It’s hard to pick one vaporizer as the very best. All vape devices aspire to be the number one choice, but we believe there’s a best vape for each person, and everyone’s different. Some users want to vaporize at much as possible in one sitting, while others prefer slow, relaxing sessions with little herbs. Check out our Best Portable Vapes Guide to see our top picks for each need.
How do you vape dry herbs? A step-by-step guide
Step 1: Grind your herbs
Do you need to grind for dry herb vapes? Many vapes can vaporize whole flowers, but grinding produces the best results. The type of grind will depend on the type of vaporizer, but generally, conduction vaporizers perform best with a finer grind, while convection vaporizers prefer a coarser grind. If you’re unsure, go with a medium grind. Check out our full guide on How to Use a Dry Herb Grinder for Beginners Guide for more info.
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Step 2: Pack your vape
Next, take your vaporizer and fill the oven with your ground herbs. For conduction vaporizers, fill it to brim and pack it down tightly. Repeat this until it’s packed nice and tight to the top.
Convection and hybrid vaporizers are the exact opposite. They don’t like tight packs. Instead, fill the oven loosely until there’s a small mound on top, and then gently press it into the oven until it’s flush with the rim.
Step 3: Power on your vape
Turn it on! With most vaporizers, press the power button quickly five times. Others might need a triple-press, or a long press of the power button. Refer to your vaporizer’s user manual if you’re unsure.
Step 4: Pick your temperature
Some vaporizes use different temperature controls. Some utlize precise control down to a single degree, while others have preset controls. We’ll cover a few temperature ranges to choose but this will also apply to preset settings.
Low-level vaping temperatures – 370°F/187°C and below
This temperature range produces the tastiest vapor and is perfect for chasing flavor rather than clouds. Hits are light and wispy, but full of flavor and will provide gentle, but noticeable effects. This is a safe zone to start if you’re not yet sure what you’re looking for. You can always bump it up later.
Mid-level vaping temperatures – 370°F/187°C to 390°F/198°C
This temperature range is a nice happy-medium. Hits are noticeably thicker, but still produce satisfying flavors that pack a punch. Perfect for those that want a little more ‘oomph’ from their hits, but also plenty of flavor.
High-level vaping temperatures – 390°F/198°C and above
This is where flavor starts to take a dive, but thick clouds come to play. Your first few hits will pack in some flavorful accents, but will quickly dissipate as the clouds ramp up. This is the best place to start if you want big clouds and strong effects from the get-go.
Step 5: Inhale your vaporized herbs
Once your vaporizer reaches your desired temperature, it’s time to hit it! Start with a slow, relaxed inhale through the mouthpiece for about seven to ten seconds, and then exhale. Keep the airflow nice and steady. Your first hit or two will be light and flavorful but will ramp up as your session rolls.
Step 6: Power off & clean your vape
When you’re all finished with your session, turn your vape off the same way you turned it on and let it cool for about a minute. If you’re saving the rest for later, you’re good. Leave it and come back to it later.
How do you clean your dry herb vape?
If your herbs are spent, take a cleaning brush and clear out the oven while it’s still warm. This will prevent the load from sticking to the oven and keep your vape running longer before its time for a deep cleaning.
Deep cleanings involve soaking the dirty parts of your vape and thorough wipe-downs. Which parts to soak or wipe depends on your vaporizer. We have a number of in-depth cleaning guides so check out our blog for your specific vaporizer.
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Final top tips for first-time vapers
Be aware of where you can and cannot vape
You may wonder if the same smoking rules apply to vaporizers. As a safe, general rule, if you can’t smoke somewhere, you also can’t vape. If you’re unsure, ask around or just step outside and enjoy your session.
The quality of your herbs will affect the quality of your experience
Vaporizers are only half of the equation. High-quality, expertly harvested plant material will feel and taste better and provide the best overall vaping experience. Keep your herbs in an airtight container and store them in a dark, cool environment to maintain its freshness.
Experiment!
Over time, you’ll discover little nuances or rituals that cater to your own personal vaping style. Don’t be afraid to mess around with different vapes, grinds, packs, temperatures, and any other components of your session to dial in your very own unique way of vaporizing.
If we missed anything, or if you have any questions or concerns about getting started, let us know in the comments!
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