E-Liquid FAQs: Expert Answers To Questions About Vape Juice

Whether you’re new to vaping or an experienced vaper, this FAQ page is designed to answer the most common questions people have about e-liquid. From understanding the basics of what it is and what it’s made of, to learning about different types of e-liquids and how to choose the right one for you, we’ve got you covered.

Browse 10ml E-Liquids

Explore our FAQs to enhance your vaping knowledge and make informed decisions about the e-liquids you use:

Q: What is e-liquid?

A: E-liquid, also known as vape juice or e-juice, is a liquid used in electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and vaping devices to create vapour. E-liquid is commonly used as an alternative to smoking, and typically contains a mixture of propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavourings, and often nicotine.

Q: What is e-liquid made of?

A: Vape liquid generally contains four main ingredients: propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavourings, and nicotine (optional). Some e-liquids may also contain additives for specific effects or purposes. The ratio of PG to VG and the presence of nicotine can vary based on user preferences.

Q: Does all e-liquid contain nicotine?

A: No, not all e-liquids contain nicotine. There are many nicotine-free options available for those who prefer to vape without nicotine.

Q: What strength e-Liquid do I need?

A: The strength of e-liquid you need depends on your previous smoking habits. Light smokers might prefer lower strengths (3-6mg), while heavier smokers may need higher strengths (12-18mg) to satisfy their cravings. Learn more about what nicotine strength to use.

Q: What is PG in e-liquid?

A: Propylene glycol (PG) is a colourless, odourless liquid used in e-liquids to carry flavour and provide a throat hit similar to smoking. It is thinner than VG and produces less vapour.

Q: What is VG in E-Liquid?

A: Vegetable glycerin (VG) is a thicker, sweeter liquid used in e-liquids to produce more vapour and add sweetness. It is less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to PG.

Q: What is 50/50 vape juice?

A: 50/50 vape juice has an equal ratio of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG). It provides a balanced experience of flavour, throat hit, and vapour production, suitable for most devices and vaping styles.

Q: What is high VG e-liquid?

A: High VG e-liquid contains a higher ratio of vegetable glycerin (VG) to propylene glycol (PG), typically 70% VG or higher. It produces more vapour and is preferred by those who enjoy cloud chasing and a smoother vape.

Q: Does vape juice expire?

A: Yes, vape juice does expire. Most e-liquids have a shelf life of around 1-2 years from the manufacturing date. It’s best to check the expiration date on the bottle and store it properly to ensure longevity.

Q: What’s the best way to store e-liquid?

A: Store e-liquid in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Keeping it in a tightly sealed bottle and out of reach of children and pets is also essential.

Q: Why does my e-liquid get darker?

A: E-liquid can get darker due to exposure to light, heat, and air. The oxidation of nicotine and the breakdown of flavourings over time can also cause the e-liquid to darken. While this is normal and not usually cause for concern, proper storage can help minimise this.

Q: How old do I need to be to buy e-liquid?

A: In the UK, you must be at least 18 years old to purchase e-liquid and other vaping products.

Q: Is e-liquid safer than smoking?

A: While e-liquids and vaping are generally considered less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes, they are not without risks. Public Health England has stated that vaping is at least 95% less harmful than smoking, but it’s best to seek advice from health professionals.

Q: What is freebase e-liquid?

A: Freebase e-liquid contains nicotine in its purest form and is commonly used in most regular e-liquids. It is available in various nicotine strengths, typically providing a stronger throat hit at higher strengths, making it popular among former smokers.

Q: What are nic salts?

A: Nicotine salts (nic salts) are a type of nicotine found naturally in tobacco leaves. They provide a smoother throat hit and faster nicotine absorption compared to freebase nicotine, making them ideal for higher strength e-liquids. Find out more in our What Are Nic Salts Guide.

Q: What is the difference between nic salt and freebase e-liquid?

A: The main difference is in the type of nicotine used. Nic salt e-liquids use nicotine salts, which provide a smoother and faster-absorbing nicotine hit, while freebase e-liquids use pure nicotine, offering a stronger throat hit and slower absorption. Learn more in our comparison between types of e-liquid to help you find the right one for your needs.

Q: What are shortfill e liquids?

A: Shortfill e-liquids are larger bottles of e-liquid that do not contain nicotine. They leave space in the bottle to add a nicotine shot (nic shot) to achieve the desired nicotine strength.

Q: What are nic shots?

A: Nic shots are small bottles of concentrated nicotine used to add to nicotine-free e-liquids (shortfills) to create a nicotine-containing e-liquid.

Q: How many nic shots do I need for 100ml?

A: The number of nic shots you need will depend on the strength of the e-liquid you want to make. For example, to make 100ml of e-liquid with a nicotine strength of 3mg/ml, you would typically add two 10ml nic shots of 18mg/ml strength. Find out more in our guide to shortfills & how many nic shots you need.

