How to Use Nicotine Pouches: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
NÜM nicotine pouches are for adults 21+ who already use nicotine. A nicotine pouch is small, smoke-free and has nothing to light, so using one is simple. Here is the whole routine, from opening the can to throwing the pouch away.
What you need to know first
NÜM pouches are tobacco-free and smoke-free. There is nothing to light and no spitting. They do contain nicotine, in 6mg, 12mg or 24mg per pouch, and each can holds 20 pouches. They are for adults 21 and over who already use nicotine, and not for anyone who does not.
Step 1: Open the can
Break the seal with your thumbnail, then lift the lid. Most pouch cans work this way, and some have a hinged lid, but if in doubt, check the label on your can. Keep the lid closed between uses.
Step 2: Place one pouch
Take one pouch and place it between your gum and upper lip. That is the placement NÜM recommends, and it is the most common one. Some users who come from other smokeless products prefer the lower lip. Choose whichever feels comfortable. Tuck it in so it sits snugly. Do not chew it, bite it or swallow it.
Step 3: Leave it in
Let the pouch sit while the flavor comes through. Pouches are commonly kept in for about 20 to 60 minutes, though some people remove them sooner. If you are not sure how many to use or how long to wait, start with one and see how you feel. If you feel unwell, take the pouch out.
Extra saliva is normal. Northerner notes it is fine to swallow it, as long as you do not swallow the pouch itself. See how long nicotine pouches last for a deeper look at timing.
Step 4: Throw it away
When you are done, remove the pouch with your fingers and throw it in the trash. Many cans have a built-in catch lid for holding used pouches until you reach a bin. Do not litter, and do not flush pouches. Do not reuse a pouch, because flavor and nicotine release drop the second time.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Chewing or biting the pouch instead of leaving it in place.
- Swallowing the pouch.
- Reusing a pouch or saving it for later.
- Leaving used pouches in public spaces or flushing them.
- Leaving the can open in a hot car or a damp bag.
- Jumping straight to 24mg without trying a lower strength first.
Choosing a strength and flavor
Pick a strength closest to your usual nicotine intake, and start lower if you are unsure. NÜM labels 6mg as light, 12mg as medium and 24mg as strong, and the strength chart explains each. Then pick a flavor: Cool Mint, Spearmint or Miami Mint if you like mint, or Pink Lemonade, Frosé or Guava Glow from the Pink Burst Line, which is restocking. The NÜM Flavor Guide compares all six.
Read more about what tobacco-free means on the tobacco-free nicotine pouches page, or compare the strength chart by brand. New to pouches? Start with Nicotine Pouches 101.
Storing your cans
Keep cans closed, in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and always out of reach of children and pets. Ready to order? See buy nicotine pouches online in the USA.
Frequently asked questions
Where do you put a nicotine pouch?
Between your gum and upper lip. Some people prefer the lower lip, so choose what is comfortable. Do not chew or swallow the pouch.
Do you have to spit with nicotine pouches?
No. NÜM pouches are tobacco-free and spit-free, with nothing to light. It is fine to swallow extra saliva, but do not swallow the pouch.
How long do you keep a nicotine pouch in?
Commonly about 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the product and your preference. Remove the pouch sooner if you feel unwell.
How do I throw away a nicotine pouch?
Put it in the trash. Many cans have a catch lid for used pouches until you find a bin. Do not litter or flush pouches.
Can I use more than one pouch at a time?
NÜM's directions say to place one pouch between your gum and upper lip. If you are not sure how many to use in a day, start with one.
For adults 21+ only. NÜM nicotine pouches are for adults who already use nicotine.
WARNING: This product contains nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive chemical.