HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR E-CIGARETTE: CARE GUIDE

Proper vape maintenance extends your E-Cigarette’s lifespan and ensures optimal performance. Follow these essential care tips to keep your vape well-maintained and in perfect working condition.

Key Takeaways

• Regular cleaning keeps performance high: Wipe and clean your vape tank, mouthpiece, and battery contacts weekly to ensure smooth airflow and better flavour.

• Replace coils and pods on time: Changing coils every 1–3 weeks prevents burnt tastes and keeps your e-cigarette working efficiently.

• Store safely and charge correctly: Keep your device away from heat, direct sunlight, and moisture — and always use the recommended charger to extend battery life.

Regular maintenance of your E-Cigarette is crucial for ensuring consistent performance, extending device lifespan, and maintaining the quality of your vaping experience. Whether you’re using a simple prefilled starter kit or an advanced vaping system, proper care will save you money and provide better satisfaction from your device.

Understanding Your E-Cigarette Components

Before diving into maintenance procedures, it’s essential to understand the key components of your e-cigarette. Vape devices come in various forms, each with unique features and maintenance requirements. Most devices consist of a battery, atomiser or coil, tank or cartridge, and mouthpiece. A typical vape kit includes these parts, and understanding them is key to proper maintenance and optimal performance.

The battery is the power source of your device and typically the most expensive component to replace. Some vape kits use external batteries, so it’s important to handle external batteries with care, store them properly, inspect for damage, and use dedicated chargers for safety. The atomiser or coil heats the e-liquid to create vapour, while the tank holds your chosen e-liquid. The mouthpiece is where you draw the vapour from, making it prone to buildup from regular use.

Each component of vape devices requires specific care to function optimally.

Refillable pod systems are a popular type of vape device known for their compact design and unique maintenance needs, such as more frequent cleaning and careful handling of pods and internal chambers.

Vape mods are typically larger vape kits that require most or all of the vape maintenance practices outlined in this article. Some vape pens may also require this level of maintenance, though they are often smaller and less complex.

Prefilled options - like the vape kits available from SMOKO - require a fraction of the attention that other vape kits require. As the prefilled refill contains a new coil with the e-liquid, it eliminates the need for spare coils and cleaning tanks. The most you typically need to do with a prefilled vape is clean the contacts where the electricity feeds the prefilled refill to ensure a good connection!

Clean Your Vape

Daily Cleaning Routine

Establishing a daily cleaning routine will prevent buildup and maintain optimal flavour quality. Start by wiping down the exterior of your device with a clean, dry cloth to remove any residue or fingerprints. Pay special attention to the connection points where different components meet.

Clean the mouthpiece thoroughly by removing it from the device and rinsing it with warm water. Allow it to dry completely before reattaching. If your mouthpiece isn’t removable, use a cotton bud slightly dampened with water for detailed cleaning of the interior and exterior surfaces.

Check the tank or cartridge for any e liquid residue around the threading or connection points. Buildup of e liquid residue can affect flavour and reduce the performance of your device. Use a cotton bud or soft cloth to remove any residue that could interfere with proper connection or cause leaking.

After cleaning, ensure all e liquid residue is fully removed, as leftover residue can negatively affect flavour and the overall vaping experience.

Weekly Deep Cleaning

A weekly deep clean of your e-cigarette is essential for optimal performance and longevity. A thorough cleaning goes beyond regular cleaning by targeting hard-to-reach areas and stubborn buildup, often using advanced methods like ultrasonic cleaners to thoroughly remove residues (1). This comprehensive approach ensures your vape kit operates at its best.

Begin by completely disassembling your device, separating the battery, tank, coil, and mouthpiece. This allows you to clean each component individually and inspect for any signs of wear or damage.

For the tank, empty any remaining e-liquid and rinse thoroughly with warm water. Cleaning the tank regularly will prevent residue buildup and maintain flavour quality and is essential if you want to switch flavours. Use a small brush or cotton swab to remove any stubborn residue from the interior walls. Pay particular attention to the threading and connection points, as buildup in these areas can impact the electrical connections, leading to poor performance.

After rinsing, dry all components with a paper towel to safely absorb moisture and prevent damage. Make sure all parts are completely dry before reassembling.

Clean the battery connection points using a dry cotton swab or soft cloth. Never use water or liquid cleaners on the battery component, as this can cause permanent damage (2). If you notice any corrosion or buildup on the battery terminals, gently clean with a dry brush or cloth. Regular cleaning supports battery efficiency, helping your device last longer and perform as intended.

Don’t forget to clean the charging port with a dry cotton bud or brush to maintain efficient charging and prevent damage.

When inspecting the coil, remember that neglecting cleaning can lead to burnt coils, which negatively affect flavour, vapour quality, and device safety.

Consistent vape kit maintenance, including weekly deep cleans, is crucial for ensuring your device’s longevity and delivering the best possible vaping experience.

Coil Maintenance and Replacement

The coil is a consumable component that requires regular replacing to ensure a safe and flavourful vaping experience. Signs that your coil needs replacing include reduced vapour production, burnt taste , gurgling sounds, or visible damage to the coil wire. While cleaning a coil can be a temporary solution to maintain performance, replacing the coil is necessary for the best vaping experience.

Most coils last between one to three weeks, depending on usage frequency and the type of e-liquid used (3). Sweet or dark e-liquids tend to cause faster coil degradation due to their higher sweetener content and thicker consistency.

