How to Inhale a Vape

How to Inhale a Vape

If you’re new to vaping, learning how to inhale properly is one of the most important steps to getting a smooth and satisfying experience. Inhaling the wrong way can lead to coughing, throat irritation, or even a burnt taste. Getting it right not only improves flavour and vapour production, but also helps you absorb nicotine effectively—especially if you’re switching from smoking.

There are two main inhaling techniques when it comes to vaping: mouth-to-lung (MTL) and direct-to-lung (DTL). Which one you use depends on the type of device, the airflow settings, and the e-liquid strength.

Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Inhaling

Mouth-to-lung inhaling is the technique most familiar to smokers. It involves drawing vapour into your mouth first, holding it briefly, and then inhaling it into your lungs. This method is ideal for low-wattage devices, pod systems, and higher-nicotine e-liquids like nicotine salts or 50/50 blends. It delivers a more controlled throat hit and mimics the feel of smoking a cigarette.

To do it properly, take a slow, gentle puff into your mouth—like sipping through a straw—then pause for a moment before breathing it into your lungs. This style is best for new users and those looking for a discreet, smoother vape with less vapour.

Direct-to-Lung (DTL) Inhaling

Direct-to-lung inhaling is more common with sub-ohm devices and lower-nicotine e-liquids. It involves taking a deep breath straight into the lungs without holding the vapour in the mouth first. This technique produces much larger clouds and a looser draw, which is preferred by experienced vapers using advanced kits.

To inhale directly to the lungs, place your lips around the mouthpiece and take a long, steady inhale—similar to breathing in before a big yawn. The vapour should go straight to your lungs without delay, and then be exhaled smoothly. This method works best with low nicotine strengths (typically 3mg to 6mg) to avoid harshness.

How to Avoid Coughing or Throat Irritation

If you cough the first few times you vape, you’re not alone—it’s a common experience for beginners. The most frequent causes are inhaling too forcefully, using the wrong technique for your device, or vaping a liquid that’s too strong. High nicotine e-liquids can create a sharp throat hit if inhaled too quickly, especially using DTL style when MTL would be more appropriate.

To avoid coughing, start with small, slow draws and adjust your inhale speed to match your vape’s airflow. If you're using a device with adjustable airflow or power settings, dial them down until you find a smoother balance. Switching to a lower nicotine strength or a different flavour can also help reduce irritation.

Finding the Right Inhaling Style for You

Choosing the right inhale method depends on your device and your goals. If you’re trying to quit smoking and want a similar sensation, mouth-to-lung is the closest match. If you’re vaping for flavour, cloud production, or social use, direct-to-lung may suit you better. Some modern devices are versatile and allow for both styles with a simple change of coil or setting.

It’s worth experimenting with different techniques until you find what feels most natural and comfortable. Good vaping technique improves not just the physical experience, but also how efficiently your body absorbs nicotine—making it a key part of transitioning successfully from smoking.

Breathing Technique and Pacing

One of the easiest mistakes beginners make is trying to inhale a vape the same way they breathe normally. Vaping requires a slower, more controlled pace. Think of it as drawing in a steady stream of air, not taking a sharp breath. Rushing the inhale can overwhelm your throat and lead to coughing, especially with stronger e-liquids.

Take a moment to pause between puffs and let your lungs and throat adjust. Unlike smoking, which involves combustion and fast absorption, vaping is more gentle and works best when you slow things down.

Don’t Hold Your Breath Too Long

There’s a myth that holding vapour in your lungs for longer gives you more nicotine or a stronger effect. In reality, nicotine is absorbed quickly—within seconds—and holding your breath can lead to light-headedness or unnecessary discomfort, especially for new users.

Instead of holding the vapour in your lungs, simply inhale it naturally and exhale comfortably. If you want to increase the nicotine strength, adjust your e-liquid—not your breathing.

Use the Right Airflow Setting

Many devices now come with adjustable airflow, which changes how tight or loose your inhale feels. For mouth-to-lung vaping, a tighter draw works best and mimics cigarette smoking. For direct-to-lung vaping, open airflow allows for deeper inhales and bigger clouds. If your vape feels too harsh or the draw too airy, experiment with adjusting the airflow ring on your tank or pod system.

Finding the right airflow setting can completely change your experience. Beginners often benefit from starting with a tighter draw and opening it up gradually as they become more confident.

Why Your Coil Type Matters

Your coil—the heating element inside your vape—also plays a big role in how you should inhale. Higher resistance coils (above 1.0 ohm) are designed for mouth-to-lung vaping and work best with higher nicotine or nic salt e-liquids. Lower resistance coils (below 1.0 ohm), known as sub-ohm coils, are built for direct-to-lung vaping and lower nicotine levels.

Using the wrong inhale technique for your coil type can result in a burnt taste, excess heat, or a rough throat hit. Always check the coil rating on your device and adjust your inhale style accordingly.

Building a Comfortable Vaping Rhythm

Once you’ve learned the basics, it’s about finding your own rhythm. Some people prefer shorter, more frequent puffs, while others take longer, spaced-out inhales. The key is consistency and awareness—pay attention to how your body reacts and don’t force it. Over time, you’ll develop a natural, comfortable pattern that delivers the right throat hit and vapour production without irritation.

Final Word

Inhaling a vape correctly is about matching your style to your device. Use a gentle mouth-to-lung approach for smaller kits and stronger e-liquids, or go for direct-to-lung if you’re using a sub-ohm setup with lower nicotine. Take your time, start slow, and adjust your technique to avoid coughing and get the best results. Once you get it right, vaping becomes smoother, more enjoyable, and far more effective.