Dab straws (or nectar collectors, if you prefer) offer simplicity and portability that many cannabis consumers appreciate. Touch the tip to a concentrate container, heat it to vaporize, and inhale!
Unlike wax pens, these devices can handle a wider variety of concentrates. But how exactly do they work?
How They Work
A dab straw is a small, handheld device used to vaporize oils and waxes. It has a heating element and mouthpiece and can be powered by a battery or torch. There are many different types of dab straws. Look for long-lasting battery life, multiple temperature settings, and a water filtration system.
Dab straws (nectar collectors, honey straws, or titanium tubes) are long, cylinder-shaped pieces of silicone or borosilicate glass, with one end for dabs and the other for inhaling. Most have a tip made of titanium, quartz, or borosilicate glass that can be heated manually or electronically and delivers pure terpene flavor. Some models even include a bubbler that cools the vapor before inhaling, making for smoother highs. Some also have a storage compartment for concentrates. For quick, easy cleaning, soak the dab straw’s tip in isopropyl alcohol for 30-60 minutes and use Q-tips and pipe cleaners to remove any remaining residue.
Why They’re Popular
Some people find a dab straw more convenient than the traditional wax rig methods, which can be complicated, messy and intimidating for first-timers. A premium quartz dab straw is an easy-to-use, reliable alternative that’s perfect for those who want to experience the benefits of dabs without all the hassle of a rig.
Dab straws are also compatible with a wide variety of concentrates. Unlike wax pens, which only work with waxy concentrates, dab straws can be used with oils and other extracts.
To use a dab straw, heat the tip and dip it into your choice of extract. Then, inhale through the mouthpiece to enjoy the delicious, flavorful vapor. Some dab straws even come with a bubbler, which cools the vapor and enhances flavor. You can also buy an electric dab straw for added convenience and portability. Just make sure to thoroughly clean your dab straw before using it again.
How to Use
A dab straw is a smaller version of a dab rig. This is a great way to dab on the go, as it requires fewer parts and can be much more discreet than a full-sized rig.
To use a dab straw, put your wax in the container or dish you choose and grab your dab torch lighter. Then, touch the tip of the dab straw to the surface of your concentrate and begin inhaling.
Be careful not to overheat the tip of the dab straw because this can cause it to burn and irritate your lungs. Also, clean your dab straw regularly with isopropyl alcohol and a cotton swab or pipe cleaner.
Dab straws are also more compatible with a wider variety of concentrates than wax pens because they don’t have an exposed coil and can be dipped directly into your material. This makes them a great option for new dabbers who aren’t yet comfortable using a full-sized dab rig.
Cleaning
Unlike wax pens, glass dab straws can be easily cleaned and sterilized with rubbing alcohol, cotton swabs or pipe cleaners, sea salt, and warm water. They are also much less messy than their rig counterparts and require no special equipment like a dab tool, stands, or batteries, making them ideal for on-the-go use.
Since dab straws have a relatively short lifespan, cleaning them to maintain functionality and extend their life regularly is important. If necessary, begin by disassembling your straw and placing it in a resealable plastic bag or jar filled with isopropyl alcohol to soak. Then, rinse it thoroughly to remove the residue and allow it to dry completely before using it again. This process will keep your straw clean and safe for long-lasting, efficient use. Cleaning your straw after every use will help ensure that your concentrates have the best flavor and consistency. It will also eliminate any odors caused by the buildup of residue or debris in the straw.
