If you’ve ever wondered, “Do dabs smell?”, you’re in the right place. If you don’t know that means you’re a beginner and you’re looking to get your dab on in a stealthy fashion. I get it. Been there, bro!

This post will outline everything you need to know about what happens when you fire up a dab pen. It’ll cover:

• The oder and type of odor produced
• What produces the oder
• How the smell / oder of dabs compares to other forms of vaporization processes

Savvy? Let’s dig in…

Dabs 101: What’s the Fuss About Their Smell?

As someone that has been using Dabs for longer than I care to remember. 

[My first experience with one was at a SLEEP concert in 2001. Yes, I’m old. But that concert was an eye-opener in more ways than one!]

I know a thing or two about the way they dabs Smell when you use them versus more, shall we say… traditional forms of cannabis ingestion (a la smoking it). 

Yes, dabs do smell. But, here’s a silver lining: their aroma isn’t as overpowering or persistent as traditional smoked cannabis flower.

If you’re aiming for discretion, dabs are a solid choice.

The Method Matters: Dabbing Tools and Their Odor Profiles

Your dabbing approach plays a pivotal role in the intensity of the aroma:

• Dab Pens: Emit a milder scent, which doesn’t linger for long.
• Dab Rigs: They produce a more robust scent compared to pens, but still less pungent than smoked cannabis flower.

Dabs Unveiled: What Exactly Are They?

Dabs, in essence, are concentrated forms of cannabis. They can manifest as shatter, wax, amber, or honeycomb. When heated and inhaled, they release an unmistakable odor.

To get your dab on, you’ll need a dab pen – sometimes called a dab vape pen – and right now these are the team’s current favorite dab pens for 2023.

Terpenes: The Culprits Behind the Distinctive Dab Smell

Dive deeper, and you’ll discover that terpenes are largely responsible for the unique smell. They’re organic compounds that give plants, including cannabis, their characteristic aroma.

Key Terpenes in Dabs Include:

• Linalool: Think lavender with a spicy twist.
• Humulene: A scent that’s woody and earthy.
• Alpha–Pinene: Reminiscent of pine and sage.
• Limonene: Pure citrus bliss.
• Myrcene: A blend of fruity, musky, and spicy.
• Beta–Caryophyllene: Earthy with a dash of spice.

Dab Odor Decoded: Why Do They Smell?

When you heat dabs, whether in a rig or pen, they transform into vapor. While it’s not the same as the smoke from burning cannabis, this vapor contains heated molecules that release a scent, especially when exhaled.

Vape Pens vs. Dabs: A Comparative Analysis

Ever noticed how flavored vapes (like strawberry or mint) have a distinct aroma? Cannabis vapes operate similarly but use THC oil concentrate or wax without the added flavors. The main difference is in the material: dab pens use wax, while vapes opt for oil.

Pro Tips: Minimize and Manage Dab Odors

Even if you love the dab aroma, sometimes discretion is key. Here’s how you can keep it under control:

• Ventilation: Open windows to let the scent disperse.
• Direct Exhalation: Blow the vapor out the window.
• Scented Solutions: Use candles, incense, or air fresheners to mask the smell.
• Cleanliness: Wipe down areas where you dab, especially glass surfaces.

Care for Your Dab Pens

Store them in airtight containers when not in use, and ensure regular cleaning to prevent clogs and lingering odors.

Smell You Later…

While dabs do have a distinctive aroma, it’s milder than traditional smoked cannabis, so they’re by far the most discreet way to consume weed when it comes to vaporization.

If you’re looking for a nearly scent-free cannabis experience, consider edibles.

Go easy, though – edibles are A LOT stronger. Make sure you’re in a safe place when you do them for the first time.

Do not do what I did and try them for the first time on a stag do inside a sweaty, Vegas nightclub. You’ll regret it.