Q: Can you use shortfills without nicotine?

A: Yes, you can use shortfill e-liquids without adding nicotine shots if you prefer a nicotine-free vaping experience.

Q: How do you open a shortfill bottle?

A: To open a shortfill bottle, you typically need to unscrew the cap and remove the nozzle. Bottles will generally have a child-proof style cap, meaning you will need to push down and twist. Some bottles may require gently prying off the nozzle with a tool or your fingers.

Q: What is the best flavour e-liquid?

A: The best flavour of e-liquid is subjective and varies from person to person. Popular choices include fruit, menthol, dessert, and tobacco flavours. Experimenting with different flavours can help you find your favourite, or take a look at our Guide To The Most Popular E-Liquid Flavours to find out more.

Q: Which e-liquid produces the most vapour?

A: High VG e-liquids typically produce the most vapour. Look for e-liquids with 70% VG or higher for dense cloud production.

Q: What is throat hit?

A: Throat hit is the sensation felt in the back of the throat when inhaling vapour. It is similar to the feeling of smoking a cigarette and is influenced by the nicotine strength and PG content in the e-liquid.

Q: Which type of e-liquid gives the strongest throat hit?

A: E-liquids with higher PG content and freebase nicotine provide the strongest throat hit. Look for e-liquids with 50% PG content and higher nicotine levels for a more pronounced throat hit.

Q: What is MTL vaping?

A: MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) vaping involves inhaling the vapour into your mouth first and then into your lungs. It mimics the sensation of smoking a traditional cigarette and is common when using liquids with higher nicotine strengths and 50/50 e-liquids. Learn more about vaping styles in our Guide to Sub-Ohm and MTL vaping.

Q: What is DTL vaping?

A: DTL (Direct-to-Lung) vaping involves inhaling the vapour directly into your lungs. It produces larger clouds and is suited for lower nicotine strengths and high VG e-liquids, and is typically a style associated with sub-ohm kits and devices.

Q: Can you mix vape juice?

A: Yes, you can mix different vape juices to create custom flavours. Ensure that the e-liquids are compatible and mix well by shaking the bottle thoroughly before use. It’s recommended to combine e-liquids of the same PG/VG ratio for a consistent experience.

Q: How do I choose the right vape juice?

A: Choosing the right vape juice depends on your personal preferences for flavour, nicotine strength, and VG/PG ratio. Consider your previous smoking habits, desired throat hit, and vapour production when making a choice.

Q: Can you take vape liquid on a plane?

A: Yes, you can take vape liquid on a plane, but it must comply with airline regulations. Typically, liquids must be in containers of 100ml or less and carried in a clear, resealable plastic bag. Check with your airline for specific guidelines. Learn more in our Guide to E-Liquid and Air Travel.

Q: How long does 10ml vape juice last?

A: The duration a 10ml bottle of vape juice lasts depends on your vaping habits. For moderate vapers, it might last around 3-5 days. Heavy vapers may use it up faster, while occasional vapers could make it last longer.

Q: How many puffs are in a 10ml bottle of e-liquid?

A: The number of puffs in a 10ml bottle of e-liquid can vary quite significantly depending on factors such as the device you use and your vaping style. As a general rule of thumb, on average, you can expect around 2000-3000 puffs from a 10ml bottle.

Q: Is e-liquid available in bottles larger than 10ml?

A: Yes, e-liquid is available in larger bottles, typically referred to as shortfills. These are usually 50ml or 100ml bottles that do not contain nicotine, allowing users to add their own nicotine shots. E-liquid that contains nicotine however can only be legally sold in 10ml bottles in the UK.

Q: Is e-liquid suitable for vegans?

A: Most e-liquids are suitable for vegans, but it’s essential to check the ingredients list and look for e-liquids labelled as vegan-friendly to ensure no animal-derived ingredients are used.

Q: Is vape juice harmful if swallowed?

A: Vape juice can be harmful if swallowed, particularly in larger quantities and especially if it contains nicotine. If ingested, seek medical advice immediately and provide the container or label for reference.

Q: Do I need to change coils when changing flavours of e-liquid?

A: It’s not essential to change coils when switching between flavours, however it is recommended to change if the flavours are significantly different, or you have been using an e-liquid with a strong flavour such as tobacco or menthol. This prevents flavour mixing and ensures a better vaping experience. Find out more about how to know when to change your coil.

Q: What is the best alternative to a disposable vape?

A: The best alternatives to a disposable vape include refillable pod systems or starter kits. These devices are more cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and provide a customisable vaping experience. In terms of e-liquids, nic salts will usually provide the most similar experience to disposable vapes in terms of strength, throat hit and flavour. Find out more about alternatives to disposable vapes.