How Much Cotton Should Be Packed into an Atomizer?

 　In everyday vaping, how much cotton should be inserted into the coil has always been a subject of debate. Some people like to pack the cotton very tight, while others prefer to pull it back and forth repeatedly through the coil diameter. Today, let’s talk about how much cotton is actually appropriate.

  　We often say to prescribe the right remedy for the right problem, so when it comes to cotton, let’s start with rebuildable dripping atomizers (RDA). When adding e-liquid to an RDA, the liquid can be dripped directly onto the coil and cotton. In daily use, you often hear some people say, “The cotton I use needs more e-liquid after just a few puffs,” while others say, “Mine holds a lot of e-liquid.” So when wicking an RDA, you generally do not need to worry too much about wicking speed. Whether the cotton is loose or tight directly affects how often you need to refill: loose cotton holds less e-liquid and gives fewer puffs, while tighter cotton holds more e-liquid and lasts for more puffs.   　Because rebuildable tank atomizers (RTA) feed e-liquid through small holes inside the tank section, their wicking speed is slower than that of an RDA. When inserting cotton, you must avoid packing it too tightly and restricting e-liquid flow. Otherwise, one puff in and you’ll get that harsh burnt taste. My friend likes to say, when wicking a DIY tank atomizer, “My cotton should be able to dance inside the coil.”   　Besides these two types of atomizers, some users also use rebuildable dripping tank atomizers (RDTA). Since this type works similarly to a tank atomizer, feeding e-liquid through the ends of the cotton, the cotton should not be packed too tightly either, just like with an RTA. Otherwise, that unpleasant burnt taste will come right back.   　For users who prefer low resistance and high wattage, I personally recommend packing the cotton a bit tighter for safety. This increases e-liquid retention and reduces the chance of the cotton drying out too quickly under high power. If you are using high resistance and low wattage, the cotton can be a little looser, since the e-liquid will not evaporate as quickly. After the cotton is inserted, the ends should also be fluffed with a tool. This helps improve e-liquid flow and works well for any type of atomizer. Feel free to share your own wicking tips in the comments as well.