If you indulge in cannabis, you’ve probably had your share of spills and messes—especially with concentrates. Whether you deal with sticky wax, brittle shatter, or gooey oil, it’s essential to know how to clean up these cannabis concentrates effectively. Learn how to keep your space tidy and improve the longevity of your surfaces with our tips and tricks.
Understanding Cannabis Concentrates
Before we get into the specifics of cleanup, let’s quickly define cannabis concentrates. Concentrates refers to a range of cannabis products—from wax to shatter to oil—that have a higher potency than the raw cannabis plant. People choose them for their intense flavor and strong THC content, but their sticky, resinous nature can make them difficult to clean up.
Why Are They So Hard to Clean?
Because cannabis concentrates are often sticky and oily, they tend to leave behind stubborn residues—especially on surfaces, fabrics, and even skin. Read on to uncover the best methods for tackling these messes.
General Tips for Cleaning Up Cannabis Concentrates
Here are some general cleanup tips that apply to most situations:
- Act Quickly: The sooner you address a spill, the easier it will be to clean
- Blot, Don’t Rub: For most surfaces, blotting is better than rubbing, as rubbing can spread the mess.
- Use Household Items: Stock up on alcohol, oil, ice, and paper towels. Isopropyl alcohol is particularly effective and can break down sticky residues rather quickly.
Cleaning Cannabis Concentrates from Different Surfaces
Cleaning Hard Surfaces (Glass, Metal, Wood)
Glass
Thankfully, it is relatively easy to clean glass surfaces. First, freeze or cool down the concentrate. Once it has hardened, gently scrape it off the glass with a razor blade or similar tool. Follow up with isopropyl alcohol and a paper towel. Very similar to cleaning other types of glassware regularly.
Metal
For metal surfaces, you should also freeze the spilled concentrate. Once you remove most of it, clean the area with alcohol or a specialized metal cleaner. Metal can handle more force, so use a non-abrasive pad if necessary.
Wood
Of the hard surfaces, wood tends to be tricky. When a spill occurs, blot up the concentrate as much as possible. Then, gently clean the area with a wood-safe cleaner and a soft cloth. Use the cleaner sparingly, as excess moisture can leave lasting damage.
Cleaning Soft Surfaces (Fabric, Carpet, Upholstery)
Fabric and Carpet
If you spill concentrates on soft fabric or carpet, blot the area with a clean cloth to absorb any excess. Then, sprinkle baking soda on the stain and let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the oil. Afterward, vacuum the baking soda and clean the area with a fabric-safe cleaner.
Upholstery
For upholstery, use a similar method to fabric. Blot up as much of the concentrate as possible, then treat the stain with a mixture of mild detergent and water. Gently scrub with a soft brush and rinse with clean water.
Cleaning Concentrates from Skin and Hands
If residue from concentrates sticks to your skin, use a combination of oil and soap to remove it. Apply baby oil to the affected area, then wash your hands with warm, soapy water to help break down the sticky residue without damaging your skin.
Cleaning Tools and Equipment Used with Concentrates
Keeping your tools clean is just as crucial as cleaning spills. Here’s how to maintain your dabbers, bongs, and vaporizers:
Dabbers
Soak your dabbers in isopropyl alcohol to dissolve any residue. Use a small brush to scrub off any stubborn bits, then rinse thoroughly with water.
Bongs
Disassemble the bong and clean each piece with a solution of alcohol and salt. Swirl the solution around, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse well.
Vaporizers
For vaporizers, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, you should clean the chamber and any removable parts with alcohol wipes or a soft cloth.
Preventing Future Messes
Here are some tips to handle concentrates without the mess:
- Use a Dab Mat: A dab mat helps catch spills or splashes.
- Handle with Care: Use tools like dabbers and scoops to manage concentrates more precisely and reduce the risk of spills.
- Store Properly: Keep concentrates in airtight containers to avoid leaks and spills.
Conclusion
With the right tools and tips, it should be simple to clean up cannabis concentrates. Remember to act quickly, use the appropriate cleaning agents, and always follow the specific care instructions for your tools and surfaces.
Check out our shop page to explore some popular types of concentrates, and reach out to us at Reverie 73 if you want more cannabis care advice.