How to Avoid Getting Flagged or Shadowbanned on Instagram for Glass Content
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How to Avoid Getting Flagged or Shadowbanned on Instagram for Glass Content
If you’re a glass artist, collector, or shop owner, you’ve probably had at least one post mysteriously disappear — or worse, get your account flagged — simply for showing off your latest piece. The truth is, Instagram (and Facebook) are aggressively moderating content that even hints at cannabis use, and unfortunately, a lot of functional glass gets caught in the crossfire.
Here’s how to keep your content safe, visible, and compliant — without watering down your brand.
1. Watch Your Wording
Instagram uses AI to scan your captions and hashtags for certain keywords that are linked to cannabis activity. That means words like:
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“Dab”
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“Rig”
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“420”
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“Slurper”
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“THC”
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“Weed,” “Gas,” or “Loud”
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Even casual terms like “Holidayz” or “Hollidaze” (especially around April)
These can trigger automatic removals, especially if you're also tagging other cannabis or glass-related accounts.
Pro tip: Swap in neutral terms like:
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“Setup” instead of “rig”
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“Glass piece” or “collector item”
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“Function test” or “art in motion” instead of “taking a dab”
2. Avoid Direct Sales Language
Even if you're not selling cannabis, Instagram doesn't always see the nuance. Using phrases like:
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“DM to purchase”
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“Available now”
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“Shipping included”
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“$50 Shipped”
...can get your post flagged for violating policies on regulated goods.
Instead, direct people to your website:
“Check it out at [YourSite.com]” or
“Tap the link in bio for details.”
3. Rethink Your Hashtags
Hashtags are a huge part of Instagram's discovery engine — and also a major source of moderation triggers.
Avoid banned/flagged hashtags like:
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#dabrig
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#weedporn
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#stonernation
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#710life
Use safer alternatives like:
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#GlassCollector
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#HeadyGlass
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#QuartzArt
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#FunctionalGlass
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#ArtOfGlass
4. Skip Cannabis Holiday References
Posts mentioning 420 or 710, even indirectly, are under heavier scrutiny — especially in April and July.
Instead of saying “Happy 420,” try:
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“New April drops”
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“Spring glass specials”
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“Collectors know what time it is”
Let your community read between the lines.
5. Be Careful With Tags & Mentions
Even if your caption is clean, tagging other accounts that are known for cannabis gear (especially in the same post as a quartz banger or dab tool) can trigger removals.
Keep tags relevant and limit the number you use in a post. You can always add shoutouts in the comments or storiesinstead.
6. Don’t Rely on Disclaimers
Writing “For educational use only” or “Not for drug use” might seem helpful — but Instagram’s systems don’t really care. They’re scanning for context and intent, not disclaimers. A caption with the right words will always go further than a disclaimer with red flags.
Final Thoughts
We’re all about celebrating the art of glass — but staying on the platform means learning how to navigate these algorithms. Speak the right language, build off-platform channels (like a newsletter or your own site), and don’t put all your eggs in the ‘Gram basket.
Want to see how we do it without getting flagged?
Follow us at @geewestglass and check out our full collection at geewestglass.com.