How to prime a new Lost Mary Tappo coil correctly

A new Lost Mary Tappo pod can produce a smooth, flavourful draw from the first use, but the wick needs time to absorb e-liquid before the device is activated. If the coil is heated while it is still dry, the cotton may scorch, creating a harsh taste that can remain even after the pod is filled.

Priming is straightforward when the pod type is identified first. Some Tappo products use a refillable pod with an integrated coil, while others are sealed or prefilled. The steps below are intended for adult smokers and vapers using a compatible refillable Tappo pod. Nicotine is addictive and vaping products should be kept away from children and pets.

Know your Tappo setup

Before handling the pod, check whether it is refillable and whether the coil is built into the pod. On many compact pod systems, the coil is not removed separately; the pod, wick and coil form one replaceable unit. In that design, “priming the coil” means filling the pod correctly and allowing the internal wick to become fully saturated.

Look for a silicone filling plug, rubber stopper or clearly marked e-liquid port. Do not force open a sealed prefilled pod, and never add liquid to a pod that has no filling port. The product packaging should identify the compatible pod and capacity. For a broader explanation of pod components, airflow and charging, this beginner’s pod guide provides useful background.

Check the pod and battery for damage before proceeding. A cracked mouthpiece, loose base, leaking seal or distorted contact area is a reason to stop using it. Wipe away any manufacturing residue or spilled liquid with a dry tissue, and make sure the battery has enough charge for the first session.

Australian users should also confirm that the product is permitted under current local requirements. Nicotine vaping products are regulated through Australia’s therapeutic goods framework, and access rules can involve pharmacies, prescriptions and state or territory restrictions. Requirements may differ between someone in Melbourne, Brisbane or Perth, so consult current TGA and state health information rather than relying on an overseas product listing.

Inspect and prepare the pod

Remove the new pod from its packaging and inspect the mouthpiece, base and airflow openings. If there are protective stickers, silicone plugs or small caps covering the contacts or mouthpiece, remove them all. Leaving a seal in place can block airflow or prevent the device from recognising the pod.

If the pod has been stored in a cool place, allow it to reach room temperature before filling. E-liquid flows more slowly when cold, which can make the wick take longer to saturate. A normal indoor environment in Sydney or Adelaide is usually suitable; avoid placing the pod on a hot dashboard or beside a heater, as excess heat can thin the liquid and encourage leakage.

Choose an e-liquid that suits the Tappo pod and its coil. A balanced 50/50 nicotine salt liquid is commonly used in compact pod devices, but the label and manufacturer guidance should take priority. Very thick, high-VG liquid may not feed through a small pod wick quickly enough, while a liquid with an unsuitable nicotine strength may cause an unpleasantly strong experience.

Keep the battery switched off if the model has a button. If it is draw activated, do not inhale while you are filling it. Hold the pod upright so liquid enters the reservoir rather than the central chimney, which is the air path leading to the mouthpiece.

Fill and saturate the wick

Open the filling port carefully and place the e-liquid nozzle against the side of the opening. Fill slowly, leaving a small air gap at the top. Do not pour liquid into the central tube. Overfilling can force liquid into the airflow channel and cause gurgling, spitting or leakage.

Close the silicone plug firmly once the reservoir is filled. Wipe the outside of the pod, especially around the base and mouthpiece. A clean, dry base helps maintain a good connection with the device and prevents e-liquid from collecting around the electrical contacts.

Allow the filled pod to stand upright for at least five to ten minutes. A new or dense wick may benefit from closer to ten minutes, particularly with thicker e-liquid. During this time, the liquid travels into the cotton around the coil. Rushing this stage is one of the most common causes of a burnt first puff.

Some experienced users take one or two very gentle draws on the mouthpiece while the device remains inactive. This can help draw liquid towards the coil, but it should not be forceful. Do not press a fire button while doing this, and skip the step if the pod is sealed or the device does not permit it.

Take the first draws carefully

After the waiting period, insert the pod fully into the Tappo battery and check that it sits level. If the device has a power button, follow its instructions for unlocking and activation. If it is draw activated, take a short, gentle puff rather than a long, forceful inhale.

Begin with two or three brief draws, allowing several seconds between them. This gives the coil time to replenish its liquid supply and lets you assess the flavour, vapour and throat sensation. A smooth, clean taste indicates that the wick is probably saturated. A dry, papery or burnt taste means the device should be stopped immediately.

Avoid repeatedly inhaling in quick succession during the first few minutes. Chain vaping can consume liquid faster than the wick can replace it, even after proper priming. Compact pods are designed for a restricted, cigarette-like draw rather than the large airflow and long inhalations associated with high-powered box mods.

This style can fit into an Australian commuter routine, such as a short break near a train station in Melbourne or a walk between appointments in Sydney, but vaping is prohibited in many indoor public places and areas where smoking is banned. Follow signs, workplace policies and local smoke-free rules, and never vape around children or in a vehicle where it is prohibited.

Troubleshoot and maintain the pod

A small amount of condensation under the pod is normal and can be wiped away. Persistent leaking usually points to an overfilled reservoir, an incompletely closed filling plug, a damaged seal or a pod that is not seated correctly. Remove the pod, clean the contacts, check the seal and refit it without pressing excessively.

Gurgling or liquid reaching the mouth can result from flooding the central chimney. Remove the pod and gently wipe the mouthpiece. Do not shake it aggressively or blow liquid into the battery. If the problem continues, replace the pod rather than risking liquid entering the device.

A burnt taste that appears after several clean draws may mean the pod is running low, the liquid is too thick, or the wick has been overheated by repeated long puffs. Refill before the liquid level becomes very low and allow pauses between draws. If the burnt flavour remains after a fresh fill and a waiting period, the integrated coil has probably been damaged and the pod should be replaced.

Store the Tappo upright and away from direct sunlight, heat and loose objects that could press the fire button. Clean e-liquid from your skin promptly and wash your hands after filling. Keep nicotine liquids locked away from children and animals; if liquid is swallowed or splashed into the eyes, contact emergency or poisons advice in Australia immediately.

Product availability and packaging can vary across the Australian market, especially as disposable vape imports and nicotine access rules continue to change. Check the store’s product information and compare the exact Tappo model, pod type, nicotine strength and local purchasing requirements before opening a new pack.

For adult smokers and vapers who choose to use a Lost Mary Tappo, careful filling, a patient saturation period and gentle first draws help protect the coil and preserve flavour. Use compatible pods and e-liquid, follow the device instructions, and check current Australian regulations and health guidance before purchase or use.