The Ban On Disposable E-Cigarettes & Alternatives

Why Are Disposable Vapes Set To Be Banned?
It seems the authorities are concerned about the environmental impact of disposable devices, and rightly so. Think about it for a moment. These e-cigarettes were designed for one-time use, offering convenience but also creating heaps of environmental waste. It's like the desire for a smoke-free life clashes with the urgent need to preserve our planet.

Last week, The Guardian spilled the beans on the staggering number of disposable vapes being trashed every week - a whopping four times more than last year. Material Focus, a not-for-profit organisation, revealed that it's roughly eight vapes per second going into the bin. If that didn't make your jaw drop, get this - the lithium in these devices could be used to create 5,000 electric car batteries annually. There have also been reports of some unscrupulous retailers selling disposables to under 18's.

It's important to note that reusable e-cigarettes are still readily available and undisturbed by this regulatory storm. These devices, often referred to as pod devices or vape pens, allow users to refill their nicotine cartridges and offer an array of flavour options, all at a fraction of the cost, which can be a real treat for those wanting a personalised vaping experience. So let's dive in and review some of the options for those of you moving away from disposables after the ban takes effect.

Devices
If you're looking to keep your vaping experience as similar to disposables as possible, you might want to take a look at pod devices. The perfect alternative to disposable e-cigarettes. Pod systems come with refillable or replaceable pods, making them more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. These small devices offer an extensive range of benefits that can revolutionise your vaping experience.

Step 1: Choosing the Perfect Pod Vape Device:
Before we can embark on this pod vaping adventure, you'll need to find the perfect device for you. Consider factors such as size, battery capacity, ease of use, and of course, aesthetics. Remember, a good pod device feels like an extension of you, so take your time to explore and find the one that speaks to you.

Step 2: Familiarise Yourself with the Pod:
Now that you have your pod device in hand, let's get acquainted with the parts. Most pod systems consist of three main components: the battery, the pod (also known as a cartridge), the mouthpiece and in the case of the Flexus Q offered by DarkStar, a coil. Take a moment to locate and identify these components, giving them a quick inspection to ensure everything is clean and in working order.

Step 3: Prepare the Pod:
The next step is to prepare your pod for vaping. If you have a refillable pod, you'll need to fill it with your favourite e-liquid. Simply remove the pod from the device, locate the fill port (usually on the bottom or side), and carefully pour in your chosen e-liquid. Be sure not to overfill it, as this can cause leakage. Leave your pod around 5-10 minutes before using to ensure the liquid soaks into the coil thoroughly.

Step 4: Insert the Pod:
Now comes the exciting part – inserting the pod into your device. Align the pod with the designated slot on the battery portion of your pod device, making sure it slots in securely. You will hear a satisfying click, confirming that the pod is properly attached.

Step 5: Power Up and Adjust Settings:
With the pod in place, it's time to power up your device. Depending on the model, you may need to press a button or take a draw to activate the battery. Some pod systems also offer adjustable power settings, allowing you to personalise your vaping experience. Familiarise yourself with the specific controls of your device and fine-tune them to your liking.

Liquid
E-liquids, also known as vape juices, are the lifeblood of any pod e-cigarette device. These magical concoctions are typically composed of four main ingredients: vegetable glycerin (VG), propylene glycol (PG), flavourings, and nicotine (although you can choose nicotine-free options as well). It's best to choose a liquid with a mid to high ratio of PG. This will keep your pods and coils going longer as liquid with high VG content will require a higher power output to vape properly. You can find the VG/PG ratios printed on the labels of our liquids. Our Pod Fog range is perfect for pod devices 

Nicotine Strength
You may also want to start with a higher nicotine strength. Disposable e-cigarettes are generally 10-20mg so this may be your starting point. Our Long Fill products offer the most options. Simply top up with 4 standard nicotine shots to reach a final strength of 12mg, or 4 nicotine salt shots to reach 14mg. If you would like lower nicotine content, simply mix with DarkStar Base Mix, VG or PG, depending on your preference. 

Flavour
Now it's time to choose your flavour. Here at DarkStar we offer a plethora of incredible flavours, from complex dessert recipes, simple fruits and tobaccos, there's something for everyone. 

We hope this blog helps you in your transition from disposables to reusable devices and e-liquids! Check out the rest of our posts to learn more about the DarkStar product line-up and how to get the most from your vaping experience.