The Ultimate Guide to Using a 5-Tier Bubble Bag for Clean and Efficient Extraction

When it comes to clean, efficient plant material extraction, few tools offer as much versatility and effectiveness as the 5-tier bubble bag system. Originally popularized in niche botanical industries, this setup is now widely embraced by DIY enthusiasts, herbalists, soap makers, and natural product crafters alike. If you’re working with herbs, flowers, or roots and want to extract the finest particulates for teas, tinctures, essential oils, or skincare, this guide is for you.

What is a 5-Tier Bubble Bag?

A 5-tier bubble bag system consists of five filter bags made from micron-specific mesh, each designed to separate plant materials based on particle size. These bags typically nest inside each other and are used in conjunction with ice water extraction, a gentle method that breaks down plant material and filters it through increasingly fine meshes.

Common Micron Sizes and What They Do:

• 220 micron – Captures large plant debris like stems and fibers.

• 160 micron – Removes mid-sized materials and coarser particles.

• 120 micron – Begins to filter finer sediment and smaller botanical particles.

• 73 micron – Extracts high-quality, usable material ideal for oils or infusions.

• 25 micron – Captures the finest particles for premium extracts.

Benefits of Using a Bubble Bag System

• Cleanliness: No chemical solvents are required—just ice and water.

• Efficiency: Multi-tier filtering ensures every particle is sorted by size and quality.

• Preservation: Gentle extraction preserves essential oils, aromas, and active compounds.

• Versatility: Ideal for extracting lavender, chamomile, mint, calendula, and many other botanicals.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a 5-Tier Bubble Bag

Step 1: Prepare Your Materials

Chop or lightly grind your dried plant material. You want to increase surface area without turning the material into powder.

Step 2: Set Up the Bags

Nest the bags inside a large bucket or container, starting with the finest micron bag (25) at the bottom and layering up to the coarsest (220) on top.

Step 3: Add Ice and Water

Fill the bucket with cold water and ice. Cold temperatures help the plant material stiffen and break apart without damaging delicate compounds.

Step 4: Add Plant Material

Distribute your plant material evenly in the bucket. Stir gently for 15–20 minutes to allow the trichomes or fine particles to separate and settle.

Step 5: Drain and Collect

Lift out each bag one at a time, allowing water to fully drain. After draining, gently scrape the collected material from the mesh. Each layer yields a different quality of extract.

Step 6: Dry and Store

Spread the collected extracts on a clean, dry surface or a drying screen. Let them air dry completely before storing in an airtight container.

What Can You Do With the Extracted Material?

Here are some creative and practical uses for your high-quality botanical extract:

• Homemade salves and balms

• Essential oil infusions

• Herbal soaps and body butters

• Natural dyes for fabrics

• Loose-leaf tea blends

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

• Rinse each bag immediately after use with cold water.

• Avoid wringing or scrubbing, which can damage the mesh.

• Air dry thoroughly before storing to prevent mold or mildew.

Final Thoughts

Using a 5-tier bubble bag system is a game-changer for anyone interested in clean, solvent-free extraction of plant materials. Whether you're a hobbyist or a serious herbalist, this method offers precision, efficiency, and purity. With a little practice, you'll find it a rewarding and sustainable way to maximize your botanical harvest.