A good hookah session comes down to three things: a clean setup, a well-packed bowl and steady heat. This guide walks through each step in plain language, explains how hookah tobacco is sold, and lists the brands you will find at Puff Love.
The parts of a hookah
- Base (vase): the glass bottom that holds water.
- Stem: the tall center piece. Its downstem sits in the water.
- Bowl (head): sits on top and holds the tobacco.
- Heat management: foil or a heat management device that sits between the charcoal and the tobacco.
- Hose: connects to the stem's hose port. Many hookahs take one hose; some take two or more.
- Grommets: rubber seals that keep each joint airtight.
Setting up, step by step
- Fill the base. Add cool water until the downstem sits about an inch below the waterline. Too much water makes it hard to draw.
- Attach the stem. Press it into the base with its grommet so the seal is snug.
- Connect the hose. Seat the hose firmly in its port. If you use a washable hose, make sure it is fully dry first.
- Pack the bowl. See the next section.
- Add heat management. Stretch foil tightly over the bowl and poke small, even holes, or use a heat management device.
- Light the charcoal. Use a charcoal burner or an electric heater until the coals glow evenly, then place them on top with tongs.
- Let it warm up. Give it a few minutes and take slow, gentle pulls.
Packing the bowl
- Fluff the tobacco to break up clumps.
- Sprinkle it loosely into the bowl; don't press it down.
- Leave a small gap between the tobacco and the foil so it doesn't burn.
- Wipe away loose strands on the rim.
Managing heat
Most problems with a session are heat problems. If the smoke tastes harsh or burnt, remove a coal or move the coals toward the edge. If you get thin smoke and little flavor, add heat slowly or rotate the coals. Natural coconut charcoal cubes are a popular choice because they heat evenly. Always light charcoal in a well-ventilated area, never indoors without airflow, and use tongs, not fingers.
How hookah tobacco is sold
Hookah tobacco, also called shisha, is moist tobacco mixed with glycerin and flavor. It comes in different pack sizes:
- 50 g: good for trying new flavors.
- 100 g and 250 g: for regular use.
- 1000 g: bulk tubs for frequent smokers.
Hookah tobacco contains nicotine, which is an addictive chemical. Herbal hookah blends are also available if you prefer a tobacco-free option; check the label. Hookah tobacco is for adults 21 and older.
Cleaning after a session
- Empty and rinse the base after every session.
- Run water through the stem with a brush, then let it dry.
- Wash the bowl to remove leftover juice.
- Follow the maker's instructions for your hose. Some hoses are washable; others are not.
A hookah cleaning solution helps break down residue in the base.
Brands we carry
Hookah tobacco and herbal blends:
- Al Fakher
- Starbuzz
- Fumari
- Mazaya
- Afzal
- Fantasia (herbal)
- Khalil Mamoon
Hookahs and accessories:
- Khalil Mamoon
- Khateeb
- Vapor Hookah
- Pharaoh
- Zelda
- BYO
- Avalon
- Sigma
- G-Star
- MYA
- Amira
- 101 Hookah
Browse hookah flavors, hookah gear, hookah accessories, charcoal, hookah heads and hoses. Prefer no charcoal at all? See our disposable e-hookahs.
Find your nearest shop on our store locations page.
Ask at any of our 5 DFW stores — Plano is open 24/7. Adults 21+.