The world of cannabis consumption is filled with all sorts of gadgets, and let’s face it, anything that makes the experience more convenient is a win in any stoner’s book.

If you’re unfamiliar with the nectar collector, consider this your official introduction. Also known as dab straws or honey straws, nectar collectors are compact, tube-like dab rigs designed for vaporizing cannabis concentrates.

But are they as easy to use as they look? Pretty much.

Before you go DIY, let’s cover how to properly use nectar collectors, whether they’re made of glass, silicone, or rubber.

A nectar collector typically consists of several parts:

• Tube-like body made of glass, silicone, rubber, or metal
• Tip made of heat-resistant materials like titanium, quartz, or ceramic
• A mouthpiece
• Concentrate reservoir
• Water chamber for filtration (only some models come equipped with this)

Some nectar collectors require that you use a butane torch to light the tip that touches the concentrate, while others are electric and use a battery to power the heating element. We prefer the electric ones since carrying around a butane torch isn’t always the most low-key move.

Using A Nectar Collector

If you are used to traditional dab rigs, then using a nectar collector won’t be an issue for you. It works almost the same, with slight adjustments; using a nectar collector, you place your heated tip in the concentrate instead of a heated dab nail. The precaution here is to ensure you don’t inhale until the tip has cooled.

Here’s a straightforward step-by-step on nectar collector use:

Preparation

1. Make sure all parts of your nectar collector are securely attached, including the neck, body, and tip.

• If your nectar collector comes unassembled, start by attaching the neck to the body. Ensure that any O-rings or connectors are securely fastened to prevent any leakage or loose connections.
• Attach the tip to the body. This is typically a quartz or titanium tip that screws or fits snugly into the lower end of the body.

2. If your nectar collector has a water reservoir, begin by filling it with cool tap water. Fill only enough to cover any percolators and avoid overfilling, since it can lead to the not-so-sweet backsplash during hits.

3. Place your cannabis concentrate on a heat-resistant dish. Make sure it’s stable and within easy reach for when you start dabbing.

Using The Nectar Collector

4. Use a butane torch to heat the tip if you have a non-electric nectar collector. Aim the flame directly at the tip for at least 30 seconds or until it reaches the desired temperature. Avoid overheating so that the concentrated flavor stays intact. Let the tip cool for about 10-15 seconds after heating.

5. Dip the heated tip into the concentrate on the dish. Inhale slowly as the tip makes contact. The heat will vaporize the concentrate, allowing you to inhale the vapor through the water-cooled tube.

Cleaning A Nectar Collector

After the nectar collector has cooled down completely, disassemble and clean each part to remove any residue. Isopropyl alcohol and salt can work wonders. Regular cleaning helps keep your nectar collector performing smoothly and effectively, prevents the headache of a clog, and maintains the delicious flavor of your concentrate.

The beauty of using a nectar collector lies in its convenience—you can enjoy your favorite cannabis oils just about anywhere.

Nectar collectors are also great for saving your concentrates. They let you dab right into your oil, preventing any waste that usually happens when it scorches or pools up in traditional setups. Plus, they’re discreet enough to tuck away in your pocket when you’re on the move or need to keep things low-key.

Nectar collectors also tend to be more budget-friendly than full-sized dab rigs, making them a solid choice for anyone looking to save a bit while still enjoying top-notch hits.

Now that we know how to use a nectar collector, let’s look into some considerations for specific material types.

Pros To Silicone Nectar Collectors

• Durability: Silicone is known for its resilience. It’s perfect for those prone to accidents since it won’t break if dropped or bent, sparing any heartbreak over damaged gear.
• Travel-Friendly: Its durability also makes silicone one of the best materials for travel. You can toss it in your bag without worry.

Cons To Silicone Nectar Collectors

• Heat Sensitivity: Silicone can’t handle high temperatures, and using intense heat can actually degrade the material. It’s important not to overheat silicone nectar collectors, which requires an extra note of caution on your end during your smoke sesh.
• Cleaning Challenges: Cleaning silicone can be trickier than cleaning glass. Sticky residues can cling to silicone and might require stronger cleaning agents and a bit more elbow grease to get fully clean.

Pros of Glass Nectar Collectors

• Flavor Preservation: Glass is non-reactive, meaning it won’t alter the flavor of your vape hits. And oh man, can those vape hits be tasty with the right terpene profile.
• Heat Resistance: Glass can handle high temperatures very well, which is crucial for effective dabbing. This material keeps the heat evenly distributed, which makes sure that you’re getting the most out of your concentrate.
• Easy to Clean: Glass is pretty straightforward to clean. A simple soak in isopropyl alcohol and salt will usually remove any residue, leaving it looking like new.

Cons of Glass Nectar Collectors

• Fragility: The biggest drawback of glass is its fragility since it can break easily if dropped or mishandled, which can be a deal-breaker for the clumsier folks.
• Heat Sensitivity: While glass is great at withstanding high temperatures, sudden changes in temperature can cause it to crack or shatter, so it’s important to heat it gradually and evenly.

Pros of Rubber Nectar Collectors

• Durability: Rubber is extremely resilient and shock-absorbent, making it nearly indestructible under normal use. This makes it ideal for those who are prone to dropping their gear or for use in less controlled environments.
• Flexibility: Like silicone, rubber nectar collectors are flexible, which can make them easier to handle and less likely to be damaged during transport.

Cons of Rubber Nectar Collectors

• Heat Resistance: Rubber doesn’t handle high temperatures as well as materials like glass or silicone. Excessive heat can cause rubber to degrade or emit odors, which might affect the flavor of your concentrates.
• Maintenance: Rubber can absorb smells and flavors over time, which means it requires regular, thorough cleaning to maintain flavor purity. It’s also more prone to staining from resin and other residues.
• Less Common: Rubber is not as widely used for nectar collectors as glass or silicone, so finding high-quality options might be more challenging.