3 Easy Ways to Unclog Your Mellow Fellow Disposable Vape (Plus Prevention Tips)

3 comments Published on Oct 20, 2022 • Reviewed & Updated on Jul 21, 2025
Assorted vape products from Mellow Fellow

 

You’re vibing with your Wedding Crasher Disposable Vape, an energizing burst of grape and berry with just the right heady lift. Then, mid-puff, silence. No crackle, no cloud, just a frustrating wall of resistance. Is it clogged? Is it broken? 

Do you blow into it or bang it on the counter like a caveman? Before you panic or waste a perfectly good vape, here’s exactly how to get things flowing again, and how to keep it from happening next time. Let’s find out how to unclog your Mellow Fellow disposable vape. 

Key Takeaways

  • Common clog causes include cold temperatures, thick oil, and poor-quality hardware or additives

  • Mellow Fellow uses pure, uncut oils and precision hardware to reduce clogging while delivering consistent performance

  • The pipe cleaner method is the most effective fix for deep airflow blockages

  • Q-tip and alcohol cleaning works well for regular surface maintenance and minor buildup

  • Storing vapes upright and using the preheat function prevents most clogging issues before they start

  • Gentle draws are more effective than hard pulls and help extend the life of your vape

  • Shop Mellow Fellow’s full line of mood-based vapes to find the blend that matches your style

Why Do Disposable Vapes Clog? 

Clogged vapes are frustrating, but they’re also surprisingly common, especially with oil-based disposables. If you've ever gone to take a hit and got nothing but resistance, one of the following reasons is likely to blame. Let's take a look at the most common causes, starting with what’s inside your vape.

Low Quality Cannabis Extract

Not all cannabis oil is created equal. Some brands use low-quality distillates that are diluted with cutting agents like propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, or synthetic terpenes to thin out the oil and reduce costs. 

These additives may improve flow at first, but they tend to leave behind sticky residue that collects in the mouthpiece or airflow channel, leading to clogging over time.

Worse, these fillers can degrade the overall vaping experience, impacting flavor, vapor quality, and even safety. 

That’s one reason why Mellow Fellow vapes like the Strawberry Amnesia Disposable are made with pure, undiluted oil free from unnecessary thinners or artificial ingredients. While thicker oil requires better hardware to function well (more on that in a moment), it’s a sign of a cleaner, more potent product.

Thick Oil Due to Cold Temperatures

Temperature plays a huge role in how cannabis oil behaves. At room temperature, quality oil has a thick, syrupy consistency. But drop that temperature even a few degrees, and it thickens significantly. 
According to viscosity testing from RheoSense, cannabis extracts can become dramatically more viscous in colder environments, making it harder for oil to move through the device.

 

This is why vapes left in a cold car, next to an AC vent, or even near a window on a chilly day are more likely to clog. The thickened oil can't flow to the heating element fast enough, especially when the device is first activated.

When this happens, clogs usually form in three key areas:
  • The mouthpiece where condensed vapor builds up

  • The airflow channel where thicker oil can solidify

  • The coil entrance where oil fails to reach the heating core

Mellow Fellow disposables, including the Double Dream Vape, are designed with wide oil channels and advanced airflow systems that reduce clogging in colder conditions. Still, even the best hardware can struggle if the oil is too cold, so storage matters.

Low Quality Hardware

Another major reason disposables clog is subpar hardware. Some brands cut corners on internal components, using narrow airflow pathways, poorly calibrated heating elements, or cheap plastic that can't handle thicker oils. These vapes might work for a few puffs, but once residue starts building up, the airflow slows and clogs become more likely.

Mellow Fellow vapes like the Northern Lights THCp Disposable are built differently. Each device uses premium-grade materials, precision-designed coil systems, and airflow channels optimized for thick oil. This helps minimize clogging and ensures consistent performance with every puff.

Still, even with top-tier hardware and quality oil, clogs can happen, especially if you store your vape in the wrong conditions or go long periods between uses. That’s why the next step is knowing how to fix a clog when it does happen and how to prevent it in the first place.

The 3 Best Methods to Unclog Your Vape

1. The Pipe Cleaner Method (Our Top Recommendation)

Declogging your Mellow Fellow Disposable Vape - How To Declog Your Device

This method works best for deep clogs and provides the most thorough cleaning without damaging your device.

What You’ll Need

  • A thin pipe cleaner (craft store variety works perfectly)

  • Paper towel for cleanup

Steps

  1. Remove the mouthpiece cap if your device has one

  2. Gently insert the pipe cleaner into the mouthpiece opening

  3. Twist clockwise while pushing deeper — you'll feel the clog break up

  4. Remove the pipe cleaner and check for oil residue

  5. Repeat if necessary until airflow is restored

Why It Works: The pipe cleaner's flexible wire core with soft bristles can navigate the airflow path without scratching internal components. This method is especially effective for our live resin disposables like the 4ml Recover Blend Bubba Kush Vape, which use particularly pure, uncut oils.

2. Q-Tip & Rubbing Alcohol 

Declogging your Mellow Fellow Disposable Vape - How To Declog Your Device

2. The Q-Tip & Isopropyl Alcohol Method

Using a Q-tip dipped in isopropyl alcohol is perfect for surface-level clogs and regular maintenance of your device.

What You’ll Need

  • Cotton swabs (Q-tips)

  • 70% or higher isopropyl alcohol

  • Paper towel

Steps

  1. Dip one end of the Q-tip in isopropyl alcohol (keep the other end dry)

  2. Insert the alcohol-soaked end into the mouthpiece

  3. Gently rotate to dissolve oil buildup

  4. Use the dry end to absorb excess alcohol and loosened oil

  5. Let the device air dry for two to three minutes before use

Pro Tip: This method works well as preventive maintenance. We recommend doing this weekly if you're a daily user of products like our 4ml Tranquility Blend Space Queen Disposable.

