Vape pens are super popular nowadays. People love them because they're discreet, easy to use, and perfect for vaping on the go. However, your vape can start tasting differently over time.
If you want your vape pen to work its best, you have to keep it clean.
Many people still do not know how to or how often vape pens need cleaning. The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your device and how often you use it.
If you're a regular vaper, cleaning your vape pen is a must. Otherwise, you might start tasting some funny stuff when you vape.
Cleaning isn't exactly fun but it's worth it to keep your vape performing well.
Plus, if you're into trying different flavors, cleaning regularly stops your vape from tasting like a cocktail of all the flavors you've tried. So today we bring you our best tried-and-tested methods to clean your vape pen.
Before delving into the main topic, take a moment to review these 10 vaping mistakes that you should be aware of.
How To Clean A Vape Pen? (Summarized)
Let’s quickly sum up the main steps of cleaning a vape pen:
- Remove the easily detachable tank of your device to access the coil and chamber.
- Cover the work surface with a paper towel, open the chamber, and heat the device to the highest temperature to burn off any residue around the coil. Then turn the device over a paper towel to allow any leftover juice residues to drain.
- Pour isopropyl alcohol into a small bowl and submerge dirty parts of the device in the alcohol solution. Alternatively, you can also soak cotton swabs in the solution for delicate cleaning.
- Ensure the coil is completely cooled, then disassemble the tank and use alcohol-soaked cotton swabs to remove any residue. Be cautious around the coil to avoid damage and use tools like a dab tool or stapler for hard-to-reach areas.
- Disconnect the battery from the device and use alcohol-soaked sticks to clean the thread where the battery connects to the tank or atomizer.
- Unscrew the mouthpiece, blow through the opening to dislodge any residue, and use alcohol-soaked cotton swabs to wipe both the inside and outside.
- Inspect all parts soaked in alcohol for any remaining residue before reassembling the device.
- Rinse all components under warm tap water to remove any alcohol residue. Place components on a paper towel or use a hair dryer to speed up the drying process.
Know The Vape Pen Components
Your vape pen is typically made up of 5 components. Knowing what each component does is important before diving into the cleaning process. This can help prevent accidental damage during the cleaning process. While vape pens come in various models, they typically consist of the following parts:
- Mouthpiece: This is where you inhale the vapor. Mouthpieces can be made of metal or plastic and may be removable or fixed, depending on the design.
- Battery: The power source of the vape pen, batteries can be rechargeable and either removable or built-in, depending on the type of device you have.
- Atomizer/Coil: This heats the e-liquid and turns it into vapor. The atomizer can be built-in or replaceable. We have a detailed guide here.
- Tank: The tank stores the e-juice. Tanks can be made of plastic or glass and may be refillable or disposable.
- Button: Not all vape pens have an activation button. Some devices are simply draw-activated while others require pressing a button to activate.
If you notice a burnt taste while vaping, investigate the cause. There could be several reasons behind it. Identifying and addressing the culprit will ensure a more enjoyable vaping experience.
6 Things You Need To Clean A Vape Pen
To effectively clean your vape pen, you'll need a few essential cleaning items. Keep these in hand reach before getting down to business:
- Isopropyl Alcohol: This is a key ingredient for cleaning vape components due to its ability to dissolve residue and sanitize surfaces.
- Cotton Swabs: These are handy for reaching into small crevices and wiping away dirt and grime from various parts of the vape pen.
- Paper Towels: Use these to wipe down surfaces and absorb excess liquid during the cleaning process.
- Small Bowl: A small bowl can be useful for soaking smaller components in isopropyl alcohol.
- Soft Toothbrush: A toothbrush with soft bristles can be used to gently scrub away stubborn residue without damaging delicate parts of the vape pen.
- Microfiber Cloth: This is optional but useful for drying and polishing the vape pen components after cleaning, leaving them looking shiny and new.
- Q-Tips: Similar to cotton swabs, Q-tips can be used for precision cleaning in tight spaces.
How To Clean The Vape Pen? (With 11 Simple Steps)
Let's break down the steps to ensure a thorough cleaning process:
Step 1: Initial Disassembly
Start by removing easily detachable parts of your vape pen. This step will give you access to the coil and chamber. Initially, we suggest cleaning out the coil in water if you are using stainless steel coils. This is only applicable to box mods as you cannot do these vape pods.
Step 2: Burn-Off Residue
Cover your workspace with a paper towel and open the chamber of your vape pen. Set the device to its highest temperature setting to effectively heat any residual buildup around the coil. After heating, turn the device over onto a paper towel to drain out any remaining juice residues.
Step 3: Cleaning The Exterior
The exterior of your vape pen is prone to accumulating grime, oil, sweat, and fingerprints due to regular handling. Begin by wiping the body with a dry microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints and dust.
Apply a small amount of isopropyl alcohol onto the cloth to tackle grime, gently rubbing the surface. For stubborn stains, lightly dampen the cloth with mild soapy water before wiping the surface. Thoroughly dry the pen with a dry cloth to ensure it's completely dry before reassembly or use.
Step 4: Dipping in Isopropyl Solution
Pour isopropyl alcohol into a small bowl. Submerge the dirtier components of your vape pen in this solution for a deep cleanse. Additionally, soak cotton swabs in the alcohol solution for targeted and delicate cleaning.
Step 5: Disassemble Completely
Once the coil cools off, disassemble the tank and clean each part using alcohol-soaked cotton swabs. Be careful around the coil to prevent damage. Use tools like a dab tool or stapler for hard-to-reach areas. For very dirty components, soak them in isopropyl alcohol for a minimum of 30 minutes before gently brushing with a soft toothbrush.
