Properly inhaling a vape is crucial for getting the most out of your device and e-liquid. Whether you’re a beginner or transitioning from smoking, understanding the right inhalation technique can enhance your vaping experience and minimise potential discomfort. This article explains the main vaping inhalation styles and how to choose the best one for your needs.

1. Two Main Inhalation Techniques

1.1. Mouth-to-Lung (MTL)
MTL inhaling mimics the sensation of smoking a cigarette. You draw vapour into your mouth first, hold it briefly, and then inhale it into your lungs.

• Best For: Beginners, ex-smokers, and low-powered devices.

• Advantages: Provides a stronger throat hit and better flavour with lower vapour production.

• How to Do It:

  • Take a slow draw from your vape device, filling your mouth with vapour.

  • Hold the vapour in your mouth for a moment.

  • Inhale deeply into your lungs, then exhale slowly.

1.2. Direct-to-Lung (DTL)
DTL inhaling involves drawing vapour directly into your lungs, bypassing the mouth. This technique is commonly used with high-powered devices and sub-ohm tanks.

• Best For: Advanced users, cloud chasers, and those using high-VG e-liquids.

• Advantages: Produces larger vapour clouds and a smoother inhale.

• How to Do It:

  • Take a deep, steady draw from your device.

  • Allow the vapour to go straight into your lungs.

  • Exhale slowly for maximum cloud production.

2. Choosing the Right Technique

The best inhalation technique depends on your device, e-liquid, and personal preference:

• Low-Wattage Devices: Best suited for MTL vaping with higher nicotine levels (6–20mg/ml).

• High-Wattage Devices: Ideal for DTL vaping with lower nicotine levels (3–6mg/ml).

• Nicotine Strength: MTL techniques work better with higher nicotine e-liquids, while DTL is better for nicotine salts or low-strength e-liquids.

3. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Harsh Throat Hit: Ensure you’re using the correct nicotine strength and inhalation style for your device.

• Overheating Vapour: Check your device’s wattage settings to prevent overheating the e-liquid.

• Coughing: If you’re new to vaping, start with smaller draws to acclimate to the vapour.

4. Tips for a Better Vaping Experience

• Prime Your Coil: Always prime a new coil with e-liquid to avoid dry hits.

• Stay Hydrated: Vaping can dry out your mouth and throat, so drink plenty of water.

• Experiment: Try both MTL and DTL techniques to see which feels most comfortable.

• Adjust Airflow: Use your device’s airflow settings to customise your draw.

Conclusion

Learning how to inhale a vape properly is key to enjoying a smooth and satisfying vaping experience. Whether you prefer the cigarette-like sensation of MTL or the large clouds of DTL, choosing the right technique for your device and e-liquid will enhance your vaping journey. Practise regularly, experiment with different styles, and find what works best for you.