How to Fill a Pod Vape: A Simple No-Leak Guide

Whether you’re a fresh face in the world of vaping or just making the switch to a refillable pod system, filling your pod vape doesn’t have to be a complicated or messy affair. So, if you are tired of sticky fingers and wasted e-liquid, this guide will walk you through every step to get your pod filled perfectly so that you can spend less time cleaning and more time vaping.

TL;DR: How to Fill a Pod Vape in 60 Seconds

Open the rubber fill port on your pod, insert the e-liquid nozzle, and squeeze gently until it’s about 90% full
Firmly close the port, wipe the pod clean, and let it stand for 5-10 minutes to prime the coil and prevent burnt hits
Check your pod type – only open-system pods can be refilled
Leave a small air bubble to prevent leaks

Can You Refill All Vape Pods?

No, not all vape pods are refillable! Before you try to force juice into your pod, you need to know what kind you’re working with.

“Open-system” pods? You’re good to go! These are designed to be filled and refilled by you. These pods typically have a rubber hatch that you pry open with your fingers, but others have a snap-off mouthpiece design to access the fill port.
“Closed-system” pods? Stop right there! These come pre-filled and sealed for your convenience. They don’t have a rubber hatch, and the mouthpiece doesn’t snap off. Trying to refill them is a one-way ticket to frustration and a sticky situation.

How to Fill a Pod Vape: The 5-Step Method

Already confirmed that you have an open-system pod? Great! Let’s get that pod filled up, the right way.

1. Remove the Pod from the Mod

Aiden from MIST showing how to remove a pod from a mod

First things first, separate the pod from the mod.

Hold the device with one hand and use your other hand to grab the pod. Gently lift the pod until it detaches from the main device.

2. Open the Pod’s Port

Photo collage showing where the rubber hatch of a pod vape

Locate the small silicone or rubber plug on the pod. It’s usually on the side or bottom. Carefully lift the plug to reveal the fill hole.

Photo collage showing how to access the fill port of a pod with a snap-off mouthpiece

Now, as we’ve mentioned earlier, some open-system pods have a mouthpiece that snaps off so you can access the refill port:

Hold the pod with one hand
Use your other hand to grab the black mouthpiece
Snap the mouthpiece away from you

3. Fill Slowly

Before you start, make sure your e-liquid bottle is open—this simple 3-step guide can help if you’re having trouble.

Insert your e-liquid bottle’s nozzle into the fill hole and give it a gentle squeeze. Don’t go crazy here—fill it to about 90% capacity. That little air bubble you leave at the top is crucial for preventing pressure buildup and leaks.

Want some tasty e-liquid recommendations for your pod vape? Read our best e-liquid for refillable pods guide.

4. Seal & Wipe

Press that plug back in firmly until it’s snug and flush. If you have a snap-off mouthpiece, just snap it back in. Remember, you want to create a tight seal. Got any stray drops on the pod? Give it a quick wipe. Nobody likes a sticky vape.

5. Prime the Coil

Patience, young vaper! This is the most important step. Re-insert the pod into your device, let it stand upright, and give it a good 5-10 minutes to itself. This allows the cotton wick to get fully saturated with e-liquid, ensuring a perfect, flavourful hit from the get-go.

Tips for Refilling Vape Pods Without Leaking

Don’t Overfill: We’re saying it again because it’s that important. That small air bubble at the top prevents pressure from forcing liquid out.
Confirm the Seal: A poor seal is the #1 villain in the story of a leaky pod. Always double-check that the rubber plug is pressed in completely flat and flush.
Use the Right E-Liquid: Using an e-liquid that’s too thin (often those with high PG) can cause it to seep right through the cotton wicks. For most pod systems, a balanced 50/50 VG/PG blend is the sweet spot.

How Often Should You Refill Your Vape Pod?

Don’t play chicken with an empty pod. The moment you see the liquid level drop to about 1/4 full, it’s time for a top-up.

Never vape a pod until it’s bone dry. Doing so will instantly burn the cotton wick, ruin your coil, and deliver a taste you won’t soon forget (and not in a good way). Get in the habit of checking your liquid level before each vape session.

You’ve Got This!

And there you have it—filling a pod vape isn’t some dark art. It’s a simple process: just open the port, fill with care, and seal it tight! Don’t forget not to overfill and always let the coil prime for a perfect, leak-free vaping experience.