What is A Nectar Collector and How to Use?

With the prevalence of dabbing culture, dab lovers are searching for a more convenient way to diversify their dabbing experience. Therefore, nectar collectors, also known as dab straws, are becoming an increasingly popular choice for consuming dabs and providing maximum portability and convenience.

Compared to a conventional dab rig which is typically large and needs some expertise to operate correctly, a nectar collector is relatively easier to use and more portable to carry around; additionally, more affordable than a dab rig set in most cases.

What is a nectar collector？

Nectar collectors are vertical and small-sized dab rigs to vaporize concentrates. The body is usually made of glass or silicone, and the tip is made of titanium or quartz, which is heated by a torch or electric power, and then used to consume concentrates. The principle of using a nectar collector is similar to taking a dab, except you are placing the heated tip on the concentrates rather than placing concentrates on a heated dab nail. Generally, a nectar collector includes the following parts.

Tip: Made of titanium, quartz, or ceramic, a nectar collector tip, usually ranging from 10mm or 14mm in diameter, is heated by a torch and directly contacts the concentrate.

Mouthpiece: A glass or silicone mouthpiece with a flared top, used as a straw to sip on dab vapor.

Concentrate container: A food-grade silicone or glass dish to contain the concentrates.

Water chamber: A percolator that makes use of water to filter the dab vapor. 

How to use a nectar collector？

Step 1: Fill in the body of the nectar collector with water.

Step 2: Put your concentrates in a glass, quartz, or silicone container.

Step 3: Heat the nectar collector’s tip with a torch for about 40 to 50 seconds. 

(Heating time depends on the strength of your torch, quality of your tip, and your    desired heating temperature)

Step 4: After heating, let the tip cool for a while. 

Step 5: When it reaches your expected temperature, lightly apply the tip to the concentrates in the container, and then place your mouth around the mouthpiece to inhale gently.

How to choose a nectar collector？

Today there have been a few types of nectar collectors available in the market. If you feel confused when shopping around, here is some information to help you choose a suitable one for you. Let‘s take a look at the three most common types:

Silicone – Silicone is one of the latest materials for nectar collectors. Nectar collectors made from silicone are not easy to break, and their durability makes them a good choice for portable dabs. Also, they are generally more affordable than other types. It is good news for consumers on a budget or novices who don’t want to spend too much before knowing if a honey straw is suitable for them.

Glass – Glass nectar collectors provide the closest experience to taking a dab from a rig. The glass allows your vapors to remain clean and untouched as they travel up through the device and go into your mouth. If you are looking for an authentic dabbing experience, you’ll genuinely marvel at what glass nectar collectors offer. However, the fragility of glass makes them a little dicey to use on the go, which should also be taken into account.

Electric – Electronic nectar collectors are great for those valuing convenience while taking dabs. Instead of carrying a torch to enjoy dabs, all you have to do is assemble your piece, turn it on to heat the tip, and use it to contact your concentrates. For dabbers who want to take along as few tools as possible when they’re on the way, electronic nectar collectors will be a better option for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to clean a nectar collector?

Before you start cleaning your nectar collector, you need some necessary supplies to do the job. You do not want to begin cleaning only to find there are supplies lacking and you cannot finish the process soon. Supplies preparation is vital when it comes to cleaning nectar collectors.

Supplies You Need:

• Running water
• Sea Salt
• Isopropyl alcohol – For the best result, choose one whose concentration is 91％ or higher.
• Plastic containers
• Pipe cleaners
• Paper towels
• Q-Tip

Cleaning Steps:

1. Separate the pieces of your nectar collector set
2. Fill containers with the cleaning solution
3. Soak the silicone nectar collector for about 30-60 minutes
4. Rinse off the solution 
5. Remove tough spots with pipe cleaners
6. Rinse with water and then dry the device with dry papers
7. Put your parts back together
8. Cleaning the nectar collector tip

How to get reclaim out of a nectar collector？

Most dab enthusiasts want to stretch their dollar by getting the best out of their concentrates. One popular way is to collect the reclaim from your dabbing accessories, such as your nectar collector. For different types, the steps are slightly different.

Reclaim from a glass nectar collector:

• Heat the nectar collector with a torch from the mouthpiece
• Spin the nectar collector, and you will see the oil or wax dropping
• Use a container to collect the reclaim

Reclaim from a silicone nectar collector:

• Remove the quartz or titanium tip
• Put the main silicone body in your refrigerator
• Freeze and crunch it

How to put water in a nectar collector?

• Remove the tip from your nectar collector
• Fill with water roughly ⅓ of the chamber
• Install the tip and make sure there is no water in the lower joint before using

What calls for special attention is that if you have overloaded your nectar collector, remove the excess water by blowing through the mouthpiece.