What Causes Vape Cough? 5 Proven Solutions From Vape Experts

Have you ever taken a puff from your vape and ended up in a coughing fit? Don't worry – you're not alone! Nearly 8 out of 10 new vapers experience coughing when they first start. The good news is that vape cough is usually temporary and can be fixed with a few simple changes.

In this guide, we'll explore why vaping makes you cough and share five proven ways to stop it, so you can enjoy a smooth vaping experience.

Why Do People Cough When Vaping?

The Science Behind Vape Cough

Your throat and lungs are sensitive. When you inhale something new like vapour, your body might react by coughing – it's trying to protect you! This is perfectly normal, especially for beginners or people switching from cigarettes.

For many new vapers, especially those trying disposable vapes for the first time, this coughing is simply part of the adjustment period. Your airways aren't used to vapour, which feels different from air or even cigarette smoke. Most people find that this initial coughing eases within a week or two as their body adapts.

Several things can trigger a vape cough:

1. Nicotine Type and Strength

There are two main types of nicotine in e-liquids:

Using e-liquid with too much nicotine is one of the top reasons for coughing. About 65% of vapers find relief by simply adjusting their nicotine strength.

2. PG/VG Balance

E-liquids contain two main ingredients:

• Propylene Glycol (PG): Carries flavour well but can cause throat irritation

• Vegetable Glycerin (VG): Creates thick clouds and is smoother on the throat

Higher PG content (like 50/50 blends) might make you cough, especially if you're sensitive to PG.

3. Incorrect Vaping Technique

There are two main ways to vape:

• Mouth-to-Lung (MTL): Drawing vapour into your mouth first, then inhaling (like smoking a cigarette) - this is how most disposable vapes are designed to be used

• Direct-Lung (DL): Breathing vapour directly into your lungs (like taking a deep breath)

Using the wrong technique for your device is a common mistake that leads to coughing.

Read Our Guide on: What Is MTL and DTL Vaping?

4. Device Power and Settings

Vaping at too high a wattage creates hot vapour that can irritate your throat. Studies show that vaping between 40-60°C is most comfortable for most people.

5. Dehydration

Both PG and VG absorb moisture, which can dry out your throat and trigger coughing. Over 70% of vapers report feeling thirstier when vaping regularly.

5 Proven Ways to Stop Vape Cough

1. Find Your Perfect Nicotine Balance

• If you're a new vaper: Start with a lower nicotine strength (3-6mg for freebase or 10-20mg for salts)

• If you're a former smoker: Try nicotine salts in a disposable vape or pod system for a smoother experience

• If you cough with freebase nicotine: Switch to nicotine salts

• If you cough with both types: Try reducing the strength

Adjust gradually until you find what works for you. Many vapers need to try 2-3 different strengths before finding their sweet spot.

A recent survey found that nearly 70% of vapers who switched from freebase to nicotine salts reported less coughing, especially when using disposable vapes and pod systems. The smoother throat hit makes these devices ideal for beginners and those sensitive to throat irritation.

2. Adjust Your PG/VG Ratio

If you're coughing with a 50/50 blend, try something with more VG:

• 70/30 (VG/PG): A good balance that works in most modern devices

• 80/20 or higher: Very smooth but needs a powerful device

Remember: Higher VG e-liquids are thicker and may not work well in some pod systems.

Most disposable vapes come with a pre-set PG/VG ratio designed for a smooth experience, typically around 60/40 or 70/30. This is one reason why many new vapers find disposables a good starting point – the manufacturers have already optimised the formula for comfort and satisfaction.

3. Master the Right Technique

Match your vaping style to your device:

• Disposable vapes, pod systems and pen-style vapes: Use MTL technique (gentle puffs like sipping through a straw)

• Sub-ohm tanks and larger mods: Use DL technique (steady inhale like breathing through a wide tube)

Take it slow at first – quick, sharp inhales often trigger coughing. About 85% of vapers report improved comfort after perfecting their technique.

4. Optimise Your Device Settings

• Start low: Begin at a lower wattage (10-15W for MTL devices, 30-40W for DL devices)

• Find your sweet spot: Increase power gradually until you get good flavour without coughing

• Check your airflow: More airflow generally means cooler, smoother vapour

A well-set-up device can reduce coughing by up to 90% for most vapers.

One advantage of disposable vapes is that they come with pre-set power levels and airflow designed specifically for comfort. If you're new to vaping or struggling with coughing, a quality disposable can eliminate the guesswork of finding the right settings.

5. Stay Hydrated

• Drink at least 2 litres of water daily when vaping

• Keep a water bottle handy while vaping

• Take small sips between puffs if your throat feels dry

Proper hydration can reduce vape-related coughing by up to 60%, according to user reports.

When Will My Vape Cough Go Away?

For most people, vape cough improves within 1-2 weeks as your body adjusts. Former smokers might experience coughing for a bit longer as their lungs heal from smoking damage.

If you've tried all these tips and still cough after several weeks, it might be worth trying different brands of e-liquid or speaking with your doctor if you're concerned.

What About Vape Cough in Different Devices?

Different vaping devices can affect your likelihood of coughing:

Disposable vapes and pod systems with nicotine salts typically cause the least coughing because they're designed with comfort in mind. They use smoother nicotine formulations and provide a consistent, controlled experience without requiring technical knowledge.

Final Thoughts

Remember, finding your perfect vaping setup takes a bit of trial and error, but the smooth, enjoyable experience is worth it! Most vapers report that any initial coughing subsides quickly once they find the right combination of device, e-liquid, and technique.

For beginners looking to minimise coughing from the start, disposable vapes with nicotine salts offer one of the smoothest introductions to vaping available today.

Visit our online vape shop to explore our range of vape products designed for a smoother vaping experience.