A Beginner's Guide on How to Inhale a Vape Properly

You’ve just started vaping, but something feels off. Perhaps the vapour hits too hard, causing you to cough, or the flavour does not seem right. However, you don’t have to worry about it because every beginner goes through this.

Once you learn how to vape properly, you can avoid many issues. Since inhaling affects how smooth the vapour feels, how much flavour you get, and how long your coil can last. Unlike smoking, vaping comes with different inhaling styles that you can adapt depending on your device. You can also change nicotine strengths and airflow levels.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to inhale correctly: from MTL and DTL techniques to airflow tips, e-liquid choices, and practice drills to help you vape effectively for a more satisfying experience.

Before we dive deep into it, have a look at this quick breakdown of the three main inhale styles:

If you’re just starting, MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) is the best option. It feels similar to smoking and delivers a satisfying throat hit without overwhelming you. It is ideal for those who are still learning how to vape efficiently.

Understanding Vape Inhalation Styles

Mouth-to-Lung (MTL)

If you’ve ever smoked a cigarette, you probably know how MTL works. You draw the vapour into your mouth first, then inhale it into your lungs.

Here is a Step-by-step Process:

• Take a slow draw for about 3–4 seconds.
• Hold the vapour in your mouth for a second.
• Inhale it into your lungs.
• Finally, exhale gently.

MTL is best for smaller pod systems and e-liquids with higher nicotine levels. Moreover, you’ll get a tighter draw, more flavour concentration, and a stronger throat hit. Additionally, if you’re new to it, check out our guide on how to use a vape pen to start right away with the best device.

Direct-to-Lung (DTL)

DTL is often preferred by experienced vapers who are into big clouds and looking for smooth flavour. Instead of holding the vapour in your mouth, you inhale it straight into your lungs.

Step-by-step:

• Draw deeply for 3–5 seconds.
• Inhale the vapour directly into your lungs.
• Exhale slowly and evenly.

DTL requires low nicotine levels (0–6mg) and high VG e-liquids. It works best with sub-ohm coils and open airflow; it is a must-learn for those mastering how to vape properly.

Restricted Direct Lung (RDL)

If you’re moving from MTL to DTL, RDL gives you the best of both worlds. The draw is slightly tighter than DTL but looser than MTL.

In other words, RDL provides you with smooth vapour, medium nicotine levels, and balanced cloud production. It is perfect for vaping for beginners who want to experiment.

Choosing the Right Device and Settings

Your device setup determines how comfortable your inhale will feel. So matching your coil, wattage, and airflow is the way to go.

If you need help picking your first setup, you can explore the best vape pens for smooth draws and quality performance.

• Tight airflow: stronger throat hit, more control.
• Open airflow: smoother draw, bigger clouds.

Start small. Experiment with airflow and wattage until the vapour feels just right.

You need to know that your e-liquid choice impacts both your throat hit and flavour experience as well. Here is how much nicotine you should add for a certain vaping style:

Nicotine Guide:

• For MTL vaping, you should go for 10–20mg nicotine salts.
• For RDL, go for 6–10mg freebase nicotine.
• If you are into DTL, then go for 0–6mg freebase nicotine.

VG/PG Ratio Explained:

• Higher PG (50/50 or 60/40): This ratio will give you a stronger throat hit and is better for MTL.
• Higher VG (70/30 or 80/20): This will give you a smoother hit and thicker clouds. It is ideal for DTL.

If your throat burns or you start to cough, know that the nicotine in your e-juice is too high. You should lower it and take slower draws.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Inhale Properly

Here’s how to perfect your technique:

• Prime your coil first and then take a small puff without inhaling to let it warm up.
• Draw gently. Breathe in for 3–4 seconds without forcing it.
• Hold briefly. Let the vapour settle for a second (for MTL).
• Inhale or exhale slowly. You should avoid taking quick or harsh breaths.

Practice Drills:

• The “Slow Sip” Technique: take light, steady pulls. Simply imagine sipping through a straw.
• The “Breath Rhythm” Method: inhale and exhale naturally, not forcefully.

You need to practise this daily until the inhale feels smooth and effortless.

Common Mistakes and Their Fix

There are some common mistakes that many beginners make. So here is how to fix that and not make the same mistake again:

Coughing?

• You need to lower your nicotine strength.
• Try an e-liquid with higher VG.
• Adjust your airflow for smoother draws.

Harsh throat hit?

• You need to reduce the wattage slightly.
• Check if your coil is burnt or dry.

No flavour?

• Replace the coil.
• Clean the tank.
• Don’t chain vape; give the coil time to re-saturate.

A simple fix can turn a harsh session into a pleasant experience.

Vape Safety Basics to Stay Smart & Safe

Vaping is simple, but safety matters most. So you must always:

• Charge only with the recommended cable.
• Replace coils regularly. About every 1–2 weeks.
• Keep e-liquids sealed and out of children’s reach.
• Do not overfill pods. Instead, always leave a little space for air.

For convenience and safety, you need to look for reliable vape delivery in the UK services that can offer you verified and TPD-compliant devices and e-liquids.

Quick Vape Inhalation Checklist

• First, choose your inhale style. You can either go for MTL, RDL, or DTL.
• Match coil resistance to your style.
• Pick the right nicotine strength.
• Adjust airflow for more comfort.
• Practise slow and steady draws.
• Stay safe and continue to maintain your device.

You need to keep this checklist at hand for every new setup you are going to try.

Conclusion

Getting to know exactly how to inhale a vape correctly takes time. You need to be patient and make small changes. For example, you can start with MTL, find your ideal airflow, and experiment with different nicotine levels until it feels just right. Always remember that smoother inhales mean better flavour, less coughing, and a more enjoyable experience as a whole.

Ready to Master Your Vape?

If you are ready to explore, you should consider beginner kits and accessories, or buy Voopoo vapes. Their devices are of high quality and are designed for all inhalation styles. Order now through trusted vape retailers to start your new vaping journey today.

How long should I inhale a vape for?

Vape for about 3 to 5 seconds. Because MTL uses shorter draws, however, DTL needs deeper, longer inhales.

Why do I cough when vaping?

Your nicotine might be too strong, or you’re inhaling too fast. Start slower with a lower strength.

Should I hold the vapour in my lungs?

You don’t need to hold the vapour in your lungs. Nicotine absorbs fast. You only need to inhale and exhale naturally.

Can I inhale a vape like a cigarette?

Yes, but only with MTL setups. DTL is smoother and needs a different breathing pattern.

What’s the safest inhalation technique?

MTL is the safest inhalation technique. It is slower, smoother, and simply perfect if you are new to vaping.