The world of vaping is a major one. Vaping, as a hobby, is gaining popularity, especially in these turbulent times. The coronavirus has us stuck at home, and vaping is a great way to pass the time.
Steeping is a term commonly seen on vaping forums and websites, but what is it? Well, that’s what we’ll be discussing today. Below, you can find everything there is to know about vape liquid steeping, what goes into it, and how you can enjoy the relaxing experience of using vape juices through steeping.
What is Vape Juice Steeping?
Steeping in itself is synonymous with diffusion. To put this into perspective with vape juice, it’s the process of diffusion of e-liquid tastes and flavors as the juices mature, thus changing the flavor profile.
It’s a process where the e-liquid diffuses in a sealed-off bottle that’s safe from the elements, such as excessive heat or lighting. Aging vape juice will provide a world of new flavors, as the juice gains depth, taste, and aroma through steeping.
While there are multiple vape flavors for you to choose from readily available on the market – if you’re looking to make a unique taste, you’ll want to try your hand at creating your vape juice. Steeping e-liquid is a relatively simple process, but it will take some finesse as well as trial and error.
How Does Steeping Work?
Vape steeping is the process of diffusion where the vape juice ages and reaches new flavors. To understand the process, we’ll have to get into the common ingredients of vape juice:
Propylene Glycol;
Vegetable Glycerin;
Flavoring Agents;
Nicotine Additives;
Mixing two or more vape juices and steeping them will allow the different flavors to blend and provide a vastly different flavor as opposed to consuming them “fresh.” Simply put, the ingredients in the vape juice need some time to get to know each other.
When the steeping process occurs, the DIY vape liquid undergoes a chemical binding process, where the different chemicals within the vape juice bond and age.
Why Do People Steep?
Vape juice steeping is a fantastic way to enhance and further personalize vape juice. It’s mostly used by seasoned DIY vape liquid enthusiasts to make a truly unique vape juice and refine it to their liking.
While there are no scientific studies based on what goes on at a molecular level when steeping vape juice, seasoned vapers believe that the Maillard Reaction is the direct reason behind steeping works.
How To Steep Vape Juice?
There are multiple methods behind steeping vape juice, all of which produce different results. Fast steeping, while the most popular option, produces less intense and deep flavor profiles in DIY vape juice than slow steeping.
While these methods differ, some things remain the same with vape juice steeping. If you want to make sure you’re steeping correctly, remember to:
- Keep your vape juice sealed properly;
- Shield it from the excessive light;
- Maintain a constant cool temperature;
Quick Steeping
If you want to quickly steep your vape juice, you’ll have to place your freshly mixed vape juice into a sealed container. Place the sealed container in warm water ( 90F ), and leave it for up to fifteen minutes. After taking it out of the water, shake thoroughly and test it. If you’re unsatisfied with the taste, repeat the process until you reach the desired flavor profile.
This process is far quicker and has some benefits compared to the slow steeping process, such as:
- Faster results
- Added convenience
- Smoother & milder aroma and taste
Slow Steeping
The slower DIY vape juice steeping method is much more carefree, but it could take a lot of time, depending on the flavor type. This method entails tightly sealing your vape juice and storing it in a cool, dry place, shielded from light – and shaking the container periodically.
Slow steeping is the best way to go around things, and while it does take some times, it comes with fantastic results, such as:
- Enhanced taste
- Deep, complex, rich flavor
- Better control of the final product
The slow steeping method can take a different amount of time, based on the type of taste you’re working with. For dessert flavors, you can leave them up to a few months. Fruity and minty flavors are best left for up to two weeks – leaving them for longer could make them lose flavor.
Final Thoughts
Steeping vape juice is not an easy process. Developing complex, intricate, unique flavors is no easy task, and you’ll need some finesse to ensure you’re getting the best DIY flavor out there.
Don’t be intimidated by the time you slowly need to steep vape juice – if you do everything right – the relaxing experience of using vape juices will be well worth it.