Step 6: Clean Battery Thread
The threading of your vape pen, often located between the battery and cartridge connection, can accumulate dust and residue over time, affecting connectivity. To clean it effectively, ensure your vape pen is turned off and disassembled.
Slightly moisten a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol, making sure it's not overly saturated. Gently clean the threads with the moistened swab, applying minimal force to remove any residue. Finally, use a dry cotton swab to eliminate any remaining alcohol or debris.
Step 7: Clean the 510 Contact Point
The contact points of a 510-thread vape battery can become dirty with prolonged use, impacting its performance. Begin by disconnecting the battery from the device. Dampen a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol and delicately clean the threads.
Finish by using a clean cotton swab to dry the area thoroughly, ensuring no moisture is left behind. This meticulous cleaning process helps maintain optimal performance and longevity for your vape battery.
Step 8: Cleaning Vape Pen Charging Points
With each charge, your vape pen's charging point gathers more dust and debris. To clean it, disconnect the pen from any power source and ensure it's turned off for safety.
Using a small brush or toothpick, clear any visible debris from the charging point, avoiding excessive force to prevent damage to the pins. Finish by using a dry cloth to remove any remaining dust, ensuring the charging point stays dry and free from liquids.
Step 9: Clean Mouthpiece
Unscrew the mouthpiece and blow air through the opening to dislodge any residue. After that use alcohol-soaked cotton swabs to thoroughly clean both the interior and exterior of the mouthpiece. A lot of bacteria can build up here so be sure to regularly clean this if not the whole device.
Step 10: Check for Residue
Before reassembling the device, carefully examine all components soaked in alcohol for any remaining residue. This ensures a thorough cleaning process and optimal device performance.
Step 11: Rinse and Dry
To eliminate any residual alcohol, rinse all components under a stream of warm tap water. After rinsing, place the components on a paper towel and allow them to air dry completely before reassembling the vape pen.
How Often Do You Need To Clean Your Vape Pen?
Maintaining a clean vape pen is important for optimal performance and flavor reproduction. You can make the cleaning process in
- Regular Cleaning Routine: Clean your vape tank every time you switch flavors to prevent flavor contamination. This ensures that you can fully appreciate the range of flavors without any unpleasant surprises.
- Check for Leaks and Cracks: Inspect your tank or coil regularly for leaks and cracks. Addressing any issues promptly can prevent potential problems and extend the lifespan of your device.
- Frequency Based on Usage: How often do you need to clean your vape pen depends on your usage habits. Perform a thorough cleaning every few weeks for light vapers. For heavy vapers inspect your device weekly and perform a detailed cleaning at least once a month.
- Coil Maintenance: Check the condition of your coils regularly. Replace them if they appear worn out or burnt to maintain flavor quality and prevent dry hits. Ideally, you should change your coil every two weeks.
6 Simple Cleaning Tips For Vape Pen
Here are some best practices for cleaning and maintaining your vape pen:
- Use Suitable Cleaning Products: Always use appropriate cleaning materials to avoid damaging the device. Avoid water, as it can be risky to the device's electrical components. Instead, opt for isopropyl alcohol to remove sticky residues, using cotton swabs soaked in alcohol for hard-to-reach areas.
- Be Gentle: Handle your vape pen with care during the cleaning process. Avoid using sharp objects or hard scrubbing, especially on sensitive components, to prevent damage or breakage.
- Dry All Surfaces Well: Ensure that all parts are completely dry before reassembling and switching on the vape device. Moisture inside the device can lead to the failure of the electrical components inside.
- Avoid Over-Tightening: Be cautious not to tighten the device parts too much during assembly after cleaning. Over-tightening can damage the threads, making disassembly difficult during subsequent cleanings.
- Maintain the Ideal E-Liquid Level: Ensure that the atomizer coil remains submerged in e-liquid while in use to prevent overheating and a burnt taste. If the e-liquid runs out during use, promptly replace the coil and wick.
- Store Your Vape Juice Properly: Protect your e-liquid from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight, as these can degrade its quality over time. Store your vaporizer in a safe place, such as a dedicated case or box, ideally in a cool, dark, and dry environment, to prevent damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Water To Clean My Vape Pen?
It's generally not recommended to use water for cleaning vape pens, as it can damage the device's electrical components. Instead, use isopropyl alcohol and cotton swabs to clean efficiently.
How Do I Know If My Vape Pen Needs Cleaning?
Signs that your vape pen may need cleaning include poor flavor, a burnt taste, or visible residue buildup in the tank or on the coil.
What Should I Do If My Vape Pen Is Leaking?
Leaks can occur due to various factors, such as improper assembly or a damaged seal. Disassemble the device, clean any leaked e-liquid and check for damaged components. Reassemble the device carefully to ensure a proper seal and prevent further leaks.
Can I Clean My Vape Pen Coils?
Yes, vape pen coils can be cleaned to remove residue buildup and extend their lifespan. Soak the coils in isopropyl alcohol for a few hours, then rinse them thoroughly with water and allow them to dry before reinstalling them in the device.
Cleaning The Vape Ain’t So Hard, Right?
To keep your vape running smoothly and in top shape, you need to clean it regularly. Not only does cleaning your vape help prevent multiple device issues. If you don't clean your vape, it can become clogged.
Proper maintenance also can lead to degraded battery performance due to e-liquid buildup, and develop a burnt taste. Plus, if you use your vape to switch between different flavors, you'll be able to maintain the true flavor by not spoiling one with another. So do you follow all the steps we outlined here? After all a clean vape will always give you the best experience with every puff!