What is an Acrylic Bong?

For most people, when they think of a bong they picture a clear glass piece and while that is what most bongs are made of, there are a few such as Acrylic bongs that stand apart due to their unique benefits. 

Acrylic bongs and water pipes work just like those made entirely from glass, equipped with a downstems, bowl, diffusion chamber, and mouthpiece. The only difference is that these bongs are made from acrylic plastic.

So, how do you know if an acrylic bong will be right for you? Keep reading this guide for everything you need to know about acrylic bongs.

What is an Acrylic Bong?

An acrylic bong or acrylic water pipe is exactly what it sounds like, it is a bong or pipe made out of acrylic plastic. Acrylic is essentially transparent plastic called plexiglass that is less toxic than polycarbonate, making it safe to use on bongs and water pipes.

Sheets of acrylic are also very simple to fabricate and color, this is what allows these bongs to be priced cheaper than any other. Acrylic bongs are equipped with the same components and functionality as any other bong, allowing you to add water, pack the bowl to your liking and take smooth filtered hits.

Benefits of Acrylic Bongs

One of the main benefits of using an acrylic bong is the durability that it offers the user. Acrylic is known for being more resistant to bending or breakage, and the bong won't shatter into a million pieces if you happen to drop it on a hard surface. In fact, it will take quite a few drops to even leave a crack on this type of bong. 

Along with durability, acrylic bongs are also super lightweight which makes transporting it to a friend’s house or traveling with the bong a breeze.

While there are some glass bong designs that offer a level of personalization with little dashes of color, acrylic bongs are available in an endless amount of different colors and designs to best match your personality.

Last but certainly not least, the price tag. Acrylic bongs are the cheapest type of bong due to the simplicity of their manufacturing process and cheaper materials.

The Disadvantages of Acrylic Bongs

While there are plenty of benefits that set acrylic bongs apart from the rest, it is important to discuss the downsides to them as well. Since acrylic is essentially just plastic, these types of bongs have a much cheaper feel to them and won’t work as efficiently to diffuse smoke as a glass bong would.

Typically, acrylic bongs are equipped with downstems and bowls that are made out of metal which can alter the taste of your smoke. Acrylic plastic can also break down after a while and can only be used with a special acrylic bong cleaner since isopropyl will ruin the material over time, making cleaning this type of bong way more of a pain. 

Acrylic Bongs Compared to Others

Bongs are typically made from one of these four different materials, acrylic, silicone, ceramic or of course, glass. As for price, acrylic will always be the most affordable option when purchasing a bong since it is essentially just made from plastic.

Compared to glass and ceramic, acrylic bongs offer way more durability since one drop of a glass or ceramic bong will cause it to shatter instantly. Acrylic bongs can handle quite a few drops before you even see it begin to crack.

Silicone bongs do of course have acrylic beat in this category since you could throw a silicone bong directly at the wall or floor and it still wouldn't break. 

Acrylic bongs, unfortunately, cannot diffuse smoke as well as glass and ceramic bongs do and the flavor won't be as pure tasting due to the metal components that are typically used in acrylic bongs. However, acrylic bongs provide the utmost personalization offering a large variety of different colors and designs.

All types of bongs have their pros and cons, it all depends on your preferences.

What to consider when purchasing an acrylic bong

Acrylic bongs are the kind that you keep as an extra in case anything happens to your glass or ceramic piece. You can also bring acrylic bongs with you to a friend's house or a trip to a beach without worry due to their durability and low price tag.

It is also far easier to travel with this type of bong since it is so lightweight and less prone to shattering. 

These bongs are the ideal choice for beginners who are beginning to explore the world of bongs and want a cheap and simple entryway. These bongs can also be a great choice to keep you satisfied as you save up for that dream bong that has been on your mind for a while. 

How to Clean Plastic Bongs

Of all the types of bongs, acrylic is, unfortunately, the hardest to clean, this is because you are dealing with plastic. Here is how to clean acrylic bong, make sure that you have removed the downstem and bowl from the acrylic body before getting started.

These pieces are generally made from metal and can be thrown into a container with warm water and salt to be shaken around for a few minutes. 

When it comes to cleaning the acrylic, it is so important that you do not ever use alcohol since it can accelerate the breakdown of the material. Instead, use a special acrylic bong cleaner or even just water to clean your acrylic bong.

Scrape the residue from the edges of your bong using a bottle brush that can be found at any store, or you could use a spare toothbrush to get this job done. Make sure you are changing the bong water consistently, or the bong will begin to stink and deep cleanings will be even more work. 

Takeaway

Like any other, acrylic bongs come with a hefty list of pros and cons that users will need to consider before purchasing. Acrylic is the easiest choice on your wallet, it’s ultra-portable and will offer quite a bit of durability no matter where you go.

Acrylic bongs of course are not the most efficient type of bong as they won't diffuse the smoke as well and the taste of your smoke can be altered due to the material.

If you are a beginner looking for a cheap entryway into vaping or you just need a durable backup that you feel secure transporting and sharing, the acrylic bong may be the perfect choice for you.