Better flavor. Smoother smoke. Longer-lasting gear.

If your hookah tastes burnt, bitter, or like last week's mint mix—it probably needs a clean. Dirty hookahs don’t just ruin flavor, they also shorten the life of your setup and make every session less enjoyable.

Whether you smoke daily or occasionally, here's how to keep your hookah in top shape—and what to avoid:

Why Clean Your Hookah Regularly?

• Prevents flavor ghosting between sessions
• Keeps airflow smooth and unrestricted
• Avoids mold, bacteria, and rust buildup
• Preserves the original flavor of your shisha
• Makes your hookah last way longer

What You'll Need:

• Warm water
• Cleaning solution
• Baking soda (optional)
• Hookah cleaning brush set
• Paper towels or microfiber cloth
• Pipe cleaners or cotton swabs for tight spots

Step-by-Step Hookah Cleaning Guide

Step 1: Disassemble Everything

Take apart the stem, base, bowl, tray, grommets, hose (if it’s washable), and purge valve. Set them out on a clean towel.

Step 2: Rinse the Base

Empty old water and rinse the base with warm water. Add a splash of lemon juice or baking soda for odor removal. Swirl, scrub with a long brush, and rinse again.

Step 3: Scrub the Stem

Run warm water through the stem. Use a thin cleaning brush to reach inside. If there’s residue or buildup, soak it in warm soapy water for 5–10 minutes first.

Step 4: Clean the Bowl

Use a soft sponge or brush—no harsh scrubbing if it’s clay or glazed. Remove any burned residue gently.

Step 5: Check the Hose

If your hose is not washable, don’t rinse it. Instead, blow air through it to remove dust or buildup. If it is washable, rinse it with warm water, hang it to dry fully.

Step 6: Dry It All Properly

Moisture = mold. Towel dry everything and let it air out before reassembling.

What NOT to Do:

• Don’t use boiling water—it can crack glass bases.
• Don’t use bleach or heavy chemicals.
• Don’t reassemble while wet—this traps moisture and causes mold or rust

How Often Should You Clean It?

• Light rinse: after every session (even if it’s just water and a quick dry)
• Deep clean: every 3–5 sessions, or weekly if used frequently
• Full disassemble & sanitize: monthly or between flavor changes

Want a Cleaner Session?

We carry full hookah cleaning kits, brushes, replacement hoses, and flavor-neutralizing cleaners. Stop by and we’ll set you up with everything you need to keep your hookah fresh.