For fans of dabbing, preserving every bit of precious concentrate is a top priority. That’s where a concentrate reclaimer comes into play. Designed to catch leftover oils, waxes, or resins that don’t fully vaporize, this handy accessory not only minimizes waste but also keeps your rig cleaner for longer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about concentrate reclaimers—from how they work to why they matter.
What Is a Concentrate Reclaimer?
A concentrate reclaimer is a glass or silicone attachment that connects to your dab rig, typically positioned between the nail or banger and the water chamber. Its primary function is to catch residual concentrates (known as "reclaim") that drip down during or after a dab session. This reclaim would otherwise accumulate inside your rig, clogging it and making cleanup a nightmare.
The idea is simple: why waste valuable concentrate when you can reclaim it?
Why Use a Concentrate Reclaimer?
1. Reduce Waste
High-quality concentrates aren’t cheap. By capturing reclaim, you get a second chance to use leftover product that would otherwise be lost.
2. Keep Your Rig Clean
Reclaimers act as a pre-filter. They stop sticky residue from gumming up your main piece, reducing the frequency and intensity of cleanings.
3. Easy Reuse of Product
While not as flavorful or potent as fresh dabs, reclaim is still usable. Many users collect and re-dab it, mix it with flower, or use it in edibles, providing a convenient way to make the most of your concentrate.
How Does a Concentrate Reclaimer Work?
The design is fairly straightforward. Most reclaimers are made of heat-resistant glass or durable silicone and feature a small catch chamber or dish. When you take a dab, any excess vapor or melted concentrate that doesn’t get inhaled flows downward. Instead of entering the rig, it falls into the reclaimer.
Some reclaimers also come with detachable silicone containers, making it easy to extract and reuse your reclaim without having to scrape it off glass.
Types of Concentrate Reclaimers
1. Standard Glass Reclaimers
These are the most common types, typically designed to fit between your banger and rig. They come in male or female joint types to match your setup.
2. Silicone Reclaimers
Made from food-grade, heat-resistant silicone, these are often easier to clean and handle. Many feature snap-on containers to collect reclaim.
3. Integrated Reclaim Catchers
Some newer rigs come with built-in reclaim-catching systems, offering seamless integration without extra parts.
Choosing the Right Reclaimer for Your Rig
When selecting a concentrate reclaimer, consider the following:
- Joint Size: Make sure the male/female fitting matches your rig.
- Angle: 45° vs. 90° joints affect compatibility.
- Material: Glass for purity and aesthetics; silicone for ease of use.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for detachable components.
How to Collect and Reuse Reclaim
Once your reclaimer has built up enough residue, you can retrieve it easily. Here’s how:
- Detach the Reclaimer: Wait until it’s cool, then remove it from your rig.
- Use a Dab Tool: Scrape the reclaim from the chamber or silicone catcher.
- Reuse It: Drop it onto a fresh nail, mix it with flower, or decarboxylate for edibles.
Note: Make sure the reclaim is clean and uncontaminated before reuse.
Is Reclaim Safe to Use?
While reclaim is safe to use, it is typically less flavorful and slightly degraded in potency due to prior heat exposure. It may also contain trace impurities if your rig wasn’t clean. Use discretion, especially when consuming it in edibles or tinctures.
How Often Should You Empty a Reclaimer?
There’s no strict timeline, but a good rule of thumb is to check it weekly if you're a frequent dabber. Overfilling can cause backup into the rig, negating its purpose.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
- Use isopropyl alcohol for glass parts
- Freeze reclaim to make it easier to remove
- Avoid using metal tools on silicone
- Clean regularly to maintain flavor and airflow
Cost and Availability
Concentrate reclaimers are widely available online and at head shops. Prices range from $10 to $50 depending on materials and features.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a seasoned dabber or just starting, a concentrate reclaimer is a practical investment. It saves you money, reduces waste, and helps maintain the performance and cleanliness of your rig. Think of it as a sustainability tool for your cannabis experience—one that pays for itself over time.