Proper coil maintenance and timely replacement can significantly enhance both flavour and vapour production. When installing a new coil, ensure it’s properly seated and tightened, but avoid over-tightening as this can damage the threading. Prime new coils by applying a few drops of e-liquid directly to the cotton wicking material before first use. This prevents dry hits and extends coil life.

Battery Care and Maintenance

Proper battery maintenance is crucial for device safety and longevity. Always use the right charger provided with your device or a compatible replacement from the manufacturer to ensure proper battery care and avoid potential safety hazards. Regularly inspect your battery for any signs of damage, such as swelling or leaks, and store it safely in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

When charging, avoid leaving your battery fully charged for extended periods, as this can reduce its lifespan. For external batteries, always use dedicated chargers and handle them with care to prevent damage and ensure optimal performance. Improper charging or using damaged batteries can lead to serious safety hazards, so always follow manufacturer guidelines.

If you won’t be using your device for an extended period, store it with a partial charge rather than completely full or empty. Monitor your battery’s performance and replace it when you notice significantly reduced battery life or charging issues. Most rechargeable batteries have a lifespan of 300-500 charge cycles before capacity begins to decline noticeably (4). Following these practices will help ensure longevity for both your battery and your device.

E-Liquid Storage and Handling

Proper e-liquid storage affects both flavour quality and device performance. Be sure to store e-liquids in a cool, dark place away from children and pets. Exposure to light and heat can cause nicotine degradation and flavour changes. 

Always use high-quality e-liquids from reputable manufacturers, as poor-quality liquids can contain impurities that damage your device, affect performance, or even carry health risks. Check expiration dates and discard any e-liquid that has changed colour significantly or developed an unusual odour. When stored properly, e-liquids typically last 2 years from the date of manufacture.

When filling your tank, avoid overfilling as this can cause leaking and gurgling. Using proper filling techniques helps prevent leaks by ensuring the device's internal components remain sealed and function correctly. Leave a small air gap at the top of the tank to allow for proper airflow and prevent pressure buildup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Understanding common issues and their solutions can help you maintain your device more effectively. If you experience reduced vapour production, check for loose connections, empty tanks, or worn coils. Residue buildup inside the device can also be affecting performance, so regular cleaning is important. Gurgling sounds often indicate flooding, which can be resolved by cleaning excess e-liquid from the airflow channels.

Leaking is typically caused by overfilling, damaged seals, or improper assembly. Check all connections and seals, and ensure components are properly tightened without being over-tightened.

If your device isn’t producing any vapour, verify that the battery is charged, all connections are clean and secure, and the coil is properly installed. Sometimes a simple cleaning of the connection points resolves the issue. Additionally, a damaged battery can lead to short circuits, which can prevent the device from functioning and may pose a safety risk.

Poor maintenance is a common cause of many device issues, so regular upkeep and cleaning are essential for a great experience and longevity.

How To Keep Your Vape For Long-Term Storage

If you need to store your e-cigarette for an extended period, proper preparation will ensure it remains in good condition. Clean all components thoroughly and allow them to dry completely. Remove the coil and store it separately, as leaving it installed can cause permanent damage.

Charge the battery to approximately 50% capacity before storage, as this helps maintain battery health during periods of non-use (5). Store all components in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and take out the batteries if they are removable. Proper storage is an important part of your vaping journey, helping to keep your device ready for use whenever you need it.

When to Seek Professional Help

While most maintenance can be performed at home, some issues require professional attention. If you notice any damage to the battery casing, unusual heating, or electrical issues, discontinue use immediately and consult with a qualified technician or the manufacturer to ensure an enjoyable vaping experience.

Regular maintenance not only ensures optimal performance and safety but also extends the life of your investment. By following these guidelines and establishing consistent care routines, you’ll enjoy better flavour, longer device life, and a more satisfying vaping experience overall.

Don't Have Time To Maintain Your Vape? Choose SMOKO!

If the thought of this level of vape maintenance is off-putting, then consider using a vape device that uses prefilled refills. While all of the storage tips in this article apply to prefilled kits, most of the maintenance does not.

It is still important to inspect your battery casing for damage and clean the electrical contacts to ensure power gets to the coil in the prefilled refill, but there is no need to replace coils as each refill contains a new one, each refill is a self-contained e-liquid tank so these can just be recycled when empty. When a battery is at the end of it's life, you don't have to spend much to replace it, unlike a more complex device that has a built-in battery.

SMOKO has helped thousands of smokers quit with our hassle-free vape kits, including the SMOKO E-Cigarette - a 'cigalike' device designed to look and feel like a traditional cigarette - or our more modern vape options like the SMOKO VAPE POD system or our brand-new SMOKO VAPE MAX. With a great range of e-liquid flavours that are all made in the UK, making the switch to SMOKO ensures a high-quality, safe and flavourful vaping experience - all without the need to spend hours on vape kit maintenance!

References

(1) How and Why to Use an Ultrasonic Cleaner for Your Vaporizer Accessories

(2) 5 Important Tips for Cleaning Electrical Contacts

(3) The Truth About Vape Coil Lifespan: What Affects It and How to Make Yours Last Longer

(4) Up in smoke: Considerations for lithium-ion batteries in disposable e-cigarettes

(5) BU-702: How to Store Batteries

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Written by Dan Overgage

Dan Overgage is a former smoker of 10 years until he became a client of SMOKO E-Cigarettes.  Dan started working with SMOKO 6 years ago after successfully quitting using our e-cigarettes and works across our Customer Service and heads up our content creation and research with a strong focus on all things quitting smoking.  During his tenure with SMOKO, Dan has written countless blogs and consults with countless clients every day to help them to stay smoke-free.

Last updated 24/10/2025