Care has to be taken, to ensure that the instructions are followed to have a smooth smoking experience.

Remove the hookah stem from the vase and fill the vase with water. Put the hookah stem back on the vase. The stem should be submerged at about 2.5cm into the water.

Break up the shisha tobacco as you gently lay it into the clay bowl. You will want to sprinkle it in so that it is loose enough for air to pass through. The shisha tobacco should be filled to the rim of the bowl, but no higher.

If you are using a metal screen, place it on top of the bowl. If you are using foil, wrap the foil over the head so that it fits snugly. Make sure to poke holes into the foil so that air can pass through.

Light your coals. If you have instant lighting coals, you can light them with a lighter or match. Other coals will need a stove or a torch. Wait for the coals to become red hot all over before placing them on top of your clay bowl.

Inhale on your hose. It may take a minute or two before the hookah is smoking properly. Enjoy!