Sometimes, you're enjoying a beautiful day, the vibe is perfect, and then it hits you⌠you've forgotten your filter. Panic sets in. Is your session about to be ruined? Not so fast! There are several clever ways to make a filter out of everyday itemsâno need to let this minor setback ruin your mood. In this article, weâll walk you through some quick  and easy homemade filter solutions.
Why Use a Filter?
Before we dive into how to make a filter, letâs first discuss why youâd want one. Filters help prevent loose herb particles from entering your mouth and throat, and they can also reduce harshness, making your smoke smoother and more enjoyable. Additionally, using a filter can improve airflow and keep your smoking experience more comfortable.
Simple Homemade Filters You Can Make
Cardboard Filter
Materials Needed: Any piece of paper or cardboard (old packaging, receipts, or even a business card will work!)
How to Make It: Cut a small piece of cardboard, around 2-3 cm in length. Then, fold it back and forth accordion-style to create a small pleated filter. Finally, roll it into a cylinder shape, and youâve got yourself a quick, makeshift filter!
Why It Works: The pleating helps catch small particles while maintaining airflow, ensuring your smoke is smooth.
Extra Tip: In case of extreme emergency, you can use a random loyalty card, unless it's your TheGreenThingz cardâthatâs sacred!
Cotton Filter
Materials Needed: Cotton from a cotton swab or cotton ball (preferably from a clean source)
How to Make It: Tear off a small piece of cotton and roll it into a small cylindrical shape that fits the end of your joint.
Why It Works: Cotton can effectively catch particles while being soft enough to not affect the flavor too much. It also acts as a natural filter, making it a good emergency option.
Extra Tip: You can always âborrowâ a piece of cotton from your girlfriend's makeup remover pad, as long as sheâs in a good mood (or before she wakes up)!
Rolling Paper Filter
Materials Needed: Rolling paper (or any paper, such as a receipt or napkin)
How to Make It: If you have rolling papers, take one and roll it tightly. You can also use an old receipt or any scrap of paper. Make sure the rolled paper fits snugly into the end of your joint to prevent debris from entering your mouth.
Why It Works: This is the simplest option, and if you already have rolling paper, itâs super quick to make!
Maroco (Moroccan Filter)
Materials Needed: A used cigarette or a piece of tobacco
How to Make It: The Maroco filter is a simple solution used in some parts of the world. Itâs made by removing a piece of tobacco from a cigarette and placing it at the end of the joint, acting as a makeshift filter. The name 'Maroco' comes from Morocco, where this traditional method is used to filter smoke, especially when consuming hashish.
Why It Works: The Maroco helps smooth out the smoke, particularly when using hashish or strong concentrates, by reducing throat irritation. It's an old-school technique that can be handy in a pinch.
Considerations: While it helps with smoothness, it can deteriorate quickly, and itâs also important to note that using tobacco can add nicotine to your session, which may not be desirable for everyone.
Marijuana Filter (Homemade)
Materials Needed: A small piece of marijuana bud (not too sticky)
How to Make It: Break off a small, dry piece of your cannabis bud and place it at the end of your joint.
Why It Works: This method is purely cannabis-based, and it allows for a smoother burn while keeping the herb intact. Itâs not the most efficient filter, but it works when youâre in a bind.
Conclusion: Be Resourceful and Enjoy
Whether youâre caught without a filter or just need a quick fix, being resourceful can save your session. From using cardboard to getting creative with cotton, thereâs no shortage of ways to make a filter on the fly. However, remember that some makeshift filters, like the Maroco filter (made from a piece of tobacco or a cigarette), can help improve the smoothness of your smoke, especially when using hashish, but they come with a few caveats, like the addition of nicotine.
For more permanent solutions, we always recommend using high-quality filters designed for cannabis smoking. If you need something simple yet effective, visit our Filter Tips Collection for filters, accessories, and much more!
Happy rolling, and stay prepared for those spontaneous sessions!