Side-by-Side Comparison

Factor	Glass Bongs	Silicone Bongs
Flavour	Crisp & clean – inert surface, great for clarity.	Neutral to mild – modern food-grade silicone is decent.
Durability	Fragile if dropped – thicker boro helps.	Near-unbreakable – perfect for travel or clumsy hands.
Cleaning	Easy with cleaners/ISO + brushes.	Dishwasher-safe (top rack) on many models; avoid heat-dry.
Portability	Best at home; heavier, rigid.	Light, flexible, folds for packing; great on the move.
Style/Look	Premium, transparent, artistic designs.	Bold colours, playful, practical shapes.
Price	Mid → premium (thick boro, percs, ice).	Budget → mid; strong value.
Accessories	Huge range of bowls, percs, adapters.	Growing range; simple compatibility.

Who Should Pick Glass?

• You care about flavour purity and love percolator designs.
• You want a display-worthy centrepiece (clear, artistic, collectible).
• You don’t plan to throw it in a backpack every day.

Who Should Pick Silicone?

• You want near-unbreakable durability and easy storage.
• You travel, hit festivals, or need a portable setup.
• You prefer low-maintenance and budget-friendly.

Care & Cleaning (Both Types)

Regular cleaning keeps flavour clear and airflow smooth. Use purpose-made cleaners or ISO + coarse salt, plus the right brush for stems and necks.

FAQs

Is silicone safe? Reputable brands use food-grade silicone designed for heat tolerance. Always check the maker’s guidance.

Does glass always taste better? Glass is inert and transparent, so most people find the flavour cleaner — especially with percs and ice.

Can I put silicone in the dishwasher? Many pieces are top-rack safe. Skip heat-dry and check the product page for specifics.