As you may know, there’s a certain kind of repose that can come with smoking marijuana. Tasks that once seemed to be pressing responsibilities suddenly become less urgent. In certain ways this can be a good thing—especially if you’re already prone to over-thinking or anxiety. However, this ‘letting things slide’ mentality can sometimes go too far—especially when it comes to your hygiene and the smell factor of your personal environment. Here are some friendly reminders on how to keep your kush customs kosher and avoid falling into the “stinky stoner” stereotype.
Although studies show moderate marijuana use has little negative effect on physical health (and can actually benefit health in many ways) those same studies point out a very real side-effect of smoking large amounts of marijuana over a long period of time: gum disease. Symptoms include bad breath, receding gum line and tooth loss. Since gum disease is fun for no one (especially for the munch lovers), make sure you're brushing and flossing at least twice a day, implementing the use of a quality tongue scraper, and visiting the dentist a couple times a year. Remember, when it comes to your teeth, consistency makes all the difference.
Whether those special spaces are your car, your home, or your grandparents’ pool shed, open windows for ventilation and follow that up with some odor-neutralizing spritz. Make sure to use something specifically designed for marijuana odor. The only thing more noticeable than a skunky smell is a skunky smell mixed with a nauseatingly fragrant perfume.
If you haven't noticed, built up weed resin and old bong water are extremely foul smelling. The smoke they produce is also much more stinky and bitter-tasting. This can lower the quality of the weed being smoked and therefore, the quality of the high. Not to mention it’s more unhealthy for your lungs to be inhaling built-up tarred substances. Similar to vegetables; the fresher it is, the tastier it is, the better it is for you. Follow your nose and clean out your smoking vessel when it starts to smell. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners like acetone or rubbing alcohol (especially for wooden pipes). Instead opt for natural cleaners like sea salt, baking soda, and white vinegar.
The same study that found a link between marijuana smoking and gum disease also observed that users tend to brush their teeth and floss less often than non-users. It wouldn't be fair to say these findings are representative of all marijuana smokers’ habits, but still—stereotypes get perpetuated for a reason. In order for legalization to progress smoothly, it’s more important than ever that those who partake are doing what they can to break stigmas associated with marijuana use. The maintenance of your body and living space to the degree that they don’t smell of rotten resin or cause health problems is foundational to the cause.