Posted on August 3, 2023 by Munchies

You’re not alone if you’ve noticed that your vape cart has become cloudy. While this might seem concerning, cloudy carts are a common issue. This guide will explore the reasons behind it and how to fix or prevent it.

Key Takeaways

  • Cloudiness in Vape Carts – Oil quality, age, temperature, humidity, or coil issues typically cause cloudy vape carts. While it may look unappealing, it’s generally safe to vape.
  • Oil Quality Matters – Low-quality concentrates are more prone to cloudiness as cheap ingredients also can’t withstand heat, leading to separation and visible cloudiness.
  • Age of Vape Oil – Over time, the oil in your vape cart may separate, losing its homogeneity, which can cause cloudiness. It’s not dangerous, but a sign that the cart should be replaced.
  • Temperature and Humidity – Cold temperatures or high humidity can affect your vape oil, causing it to thicken or separate, resulting in a cloudy appearance when heated.
  • Coil Issues – A worn-out or clogged coil can prevent proper heating, leading to uneven vaporization and a cloudy cart. Regular cleaning or coil replacement may fix the issue.
  • Fixing a Cloudy Cart – To resolve cloudiness, ensure your vape is at the correct temperature, use high-quality oil, and replace the coil if necessary. Avoid extreme temperatures to maintain cart quality.

What’s in a Vape Cart?

Vape carts are a popular method of cannabis consumption. These small cartridges hold cannabis oil extracts or vaporized concentrates when heated. They are available in various forms, including ceramic, glass, plastic, and metal, and come in a wide range of flavors and potency.

Cannabis Oil Extracts and Concentrates

  1. Distillate Concentrate – Distillate is a refined cannabinoid oil extracted from cannabis plants. It is purified to a high degree and can be infused with various cannabinoids and flavor profiles. Distillates are the most common concentrate used in vape carts.
  2. Full-Spectrum Concentrates – Full-spectrum concentrates are different from distillates because they capture the entire cannabinoid and terpene profile of the cannabis plant. These concentrates maintain a wide variety of cannabinoids like CBN, CBD, THC, and terpenes, offering a more complex and diverse experience.
  3. Live Resin Oil – Live resin is made from fresh, frozen cannabis plants that are not dried or cured. This extraction process retains the plant’s full terpene profile, providing a distinct taste and more aromatic flavor than other concentrates.
  4. CO2 Concentrates – CO2 concentrates are extracted using carbon dioxide, a process that preserves the terpenes of the cannabis plant. These concentrates typically don’t require additives for vaporization, and the final product has a clean, plant-based flavor.

Additives in Vape Carts

Vape carts may also contain additives to improve their performance, consistency, or taste. Common additives include:

  • Propylene Glycol (PG) – Used to thin the oil and improve vapor production.
  • Coconut Oil – Added for smoothness and consistency.
  • Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) – Used as a thinning agent.
  • Vegetable Glycerin (VG) – Added for sweetness and vapor production.

Cannabinoids in Vape Carts

The primary cannabinoids found in vape carts are:

  • Delta 9 THC – The psychoactive compound that gives you the “high.”
  • CBD – Non-psychoactive and known for its therapeutic benefits.
  • Delta 8 THC – A less potent cousin of Delta 9 THC, with similar effects but a smoother experience.
  • THCA – Precursor to Delta 9 THC; once heated, it is transformed into regular Delta 9 THC. 
  • Other Minor Cannabinoids – Vape carts may also feature lesser-known minor cannabinoids such as Delta 6, Delta 7, and Delta 10. These are known to round out the vaping experience and interact with each other to form a well-rounded experience. 

Why Do Vape Carts Become Cloudy?

Vape carts are widely favored for their convenience and smooth delivery of cannabis. However, one common issue many users face is a cloudy vape cart. If you’ve noticed this, you’re likely wondering why it occurs and if it’s safe to continue using your cart.

The cloudiness in your vape cart typically results from changes in the consistency of the oil inside. Several factors contribute to this:

  1. Temperature Fluctuations – Vape carts are sensitive to temperature changes. When exposed to heat, the oil inside may thin out, causing condensation that leads to cloudiness. Conversely, if the cart is kept in a cooler environment, the oil may become thicker, impacting its appearance.
  2. Moisture – If your vape cart is exposed to humidity or moisture during storage, this can lead to condensation, causing the oil to appear cloudy. This is especially true if the cart is not properly sealed.
  3. Oil Consistency – Cannabis oil varies in consistency depending on the cannabinoid profile and extraction methods. Some oils naturally have a thicker or thinner texture, which can contribute to the cloudiness. For example, live resin and distillate extracts may behave differently at various temperatures.
  4. Crystallization – Some cannabis concentrates, particularly those with high levels of THC, can crystallize when left in the cart for too long or under certain conditions. This can lead to cloudiness, especially when the crystals break apart.

