Whether you’re getting ready for a drug test, starting a detox, or just curious, one of the most common questions among cannabis users is: How long does weed stay in your system?
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on how often you consume cannabis, your body composition, metabolism, and the type of drug test being used. In this updated guide, you’ll learn how THC is processed, what affects its detection time, and how to naturally support your detox process.
Detection Time by Test Type
Here’s a quick breakdown of how long THC can stay detectable depending on the test:
Urine: 1 to 30+ days
Blood: Up to 7 days
Saliva: 1 to 3 days
Hair: Up to 90 days
Now, let’s dive deeper into each type.
Urine Test: Most Common and Most Variable
Urine testing doesn’t look for THC itself, but for its metabolite THC-COOH, which is stored in fat and released slowly over time.
Occasional use (1-2 times): detectable for 1–3 days
Moderate use (a few times per week): 7–10 days
Daily use: 15–30 days
Heavy chronic use (multiple times per day): more than 30 days
Your body weight and hydration level can impact results. The more fat cells you have, the longer it can take for THC to fully leave your system.
Blood Test: Detects Recent Use
Blood tests are typically used to identify recent cannabis use, such as in roadside DUI checks or workplace accidents.
Occasional use: detectable for 12 to 24 hours
Regular use: up to 7 days
While fast, blood testing is less common due to the short detection window and cost of analysis.
Saliva Test: Becoming More Popular
Saliva tests are non-invasive and can detect THC within minutes of use. They’re being used more frequently by law enforcement and employers.
Occasional users: up to 24 hours
Regular users: up to 72 hours
Heavy users: sometimes up to 4 days
Eating, drinking, and oral hygiene can affect saliva test results slightly, but not enough to guarantee a pass.
Hair Test: Longest Detection Window
Hair follicle tests can detect weed for up to 90 days after use. THC enters the bloodstream, is delivered to the hair follicle, and remains embedded in the strand as it grows.
Even if you quit months ago, a hair test may still detect use. Shaving won’t help — testers can collect body hair too.
Factors That Affect Detection Time
Several factors influence how long weed stays in your body:
Frequency of use: More frequent use = longer detection
THC concentration: Stronger strains take longer to metabolize
Body fat: THC is stored in fat; more fat means slower elimination
Metabolism: Faster metabolism helps you detox quicker
Hydration and diet: Water and fiber help flush out THC metabolites
How to Detox THC Naturally
While there’s no miracle cure to flush out THC instantly, here are proven strategies to support your body:
1. Stop using weed
This is obvious, but essential. The sooner you stop, the sooner detox begins.
2. Drink more water
Hydration helps your kidneys process and eliminate THC byproducts. Don’t overdo it though — too much water can be dangerous.
3. Exercise regularly
Burning fat through cardio or strength training can help release THC stored in fat cells, speeding up elimination.
4. Eat high-fiber foods
Fiber helps remove waste through digestion. Load up on greens, whole grains, and fruits.
5. Try a natural detox kit
Some people use herbal detox kits designed to support liver function and boost elimination. Be sure to choose one with transparent ingredients and real reviews.
FAQs
Can secondhand smoke make me fail a test?
Very unlikely. You’d need to be in a sealed room breathing heavy smoke for hours.
Does CBD trigger a positive test?
Pure CBD won’t. But full-spectrum CBD may contain small amounts of THC that could accumulate and trigger a result.
Will drinking cranberry juice or vinegar help?
Not really. There’s no strong evidence behind these popular myths. Stick to hydration, rest, and time.
Final Thoughts
So how long does weed stay in your system? The truth is, it varies — from just a day to over a month — depending on your habits and body. If you’re facing an upcoming test or simply want to clean out your system, give yourself time, stay hydrated, move your body, and support your natural detox processes.
Need help speeding up the detox? Check out our proven, natural detox kits designed to help you feel clean, fast.