Are you just using a mouthpiece without much thought?
It's no exaggeration to say that the mouthpiece is the most underestimated hookah accessory. In this article, we'll give you a complete guide to mouthpieces, an item that greatly affects the smoking experience and should never be underestimated, covering their types, how to choose them, how to use them, and more!
- Why use a mouthpiece?
- Differences in mouthpiece types and shapes
- How to choose the right mouthpiece size
- How to use a mouthpiece
- How to enjoy a mouthpiece
1. Why use a mouthpiece?
When enjoying shisha at a shisha bar, you almost certainly use a mouthpiece. While it's essential for etiquette when sharing with others, it also plays other important roles.
For hygiene reasons
A mouthpiece covers the part that touches your mouth, making it hygienic when sharing with others. It's an essential item, especially in shisha bars.
Comfortable draw
It improves the fit during inhalation, making it less tiring even after long use. Soft materials also offer a pleasant feel.
Improves smoke flavor and quality
Mouthpieces, especially those made of metal, also have a cooling effect on the smoke. Additionally, mouthpieces with a constricted tip allow you to enjoy a rich, condensed smoke flavor.
2. Differences in mouthpiece types and shapes
Besides the familiar plastic mouthpieces found in stores, there are actually mouthpieces made from various materials. Some are expensive handmade items, and many shisha lovers are mouthpiece collectors.
Plastic mouthpiece
Lightweight, affordable, and easy to clean. They are easy for beginners to use, but their smoke cooling effect may be slightly inferior. The smoking experience is commensurate with the price.
Metal mouthpiece
Highly durable with a slightly cool feel in the mouth, allowing for a slightly chilled smoke. Stylish and easy to clean. While somewhat heavy and luxurious, some people may find the weight a concern.
Glass mouthpiece
Often handmade, they come in a variety of tip shapes. They feature luxurious designs that are visually appealing, attracting a large number of dedicated fans. While they offer a high cooling effect, care must be taken as they are fragile.
Wooden mouthpiece
Offers a natural smoking experience with a warm design. The gentle feel of wood is appealing, but it can deteriorate with moisture and frequent use.
Silicone mouthpiece
Offers flexible and comfortable inhalation. It is also durable, lightweight, and easy to clean. Its affordable price makes it a popular item for portability.
3. How to choose the right size
There are various sizes and types, but which one should you choose? Here, we'll explain using the most commonly used plastic mouthpieces.
Long mouthpiece
The insertion opening is thin and long, making it compatible with various handles. If the diameter of the handle's mouthpiece opening (insertion opening) is too wide, it will be loose and won't fit. Since the insertion opening has a small diameter, it requires a little more force to inhale. Recommended for handles with a thin mouthpiece opening.
Middle mouthpiece
Its diameter is neither too thin nor too thick, making it more versatile for various handles than the long type. However, be careful if the handle's diameter is too thin, as it may be difficult to fit and could cause air leaks. In the case of plastic, it can be forced in as it deforms slightly, but due to the material's properties, it can crack, so caution is advised. This is a relatively versatile size, compatible with most handles.
Short mouthpiece
This versatile type can be used similarly to the middle size. It has a wide range of compatibility and can be used with various handles. Since the wider end has a slightly larger diameter, it can also be used by fitting the wider end over the handle. By inhaling from the narrow diameter, you can enjoy condensed, heavier smoke. Another advantage is that its smaller size means more pieces per pack.
Silicone mouthpiece
Silicone type mouthpieces are attached by fitting them over the handle's tip. The silicone rubber part is elastic, allowing for some tolerance in handle size, making it usable even with relatively large diameter handles. The tip is also gentle and durable, so many people carry it as their personal mouthpiece.
4. How to use a mouthpiece
How to use a mouthpiece can be surprisingly tricky at first. Generally, you insert the narrow end into the tip of the handle. We'll also share tips for enjoying delicious smoke.
Check connection
Ensure that the hookah hose and mouthpiece are securely connected. A loose connection can cause air leaks, reducing the smoking experience and making the flavor taste thin.
Inhalation technique
Inhaling slowly allows the smoke to cool more, resulting in a smoother draw. Inhaling too forcefully can diminish this smoothness, so it's best to relax and inhale slowly.
Keep it clean
If you use a mouthpiece after inhalation without cleaning it, the flavors of the previous session will mix, preventing you from enjoying the pure taste of the new flavor. Also, for hygiene reasons, it is recommended to clean it after each use.
5. How to enjoy a mouthpiece
With a rich variety of colors and shapes, many people carry their own personalized mouthpieces as a fashion statement. Additionally, with so many unique mouthpieces available, a growing number of enthusiasts are collecting them.
[Summary]
We've provided a detailed explanation of mouthpieces, an item that many people use every time but don't fully understand. Mouthpieces are surprisingly important for enjoying shisha, with many enthusiasts showing great attention to them. Let's enjoy even more delicious shisha after reading this article!