Is It Safe to Use a Cloudy Vape Cart?

In most cases, a cloudy vape cart is perfectly safe to use. The cloudiness does not necessarily indicate that the product has gone bad. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Check for Signs of Contamination – If the cloudiness is accompanied by a foul smell, unusual taste, or changes in texture, it could be a sign that the oil has gone bad or is contaminated.
  • Temperature Control – To avoid cloudiness caused by temperature fluctuations, store your vape cart in a cool, dry place away from direct heat or humidity.

What to Do If Your Cart Becomes Cloudy

If your cart becomes cloudy and you’re concerned about it, try the following:

  • Warm It Up – If the oil has thickened and become cloudy due to cold temperatures, gently warm it by holding it in your hands or using a warm cloth. Avoid direct heat sources, as they may damage the cart.
  • Shake It – Gently shake the cart to help the oil mix and return to a smoother consistency. This can help break up any crystallization or condensation.
  • Inspect for Contamination – Before using the cart, check for any visible signs of contamination, such as mold or discoloration, which could indicate a problem.

Person smoking.

Do Weed Vape Carts Go Bad?

While a cloudy cart doesn’t always mean that your vape has gone bad, vape carts can expire over time. Like any product, the oils and compounds within your vape cart degrade after use. There is no specific expiration date, but if stored improperly, a vape cart can lose potency, flavor, and effectiveness.

A vape cart might still work even after it has begun to expire, but its experience may be less satisfying. So, how can you tell when your cart has gone bad? Let’s explore a few signs.

How to Know if a Cart is Bad

Several indicators can tell you whether it’s time to replace your vape cart. Pay attention to the following:

  1. Color and Viscosity
    • A noticeable color change is one of the first signs that your vape cart may expire. If the oil inside becomes darker—turning brown or even black—it may be a sign of degradation.
    • Viscosity changes can also indicate a bad cart. Oil that’s too thick or clumpy can indicate that the cart is either too old or has been exposed to temperature extremes.
  2. Taste
    • A strong change in flavor is a major red flag. If your cart starts tasting bitter, acidic, or harsh, it’s a strong sign that the oil has gone bad.
    • You may also notice a decrease in potency, which means the vape’s effects are weaker. While this isn’t harmful, it makes the experience less enjoyable.

Cloudy Cart FAQs

How Do You Fix a Foggy Cart?

If your vape cart has become cloudy or foggy, the solution depends on the cause. If temperature is the issue, try warming the cart to a more optimal temperature. Placing the cart in a warm (not hot) area can often help to clear up the fog. Additionally, using higher-quality vape oil or replacing a worn-out coil can resolve the cloudiness, as lower-quality oils may not handle the heating process properly, resulting in a cloudy appearance.

How Long Can a Cart Sit Before It Goes Bad?

There is no set answer for how long a vape cart can sit before it goes bad, as this depends on various factors, such as the quality of the vape oil, how it’s stored, and how often it’s used. However, under proper storage conditions (cool and dry), a vape cart should last anywhere from one to two years. If the cart is stored improperly or used frequently, it may degrade faster, and its flavor, potency, and smoothness may suffer.

Why Do Old Carts Get Dark?
Vape oil darkens over time due to oxidation. When exposed to heat and oxygen, the compounds in the oil begin to break down, causing the oil to change color. The longer you use the vape cart, the more exposure it has to these elements, which leads to the oil darkening. While this is a natural process, significant darkening and other signs like a decrease in potency or flavor may indicate that the cart is no longer at its best.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while a cloudy vape cart may look unappealing, it’s typically not a sign of something dangerous. Most of the time, it’s due to factors like oil quality, temperature, or coil wear. Maintaining your cart and using high-quality oils can avoid cloudiness and ensure a smoother vaping experience. If the issue persists or you notice a significant change in taste, potency, or color, it might be time to replace your cart. Always remember that proper storage and care can extend the lifespan of your vape cart and enhance your experience.

(Disclaimer reminder: This article is not medical advice. It is based on anecdotal user experience alone. If you are thinking about incorporating cannabis (Delta-8 THC, Delta-9 THC, CBD, etc) into your medicinal routine, please consult a healthcare professional. Do not stop taking any prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.)

Disclaimer: This article reflects the laws of the United States at the time it was written. Because cannabis laws in the United States are subject to change at any time, please make sure that you are always staying up to date on your federal, state, and local county’s cannabis laws. Additionally, we are NOT encouraging anyone to break the law––we are simply showing people ways to legally and discreetly bring their cannabis products along with them on their travels so that they may have access to those products when they reach their intended destination.

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