What Is Shortfill E Liquid? A Complete Guide

Shortfill e-liquids — ever heard the term and wondered what it means? If you’re a vaper who loves customising your experience, shortfills could be your new best friend. Let’s discover what they are, how they work, and why they’ve taken the vaping world by storm.

What Does Shortfill Mean in Vaping?

Picture this: A large bottle of your favourite vape juice, almost full but leaving just enough room for you to add your own nicotine shot (nic shot). That’s a shortfill, or short filled bottle, in a nutshell. It’s a clever solution that emerged when regulations limited the sale of nicotine-containing e-liquids to small 10ml bottles. Now, with shortfills, you can enjoy big bottles of e-liquid and still control your nicotine level.

Why Are Shortfills So Popular?

The beauty of shortfills is in their flexibility. They’re designed for vapers who like to personalise their experience. Want a nicotine boost? Add a nic shot. Prefer it without nicotine? Use it straight from the bottle. These shortfills are essentially nicotine-free juice, giving you the option to add nicotine as you prefer. Plus, they come in a variety of flavours and sizes, so there’s something for everyone. It’s all about putting control back into your hands.

Choosing the Right Shortfill E-Liquid

With so many options on the market, choosing the right shortfill e-liquid can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are some key factors to consider to help you make the best choice:

• Nicotine strength: First, determine your desired nicotine level. Whether you prefer a strong hit or a milder experience, you can customise your shortfill e-liquid with nic shots. Use a nicotine shot calculator to figure out how many nic shots you need to achieve your perfect nicotine strength.
• Flavour profile: Shortfill e-liquids come in a vast array of flavours, from fruity delights to dessert-inspired treats.
• VG/PG ratio: The VG (vegetable glycerin) and PG (propylene glycol) ratio affects your vaping experience. If you’re into sub-ohm vaping, go for high-VG shortfills (70/30 or higher). For mouth-to-lung vapers, a 50/50 shortfill might be more suitable.
• Brand reputation: Opt for reputable brands known for their quality ingredients and good manufacturing practices.
• Price: Shortfill e-liquids vary in price based on brand, size, and nicotine strength. Consider your budget and choose a shortfill e-liquid that offers the best value for your money.

What About Nicotine Salt Shots?

If you’re looking for a smoother hit, nic salt shots are the way to go. Unlike traditional freebase nicotine, nic salts provide a softer throat hit and faster absorption, making them ideal for those moments when you want quicker satisfaction. Simply add a nic salt shot to your shortfill, shake it up, and you’re good to go! Remember, shortfills start with zero nicotine, allowing you to customise your nicotine level with nic salt shots.

Safety Measures for Handling Nicotine Shots

Handling nicotine shots requires care and attention to ensure your safety. Here are some essential safety measures to follow:

• Wear protective gear: Always wear protective gloves and eyewear when handling nicotine shots to avoid skin and eye contact.
• Ventilation: Handle nicotine shots in a well-ventilated area to prevent inhaling any nicotine vapours.
• Avoid skin contact: Nicotine can be absorbed through the skin and cause irritation. If contact occurs, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water.
• Keep out of reach: Store nicotine shots out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Proper disposal: Dispose of empty nicotine shot bottles responsibly to avoid environmental contamination.
• Follow instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for handling and storing nicotine shots.

When mixing nicotine shots with shortfill e-liquids, ensure you’re in a clean, dry environment to minimise the risk of contamination. Safety first, always!

How to Mix Your Shortfill: Step-by-Step

Mixing your shortfill is simple and satisfying. First, just pop open the cap and nozzle from your shortfill bottle and nic shot. Then carefully empty the nic shot into the shortfill. Pop the nozzle back on, tighten the cap, and give it a good shake — about a minute should do the trick. Now, you'll want to let the mixture rest. For the best flavour, let your mix sit for a couple of hours to steep. Once steeped, you’re ready to start vaping and enjoy your custom mix.

How Much Nicotine Should You Add?

This is where the magic of customisation happens. For a 50 ml shortfill, add one 10ml nic shot (18mg/ml) to achieve 60ml of e-liquid with 3mg/ml nicotine. For a 100 ml shortfill, two 10ml nic shots will give you 120ml of e-liquid at 3mg/ml.

Want to get precise? Try using a shortfill calculator to determine how many nicotine shots you need. Just input your bottle size, nic shot strength, and desired nicotine level — it’ll handle the maths for you.

What Are 50/50 Shortfills?

Ever noticed some shortfills labelled 50/50? It’s all about the VG (vegetable glycerin) and PG (propylene glycol) ratio. A 50/50 mix gives you a balance of smooth vapour production and a satisfying throat hit, making it ideal for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping. If you’re chasing flavour and not just clouds, 50/50 shortfills are worth a try. The same principle applies when adjusting nicotine levels in 50/50 shortfills as with other ratios.

Maintenance and Storage Tips for Shortfill E-Liquids

To keep your shortfill e-liquids fresh and flavourful, proper maintenance and storage are key. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your e-liquids:

• Cool, dark storage: Store your shortfill e-liquids in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This helps preserve their quality.
• Seal tightly: Keep your e-liquids in tightly sealed bottles to prevent contamination and leakage.
• Avoid extreme temperatures: Exposure to extreme temperatures can affect the consistency and flavour of your e-liquids. Keep them at a stable, moderate temperature.
• Shake well: Before using, shake your shortfill e-liquids well to ensure the ingredients are properly mixed.
• Clean handling: Use a clean and dry pipette or dropper to handle your e-liquids, avoiding cross-contamination.
• Check expiry dates: Always check the expiration date and use your e-liquids within the recommended timeframe for the best experience.

By following these maintenance and storage tips, you can ensure your shortfill e-liquids remain fresh and enjoyable for longer.

Top Tips for Shortfill Success

Remember that a high-quality nic shot keeps your flavour intact and ensures a smoother vape. Don't forget to let your mixture steep to perfection. You may be in a hurry to sample your mix, but letting it rest allows the flavours can blend beautifully. And, don't be afraid to experiment. Whether it’s the type of nicotine or the VG/PG ratio, shortfills let you fine-tune your vape to match your style.

Your Shortfill Adventure Starts Here

Ready to explore the world of shortfills? From custom nicotine levels to mouth-watering flavours, these bottles pack convenience and creativity into every drop.