How to use a vape pod/cartridge

If you are switching from cigarettes to vaping, there are a few differences you should consider. One of the biggest differences you'll notice right away is the inhalation technique used to create your desired vaping experience.

Don't be caught off guard by the challenges of how to vape properly. In this article, we'll share the basics of vaping and all the tips you need to master the inhalation technique for a true vaping experience.

What is a Vape?

A vape is a small, handheld electronic device that serves as an alternative to traditional tobacco smoking. Users can slowly reduce the nicotine content in the e-liquid to reduce consumption. It can be seen as an alternative version of nicotine gum or patches, combining the hand-to-mouth action that smokers miss when quitting.

The first commercial e-cigarettes were launched in the early 2000s by the Chinese company Ruyan. The initial products were designed to resemble real tobacco cigarettes as much as possible. However, there is now a wide variety of styles, designs, and functions to choose from.

How Does Vaping Work?

Most vapes work similarly: they use a power source to generate heat, which vaporizes the e-liquid through an atomizer, and then releases the vapor through a mouthpiece.

When all these components (vape mod, coil, and atomizer) work together in a complete system, you have what's called a complete vape. Missing other parts, any part is incomplete, so although you can buy individual parts separately, a vape can only function fully when all parts are assembled.

If you are experienced with vaping, you can choose your preferred battery, coil, or atomizer. However, if you are a beginner, it is best to stick with pre-packaged or pre-filled vape kits like RELX to ensure all parts in a single product are compatible.

Power Source vs. Vapor Source

The two main components of your favorite vape include the power source and the vapor source.

Power Source

The power source, also known as the vape mod, is usually a lithium-ion battery and can come in different shapes and forms. They go by names such as box mods, vape pens, tube mods, etc., matching their appearance. Some have adjustable power, some are temperature-controlled, and some are basic and don't require the user to master additional knowledge.

There are three main types of power sources: low power, medium power, and high power. Low-power sources include pod vapes, vape pens, and e-cigarettes. Medium-power options include tube mods or box mods. Finally, high-power mods include box mods or mechanical mods. More details are as follows:

• Low power - No experience required, uses rechargeable batteries, good portability
• Medium power - Recommended to have battery safety knowledge, adjustable power options, pocketable
• High power - Recommended for experienced users, uses replaceable batteries, larger but pocketable

Vapor Source

The vapor source comes from the vape atomizer. This self-contained chamber is electrically connected to a heating element, typically using a metal coil and a wick soaked in e-liquid to produce vapor. When you're ready to take a puff, the coil heats the e-liquid, and vapor is instantly produced.

There are four main types of vape atomizers: pre-filled, refillable (with/without coils), and reconstructible. There are many variations within these four types - you just need to make sure the atomizer you choose is compatible with the power source you've already selected. You can choose from the following options:

• Pre-filled pods, cartridges, pod systems
• Refillable pods, cartridges, and pod atomizers
• Refillable sub-ohm tanks or clearomizers with replaceable coils

• Reconstructible atomizers marked with R-initial abbreviations (RDTA, RTA, etc.)

MTL and DTL Inhalation Techniques

When it comes to inhaling vapor, most beginners don't understand the different inhalation methods and how they change the overall vaping experience. There are currently two main vaping methods, namely MTL and DTL. Confused by these new acronyms? Let's demystify how to vape properly with these two techniques.

What is DTL?

Are you wondering, "What is DTL?" Don't worry; you're not the first! DTL stands for Direct-to-Lung. This method is commonly used when people want to feel a stronger head rush with direct lung inhalation and more vapor. If you see primary vapers blowing big clouds when they puff, they are using the DTL method. This style of vaping requires e-liquids with lower nicotine content due to the increased inhalation.

Why Choose DTL?

Direct-to-lung vaping is primarily used with vape kits that have long-lasting batteries. Direct-to-lung vaping uses more battery power than other techniques and will drain your battery quickly if it's not adequate. Direct-to-lung vaping is also used by those who want to create large clouds of vapor or do trick moves. Some users also state that direct-to-lung vaping enhances the flavor of the vapor or feels better. By taking all the vapor directly into the lungs, each puff has better control and more potency.

What is MTL

MTL stands for Mouth-to-Lung. This is where you draw the vapor into your mouth first, then pass it to your lungs. The biggest difference between the two is the way you inhale. The MTL method is very similar to how you would smoke a cigarette, so most new users who switch to vaping start with this inhalation method. This reduces the irritation in the lungs.

Why Choose MTL?

MTL is the most popular inhalation method because it allows you to savor the flavor of your e-liquid and focuses on taste rather than intensity. Mouth-to-lung draws also extend battery life as they consume less battery power and less e-liquid per puff.

Many vapers find DTL inhalation too irritating for their lungs, often resulting in nausea, dizziness, or headaches. This is especially true if you are using salt e-liquids, as they have higher nicotine concentrations. If you prefer this type of vapor, then MTL provides a clean palate and optimal flavor delivery.

MTL vs. DTL: Which one's better?

MTL inhalation allows the e-liquid vapor to linger on your tongue and in your mouth. This lowers the temperature of the vape, allowing you to taste the flavor of the vape and reduce irritation in your lungs. Once the vapor leaves your mouth and enters your lungs, your throat won't be as irritated. The steps of this process are why this method is better for vapes with higher nicotine content.

On the other hand, DTL inhalation produces a stronger vapor and directs it straight to the lungs, bypassing the mouth. The vapor can be very hot due to the shorter cooling time. Most people who use the DTL technique enjoy the intense throat hit and the amplified pleasure from the nicotine. If you're trying this method, be sure to exhale thoroughly afterward to clear any lingering vapor.

Trying both methods

Now that you know the fundamental difference between these two main ways of inhaling vape vapor, we'll break down the actual steps of the technique so you can become a vaping pro yourself! Before you know it, you'll be teaching other new users how to vape properly with your newfound skills.

How to Vape

Learning how to vape doesn't have to be too difficult or time-consuming. Some people prefer to learn from friends, some prefer to watch online tutorials, and some can master it just by reading the steps! As long as you grasp the basics of how to inhale vapor properly, you'll be well on your way.

How to Vape Mouth-to-Lung

Here's everything you need to do to try the MTL vaping method:

1. Draw the vapor into your mouth, and try to use only your mouth. Draw the vapor into your mouth by gently pulling from the mouthpiece slowly but steadily.
2. Take a gentle breath, or simply use the muscles in your mouth to draw the vapor into your mouth. You don't need to use too much force at all – this protects both your lungs and your device.
3. Let the vapor sit in your mouth for a moment. Then inhale again - this time, deeply into your lungs.
4. Repeat!

That's all there is to the MTL inhalation technique.

How to Vape DTL

Ready to become a DTL vaping master? Follow these steps:

1. Draw air into your lungs with a steady and forceful inhalation.
2. As you inhale and draw in the vapor, your stomach will slowly expand. Once your lungs are at maximum capacity, you can slowly release the vapor.
3. This full-body inhalation helps you absorb more nicotine compared to the MTL method.

This is the simple process of DTL inhalation.

Begin Your Vape Life

While starting to vape is a personal choice, it's a great way to reduce dependence on cigarettes and decrease nicotine intake.

Now that you've got all the basics of vaping down, you're ready to purchase your first vape kit and start using your preferred inhalation technique. Experienced smokers might prefer the hit and intensity of direct-to-lung inhalation, while beginners usually favor the mouth-to-lung technique.

Whatever inhalation method you use, do it correctly and don't go beyond a level you're not yet comfortable with.