Before we dive into the cleaning and storing process, let’s quickly chat about what dab reclaim is. When you heat your concentrate on a dab rig, not all of it gets vaporized. Some of it cools down and re-solidifies inside your rig or reclaim catcher. This is what we call reclaim. It’s essentially leftover concentrate that can be reused, and it still packs a punch! Choose the reclaim catcher.
When concentrates are heated, not all the material gets converted to vapor. The excess that doesn’t vaporize turns into reclaim. This process happens as vapor cools and condenses on the inside of your rig and reclaim catcher. Understanding this process helps in appreciating the value of reclaim and its efficient collection.
Dab reclaim consists of leftover cannabinoids and terpenes that weren’t fully combusted during the initial dabbing process. While it might not be as flavorful as fresh concentrate, it still contains significant amounts of THC and CBD, making it potent. Knowing its composition helps users decide how best to reuse it.
Reclaim offers several benefits, primarily its potential for reuse. It can be a cost-effective way to make the most out of your concentrates. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to experiment with different consumption methods, such as edibles or tinctures, maximizing the versatility of your concentrate use.
Why Use a Reclaim Catcher?
A reclaim catcher is an attachment for your dab rig that helps capture those leftover concentrates. Using one means you get to save and reuse your dab reclaim, making your dabbing sessions more efficient and less wasteful. Plus, it keeps your rig cleaner for longer—talk about a win-win!
Efficiency and Cost-effectiveness
Using a reclaim catcher enhances the efficiency of your dabbing experience. By capturing leftover concentrates, it reduces waste and stretches the lifespan of your product. This efficiency translates into cost savings, as you maximize the use of each dab, getting more value for your money.
Maintaining Rig Cleanliness
Another key advantage of a reclaim catcher is its ability to maintain the cleanliness of your dab rig. By capturing excess concentrate before it enters the rig, it minimizes residue buildup. This not only keeps your rig looking pristine but also reduces the frequency of thorough cleanings, making maintenance easier.
Environmental Considerations
Using a reclaim catcher also supports environmentally conscious practices. By reusing leftover concentrates, you reduce the need to frequently purchase new products. This reduction in consumption lessens the environmental impact associated with the production, packaging, and transportation of dabbing products.
Cleaning Your Reclaim Catcher
Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to the cleaning part. It might sound daunting, but I promise it’s not as tricky as it seems.
Materials You’ll Need
To clean your reclaim catcher effectively, gather the necessary materials. You’ll need isopropyl alcohol with at least 90% purity for optimal cleaning power. Coarse salt serves as an abrasive to help scrub away stubborn residue. Plastic bags or containers will hold your cleaning solution, while cotton swabs and paper towels will aid in the finer cleaning details.
Step-by-Step Cleaning
- Disassemble Your Dab Rig: Carefully detach the reclaim catcher from your dab rig. Ensure everything is cool to the touch before you start to avoid accidents. This step is crucial as it prevents damage to your rig and ensures a thorough cleaning process.
- Empty the Reclaim Catcher: Pour out the reclaim into a silicone container. Silicone is non-stick, making it perfect for storing sticky substances like reclaim. This container helps preserve the quality of the reclaim and makes it easier to use later.
- Prepare Your Cleaning Solution: In a plastic bag or container, mix isopropyl alcohol and a generous amount of salt. This will help dissolve the sticky reclaim residue. Ensure the solution is well mixed to maximize its cleaning effectiveness.
- Soak the Reclaim Catcher: Place your reclaim catcher in the alcohol-salt solution. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes. If it’s gunky, you might need to soak it longer. The soaking process loosens stubborn residue, making it easier to remove.
- Shake it Up: Give the bag or container a good shake. The salt acts as an abrasive and will help scrub off the residue. This step ensures that even the toughest spots are reached and cleaned effectively.
- Rinse and Dry: Once clean, rinse your reclaim catcher thoroughly with warm water. Use paper towels to dry it completely before reattaching it to your rig. A thorough rinse removes any residual alcohol and salt, ensuring a clean and safe reclaim catcher for future use.
Storing Your Dab Reclaim
Now that your reclaim catcher is clean, let’s talk about storing that valuable dab reclaim you collected earlier.
Best Storage Practices
- Use Silicone Containers: These are perfect for storing reclaim because the non-stick surface makes it easy to scoop out your concentrate when you’re ready to use it. Silicone containers also prevent contamination and maintain the purity of your reclaim.
- Label Your Containers: If you collect reclaim from different strains or types of concentrate, label your containers so you know what you’re working with. This practice helps in identifying potency and flavor profiles, enhancing your dabbing experience.
- Keep It Cool: Store your reclaim in a cool, dark place. This helps maintain its potency and flavor. Temperature and light can degrade the quality of reclaim, so proper storage is essential for preserving its effectiveness.
Reusing Dab Reclaim
So, you’ve got your reclaim all stored up-what can you do with it? Here are some popular options:
Re-Dabbing
The simplest way to use reclaim is to re-dab it. It might not taste as good as fresh concentrate, but it still delivers a solid hit. Re-dabbing allows you to enjoy the leftover cannabinoids, providing a similar effect to your original dab session.
Edibles
Reclaim is already decarboxylated, meaning it’s ready to be used in edibles. Mix it into your favorite recipe for a potent treat. This method offers a discreet and enjoyable way to consume reclaim, incorporating it into your daily culinary adventures.
Tinctures
You can also dissolve reclaim in alcohol to make a tincture. It’s an easy way to consume your leftover concentrate. Tinctures offer a versatile consumption method, allowing for precise dosing and easy integration into various beverages or recipes.
Tips for Keeping Your Rig Clean
Keeping your rig clean in the first place can make reclaim collection and rig maintenance easier. Here are some tips:
Regular Cleaning
Make it a habit to clean your rig regularly to prevent reclaim buildup. Regular maintenance ensures that your rig remains in optimal condition, extending its lifespan and enhancing your dabbing experience.
Use Hot Water
Rinse your rig with hot water after each use to keep it fresh. Hot water helps dissolve minor residues, preventing them from hardening and becoming difficult to remove later.
Invest in a Good Reclaim Catcher
This will not only help you collect reclaim but also minimize the mess inside your rig. A quality reclaim catcher is a worthwhile investment, simplifying the cleaning process and ensuring efficient reclaim collection.
Conclusion
Cleaning and storing your dab reclaim doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can make the most of your concentrate and enjoy every last bit. So, next time your reclaim catcher is full, remember these tips and keep your dabbing sessions smooth and efficient. Happy dabbing!
