Clean a dab rig after each use with 91% isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt. Pour 1 tablespoon of coarse salt into the rig. Add 1/4 cup of 91% isopropyl alcohol. Cover the joints. Shake for 20 to 30 seconds. Rinse with warm water. Dry with a paper towel. This takes 2 minutes.

How to Clean a Dab Rig Effectively (Step-by-Step)

Supplies

  • 91% or 99% isopropyl alcohol
  • Coarse salt (kosher or sea salt)
  • Warm water
  • Paper towels
  • Cotton swabs
  • Pipe cleaners
  • Two bowls or containers

Steps

  1. Empty the rig. Pour out leftover water and reclaim.
  2. Add 1 tablespoon of coarse salt to the rig.
  3. Add 1/4 cup of 91% isopropyl alcohol.
  4. Cover the mouthpiece and joint with your hands or stoppers.
  5. Shake the rig for 20 to 30 seconds.
  6. Pour out the alcohol and salt into a container. Do not pour down the drain.
  7. Rinse the rig with warm water for 30 seconds.
  8. Dry with a paper towel. Let it air dry for 5 minutes.

Clean the banger and carb cap

Wait for the banger to cool. Do not use water on a hot banger. It can crack. Use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol. Wipe the inside of the banger. For a quartz banger, use a cotton swab. For a titanium nail, use a wire brush. Clean the carb cap with a cotton swab and alcohol. Rinse with warm water.

how to clean a dab rig thoroughly

Clean the downstem

Remove the downstem. Soak it in isopropyl alcohol for 10 minutes. Use a pipe cleaner to remove resin. Rinse with warm water.

how to clean a dab rig thoroughly

Safety

Isopropyl alcohol is flammable. Keep it away from flames. Use it in a room with air flow. Do not breathe the vapor. Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.

more on this topic

Why clean after each use

Resin builds up on glass. It changes the flavor of CBD and THC concentrates. A dirty rig can grow mold and bacteria. Clean glass gives a better taste. It also lets you see the vapor. Clean after each use to stop buildup.

What to avoid

  • Do not use acetone. It can damage glass and leave residue.
  • Do not use boiling water. It can crack cold glass.
  • Do not use a dishwasher. It can break the rig.
  • Do not shake a hot rig. Let it cool first.