How Bad Are Bongs for You?

When it comes to smoking weed, many people assume that using a bong is a safer option compared to joints or blunts. But how bad are bongs for you, really? Bongs, or water pipes, are commonly used for cannabis consumption, with many users believing that water filtration provides a safer, smoother smoking experience. However, it's crucial to highlight the potential health risks associated with bong use. Understanding the mechanics of bongs is essential, as well as evaluating the effectiveness of water filtration and discussing the health implications of their use in order to choose the right device for smoking cannabis.

How do bongs work?

A typical bong consists of a bowl to hold the cannabis, a chamber partially filled with water, and a mouthpiece. When the user ignites the cannabis and inhales through the mouthpiece, the smoke is drawn through the water before entering the lungs. This process cools the smoke, making it feel less harsh during inhalation. Many users assume that this water filtration removes harmful substances, leading to a safer smoking experience.

The Reality

Bong water can trap some larger particles and water-soluble substances; however many users are under the impression that bongs filter out all harmful substances, leading to a less toxic and less harsh hit. Research shows this may not be the full reality. One study from 2022 indicates that while water filtration can reduce certain compounds, many toxic substances remain in the smoke. The researchers examined air quality during bong use and found that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels increased significantly in indoor spaces where bongs were smoked. Fine particulate matter is known to pose health risks when inhaled, as it can penetrate deep into the lungs and contribute to respiratory issues (Nguyen & Hammond, 2022). The presence of these harmful particles in bong smoke suggests that water filtration does not eliminate all toxic components. While bongs may remove some larger particles, they do not fully prevent the inhalation of dangerous substances, meaning users are still exposed to potentially harmful toxins despite the perceived benefits of water filtration.

Additionally, there is a lack of recent empirical research specifically analyzing how much, if any, harmful substances are effectively removed by bong filtration. Most available studies on cannabis smoke toxicity are outdated or focus on other methods of consumption. This gap in research makes it difficult to determine the true extent of bong filtration’s effectiveness. Until more studies are conducted, users should keep in mind the findings that highlight the presence of hazardous airborne particles even when bongs are used.

Associated Health Risks

Inhaling smoke, even when filtered through water, can irritate the lungs and airways, leading to inflammation and increased mucus production. Research has indicated that breathing in PM2.5 from any form of combustion is dangerous. This exposure to PM2.5 is concerning, as these fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, potentially leading to respiratory issues and other health problems (Nguyen & Hammond, 2022).

Additionally, the materials used in bong construction can pose health risks. Bongs made from plastic may release harmful chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, especially when heated. Inhaling these substances can disrupt endocrine function and may adversely affect fertility. There is also evidence suggesting that smoking cannabis through plastic bongs may increase the risk of severe lung injury due to inhalation of plastic byproducts (Johnson-Arbor, 2025). 

Furthermore, the water in bongs can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi if not regularly changed and the bong properly cleaned. Inhaling contaminated water vapor can introduce pathogens into the respiratory system, increasing the risk of infections (Wright, 2014). 

While bongs may provide a cooler and potentially smoother smoking experience, they do not eliminate exposure to harmful substances. Users should be aware of the potential health risks associated with bong use, including exposure to fine particulate matter, harmful chemicals from construction materials, and pathogens from unclean water. Regular maintenance and careful consideration of bong materials are essential steps to mitigate some of these risks.