Electronic vaporizers, or vapes, come in various forms—sleek vape pens, larger mods, and heavy-duty pod systems, among others. No matter the type, one thing remains consistent: regular cleaning is essential. However, cleaning and maintenance often aren’t a priority for many vape users.
While these devices may seem self-sustaining, they contain numerous small parts that need individual care to keep functioning well. In this guide, we’ll show you how to keep your vape clean and performing its best.
Why You Should Clean Your Vape Device
There are two main reasons to keep your vape clean: hygiene and longevity.
Firstly, using your vape multiple times a day means it can easily become a breeding ground for germs. Regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and reduces the risk of transmitting viruses.
Secondly, regular maintenance extends the life of your device. Neglecting your vape leads to residue building up on the battery, screens, coils, and cartridges, which can damage them over time. Keeping these components clean will save you from having to replace them frequently.
How to Clean Your Vape Tank
Cleaning your vape goes beyond wiping the exterior. Vapes consist of small, intricate parts that can quickly get dirty, and one of the most important areas to clean is the tank.
1. Empty the Tank
Before cleaning, make sure your tank is empty. Ideally, this should be done after you’ve finished a pod of juice, so you don’t waste any liquid. Timing is important here—don’t throw out a perfectly good half-tank of juice just to clean your vape.
2. Remove the Coil
After emptying the tank, remove the coil and set it aside. While it’s fine to clean just the tank, coil, and battery, for the most thorough cleaning, you may want to fully disassemble the device. If you’re worried about reassembling it later, take pictures as you go.
3. Rinse the Tank with Warm Water
Run the tank under warm water to remove any residue. Avoid extreme temperatures, which can shock the material. The goal is to flush out as much buildup as possible.
4. Soak the Tank
For a deeper clean, let the tank soak in a bowl of warm water for 30 minutes to a few hours. You can also soak other non-electrical parts, but never submerge the coil or battery in water.
5. (Optional) Use a Cleaning Agent
For a thorough cleaning, use a mild cleaning agent like vinegar, baking soda, or dish soap on a soft scrubber. Gently scrub the tank to remove any stubborn residue.
6. Dry the Tank Thoroughly
Let the tank air dry completely. This ensures no water remains when you reassemble the device.
How to Clean Your Vape Coil
The coil is the component that heats the juice to produce vapor, and it can accumulate significant buildup over time.
1. Soak the Coil in a Cleaning Solution
Start by soaking the coil in a mild cleaning solution like ethanol or vinegar. This helps break down any stubborn residue before rinsing.
2. Rinse the Coil
After soaking, rinse the coil thoroughly under warm water. Light scrubbing may be required to restore its shine.
3. Clean the Wicking Holes
Be sure to clean the wicking holes, which are responsible for soaking up juice before it’s vaporized. These areas can collect a lot of residue, so give them a good rinse and scrub.
4. Let the Coil Dry Completely
Allow the coil to dry fully by standing it upright for several hours. Ensuring it’s fully dry is crucial before using it again.
How to Clean Your Vape Battery
The battery is the powerhouse of your vape. Without proper care, even a clean tank and coil won’t function well if your battery is compromised.
1. Make Sure Your Hands Are Clean
Before handling the battery, ensure your hands are free of any water or soap residue. Batteries can be damaged by moisture, which can also cause them to malfunction or short-circuit.
2. Carefully Remove the Battery
Remove the battery carefully, as any mishandling could cause damage to the battery or the vape itself.
3. Clean the Battery’s Connection Areas
Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the areas where the battery connects to the tank and atomizer. This helps clear out any juice buildup that could interfere with the device’s performance.
4. Clean the Air Holes
Using a small object like a toothpick, clear out any residue in the air holes. This helps maintain proper airflow, which is critical for a smooth vaping experience.
5. Wipe Down the Battery Exterior
Gently clean the outside of the battery with rubbing alcohol. Ensure it’s fully dry before reinserting it into your vape.
Why You Shouldn’t Clean or Refill Vape Pods
While you can clean the tank, coil, and battery, pods are different. Over time, residue builds up inside pods, and repeatedly cleaning or refilling them won’t restore their original quality. Once a pod reaches the end of its useful life, it’s best to replace it rather than attempt to clean or refill it.
Conclusion — Stay Clean, Vape Longer
Your vape device is a marvel of engineering, capable of performing complex tasks like vaporizing liquid for inhalation in a tiny, portable form. Treat it with the respect it deserves by cleaning it regularly. Doing so will extend its lifespan and improve your vaping experience.
