Putting ice in your bong may seem like a great way to make your smoking sessions easier on the throat and lungs. However, these frosty rips can be more damaging than just using cold water or no additional cooling method at all. 

Ice bongs are designed to provide some relief from the heat of inhaling, and can potentially do more harm than good. It is best to avoid using ice in your bong and instead rely on other cooling methods such as a classic water percolator or nothing at all.

What is an Ice Bong?

Ice bongs boast special notches that can be filled with cubes of ice, making for a much cooler smoke. In my experience, it is definitely worth noting the difference between rips taken from a bong without and with ice. 

We will explore if having an ice notch is essential for all bubblers and bongs later on. For now though, let's focus on the incredible benefits of using an ice bong.

How does an Ice Bong Cool the Smoke?

How a smoke is cooled using a bong is quite simple. As the hot smoke resurfaces up its neck, it encounters a nice icy stack of loaded ice cubes right on the notches. This sudden clash of hot versus cold brings down the temperature of the vapor in order to provide you with a much cooler hit to enjoy. It is that extreme coldness that will tend to wrap around the chamber during that interaction that makes the drop in temperature so immense.

What is an Ice Catcher?

Ice catchers, also known as ice notches, are usually welded into the neck of an ice bong. This indentation supports ice cubes, yet allows the air that is pulled during a smoke.

Some of the designs could also provide ergonomic grip to the user. The ice catcher can be realized using glass, silicone, acrylic, or even bamboo. They have the main purpose of catching the ice, whether it's for functionality or just for aesthetic purposes, to cool down smoke as it passes through the neck of your bong.

Do You Need Ice Notches in a Bong?

Ice notches are purely a subjective choice - some stoners adore them, while others don't like them at all. Most modern bongs have an ice catcher, but that doesn't mean everyone needs to use it. Now let's take a look at the potential negatives of using an ice bong.

Is Smoking From an Ice Bong Dangerous?

Reports indicate that the use of an ice bong can be risky and have serious potential to cause respiratory problems. In some cases, hospitalization has even been necessary due to smoking with a full ice catcher. Fortunately, though, it is possible to avoid such risks by using certain tactics that will be discussed in more detail later on.

Can Smoking out of Ice Bongs Cause Bronchitis?

If you’re looking to cool down your smoke, then adding ice cubes to your bong is a great way to do it. Ice inside the chamber will help lower the temperature of the smoke before it enters your lungs for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. 

If you plan on using ice in your bong make sure to use caution when loading up. By following these simple steps you can guarantee a smooth smoking session each time! And remember, be mindful of any frost buildup as it can potentially harm your lungs if inhaled directly.

Is it Bad to Put Ice in Your Bong?

Even with our tips, it's impossible to completely avoid inhaling particles of water while using an ice notch. That doesn't mean you should stop smoking with ice though! There has to be a better way for bongheads to enjoy smooth rips without sacrificing their lungs. Here are some alternatives to cooling your bong smoke without having to resort to icy rips:

1. Use a percolator or other filtering device to help cool and filter out particles.
2. Add ice cubes to the base of your bong to act as a cooling chamber, without having to inhale them directly.
3. Place your bong in the freezer for a few minutes prior to smoking so that it will create cooler smoke when you do use it.
4. Invest in some quality glassware with air tight seals that won't produce any moisture when smoked at high temperatures.
5. Try using dry herbs instead of concentrates or oils, which can produce smoother rips with less need for cooling devices.

Smoking Bongs Without Ice Notches

No worries if your bong doesn't have ice notches- you can still enjoy a cooler and smoother smoking experience by simply dropping some ice directly into the water. The process of percolation alone will do more than most believe. 

In fact, I've tried using a maple syrup bottle with a pen downstem and socket bowl piece - and it was one of the smoothest and tastiest inhales I've ever had. And that was due to the ice packed full in there; not because of any residual syrup (we made sure to rinse it out beforehand).

The natural percolation process combined with icy temperatures is so smooth, you'll barely be aware that smoke has been inhaled at all! To take it even further, consider adding a slitted downstem to your piece for added diffusion and even smoother hits. If you're unfamiliar with the concepts of percolation or diffusion, we have an informative scientific guide that can explain it in greater detail.

A Better Way to Smoke With Ice Notches

Using ice catchers in a bong can lead to lung damage, just like smoking cannabis without one. We realize that people may still choose to use them for their own enjoyment. If that is the case for you, there are designs of ice catchers available that are less likely to cause damage.

Using an Ice Catcher vs. Putting Ice in Bong Water

Leaving your cubes to soak in the water is a great way to cool down your smoke without risking inhaling any ice shards. Even if you can't use ice notches or fit ice into your bong neck, just soaking some cubes beforehand will make all the difference. Once done, simply fill up your bong with the chilled water and start smoking. Although it won't stay cold as long as using dry ice-notches, it'll still be much better than room temperature or plain cool water.

Final Thoughts:

The debate over whether or not ice notches are dangerous and worth the risk has been going on for years among smokers in forums and rotations. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what you want to do; however, be sure to stay informed of the facts and remain Smoke Phisticated.