Hookah

Buying a hookah: what should you look for?

Buying a good hookah starts with knowing what you’re looking for. The size of the hookah determines not only how much smoke it produces, but also how easy it is to transport. A smaller hookah, around 30 cm, is perfect for home use or for taking on the go, while larger models often offer more smoke volume and a smoother draw.

The number of hoses is also important. With a hookah that has two hoses, you can smoke with someone else at the same time without constantly passing the hose back and forth. That makes for a much more enjoyable evening with friends. Do you prefer to smoke alone or with just one other person? Then a model with a single hose will do just fine.

How does a shisha water pipe work?

The principle behind a shisha is simple but effective. You fill the glass vase with water so that the metal pipe extends about 2 to 3 centimeters below the water surface. In the tobacco bowl on top, you place shisha tobacco or herbs, covered with aluminum foil with holes. A glowing charcoal briquette is placed on top of that.

When you inhale through the hose, you create negative pressure in the vase. Air is drawn through the charcoal and the tobacco, then filtered through the water, and finally delivered to your lungs. The water cools the smoke and filters out some of the particles, resulting in a smoother inhalation than with a cigarette.

What do you need to get started?

In addition to the shisha itself, you’ll need a few things:

Shisha tobacco or herbs - The flavor of your session depends on what you smoke. Popular flavors include apple, watermelon, mint, and grape. You can also use tobacco-free alternatives like steam stones.

Coals - Special hookah coals that burn slowly and evenly. Self-igniting coals are easy to light with a lighter; natural coals require a gas burner but burn cleaner.

Aluminum foil - To cover the tobacco bowl. You can use pre-punched foil or poke holes yourself with a toothpick.

Charcoal tongs - Essential for safely moving hot coals. A 33 cm pair of charcoal tongs gives you enough distance from the heat.

Maintaining your hookah

A clean hookah smokes better and lasts longer. After each session, rinse the glass vase with warm water. You can rinse the hoses, but let them dry thoroughly to prevent mold growth. Wipe down the metal parts with a damp cloth.

Check the rubber seals regularly. These can dry out and crack over time, causing your hookah to leak air. Replace them when you notice the draw becoming less smooth.

Smoking shisha: an age-old tradition

The hookah has a rich history dating back to 16th-century Persia. Originally intended to purify tobacco smoke through water, the hookah evolved into a social ritual in the Middle East and North Africa. In countries like Egypt, Turkey, and Lebanon, smoking shisha together is still an important part of the culture.

That tradition has spread across the globe. Whether you’re in a shisha lounge or at home on the couch, the principle remains the same: enjoying a relaxing moment together. The hookah invites quiet conversations and quality time.

Health and Shisha

It’s important to know that smoking shisha isn’t without risks. Although the smoke is filtered through water, you still inhale nicotine and other substances when you smoke tobacco. A typical one-hour shisha session is equivalent to smoking several cigarettes in terms of smoke inhalation.

Looking for a tobacco-free alternative? Shiazo steam stones are stones soaked in glycerin and flavorings. They produce vapor instead of smoke and contain no nicotine or tar.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shishas

Can I also smoke weed or hash in a shisha?
Yes, you can. Some people mix cannabis with shisha tobacco for a combined effect. Keep in mind that the effects may differ from those of a joint, since you inhale larger amounts of smoke.

How long does a shisha session last?
With a well-filled tobacco bowl and fresh charcoal, you can smoke for 30 to 60 minutes. Replace the charcoal when it has completely burned out for a longer session.

Is a more expensive hookah better?
Not necessarily. The price often depends on the materials and craftsmanship. A simple, good-quality shisha smokes just fine. With more expensive models, you’re often paying for aesthetics and more durable materials.

How much water should go in the vase?
Fill the vase so that the metal downstem is 2–3 cm submerged. Too little water results in hot, harsh smoke. Too much water makes it difficult to draw.