How to Vape Properly

How to Vape Properly

Vaping may look simple, but getting it right takes a bit of knowledge and practice—especially if you're new to it or switching from smoking. Many people start vaping without understanding the differences between inhale styles, e-liquid types, or how to care for their device. This can lead to a bad first experience, including coughing, throat irritation, or burnt coils. Learning how to vape properly helps you avoid these problems and makes the whole experience smoother and more satisfying.

There’s no one-size-fits-all method, but by understanding your device and how it delivers vapour, you can develop a vaping style that works best for you.

Choose the Right Inhale Technique

The first step to vaping properly is understanding how to inhale. There are two main methods: mouth-to-lung (MTL) and direct-to-lung (DTL). Mouth-to-lung is similar to smoking. You draw the vapour into your mouth, then inhale it into your lungs. This is ideal for smaller pod systems and higher-nicotine liquids, as it gives a strong throat hit and mimics the feel of a cigarette.

Direct-to-lung involves inhaling the vapour straight into your lungs in one deep breath, similar to breathing in before a yawn. This style is used with sub-ohm devices and lower-nicotine e-liquids, producing larger clouds and a smoother hit. Picking the right technique for your device and e-liquid will reduce coughing and improve flavour delivery.

Start Slow and Steady

Unlike smoking, vaping isn’t meant to be rushed. The coil in your vape needs a moment to heat the e-liquid and turn it into vapour. Drawing too hard or puffing repeatedly without pause can flood the coil or dry it out, leading to spitback or burnt hits. Take slow, steady puffs, giving the coil time to do its job.

If you’re new to vaping, start with shorter draws and gradually increase the length as you get used to the feel. Holding the vapour in your mouth briefly before inhaling can also reduce irritation, especially with high-nicotine liquids.

Prime the Coil Before You Start

If you're using a new coil or pod, it’s essential to prime it. This means letting the e-liquid soak into the cotton inside the coil before you take your first puff. Fill the tank or pod, then let it sit for at least five minutes. Some users also add a drop of e-liquid directly into the coil’s exposed cotton for quicker saturation.

Skipping this step can cause the coil to burn instantly, ruining the flavour and making the vape taste harsh from the start. Priming ensures your coil is fully soaked and ready for use.

Mind Your Settings and Power Levels

If your device has adjustable wattage or airflow, make sure it's set correctly for the coil you're using. Each coil comes with a recommended power range—going too high can burn the coil, while going too low can produce weak vapour. Airflow also matters. A tighter draw suits MTL vaping, while wide airflow is better for DTL.

Check your device’s manual or packaging for guidance. If the vapour is too hot, tastes burnt, or feels too harsh, lowering the wattage and closing the airflow slightly may help smooth things out.

Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks

Vaping can dry out your mouth and throat, especially if you’re using e-liquids high in propylene glycol. Drinking water throughout the day helps reduce dryness and keeps your throat comfortable. It also improves your ability to taste flavours, which can become muted if you're dehydrated.

Taking breaks between puffs not only gives the coil time to recover but also helps your body adjust to the nicotine, reducing the chances of feeling dizzy or overstimulated.

Avoid Common First-Time Mistakes

New vapers often make the same mistakes, which can lead to coughing, burnt coils, or frustration. One of the biggest issues is inhaling too quickly or too sharply, especially if you're coming from cigarettes. Vapour doesn’t behave the same way as smoke—it’s denser and cooler, and pulling too hard can lead to spitback or flooded coils.

Another common mistake is not waiting long enough after refilling. Whether it’s a new pod or a fresh coil, the cotton needs time to soak up liquid. Vaping too soon can scorch it instantly, giving a burnt taste that won’t go away. Being patient during setup and starting slowly can save you time and money in the long run.

Choose the Right E-Liquid for Your Setup

Getting the best vape experience starts with matching your e-liquid to your device. If you’re using a low-powered pod system, look for 50/50 VG/PG blends or nicotine salt liquids. These are thinner and better suited to small coils, providing smooth hits and fast nicotine absorption without needing high power.

If you’re using a larger sub-ohm device, opt for high-VG e-liquids. These produce more vapour and work well with wide airflow and direct-to-lung inhaling. Using the wrong liquid can cause poor flavour, burnt hits, or leaking, so always check what’s recommended for your coil.

Build a Vaping Routine That Works for You

Vaping isn’t about chain-hitting or inhaling constantly. One of the benefits over smoking is that you can control how much you use and when. Developing a rhythm that suits your lifestyle—whether it’s a few puffs during a break or switching on your device in the evening—helps avoid overuse and makes the experience more enjoyable.

Be mindful of your body. If you start to feel light-headed, your throat gets sore, or the flavour seems muted, it might be time to take a break or rehydrate. Vaping should be satisfying, not uncomfortable. Pay attention to how your body responds, and adjust your habits accordingly.

Clean and Maintain Your Device

Even the best vaping technique won’t help if your device is dirty or poorly maintained. Over time, residue from e-liquid can build up in your tank, mouthpiece, and airflow system. Cleaning your vape regularly with warm water and tissue helps keep flavour crisp and airflow smooth.

If you’re using refillable pods or tanks, change your coil every few days to a week, depending on usage. A burnt or clogged coil ruins flavour and performance, no matter how carefully you inhale. Keeping your kit clean and coils fresh is part of vaping properly—it makes every puff cleaner and more consistent.

Final Word

Vaping properly isn’t just about inhaling—it’s about understanding your device, using the right technique, and avoiding common mistakes that can spoil the experience. Whether you're vaping to quit smoking or just getting started, taking the time to learn proper habits pays off in flavour, performance, and comfort. Start slow, be mindful of your settings, and always let the coil do its job—and you’ll enjoy a smoother, more satisfying vape every time.