There's nothing worse than breaking your downstem. Unless, of course, you've broken your downstem and can't seem to get it out of the water pipe after the fact! Having to replace a downstem is a hassle in any situation, but being unable to actually start the process as your downstem is stuck is an entirely different battle.
Capsule Water Pipe
Fortunately, if you're wondering how to get a broken downstem out of your bong, we're here to help. Today, we'll teach you exactly how to remove a broken downstem from a bong.
Of course, there are certain situations where you'll be unable to get the broken piece from your water pipe. At this point, you'll be forced to find a new bong altogether - and we'll provide you with some tips for that as well. We've got a lot to cover today and want to keep this as brief as possible, so let's get started!
Is it Possible to Learn How to Get a Broken Downstem Out of a Bong?
First things first - is it even possible to learn how to get a broken downstem out of a bong? The answer is yes - in most cases, at least. Normally, you'll be able to remove the broken downstem from your bong without too much trouble.
Now - that's not always the case. In some instances, your bong's downstem will break off inside the beaker or base of your water pipe. If you have ice slits, or you have a percolator bong with percs up the main tube of your piece, trying to get the fractured glass out of the downstem hole will be next to impossible, though.
With that said, it doesn't hurt to try. There are a few different ways to do this, and it largely depends on the type of bong you have as well as how your downstem is broken. We'll go over all of that momentarily, but know that it is possible to get that pesky stem out so you can replace it with a new one.
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How to Remove a Broken Downstem from a Bong
Now let's talk about how to actually remove a broken downstem from your bong. As we said before, there are a few different ways to do this - and we'll go over each method now.
Pliers
The first way to remove a broken downstem from a bong is by using pliers. This will only work if the break is clean and there aren't any jagged edges on your downstem. If that's the case, you can grab onto the end of the stem with a pair of needle-nose pliers and pull it out of the water pipe.
If your downstem isn't broken cleanly or has jagged edges, this method won't work as you could end up damaging your bong further in the process. In this case, you'll need to use a different method to get your downstem out - which we'll discuss next.
Vacuum
Another way to remove a broken downstem from a bong is by using a vacuum. This is ideal for those who have broken their downstem in percolator bongs or water pipes with slits - as the suction will be able to grip onto the stem and pull it out of the hole.
To do this, you'll need to create a seal around the downstem hole with your mouth. Next, put your thumb over the end of the tube and release the air quickly. Doing so should create enough suction to pull out the downstem. If not, you may need to try again or use a different method altogether.
String/Wire
If you're still wondering how to get a broken downstem out of your bong, as neither of the first two options worked, here's another method you can try. For this, you'll need a piece of string or wire - something thin that can fit into the hole where your downstem was.
Tie one end of the string/wire to a doorknob or another sturdy object. Next, lower the other end into the water pipe so it's touching the bottom of the broken downstem. Once it's in place, pull on the string/wire until the downstem pops out of the hole.
Tips for Finding a Replacement Downstem
At this point, you should have your broken downstem out of your bong and can now focus on what to do next. It's important to replace your downstem with the same size as the original. You can determine the right size downstem based on the joint size of your bong as well as the length you need. There are 12mm, 14mm, and 18mm downstems - and obviously, finding the right size is key to getting your bong back up and running.
You also need to determine whether you need a male or female downstem - which will be dictated by your bowl piece. A male goes with a female, and vice versa. This is how the bowl sits on/in the downstem.
If you're unsure what size you need, you can find a chart online that will help you narrow down the right size. Or, if you're buying a replacement downstem in person, bring your broken downstem into a local headshop and they should be able to help you. However - like how old you have to be to buy a bong, it's important to know the rules about bringing used glass into storefronts. Some shops will require that any glass you bring in is 100% clean - you can learn how to clean a bong in our blog.
If You're Unable to Remove the Broken Downstem from Your Bong, Here's Your Next Option
The advice above should help you get your broken downstem out of the bong and find a suitable replacement. As we said earlier though, there will be circumstances where you cannot get the bong out. No matter which method you try and how much time you spend on each one, you can't seem to dislodge the broken downstem or get it to fit through the joint or mouthpiece. Now what?
As you may have learned in our guide how to fix a broken bong, sometimes, the problem is beyond repair. At that point, your attention should turn towards replacing your bong with the best bong possible. Our guide on what to look for in a bong is a great resource for this.
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This modern work of art offers the perfect balance of form and function. It's both sleek and stunning, and is the type of water pipe you'll never want to put away! And when it comes to function, you won't be disappointed.
The smooth, thick hits this portable bong produces will exceed your expectations. And because of the durable, compact design, this water pipe is up for any adventure you want to take it on. Take a look at the Capsule Water Pipe and treat yourself to your new favorite piece!
Final Thoughts on How to Get a Broken Downstem Out of a Bong
There you have it. We hope this resource helps you gain a better understanding of how to get a broken downstem out of a bong. There are a few ways you can go about it. But, sometimes, all your efforts fall short. At a certain point, your time and energy is better spent finding a replacement piece. And in our collection of modern smoking accessories, you'll find your new favorite water pipe.
So what are you waiting for? Get to work removing that down stem and get your bong back up and running - or head to Smoke Honest and treat yourself to the glass you deserve!