💧 Vases

Let's not forget the essentials: the vase of a shisha

If you're in this category, it means you haven't forgotten it, but… why are shisha vases so important? It's simple, the word itself explains it: without one, it's impossible to use a shisha. However, why are there so many models, and why are they so different from each other? Here we explain.

If you're just starting in this hobby, it's common that your shisha comes with a vase included. The market is increasingly competitive, and even the cheapest shisha usually comes with all its accessories. Still, many manufacturers only sell the shisha stem because they understand that their products are aimed at another type of customer, one who wants to expand their collection and customize their own shisha to their personal taste.

Currently, all kinds of brands launch their own vases on the market, and there is a wide variety of them. From the most typical vase designs to more avant-garde models, such as Brazilian shisha vases, bohemian styles, or more modern examples similar to the designs of Russian shishas.

We encourage you to check out our catalog for all the shisha vases we have. However, if you're not sure which one you want for your collection or want more information, we'll explain a bit more about shisha vases and their peculiarities below. Join us!

What makes shisha vases different?

The most logical thing to think is that shisha vases only differ in size and aesthetics, but that would be an understatement. Although these might be their main characteristics, we must consider other aspects such as the type of connection, the weight of the vase itself, and even the draw of the shisha.

As a general rule, most shisha vases are connected to the stem by a rubber grommet or seal that ensures the tightness of the whole setup. This can be seen in both older shishas like the famous and old Mya Bambino (whose rubber connection many veteran shisha enthusiasts will remember for how difficult it was to put on), as well as in practically all current models, where the rubber is not pressured into the vase but is directly attached to the stem, making it much easier to assemble.

This type of connection ensures very good airtightness and allows you not to have to attach metal accessories to the vase, letting these show off their glass construction.

However, other shisha vases work with a screw system. In these, the vase is not pressured on, but the glass vase ends in a metal thread that attaches to the thread on the stem. The only drawback of these vases is that they don't have as much interchangeability as those that use pressure, as they depend on both threads matching.

Similarly, don't think that all vases with rubber connections make them completely interchangeable, as the diameter of the stem only works with a vase of a similar diameter. Also, even though they work with rubber, it's not the same to have a shisha with a pressure fit as one with the rubber attached to the stem, so you can't fit a bohemian vase with a pressure stem no matter how similar the principle might be.

The weight of the vase: a key factor

Then there's the weight factor, which, although it may seem trivial, we must take into account when choosing our shisha  vase. This is especially important when it comes to a small and light vase because, unlike more solid and heavier vases, a slight tug on the hose can cause the entire shisha to fall over, and you can imagine the mess. This is something that can happen with any shisha, of course, but it is true that with larger shisha vases, they can hold their position better.

So, how does the size and shape of a shisha vase affect its draw? It's very simple: the more water a vase holds, the greater the restriction because the smoke moves more water. This is why the size and amount of water a shisha vase holds can affect the draw. On the other hand, although it's a minor detail, larger shisha vases hold more smoke, so even if your shisha has a very good purge, it's not the same to purge a small vase as a elephant foot vase.

Vase hygiene and maintenance

Finally, the size of a shisha vase also affects its subsequent hygiene. It's not the same to clean a small vase as it is to clean a large one, although with our cleaning accessories, no shisha vase will get away from you. Check them out, and you won't regret it.

How to choose a vase?

The hard part is choosing just one. If you're reading this, it's because either your vase broke (R.I.P.) or you'd like to expand your collection to give your shisha a new look. Fortunately, in our catalog, we have a wide variety of cheap shisha vases to ease your painful loss, or more exclusive shisha vases like the famous Caesar shisha vases, made of Bohemian glass with the most striking and luxurious details.

They need to be filled correctly

Don't leave yet because this is important. Regardless of the type of connection, size, or weight of your shisha vase, you need to know how to fill your vase correctly with the optimal water level. Those who have suffered with quick-light charcoal will already be well-prepared, but if you're new, pay attention.

Typically, the water level should be two fingers above the end of your shisha's downstem or diffuser. If it's too far above this level, you risk the water rising to the hose more easily and, unfortunately, also to the bowl if your purge isn't good (I’m remembering my old Bambino too much in this article). On the other hand, if the water level is insufficient, your smoke session will be somewhat unpleasant because, without that magical bubbling we all love, the smoke that reaches your mouth will be too dense and harsh.

Please, don't do it

Okay, one last thing. I understand it's tempting to be innovative and put different things in your shisha vase, like ice to give your shisha a fresh touch or even fruits to add nuances to the session. That's fine. But please, don't put milk in the vase  instead of water. It doesn't make more smoke, nor does it do anything other than make your whole shisha dirty. Trust me on this.