Cotton

Vape cotton is used in rebuildable atomisers like RDAs and RTAs to absorb e-liquid and deliver it to the coil. When the coil heats up, it vapourises the liquid held in the cotton, producing the flavour and vapour you inhale.

It’s not recommended. Vape cotton is specially processed to be free from chemicals, bleach and pesticides that are often found in standard cotton. Using the wrong type of cotton can affect taste and may be unsafe to inhale.

Organic, unbleached cotton is the gold standard for vaping. Brands like Cotton Bacon, Muji and Firebolt are popular for their purity, heat resistance and excellent wicking ability.

That depends on how often you vape and the type of e-liquid you use. On average, you should replace your cotton every couple of days, or whenever the flavour starts tasting burnt or muted.

Signs include a burnt or off taste, discoloured cotton or if the vapour starts to feel dry. If your coil is still in good shape but the flavour has dropped off, it’s probably time for a re-wick.

No, once vape cotton has been used and exposed to heat and e-liquid, it should be replaced. Reusing it can lead to poor flavour and dry hits.

Yes. Sweet or dark-coloured e-liquids tend to gunk up your cotton more quickly. Clear, less sugary liquids usually help your cotton and coils last longer.

After inserting the cotton through your coil, trim the ends and gently fluff them to improve wicking. Make sure it’s not packed too tightly or too loosely. Then saturate it fully with e-liquid before firing your device to avoid dry hits.

Vape cotton is specifically for rebuildable devices like RDAs, RTAs and some RDTAs. If you’re using a tank with pre-made coils, there’s no need to use or replace cotton manually—the cotton is built into the coil head.

Pre-cut cotton is ready to thread through your coils, saving time and effort. Cotton pads come in sheets that you’ll need to cut and roll yourself. Both work well, so it comes down to preference and convenience.