The Right Way to Clean a Dab Rig Without Damage

Dab rigs are flavour machines — until they’re not. Residue from rosin, reclaim build-up, and sticky concentrates can turn your tasty terp sesh into a burnt, bitter mess fast.

But cleaning a dab rig isn’t just about taste — it’s also about protecting your glass. The wrong method can crack your banger, ruin your percs, or destroy your dab rig entirely.

Here’s how to clean your dab rig the right way — without damaging your gear.

Why Dab Rigs Need a Different Cleaning Approach

Dab rigs might look like mini bongs, but they work differently — and they get dirty differently too.

Unique cleaning challenges:

• Reclaim (that sticky, amber goo) builds up fast

• Quartz bangers are heat-sensitive

• Small, narrow rigs are harder to access

• Too much heat or aggressive shaking can crack them

So forget the bong-style shake-and-scrub. Cleaning a dab rig is all about patience, precision, and low-key stoner science.

What You’ll Need

Here’s your dab rig cleaning kit:

• Isopropyl alcohol (91% or higher)

• Rock salt (optional, for water chambers)

• Cotton buds (Q-tips)

• Small brushes or pipe cleaners

• Ziplock bags

• Warm water

• Tweezers or gloves (for reclaim)

Optional:

• Dab reclaim catcher

• Bong plugs or stoppers

Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Dab Rig Properly

Step 1: Empty the Rig and Let It Cool

Dump any water or residue and let the rig fully cool down. Don’t clean it hot — rapid temperature changes can crack glass.

Step 2: Remove the Banger

Pop your banger out and clean it separately. Don’t soak the entire dab rig with the banger still attached.

Place the banger in a ziplock bag with iso — or read below for special banger cleaning tips.

Step 3: Add Iso to the Rig

Pour isopropyl alcohol into the main chamber. If there’s built-up reclaim, let it sit for 5–10 minutes to dissolve the goo.

You can also add a little coarse salt if you’re dealing with grime in the water section (but avoid salt in rigs with percs — it can get stuck).

Step 4: Cover the Openings and Swirl

Use stoppers, paper towels, or your hands to plug the holes, then gently swirl — don’t shake the rig like you would with a bong.

Shaking too hard can snap thin parts or damage percolators.

Step 5: Rinse with Warm Water

Flush the rig thoroughly with warm water. Repeat with iso if needed. The goal is no smell, no resin, no goo.

Use pipe cleaners or narrow brushes for hard-to-reach areas.

How to Clean a Quartz Banger (Without Ruining It)

Quartz bangers are fragile. Here's the safe way to clean them:

After each dab:

• While still warm (but not hot), swab with a dry Q-tip

• For sticky residue, use a Q-tip with a dab of iso

Deep cleaning:

1. Soak in iso for 30+ minutes

2. Rinse with warm water

3. Let it dry fully before reheating

4. Never use cold water on a hot banger — it’ll crack

Don’t use a blowtorch to "burn it clean" — that causes chazzing (burnt white residue) that ruins flavour permanently.

How Often Should You Clean Your Dab Rig?

• Banger: After every dab (swab it!)

• Rig chamber: Every 2–4 sessions

• Deep clean: Once a week for regular users

If your rig starts tasting burnt or your reclaim looks chunky, it’s time.

Tips for Avoiding Damage While Cleaning

• Never pour boiling water into cold glass

• Avoid shaking rigs with delicate percs

• Don’t torch your banger clean — just don’t

• Use gloves or tweezers when handling hot or sticky parts

• Keep isopropyl away from painted or coated glass

Conclusion: Clean It Right, Dab It Better

A clean dab rig doesn’t just taste better — it lasts longer, functions smoother, and looks way more impressive. Follow this simple method, treat your gear with care, and you’ll get the most out of every concentrate.

Want more tips and tricks on keeping your sesh gear in top shape?
Check out How to Clean Your Bongs and Dab Rigs Properly for everything cleaning-related.