Cannabis nectar collector next to wax concentrate

What Is A Nectar Collector & How Do You Use It?

When it comes to consuming marijuana concentrates, there’s more than one way to dab. A nectar collector is an innovative tool designed to simplify concentrate use without the hassle of a traditional dab rig. Known for their straw-like design, these collectors make it easy to control exactly how much concentrate you use.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

  • What is a Nectar Collector?
  • What are the Different Types of Nectar Collectors?
  • How Does a Nectar Collector Work?
  • How to Use a Nectar Collector
  • How to Clean a Nectar Collector
  • FAQs About Nectar Collectors


What is a Nectar Collector?

A nectar collector is a straw-like, portable dabbing device that works similarly to a traditional dab rig but without a nail. Instead, it’s designed with a heated tip that’s pressed directly onto the marijuana wax or other concentrate. Often called a nectar collector dabber, dab straw, or honey straw, this device is a simple way to enjoy marijuana concentrates.1 

It typically includes a glass or silicone mouthpiece, body, and a quartz or titanium tip. While versatile, nectar collectors are best for cannabis concentrates and not recommended for kief or hash.

Clear glass nectar collector on a white backgroundClear glass nectar collector on a white background

What are the Different Types of Nectar Collectors?

Nectar collectors come in various types, each with unique features. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular ones:

Glass Nectar Collector

A glass nectar collector offers a traditional and classic experience. Glass is often the go-to material if you prioritize purity and flavor since it tends to be easy to handle, heats well, and is straightforward to clean.

Silicone Nectar Collector

The silicone nectar collector is perfect if you need durability, portability, and an easy-to-clean device. It’s virtually unbreakable, making it an ideal choice if you’re using it on the go or are a bit prone to dropping things. They’re also a budget-friendly option.

Electric Nectar Collector

The electric nectar collector is a game-changer if you want to skip the butane torch. This version heats itself with a built-in battery, offering convenience and a controlled heat setting for a more consistent experience.

Glass nectar collector with blue dots near the mouthpieceGlass nectar collector with blue dots near the mouthpiece

How Does a Nectar Collector Work?

If you’re a fan of consuming concentrates, you’ll likely want to give a nectar collector a try. Many cannabis enthusiasts insist they’re better than a traditional dab rig and just as easy to operate—once you know what you’re doing. With a nectar collector, you place your concentrate on a heat-safe surface. Then, you heat the tip of your honey straw with a butane torch (a lighter isn’t going to cut it). Once the tip is hot, you touch it to the concentrate and voila, vapor is produced that you can inhale through the straw-like nectar collector.

How to Use a Nectar Collector

Setting up a nectar collector is straightforward, but you need a few tools:

  • Heat-resistant surface: A dab mat or silicone surface.
  • Container for concentrate: A heat-safe container made from silicone or food-grade glass.
  • Butane torch: Heats the tip unless you have an electric nectar collector.

You also need your favorite concentrate, whether live resin, crumble, shatter, rosin, or budder.

Butane torch for concentrates on a white backgroundButane torch for concentrates on a white background

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a nectar collector:3

Step 1: Heat the Tip

Heat the nectar collector’s tip with the butane torch for about 40 to 50 seconds. The amount of time it takes to heat the tip of the nectar collector will vary depending on the type of torch that you use. 

After the tip of the nectar collector is heated, you’ll want to let it cool for about 15 to 30 seconds. You can use an infrared temperature gun if you want to get the tip to a specific temperature to avoid burning or underheating the dab.

Step 2: Touch to Concentrate

Once the tip has cooled to your desired temperature, lightly place the tip against the concentrate. The heat will melt the concentrate, creating a vapor you can inhale. 

Step 3: Inhale

Inhale the vapor through the mouthpiece, just like sipping through a straw. Remember, the nectar collector will be hot! Be careful while using it and be sure to place it on a heat-proof surface until it’s cool.

How To Clean A Nectar Collector

Keeping your cannabis tools clean is essential to ensuring you are enjoying your products to the fullest extent. One advantage of a nectar collector is that it’s easier to clean than a traditional dab rig. 

To begin, you’ll need a resealable plastic bag; hot water; salt; and a cleaning agent with 91% or higher alcohol content.  

First, take apart the mouthpiece, tip, and body, then blow into the mouthpiece to remove any water inside. Use a cotton swab to get rid of any leftover concentrate.

Then, place the tip, mouthpiece, and body into separate resealable bags and submerge them in the cleaning agent. Add a ratio of 2:1 alcohol to salt and close the bag tightly. The pieces can soak for at least 30 minutes, depending on how dirty they are. After 30 minutes have passed, shake the bags to clean each component thoroughly. If they still aren’t clean enough, you can keep the parts soaking for however long is needed to get them clean. 

Once they’re at your desired cleanliness, rinse the parts with water, and repeat if necessary. Let everything air dry before you reassemble and use your nectar collector.

FAQs About Nectar Collectors

Whether you're a newcomer to nectar collectors or looking to refine your technique, here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions. These tips should help you get the most out of your nectar collector dabber and enjoy a smooth, flavorful experience. Otherwise, chat with your favorite Verilife budtender for customized advice.

Do you put water in a nectar collector?
Typically, water is not added to a nectar collector. However, if your dab straw has a percolator or water chamber, you should fill it with water.

How do you know when a nectar collector is hot enough?
Knowing whether your nectar collector is hot enough is not an exact science. Trial and error will help you find the perfect temperature for your dabbing experience.

What’s the difference between a nectar collector vs a dab rig?
A nectar collector is portable and doesn’t use a nail, while a dab rig generally requires one and is stationary.

What’s the difference between a nectar collector vs a dab rig?
A nectar collector is portable and doesn’t use a nail, while a dab rig generally requires one and is stationary.

Can I use a nectar collector without a torch?
You can use a nectar collector without a torch, but a butane torch is ideal for quickly achieving the right heat level—unless you have an electric dab straw.

Can you smoke wax with a nectar collector?
Absolutely! The nectar collector is ideal for marijuana wax and other concentrates.

Select Your Own Nectar Collector

Finding the right nectar collector depends on your lifestyle and preferences. Glass offers a classic experience with pure flavor, silicone provides durability for on-the-go use, and electric models bring ultimate convenience. If you’re unsure which option to choose to smoke concentrates, stop by your local Verilife dispensary, and let a budtender help you find the perfect nectar collector for your needs.


cannabis leaf outline in a green circle

Recreational cannabis is not available in all states. Cannabis is for medical use only and may only be used by certified patients in Ohio and Pennsylvania. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and certified patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.