For those new to vaping, understanding how to properly inhale is a fundamental step towards a satisfying experience. Unlike traditional smoking, vaping offers two primary inhalation methods: Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) and Direct-to-Lung (DTL). The best technique for you will depend on your personal preference, the type of device you’re using, and the kind of experience you’re seeking.
The Two Main Inhalation Techniques: MTL vs. DTL
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL)
The Mouth-to-Lung technique closely mimics the way most people smoke a cigarette, making it a popular choice for beginners and those transitioning from smoking.1 As the name suggests, the process involves two distinct steps:
- Draw the vapor into your mouth: Slowly and steadily draw the vapor from your vape device into your mouth, as if you were sipping a drink through a straw.2
- Inhale into your lungs: After the vapor has filled your mouth, open your mouth and take a breath, inhaling the vapor into your lungs.3
MTL is best for:
- Beginners: The familiar sensation makes for an easier transition from smoking.
- Flavor chasers: The vapor spends more time in your mouth, allowing you to better taste the nuances of your e-liquid.4
- Those who prefer a stronger “throat hit”: The sensation at the back of the throat is more pronounced with this method.
- Discreet vaping: MTL devices typically produce smaller, less conspicuous vapor clouds.5
Devices and E-liquids for MTL:
- Devices: Look for starter kits, pod systems, and vape pens with a tighter airflow and higher resistance coils (typically above 1.0 ohm).6
- E-liquids: E-liquids with a higher Propylene Glycol (PG) to Vegetable Glycerin (VG) ratio (e.g., 50/50 PG/VG) are ideal. Higher nicotine strengths are also more common and effective with MTL vaping.7
Direct-to-Lung (DTL)
The Direct-to-Lung technique is more akin to taking a deep breath of air directly into your lungs.8 This method is often favored by more experienced vapers who enjoy large vapor clouds and a smoother, more intense experience.
- Inhale directly into your lungs: In one continuous motion, draw the vapor from your device straight down into your lungs. This should feel like taking a deep, open-mouthed breath.
DTL is best for:
- Experienced vapers: This method can be overwhelming for beginners.
- Cloud chasers: DTL vaping is known for producing large, dense vapor clouds.9
- Those who prefer a smoother inhale: The throat hit is generally less intense with DTL.
Devices and E-liquids for DTL:
- Devices: More powerful “sub-ohm” devices, box mods, and rebuildable atomizers with wider airflow channels and lower resistance coils (typically below 1.0 ohm) are designed for DTL vaping.
- E-liquids: E-liquids with a higher VG to PG ratio (e.g., 70/30 VG/PG or higher) are recommended for their ability to produce thick vapor.10 Due to the larger volume of vapor inhaled, lower nicotine strengths (typically 3mg to 6mg) are advised to avoid an uncomfortably harsh experience.
Step-by-Step Guide to Inhaling
For Mouth-to-Lung (MTL):
- Prepare your device: Ensure your vape is filled with an appropriate e-liquid and the battery is charged.
- Activate the device: If your device has a button, press and hold it as you begin to inhale. If it’s draw-activated, simply start puffing.
- Draw slowly and steadily: Take a slow, gentle puff, drawing the vapor into your mouth for a few seconds.11
- Hold the vapor: Close your mouth and hold the vapor for a moment to savor the flavor.
- Inhale to the lungs: Open your mouth and take a breath of air, drawing the vapor down into your lungs.12
- Exhale: Breathe out the vapor.
For Direct-to-Lung (DTL):
- Prepare your device: Use a sub-ohm device with a suitable high-VG e-liquid and a charged battery.
- Activate the device: Press the fire button as you begin your inhale.
- Inhale deeply and continuously: Take a long, smooth breath directly into your lungs. This should feel like taking a full breath of air.
- Exhale immediately: Once your lungs are full, exhale the large cloud of vapor.
Finding Your Preferred Style
Experimenting with both MTL and DTL techniques is the best way to discover what works for you. Pay attention to the sensation, the flavor, and the overall experience. Don’t be discouraged if you cough at first; this is common for new vapers. Adjusting your inhalation style, the power settings on your device, and your e-liquid choice can all help in finding your perfect vape.