3. The Eyelash Brush Technique

Using an eyelash brush to unclog your disposable is a surprisingly effective method using a tool you might already have at home.

What You’ll Need
  • A clean mascara wand or spoolie brush

  • Warm water (optional)

  • Paper towel

Steps
  1. Ensure the brush is completely clean and dry

  2. Insert the brush into the mouthpiece at a slight angle

  3. Rotate gently while pushing through the airway

  4. Remove and check for oil residue

  5. Rinse the brush and repeat if needed

Why It Works: The spiral bristles are perfect for grabbing onto stubborn clogs while being gentle enough not to damage delicate components.

How to Prevent Your Disposable Vape From Clogging

Woman holding a vape from Mellow Fellow

 

Knowing how to properly use your disposable vape includes knowing how to prevent clogs in the first place. Here are the best strategies to keep your device flowing smoothly:

Temperature Management

Store your vapes at room temperature (68-77°F). Extreme temperatures affect oil viscosity, as cold makes it thicker and more prone to clogging, while heat can cause oil to leak into airways. 

Proper Storage Position

Always store your disposable vapes upright when not in use. Laying them flat allows oil to seep into the mouthpiece and airway channels. This is especially important for high-capacity devices like our Creativity Blend 4ml vapes.

The Preheat Function

Many Mellow Fellow disposables feature a preheat function, and it’s to use it! Double-clicking the button warms the oil, reducing viscosity before you inhale. This simple step can prevent most clogs from forming. Think of it like warming up your car on a cold morning.

Draw Technique Matters

Taking extremely hard pulls creates pressure that can draw oil into the airway. Instead, take gentle, steady draws. If you need to pull hard to get vapor, your device likely needs cleaning rather than more force.

When to Retire Your Disposable

Sometimes a clog indicates your disposable is reaching the end of its life. Signs it's time for a new device:

  • Repeated clogging despite cleaning

  • Burnt taste even after unclogging

  • Visible oil darkening significantly

  • Battery no longer holding charge

When it's time to upgrade, consider trying a different blend. If you've been enjoying Tranquility, maybe explore Euphoria for your next experience.

Advanced Troubleshooting

If the basic methods aren't working, you might be dealing with a more complex issue. Check out our guide on why your Delta-8 disposable might not be hitting for comprehensive troubleshooting steps.

For those experiencing charging issues alongside clogs, our article on disposable vape charging problems covers electrical troubleshooting that might be related to your airflow issues.

Final Thoughts on Keeping Your Vapes Flowing

A clogged vape doesn't have to ruin your day. With these simple maintenance techniques and prevention strategies, you can keep your Mellow Fellow disposables performing at their peak. Remember, the occasional clog is actually a sign you're using a quality product with pure, uncut oils.

No matter if you're reaching for an Introvert Blend Vape for some introspection or Dream Blend Disposable to wind down your evening, a well-maintained vape ensures your experience stays consistent.

Ready to see our full range of mood-based blends? Browse all products and find your perfect match.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Water to Clean My Disposable Vape?

We strongly advise against using water. It can damage the battery and internal electronics. Stick to isopropyl alcohol for liquid cleaning, and ensure everything is completely dry before use. Water can also cause the hemp-derived cannabinoids to separate from the oil base, potentially ruining your product.

How Often Should I Preheat My Device to Prevent Clogs?

Use the preheat function before your first hit of the day and any time your device has been sitting unused for more than four hours. For heavy users or those in colder climates, preheating before every session isn't overkill, it's smart maintenance that extends device life.

Is It Normal for Live Resin Vapes to Clog More Than Distillate Vapes?

Yes, this is completely normal. Live resin preserves more of the plant's natural compounds, resulting in a thicker, more complex oil. While our live resin products may require slightly more maintenance, they deliver fuller effects and better flavor profiles that users consistently prefer.

Can I Prevent Clogs by Taking Smaller Hits?

Absolutely! Smaller, gentler draws create less negative pressure in the device, reducing the likelihood of pulling oil into the airway. This technique also helps you better control your dosage and can make your device last longer. Many users find this especially helpful with potent blends like our Charged formula.

What Should I Do if None of These Methods Work?

If you've tried all three cleaning methods and proper troubleshooting, reach out to our customer service team. Sometimes manufacturing defects occur, and we stand behind our products. Document the issue with photos if possible, and we'll work to make it right. Quality control is paramount to us, and your feedback helps us continually improve our devices.


Sources 


3 comments


  • Robert L Arrington Jr August 17, 2023 at 10:36 pm

    What do you do when one side is empty and the other is full but will not work??


  • mary coppola March 26, 2023 at 11:06 am

    GREAT!! Needed info for all vape users…maybe put paper info in all vape email orders?
    You all are very Merry Yellow
    folks🥰


  • Logan Rooks November 30, 2022 at 7:53 am

    I’ve been a mellow fellow for years now. I started on the 1 ml classic blends. Then 2ml classic blends. And I found that when the 2 ml classics had a regular metal coil they worked great. And I never had issues. But then I saw these new Blends come out with a red clay coil. I had issues with all these sadly where they would leak oil into my mouth. Wasted allot of money too :( And almost gave up on mellow fellows. But then I’ve been seeing these newer volumes of blends that don’t have a visibly red coil and they work great. And any issues I had, was delt with very fast and professionally by there customer support line. I love mellow fellows!!! And will always be a mellow fellow for life.


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Mellow Fellow's various flavored disposable vape devices are placed on a glossy floor against a colorful background
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