How to Use Shortfill E-Liquids: A Complete Guide by Ninja Vapes

June 2, 2026

Learn how to use shortfill e-liquids, add nic shots, shake your vape juice properly, and choose the right strength with this simple Ninja Vapes guide.

How to Use Shortfill E-Liquids

Here at Ninja Vapes we know shortfill e-liquids might seem confusing at first, especially if you have only ever bought small 10ml vape juice bottles, but honestly, once you get the hang of it, shortfills are one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to enjoy your favourite vape flavors.

A shortfill e-liquid is a larger bottle of nicotine-free vape liquid. Shortfill e-liquids are not filled to the very top of the bottle, so you can add a nicotine shot. Adding a nicotine shot allows you to choose whether or not to vape with nicotine. Nicotine-based e-liquids sold for vaping in the UK generally come in 10ml bottles, but nicotine-free shortfills are not subject to this restriction, providing more options for adult vapers.

So, in this guide, we'll explain just how to use shortfill e-liquids, how many nic shots to add, exactly how to mix your shortfill e-liquids and which shortfills will work best with your vape kit.

What Is a Shortfill E-Liquid?

Shortfill e-liquid is a bottle of vape juice that has extra space inside the bottle. For example, a 60ml shortfill can have 50ml of nicotine-free e-liquid with space for 10ml of a nicotine shot. Likewise, a 120ml bottle may have 100ml of e-liquid and space for two 10ml nicotine shots.

The general idea is that you buy a larger bottle of vape juice and decide if you want the nicotine included with it or want to add it yourself.

At Ninja Vapes, we think shortfills are especially useful for adult vapers who want more flavour, better value, and more control over their nicotine strength.

Why Do Vapers Use Shortfill E-Liquids?

The main reason that shortfills are so popular is that they provide more liquid in each bottle, which also means that vapers can choose their desired level of nicotine strength. Adult vapers are also attracted to the broad choice of e-juice flavors available for shortfill vaping, such as fruit blends, desserts, menthol, candy, drink and tobacco flavors.

Another big reason is value; instead of buying lots of small 10ml bottles people can buy one shortfill bottle and mix with a nic shot. This is convenient and will be cheaper to most average vapers.

Shortfills (most commonly in a 70VG/30PG ratio) are used more frequently with sub-ohm vape kits. This is because higher VG e-liquids are thicker and more viscous, often creating thicker and smoother vapor clouds compared to their PG counterparts.

What Is a Nic Shot?

A nic shot or nicotine shot is a 10ml shot of mostly flavorless nicotine e-liquid to be added to larger shortfill bottles to increase the nicotine strength of the contents. Nic shots are available in a variety of strengths, most commonly 18mg or 20mg.

If you add a nic shot to the shortfill bottle, the nicotine will mix with the nicotine-free e-liquid, resulting in a vape juice with nicotine.

For example, adding one 18mg nic shot to 50ml of 0mg shortfill usually creates around 60ml of 3mg e-liquid.

How to Use Shortfill E-Liquids Step by Step

Using a shortfill is not difficult. Here is the simple method we recommend at Ninja Vapes.

Step 1: Check Your Shortfill Bottle Size

First consider the bottle size. Shortfill e-liquids are generally 50ml of liquid in a 60ml bottle size. This usually means there is room for one 10ml nic shot.

If you have a 100ml shortfill, it often comes in a larger bottle with space for two nic shots. Always check the label before mixing.

Step 2: Remove the Bottle Cap and Nozzle

Open the shortfill bottle carefully. Most shortfill bottles have a small nozzle at the top. You may need to gently remove the nozzle before adding your nic shot.

Do not rush this part. If you pull too hard, you can spill the liquid or damage the nozzle.

Step 3: Add the Nic Shot

Now add your nicotine shot into the shortfill bottle. Pour it slowly so the liquid goes inside cleanly.

For a standard 50ml shortfill, one 10ml nic shot is usually enough to make around 60ml of 3mg e-liquid when using an 18mg nic shot.

Step 4: Close the Bottle Properly

After adding the nic shot, put the nozzle and cap back on tightly. Make sure the bottle is fully closed before shaking.

This helps avoid leaks and keeps the mixing process clean.

Step 5: Shake the Bottle Well

Shake the bottle strongly for at least 1-2 minutes. This helps the nicotine shot mix evenly with the shortfill e-liquid.

