz Bongs – Famous for their bold designs and excellent filtration systems.
Roor Bongs – Once a leading name in premium handmade German glass bongs, Roor ceased trading in early 2025, marking the end of an era.

Although Roor Bongs are no longer available, we continue to stock some of the best alternatives from trusted brands, ensuring you always get a high-quality, smooth-smoking experience.

At Shiva Online, we pride ourselves on fast, discreet UK shipping, competitive prices, and a carefully curated selection of bongs and smoking accessories.

How to Choose the Best Glass Bong

Choosing the perfect glass bong depends on several factors, including size, material, and filtration. Here’s a quick guide to help you make an informed decision.

1. Bong Size: Does It Matter?

Small Bongs (Under 10") – Compact, portable, and great for solo use. Ideal for those who prefer discreet smoking.
Medium Bongs (10"–16") – A balanced choice between portability and performance, offering smooth hits without being too bulky.
Large Bongs (16"+) – Best for home use, delivering the smoothest and most powerful hits due to increased water filtration.

2. Bong Material: Durability vs. Experience

Borosilicate Glass – Highly durable, heat-resistant, and delivers the purest flavour.
Acrylic Bongs – More affordable and shatterproof, but may slightly alter the taste.
Silicone Bongs – Nearly indestructible and easy to clean, making them perfect for travel.

3. Percolators: Do You Need One?

Percolators enhance filtration and cooling by diffusing smoke through water. Here are some popular types:

Honeycomb Percolators – Multiple small holes create smooth, filtered hits.
Tree Percolators – Features several arms to break up smoke for extra cooling.
Turbine Percolators – Spins the smoke for a visually stunning and efficient cooling effect.

For a smooth, enjoyable smoking experience, consider your personal preferences and choose a bong that fits your lifestyle, budget, and usage needs.

About Shiva Online

Shiva Online is one of the UK’s longest-established headshops, supplying high-quality smoking accessories for nearly two decades. Our journey began long before the rise of e-commerce, with a physical store in Greenwich, London, and we took our expertise online in early 2006. Since then, we’ve been committed to offering a wide selection of premium products, expert knowledge, and outstanding customer service.

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