A bubbler is a smoking device that combines elements of both a pipe and a bong. A bubbler includes a water chamber which helps in chilling the smoke and cleansing it before it enters your mouth including the throat and lungs. On hitting the stem, the smoke flows through water and hence the available water serves to cool off the smoke and cleanse it of impurity.

The main benefits of using a bubbler over a regular pipe include cooler, smoother hits and added filtration. Bubblers use water to cool down the smoke, reducing throat irritation and coughing. They also filter out some toxins and particles, resulting in a cleaner smoking experience compared to a dry pipe.

While most bubblers are designed for use with dry herbs, some models can be used with concentrates if equipped with the right attachments or accessories. However, it’s important to check whether your bubbler is specifically made to handle concentrates or if it's strictly for dry herbs.

The main difference between a bubbler and a bong is size and portability. Bubblers are smaller in size making them easy to carry and favorable for use while traveling. Bongs on the other end are bigger in size, but they provide more filtration and water capacity resulting in a much better experience while smoking. However, they are not the best options for traveling with.

As previously mentioned, such devices or macabre definitions of beautiful accessories are usually made out of glass although there are some models which are constructed from solid graded silicone, coloured acrylic as well newspaper clay. Generally speaking, glass bubblers are the most common in the market since they give good taste and experience which is hard to be matched by other materials of construction. The Silicone class of bubblers is the second most preferred material in construction as it is more portable and can stand tough use, and travel or outdoor use.

In cleaning a bubbler, first, get rid of any water that was left inside the piece and rinse it with warm water. Then a cleaners such as isopropyl alcohol or cleaners used for other purposes are simply scooped with coarse salt then the bubbler is filled up and shaken. Air dry or use a towel. I suggest you use some paper towels to stuff into the various pipe joints so that you can clean them later with the pipe cleaners as they will be wet.

Yes, bubblers are much more portable than bongs. This makes them very good for smoking on the road. There even exist mini bubblers that are specially manufactured for traveling and still come with the benefit of water filtration without the hassle of the size. Depending on the size, a small bubbler can be comfortably carried in a bag or a pocket.

The best option is a pretty cold and clean water that has gone through a filter. This is because cold water is much better in cooling the smoke which results in a smooth hit. Some people also add ice to further enhance the cooling effect, but make sure your bubbler can handle ice before doing so.

Yes, smoking through a bubbler increases the enjoyment of your smoke since it filters the smoke and cools it as well. The smoother and more refined effect that emerges is even quite pleasant. In addition, plain water can be replaced with flavoured liquids because some smokers like to play with the water in order to change the flavour.

When it comes to choosing the right bubbler, it is all about your personal needs. If you want to travel with it, you must get a mini or handheld bubbler. If filling the practical requirement is primary, look for more number of chambers in the bubbler or percolator bubblers. You have to think of the material as well: glass gives the best taste but silicone is good for travel and comfort. Consider how and where you will use it most, this way you'll easily determine the one that matches your lifestyle the best.