How to Vape Properly: A Practical Guide for Beginners and Intermediate Vapers

Learning how to vape properly isn’t just about producing a smooth cloud — it’s about using your device safely, protecting your coils, and getting the best possible flavour without discomfort. Whether you’re switching from smoking or starting with a modern disposable or pod system, this guide breaks down the essential techniques people search for when they want to vape the “right way.”

Choose the Right Device for Your Vaping Style

The first step to vaping properly is selecting a device that matches your experience level and inhaling preference.

1. MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) Devices

• Mimic the feel of a cigarette
• Ideal for beginners
• Higher nicotine strength options (e.g., 12–20 mg)

2. DTL (Direct-to-Lung) Devices

• Produce larger clouds
• Lower nicotine strengths (e.g., 3–6 mg)
• Require slower, deeper inhales

If you’re unsure, a beginner-friendly prefilled pod system is usually the easiest way to learn proper inhalation technique.

How to Inhale a Vape Properly

Many new vapers cough on their first try because they inhale incorrectly. The right technique depends on your device.

1. MTL Technique

1. Draw gently into your mouth for 1–2 seconds
2. Hold briefly
3. Inhale into your lungs
4. Exhale normally

This method gives a tight, cigarette-like hit and prevents throat irritation.

2. DTL Technique

1. Inhale slowly and steadily straight into your lungs
2. Avoid fast, sharp inhales
3. Exhale smoothly

This technique suits sub-ohm devices and produces warmer vapour.

Avoid Common Mistakes Beginners Make

1. Inhaling Too Hard

Pulling too aggressively can cause:

• Coil flooding
• Spitback
• Burnt throat sensation

Gentle, controlled draws are the key.

2. Vaping Like a Cigarette

Cigarettes require quick, sharp puffs.

Vapes work best with longer, slower inhales for the coil to vaporise liquid properly.

3. Chain Vaping

Taking rapid, back-to-back puffs overheats the coil.

Always give your device 5–10 seconds between puffs.

Adjust Nicotine Strength Correctly

Using the wrong nicotine level leads to poor vaping technique and discomfort.

1. Signs Your Nicotine Is Too High

• Headaches
• Throat burning
• Nausea
• Harsh inhale

2. Signs It’s Too Low

• Puffing too frequently
• Feeling unsatisfied
• Weak throat hit

As a general guide:

• MTL pods/disposables: 10–20 mg
• DTL sub-ohm devices: 3–6 mg

Perfect Your Device Settings

If you use a device with adjustable airflow or wattage:

1. Airflow

• Tight airflow: stronger throat hit, similar to smoking
• Open airflow: smoother inhale, bigger clouds

2. Wattage

Start low and increase gradually until the flavour feels warm but comfortable.

Too high wattage burns coils and ruins flavour.

Maintain Your Device for Better Performance

Vaping properly also means taking care of your equipment.

Tips for Better Performance

• Replace coils/pods every 3–10 days depending on usage
• Keep the mouthpiece clean
• Ensure the tank is at least 1/3 full
• Avoid overtightening parts

A well-maintained device delivers cleaner flavour and smoother inhales.

Vaping Etiquette Matters

Proper vaping isn’t only about technique — it’s also about awareness.

• Do not vape indoors where prohibited
• Avoid blowing clouds toward others
• Use discreet devices in public
• Respect local vape laws

Good etiquette keeps vaping socially acceptable and reduces conflict.

Conclusion

Learning how to vape properly helps you enjoy better flavour, avoid coughing, protect your coils, and create a smoother transition away from smoking. By choosing the right device, mastering MTL or DTL inhalation, selecting suitable nicotine strength, and caring for your equipment, you’ll get a cleaner, more satisfying experience every time.

FAQs

1. Why do I cough when I vape?

Most new vapers cough because they inhale too sharply or use the wrong nicotine strength. Vapes require slow, steady inhales, not fast puffs like a cigarette. High nicotine, an overly airy device, or a burnt coil can also trigger coughing. Adjusting your inhale speed or switching to a lower nicotine level usually solves it.

2. What is the correct way to inhale a vape?

The correct inhaling method depends on your device.
MTL devices (pods/disposables) use a two-step inhale — draw into your mouth first, then into your lungs.
DTL devices (sub-ohm kits) use a single, long inhale directly into the lungs.

Whichever style you use, the key is to inhale slowly rather than pulling hard.

3. How long should you inhale when vaping?

Most vapers take a 2–4 second puff. Short drags often feel weak, while very long inhales can overheat the coil or deliver too much nicotine. A smooth, moderate inhale allows the coil to vaporise e-liquid properly and gives consistent flavour.

4. Is it bad to vape too often?

Chain vaping can lead to dry hits, coil damage, or temporary throat irritation. Giving your vape 5–10 seconds between puffs prevents overheating and helps keep the flavour clean. If you feel headaches or nausea, your nicotine strength may be too high.

5. How do I know if my vape is set up correctly?

A properly set-up vape should deliver smooth vapour without burning, leaking, or gurgling. Check that:

• The coil is installed correctly
• The pod or tank is at least one-third full
• Airflow matches your inhale style
• Wattage is within the recommended range

If flavour is muted or you get burnt tastes, adjusting airflow or wattage usually fixes it.