Cleaning, Sanitization and Sterilization of Hookahs

For every hookah session and use, there is a direct need to clean, sanitize, and sterilize the apparatus and items that are used. These processes are distinctive in terms of each part of the apparatus and how it should be cleaned. For example, some items may involve certain cleaning solutions or hot water, while other parts of the hookah would not. When discussing the head and the bowl of the hookah apparatus, cleaning solutions will readily be used with small pipe brushes in order to clean any black staining that may be left after the experience. For the stem of the hookah, hot water should ran through the stem itself and then using a new brush cleaning the inside and pipe from end-to-end for several minutes. This would need to be repeated on several occasions thus cleaning any potential residue that may have stayed in between the pipe during the session. For the vase, a similar process should be undergone, but of course with the use of a thicker and more widened brush to clean the inside. Lastly, when using a designed washable hose, this as well will be cleaned using water and then left out so the hoses can be dried in a cool area. In following each of these processes, will surely allow for the hookah experience in being safer for each respective customer, while in the process ensuring the apparatuses will be ready for use the next go-around sort of speak. Our team at Red Pelican Bar and Hookah Lounge have established an eight-point plan that each of our staff members have to follow when cleaning and ensuring our hookah products are sanitized, sterilized, and ready for use:

1. Ensure that the hookah is cooled down after the coal has been removed and the top (head and bowl) has been washed; 
2. Dispose of the coal to avoid any issue in coming to fruition; 
3. Begin by cleaning the hose by allowing hot water to filter through the house and let it dry on the appropriately sanitized rack (if using a designed product). If the hose is plastic, then appropriately dispose of the hose as it is used for only one smoking session; 
4. Remove each of the parts of the hookah, beginning with the head and bowl, the stem portion, grommets and vase; 
5. Re-wash the bowl and the grommets that are attached to the stem of the hookah with hot water; 
6. Taking the stem: allow hot water to enter the stem of the hookah several times (in, out, and repeat), while then taking a pre-sanitized brush and cleaning the inside of the stem for approximately two minutes; 
7. Take the base or the vase of the hookah and fill it with it hot water, spill the water out and repeat the process five times. Afterwards, take the pre-sanitized vase brush and repeatedly clean the inside until all residue  is removed; 
8. Make sure that all of the components of the hookah are placed on the sanitized rack to ensure that each of the parts will be dried appropriately before being used again for another hookah smoking session.