How to Use IQOS: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide

Table of contents
This guide explains how to use IQOS step by step, from the first charge to cleaning. IQOS is a heated tobacco system made by Philip Morris International. It heats tobacco sticks (TEREA or HEETS) instead of burning them, so there is no ash or flame. It still contains nicotine and is not risk free.
Know your IQOS device first
There are two families of IQOS devices, and they use different sticks:
- Induction devices such as IQOS ILUMA, ILUMA One, ILUMA Prime and the ILUMA i range. These use TEREA sticks only. There is no blade inside.
- Blade devices such as IQOS 3 DUO and IQOS 3 Multi. These use HEETS sticks. Never put TEREA in a blade device, or HEETS in an ILUMA.
- IQOS lil SOLID is a different system that uses its own lil sticks.
Most kits have a holder (the part you put the stick in), and many models also have a pocket charger that recharges the holder. All-in-one models such as ILUMA One have no separate holder. Popular stick flavours include Amber, Sienna and Turquoise (when in stock).
Before first use: charge it fully
- Take the device and cable out of the box.
- Connect the charger (or the all-in-one device) to a power source with the USB-C cable.
- Put the holder in the charger and wait until the lights show a full charge. The exact light pattern differs by model, so check the leaflet in your box.
How to use IQOS step by step
1. Insert the stick
- ILUMA (TEREA): push the stick straight in, filter side out. No twisting is needed. Many ILUMA models start heating on their own when they detect the stick.
- Blade devices (HEETS): push the stick gently straight in until the tobacco part is inside. Do not twist it or force it, as this can damage the blade.
2. Start heating
If your model does not start on its own, press the button. The holder heats up for a short time, then vibrates and the lights show it is ready.
3. Take slow puffs
Puff slowly and steadily. A session usually lasts about 6 minutes or 14 puffs, whichever comes first. Pulling too hard does not give more taste and can make it harsh.
4. End the session and remove the stick
- The device vibrates when the session is ending or over.
- ILUMA: pull the used stick straight out.
- Blade devices: slide the cap up first, then remove the stick, so the tobacco does not stay on the blade.
- Throw the used stick in a bin. Do not leave it on the street or in a car.
Cleaning
- Blade devices need regular cleaning. Use an IQOS cleaning stick or brush on the blade and chamber, gently. Old residue can cause a burnt taste.
- ILUMA devices have no blade, so there is no residue on a heater. Wipe the opening and outside with a dry cloth if needed.
- Never put the device in water, and never use sharp or rough tools.
Common problems and quick fixes
| Problem | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not heat | Low battery, or the wrong stick | Charge it. Check you use TEREA in ILUMA and HEETS in blade devices. |
| Burnt or bitter taste | Dirty blade, or a stick stored badly | Clean the blade. Keep packs closed and away from heat and damp. |
| Red or blinking error light | Device too hot or a fault | Let it cool, then restart or reset it as shown in the leaflet. |
Safe use tips
- Use the official charger and cable.
- Do not leave the device in a hot car in the UAE summer.
- Keep it away from children. IQOS is for adults 18+ only.
Need a device or sticks? We deliver across all seven emirates, with free delivery on orders of AED 200 or more. See our delivery policy for details.