While there are no written rules for smoking weed, common courtesy and respect will go a long way.

Whether you are a guest or a host, there are some important rules of smoking weed that should always be followed. Here, we take a look at the most common rules that should apply when enjoying cannabis in a social setting.

Experienced smokers may already have these rules down pat, but for the new smokers out there, it is important to be aware of weed etiquette. Before joining any smoking circle, be sure to go over these tips so you can enjoy a positive social experience.

Share and Share Some More

This is perhaps one of the essential week smoking etiquette tips you should follow. If you are invited into a smoking circle, it is always common to bring some cannabis and contribute. If you take time to consider the cost of marijuana, it can be costly to share with others, and the price can quickly add up. When you join in, be sure you add your own to the mix and share with others. Not only will others appreciate the sharing process, but you will benefit in the long run by not always being the supplier in the circle.

Don’t Push Others

In the weeds culture, peer pressure is not acceptable. Not everyone present will want to take part in the process. If you realize that someone has passed a turn, be sure to avoid putting any pressure on them to smoke. Each individual will have different levels of tolerance, and some may meet their threshold faster. Never push anyone to smoke more or to smoke at all if they are not partaking in the smoking circle.

Rights of the Roller

It is a general rule that the person who rolls a joint or packs a bowl will be the first to hit. This will apply even if the roller is not the owner of the weed. Some will be polite and offer the first puff to another, but generally, the roller gets the first hit.

Avoid Germ Sharing

Even though sharing is caring in a smoking circle, never engage if you are feeling ill or have a cold. The last thing you want to do is spread any germs among your fellow smokers. If you want to still be involved, bring your own stash and avoid sharing with others, explaining that you are not feeling well.

Don’t Be a Sinner

Greed is one of the cardinal sins, and it is frowned upon in a smoking circle. Based on stoner etiquette, it is impolite to be greedy with the weed being shared. When smoking a joint, two or three puffs is acceptable, and one or two when smoking a bowl. More than that will break the basic rules of social smoking.

Ask for Help

Not everyone has the same levels of experience, and new smokers may have difficulty rolling or preparing a bowl. If it is your turn, and you are unsure of what to do, ask your peers for help. People understand that it can take time to learn how to roll properly and will be willing to share their expertise.

Left to Right

One commonly followed weed etiquette when smoking in a circle is to always pass from left to right. There is no particular meaning behind this. It is done to make sure that everyone gets their share equally and that no one is ever let out of the circle.

Be Generous

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Joining a social weed-smoking event can be an enjoyable experience, and you should always remember to not just be a taker. If you are unable to bring your own cannabis to the party, bring along something else. Adding beverages and food to the mix will make for an enjoyable evening, and your peers will be very thankful for any contribution.

Be Respectful

Never assume that smoking is acceptable in all situations. If you are new to a circle, be sure to ask if there are any limits, especially when it comes to people’s personal space. If you are entering someone’s home, be respectful of all surroundings. Clean up after yourself and watch for any ashes that may land on the floor. Being respectful goes a long way and is one of the major rules of smoking weed with others.

No Torching!

If you are sharing a bowl, the green hit is always the best. Be sure to share this with others. Instead of burning the entire surface when you light up, try to burn only the edges so that others can enjoy a green hit as well.

Other Considerations

While there are no written rules for smoking weed, common courtesy and respect will go a long way. Smoking with friends can be an enjoyable experience, and many stoners prefer to smoke in the company of others. By learning about weed etiquette, you can be sure you will be accepted into a smoking circle and invited back for more.

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Some other basic rules to follow include:

• Clear the Chamber – If using a bong or pipe, always clear the chamber before passing it along. Stale smoke leaves a bad taste and can cause an awful cough, so clear it out before sharing.
• No Smoke Blowing – Even if you are among many other smokers, blowing smoke is never accepted. It is general weed etiquette to avoid blowing smoke directly in the face of anyone.
• Be Informative – If you bring weed to a group, inform others of the strand. Some smokers prefer Indica over Sativa, and vice versa, so always let people know what you have.
• Welcome All to the Group – Using cannabis can be a fun pastime, but many can feel anxious or nervous. If there are new smokers in the circle, make sure they feel welcome and comfortable. Never pass judgment on newbies or those that prefer to pass.
• Remove Seeds – If you are bringing weed to the party, be sure it is clean. Take time to remove seeds and any stems. They taste bad when they burn, and they can cause pops and sparks.

Wrapping It Up

By following these tips for weed smoking etiquette, you can reduce any chances of an embarrassing situation and have a great time with your friends. Keep in mind that all circles will be different, and some may have specific rules in place. Be sure you ask about these ahead of time and let others know if you have your own preferences when sharing.

This article originally appeared on AskGrowers.com and has been reposted with permission.