Can You Donate Blood If You Smoke? Cannabis, Nicotine, and More Can You Donate Blood If You Smoke? What You Should Know Dr. Karuna Kumar We all know smoking and vaping isn't great for your health. But it doesn't stop you from being a blood or plasma donor. Just make sure to wait one hour after donating Myth: You can't donate blood if you smoke or drink. Fact: Smoking or occasional drinking doesn't automatically disqualify you. But avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before donating to E cigarettes and vapes