The tradition of pipe smoking dates back centuries in the Americas. Pipes have long been a tool humans turn to for pause, reflection, and most importantly, relaxation. The physical act of loading a pipe is meditative, allowing the pipe smoker to disconnect and allow their mind to wander into greener pastures. Those looking to join the pipe-smoking tradition may not know where to start, how to choose a Genius pipe or what to smoke. If you want to learn how to smoke a pipe, then read on for a few expert tips and tricks!

 

#1 Find The Pipe For You

 

First of all, the most important step in learning how to smoke a pipe is selecting a pipe that fits your style. Plenty of pipe smokers will agree that the object itself becomes an extension of your hand, and therefore your being. Choosing the right pipe for you will also seriously influence your pipe smoking experience. Now, you don’t have to do much soul-searching, but you do need to consider where and when you want to use the pipe. Smokers who are busy or always on the go may prefer an accessory that is lightweight and straightforward for hang-up-free smoke sessions. However, those looking for a sit-down, OG pipe smoking experience will enjoy a sophisticated pipe that is built for a slow smoke and made for indulging in thoughtful and serious clouds.

 

Furthermore, it’s vital to bear in mind that pipes come in an array of materials, including wood, metal, glass, ceramic, and silicone. Browse online or visit your nearest smoke shop to see what kinds of pipes fit your budget and lifestyle. Be sure to consider how often you plan to use your pipe, as some materials are better for daily use while others may be better when used sparingly. Ask yourself if your pipe will be with you at all times or if it will be tucked away in your stash box for safekeeping. By taking time to think about all these points, you’ll have a clear direction and struggle less when it comes to choosing the ideal pipe for you.

 

#2 Taste Test Some Blends

 

The most common filling for pipes is tobacco, there’s no doubt about that. Nonetheless, depending on where you live you may have access to CBD or legal recreational cannabis, hash or concentrates. While the COVID-19 pandemic has hurt the world in many ways, it has also spurred the legalization of the plant in many places. So, if cannabis isn’t legal where you live at the moment, it may be very soon. Still, it’s recommended to stick to what is legal in your place of residence.

 

If you choose to go the traditional route, there are a plethora of tobacco brands available on the market. Cigar aficionados will likely prefer a more full-bodied blend, as opposed to newbies who may enjoy fruity or flavoured blends. There’s no better way to know what blend you’ll like than by picking up a few samples and trying them at home. Also, if you visit a smoke shop, the staff there will be able to guide you in the right direction of the best blend for you. When you find a blend that makes you drool, you’ll know that you’ve found the one!

 

#3 Take Care of Your Gear

It may seem obvious, but this is truly a pro tip! Keeping your pipe in excellent condition ensures that your smoke experience is delicious as well as pleasurable. Things like functionality and taste go out the window when your pipe is clogged or full of ash. Of course, your pipe’s make and model will be the biggest factors in how to clean it. An easy trick for cleaning pipes is using isopropyl alcohol (or whiskey or vodka) to soak the pipe and melt away any grime. Should you have a wooden or ceramic pipe, you can also use a combination of vinegar and baking soda.

 

If you’ve decided to purchase a unique piece and aren’t sure how best to go about cleaning it, speak to the manufacturer about how to proceed. Most brands will have a page or blog post on their website covering their recommended tips for care, otherwise their contact information will be readily available. Once you soak your pipe to remove any ash or resin, you’ll want to go in with a pipe cleaner or brush to get rid of anything that may be left. Then, buff dry and enjoy your pipe! Clean your smoking gear regularly for best results.

 

Time to Enjoy

 

We hope that you find these tips helpful on your journey of learning how to smoke a pipe. However, above all else, we ask that you remember that the most important tip of all is to make time to indulge in your pipe. Yes, sit down, load your pipe, put it to your mouth and inhale! After all, smoking works like a time machine of sorts, allowing you to pause, rewind, and speed up with the power of the pipe and smoke. With your pipe in hand, know that you are in control of your story and your pipe is your guide to another place in time.