How To Use Nicotine Pouches

Looking to enjoy nicotine without the smoke or hassle? Nicotine pouches are a convenient way to do just that. Whether you’re a smoker who’s curious about this popular tobacco leaf-free alternative or it’s been a while since your last pouch, we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know to get the most out of your experience. 

Different brands have their own take on packaging, but most cans will pop open once you break the seal. Some, like Rogue, are child-proof and require you to twist the lid to align two arrows before pulling it off. On! also differs slightly with its rectangular cans—you’ll need to flip open the bottom of the front panel. Look for the “open here” label on the bottom edge to guide you.

Grab a fresh pouch and tuck it between your upper lip and gum, where the nicotine can gradually release and be absorbed. This is how nicotine pouches work, so proper placement is key. Positioning it too far back can be uncomfortable, while placing it too low might make it less effective or more noticeable under your lip. You’ll likely feel a slight tingling sensation at first–that’s totally normal and just means the nicotine is starting to take effect! If the tingling feels too intense, try adjusting the pouch slightly or opting for a lower nicotine strength.

Once the pouch is in place, just let it do its thing—no need to chew, suck, or poke it with your tongue. The nicotine will release gradually on its own. If you're not used to nicotine pouches, start with a shorter session of 5-15 minutes to see how your body reacts. You can gradually increase the time, but we recommend keeping it in for no longer than 60 minutes. How long nicotine pouches last depends on factors like flavor and strength, so experiment with different durations to find what works best for you throughout the day.

When you’re done with your pouch, simply take it out and toss it in the trash—never flush it down the toilet, as this can harm the environment and cause plumbing issues. If you’re on the go and can’t find a bin, check if your can has a built-in ‘catch lid’—a handy compartment for storing used pouches. Brands like VELO Plus include this feature, making it especially useful when immediate disposal of your pouches isn’t possible. When you’re ready to recycle your can, be sure to empty it first and check if it can be recycled with other hard plastics in your area.

To keep your pouches as fresh and effective as possible, store them in their original sealed can in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing them to extreme heat or direct sunlight, as this can dry them out and reduce their potency. If you live in a humid climate, keeping them in a temperature-controlled spot like a pantry or fridge can help prevent excess moisture. And of course, it goes without saying that pouches should always be kept out of reach of kids and pets.

• Do Not Swallow Pouches: While it’s fine to swallow saliva produced while using a pouch, the pouch itself should never be ingested. If you do accidentally swallow one, consider seeking medical advice.

• Check the Quality: Don’t use a pouch if it’s damaged or if the contents of the pouch have spilled out into the can. While rare, manufacturing defects can occur, and pouches in this condition shouldn’t be used.

• Know Your Limits: If you're not used to nicotine pouches, ease into the experience. Too much nicotine too quickly can cause dizziness, nausea, or headaches. If this happens, remove the pouch, drink some water, and take a break. Nicotine pouches come in different strengths, so if you're unsure, start with a lower milligram option.

There’s a whole world of flavors and strengths out there—some of our top brands include On!, VELO, Rogue, and zone. Each brand offers their own unique range, so it is worth experimenting with a few to find which one best suits your preferences and lifestyle.