At Ninja Vapes, we always suggest shaking properly because poor mixing can give an uneven flavour or nicotine hit.

Step 6: Let It Settle for a Few Minutes

Shake and allow to stand for a brief period. Some vapers use it immediately, while others allow the combinations to settle out of head so as to allow the bubbles to dissipate and make the mixed feel smoother.

Leaving the bottle for a few hours may enhance the flavour in some desserts, creamy or complex flavours as well.

Step 7: Fill Your Vape Tank or Pod

After mixing, fill your vape tank and/or refillable pods carefully. Make sure your device is suitable for the VG/PG ratio of the shortfill.

With high VG shortfill, these are typically more effective with sub-ohm vape kits. If you are using a 50/50 shortfill, this might be more successful with refillable pod kits or mouth to mouth resuscilitators.

How Many Nic Shots Should You Add to a Shortfill?

The number of nic shots depends on the bottle size and the nicotine strength you want.

Shortfill Size	Nic Shot Usually Added	Approx Finished Strength
50ml shortfill in 60ml bottle	1 x 10ml 18mg nic shot	Around 3mg
100ml shortfill in 120ml bottle	2 x 10ml 18mg nic shots	Around 3mg
50ml shortfill with 2 nic shots	May need extra space/decanting	Around 6mg, depending on mix

There is usually room for one nic shot in a 50ml shortfill, but if there isn't space then e-liquid may need to be removed from the 50ml shortfill before adding the two nic shots, unless a nic shot friendly 50ml shortfill is used.

Can You Vape Shortfill Without Nicotine?

Yes, shortfill e-liquid without any supplement of nicotine can be vaped. Since shortfills are usually 0mg, you can simply fill your tank and vape it as nicotine-free vape juice.

Ideal for adult vapers who want all the flavor and vapor without the nicotine.

Which Nic Shot Should You Use?

Having the best nic shot depends on the kind of experience in vaping you are looking for.

Freebase nic shots are usually preferred when it comes to normal short-fills, particularly if you are running a sub-ohm vape kit and wish to have a heavier hit when you are vaping.

A nic salt shot may feel more smooth and can be preferable by those that like to experience a softer inhale. But, e-liquids with nic salt shots can also alter the final VG level of the e-liquid (particularly if the short fill's VG level was high).

At Ninja Vapes, we suggest checking your device type before choosing your nic shot. The right match can make your shortfill taste better and feel smoother.

What VG/PG Ratio Should You Choose?

VG and PG are the main base ingredients in e-liquid.

High VG shortfills, like 70VG/30PG, are thicker and usually better for sub-ohm kits. They are popular for bigger clouds and smoother vapour.

50/50 shortfills are thinner and often better for pod kits and starter kits. They usually give a stronger flavour hit and work better with smaller coils.

If your vape kit has a small pod or high-resistance coil, avoid very thick high VG liquids because they may not wick properly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Shortfills

A common error is failure to rock the bottle sufficiently following the introducing of the nic shot. If done properly, the mixture is a smooth fluid, but if not, the taste and intensity of the nicotine can be inconsistent.

A second common error is stacking too many nic shots without calculating the bottle space/Final strength. Excessive nicotine could be making the vape harsh and unhealthy.

Also, do not use high VG shortfills in every device. Some small pod kits are not made for thick liquid, so they may burn coils faster or give dry hits.

Are Shortfill E-Liquids Good Value?

Yes, shortfill e-liquids make for a great deal for many adult vapers. Typically you'll receive a bigger bottle, more flavours and also the flexibility to incorporate nicotine in the event you have to.

Shortfills can be more convenient for those who vape on a daily basis rather than carrying multiple smaller shortfills. However, they are also attractive to vapers who enjoy experimenting with high-quality flavours of larger quantities.

Final Thoughts: Should You Try Shortfill E-Liquids?

If you want more control over your vape juice, then briefly fills positively merit a try. They definitely improve your fluidity, your flavours and an easy way to add in the nic.

Here at Ninja Vapes, we advise shortfill e-liquids for adult vapers who are familiar with vaping, and seek out a more convenient vaping experience. Simply use the proper VG/PG ratio, nic add, shake correctly and enjoy the flavour properly.

At first, shortfills can be difficult to figure out but with the mixed-first-bottle then it will be easy. But with the right shortfill e-liquid, your vape should feel smoother, richer and more enjoyable.