Finding the right high-quality CBD vape pen and vape juice is a trial-and-error method. It is obvious to mess up a few times and buy a vape juice you do not like much. But it is unlikely to throw a new bottle of an expensive vape juice because the flavor is not satisfactory. So, there is a method of steeping you can use to enhance the taste of your e-liquid.
If you are curious about it and want to know how steep or will it provide any benefits, read the full article. You will get to know what it is and how you can “steep” your vape juice.
What is steeping vape juice?
Steeping is a term that typically refers to dipping a solid substance in a liquid to transfer flavors and nutrition. Most commonly, we steep tea leaves, beer, and even food. Here the term refers to a process that enhances the flavorings and removes any harsh taste of alcohol by aging it. Like wine, you can age your vape juices in a controlled fashion.
Users mix the e-liquid with VG/PG base, nicotine, and flavorings. Then they oxidize the juice to remove any remaining alcohol. It can change the color of the liquid and darken it. Pre-steeped vape juices are also available in the market. Manufacturers steep the juice beforehand, so you do not have to wait for two weeks.
Here are some terms related to the process you might not know.
Raw e-juice:
Raw e-juice is a mixture of vape juices that might have little flavor. So, it is particularly essential to steep when you deal with it.
Stretching:
Stretching is the test you do to determine the proper time to steep your e-liquid. The process includes testing the vape juice at different stages of the steeping method. Try to keep notes to find the perfect timing.
Maillard Reaction:
Maillard reaction is a chemical interaction between amino acids and sugar, which are responsible for the flavorings of the food.
The food tends to change color and turn brown when it undergoes a reaction. Many vapers believe that steeping changes the taste of vape juices due to the Maillard reaction.
Why do vapers steep their vape juice?
Sometimes when you buy a very recently made vape juice, it may not have a strong flavor or taste you love. The taste may feel too young or unsatisfactory. Steeping can improve the condition so that you can enjoy the bottle of vape juice as usual.
Have you ever noticed how soups taste better the next day? When you allow the soup or any food to refrigerate overnight, the ingredients start to blend and enhance a more cohesive savor. Steeping makes the experience better as no components overpower one another and give off a smooth zest.
Some vapers are sensitive to alcoholic taste; it is a big turn-off. Alcohol-based e-liquid might come off volatile sometimes. Steeping makes the boozy taste disappear from the alcohol and makes its flavorless evident.
If you bought a nicotine-based e-liquid and your throat is itchy, you can try steeping. The process includes keeping the vape juice in storage for almost two weeks. Nicotine can degrade in that time frame as it is a volatile substance. Commercially available vape juices start steeping from the time they get bottled. DIY e-liquids must get steeped.
If you buy from a top-rated and reputed manufacturer, there is a good chance that it has already spent enough time on the shelf before making its way to you. But before you start steeping, you should keep in mind that not all e-liquids improve with the process. Once the product reaches its peak, the flavors can only go down.
Also, Read: Why smoke when you can vape?
You can consider steeping if you feel any of the following.
- Tastes too young
- It has an overpowering flavor
- It has an alcoholic note
- It has an undesirable nicotine content
How to steep your vape juice?
The Classic way to steep your vape juice is time taking. So, if you are not in a rush, you can try the easy method.
Step 1: Remove the label from the bottle.
Step 2: Place it in a cool and dry place for 1 to 2 weeks; you can use a cardboard box.
Step 3: Shake the bottle once a day.
Step 4: Keep the bottle away from sunlight; it can degrade the e-liquid.
Step 5
Open the bottle occasionally for short periods. The air will help with the oxidation process, but avoid keeping it open for a long time as it will evaporate.
Are you in a rush and do not want to wait for another two weeks to use your e-liquid? Do not worry; we have got you covered. Here are some faster ways to steep your vape juice.
1 A hot bath:
It is the most popular way of steeping an e-liquid.
Step1: Take some warm water in a bowl. Test the temperature with your elbow and make sure it is not too hot.
Step 2: Seal the bottle in a zip lock sachet and place it in the bowl.
Step 3: Wait for the water to cool down to room temperature.
Step 4: Take the bottle out of the water.
Step 5: Open the cap of the bottle and let the gasses diverge.
Step 6: Put the cap back on and shake the bottle well.
2 Birdbath:
Step 1: Take some warm water and test the temperature with your elbow to ensure it is not too hot.
Step 2: Open the cap of the bottle and place it in a bowl. Now, fill the bowl with hot water so that only half the bottle stays in the water.
Step 3: Wait till the water comes to room temperature.
Step 4: Place the cap back and shake the bottle.
3 Use a slow cooker:
Step 1: Take a crockpot and fill it with water.
Step 2: Put the vape juice bottle inside a zip lock bag and remove as much air as possible.
Step 3: Place the bag inside the crockpot and put it on low.
Step 4: Wait for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
Step 5: Remove the bottle and uncap them so the e-liquid can breathe. Place the cap back and shake it well.
Use these methods to steep your vape juice, and enjoy a rich vaping experience.
