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Steam Stones
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Our takeaway
Definition
Hookah steam stones are a tobacco-free and usually nicotine-free smoking substitute product that produces flavored vapor when heated. They consist of small, porous mineral stones – often volcanic rock or clay granules – soaked with glycerin and flavorings. When heated, the glycerin evaporates while the stones themselves remain stable and unchanged. Technically, it is a smoke-free product since no combustion occurs. Since a legal change in 2021, steam stones and steam paste have been subject to tobacco tax, which has significantly affected their economic viability. Due to their high weight, steam stones have become unprofitable in Germany – they are no longer produced or sold.
How it works
How Steam Stones works
Steam stones are filled into a hookah bowl like tobacco and heated by charcoal or a heat management system. The absorbed glycerin and flavorings evaporate without the stones being destroyed or decomposed. Since no plant material is contained, pure vapor rather than smoke is produced. Due to the changed tax situation and the unfavorable ratio of weight to taxable content, the concept is no longer economically viable in Germany today.
Benefits
Why Steam Stones convinces
- Tobacco- and nicotine-free: Suitable for beginners or occasional smokers.
- No combustion: Produces flavored vapor instead of smoke, making the experience milder.
- Reusability: Some users re-soaked the stones with aroma after use.
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What you should pay attention to
- Unprofitable due to tax reform: Since 2021, steam stones are subject to tobacco tax – their high weight makes them financially unattractive.
- Hardly available anymore: Due to legal conditions, manufacturers have stopped production – steam stones have effectively disappeared from the market.
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Impressions & Details
Disadvantages
Conclusion
Steam stones were a popular tobacco-free alternative in the hookah scene, offering mild vapor enjoyment without nicotine and easy use. However, with the introduction of tobacco tax on tobacco substitute products in 2021, the concept lost its economic viability – especially due to the stones' high weight combined with low active ingredient content. Today, steam stones are considered obsolete in Germany and are no longer available in stores.
