If you think that a hookah is something you will enjoy but don’t know the first thing about how they work or how to set up a hookah, then keep reading while we cover the basics of hookahs!

No one likes having to learn something new, but being a beginner in the hookah world is nothing to be ashamed of. With our instruction, you’ll be enjoying your hookah like a professional in no time at all. The great thing about using a hookah is that once you have it set up correctly, it’s a great way to enjoy tobacco or CBD. 

How to set up a hookah for beginners!

  1. Place your hookah stem, including gasket, into the glass vase. Ensure that the fitting is airtight. 
  2. Place the metal tray over the top of the hookah stem. 
  3. Insert the end of the hose with gasket into the hose port. 
  4. If your hookah includes an air valve, ensure that the ball bearing is inside before attaching it. 
  5. Check the airflow by putting your hand over the top of the stem and then sucking on the hose. There should be minimal to no airflow. If the airflow is correct, it’s time to move onto the next step. 
  6. Remove the stem from the vase and then fill the vase with water. Replace the stem onto the vase. Your stem should sit about an inch into the water.
  7. Break up the material that you’re smoking and lay it into the bowl. Don’t pack it too tightly as you want air to flow through. 
  8. If you’re using either a metal screen or foil, cover the bowl so that it fits well, and if you’re using foil, then don’t forget to put a few small air holes in it.
  9. Place your bowl carefully on top of the stem and ensure that it fits well. 
  10. Now it’s time to light your heating coals. Wait for the coals to become red hot and then place them on top of the clay bowl. 
  11. Give it a minute and then start to inhale on your hose. It might take a minute for the smoke to start pumping through, but after that, you’ll be all set. Enjoy!

Smoke Alley has four physical stores in Houston and Katy, TX. Stop by one of our locations to talk with our experts about hookahs, and tobacco for your hookah. We’d love to show you our range of hookah products