Michael Kannes
13/06/2025 • 5 min read
If you’ve ever noticed a burnt or mixed taste when switching e-liquids, your tank probably needs a good clean. How to clean a vape tank? Whether you’re getting rid of an old flavour, refreshing your pod system, or wondering if a vape cleaning kit is worth it, this guide will walk you through it.
We don’t want a minor technical issue with your vape to push you back to cigarettes just because they don’t require any maintenance. After all, smoking is 95% more harmful than vaping. Keeping your device in great shape is easy, and a clean vape tank means better flavour, no unwanted aftertastes, and a longer lifespan for your gear.
A vape tank is a crucial part of your vape device that holds the e-liquid. It comprises multiple components, each vital in your vaping experience. Before we explain how to clean a vape tank, we first need to go over what your vaping device is made of. Cleaning will make much more sense when you understand the different parts of your device and how they work together.
Understanding these components is essential for properly cleaning and maintaining your vape tank, ensuring a better vaping experience.
Before diving into the cleaning process, preparing your vape tank properly is essential. Here’s a handy pre-cleaning checklist to ensure you don’t miss any steps:
You might be thinking we’re going into too much detail. But trust us — spilling leftover e-liquid on your sofa or coffee table at the start of cleaning is no fun. We’ll say again: Cleaning a vape tank is simple, and you don’t need to be an expert. However, once you start, following this checklist will help you do it right the first time. And in the end, you’ll enjoy vaping even more.
PRO TIP: We take vaping seriously. For a detailed guide on refilling your e-liquid correctly, check out our article How to Refill a Vape: Guide for Tanks, Pods, and Pens.
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Before you start cleaning, the first step is to empty your vape tank properly. If any leftover liquid remains inside, it can undo all your cleaning efforts. You might think there’s nothing complicated about cleaning a vape tank — and you’re not wrong — but doing it correctly ensures no e-liquid is wasted and prevents any mess.
Always start by unscrewing the tank from the battery and removing the coil. Then, gently pour any remaining e-liquid or vape juice into a tissue or sink. If some residue still clings to the inside, wipe it with a dry tissue or rinse it under warm water. This step is essential when switching to a new flavour. Even a tiny amount of leftover juice can mix with the new one, changing its taste. And just like that, your vaping experience could be ruined.
The process is similar if you use a pod system instead of a traditional tank. Simply remove the pod, tilt it upside down, and let the liquid drain out. Some pod systems aren’t designed to be cleaned, so check whether yours is refillable before rinsing it with water.
If you’re excited to try a new flavour but end up with a strange mix of the old and new, your tank is probably holding onto residue from previous e-liquids. This is common with intense flavours like menthol, coffee, or dessert-based juices. A proper cleaning between flavours prevents that unwanted blend and keeps each vape fresh.
Pod systems are increasingly popular because they’re easy to use, compact, and hassle-free. But just like traditional vape tanks, they also need regular cleaning — especially if you refill your pods rather than using disposable ones.
The process is relatively straightforward. Start by emptying the pod, ensuring no liquid is left inside. Then, fill it with warm water, shake it gently, and pour it out. Repeat this step a few times to remove any lingering e-liquid. If the pod retains flavour from a previous juice, a short soak in vodka or rubbing alcohol can help dissolve the residue. These methods ensure you clean your vape tank effectively, removing all traces of previous e-liquids. Just rinse thoroughly and let it air dry for a few hours before refilling.
Some pod systems are designed for single use and can’t be appropriately cleaned, so always check your device’s manual before attempting a deep clean. If your pod starts tasting burnt or has persistent flavour contamination, it may be time to replace it.
Even with regular maintenance, vape tanks can sometimes encounter issues. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
By identifying and addressing these common issues, you can ensure optimal performance and flavour from your vape tank.
After cleaning, it’s time to put your vape tank back together. Follow these steps to ensure a secure and functional reassembly:
See? That wasn’t difficult, and your vape tank is now safely reassembled and ready for use. Our guide on how to clean a vape tank might seem a bit detailed, but that just means there’s no room for mistakes.
Do you vape regularly, switch flavours often, and want to keep your vape tank perfectly clean? Or are you just starting and looking for an easy way to maintain your device? In both cases, you might wonder if a vape cleaning kit is worth the investment. And honestly, it’s a great question. While basic cleaning can be done with household items, a dedicated kit makes the process easier and more effective. Many kits include small brushes for scrubbing tricky spots, while more advanced ones feature ultrasonic cleaners, which provide a deep clean without any effort.
If you want a hassle-free way to remove built-up residue, an ultrasonic cleaner might be the perfect solution. These devices use high-frequency sound waves to create tiny bubbles in a cleaning solution, which break down stubborn e-liquid buildup — even in areas that are hard to reach with regular rinsing. All you need to do is disassemble your vape tank, place the parts in the cleaner, add water (or a specialised solution), and let the device do its job. Your tank will be spotless in a few minutes, with no lingering flavours or sticky residue.
For vapers who frequently switch flavours or use thick, high-VG e-liquids, an ultrasonic cleaning kit can save time and effort while ensuring the best possible vaping experience. However, if you vape casually, regular rinsing with warm water or the occasional alcohol soak is enough to keep your device in good shape. Ultimately, it’s all about convenience. Just like you wouldn’t use dish soap for laundry, your vape device deserves the right tools for proper maintenance.
To keep your vape tank in top condition and enjoy a smooth, flavourful vaping experience, follow these maintenance tips:
By following these maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your vape tank and ensure a smooth, flavourful vaping experience every time.
A clean vape tank means the best possible experience. A fresh, well-maintained tank means pure flavour, a smoother draw, and no surprises when switching e-liquids. For those who have moved from smoking to vaping, every step toward a better experience makes it easier to stay on track and avoid returning to cigarettes. And if your goal is to cut down on nicotine or quit altogether, making sure your device is in top shape will help you enjoy vaping without frustration. Cleaning your vape tank and vape kit regularly is a small effort that makes a big difference.
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