The Best Way to Clean Your Water Pipe

Let’s say you’ve been using your water pipe for a while now in Rutland, VT, and with great results. It does exactly what it’s supposed to, but now it’s getting a little dirty. Or maybe it’s really dirty—no judgment here! Either way, you need to know how to clean your water pipe. There are a couple different ways to do this, and each method is detailed below.

One key thing to keep in mind with both methods of cleaning your water pipe is that it’s a good idea to clean it regularly so it won’t accumulate too much gunk inside.

The alcohol and salt method

One effective way to clean your water pipe is by using rubbing alcohol and salt. The alcohol will help with removing any sticky residue more so than water, and the salt acts as an abrasive to loosen up any particles and scrape the insides without damaging the glass.

For this method of cleaning your water pipe, you’ll need enough rubbing alcohol to fill the bottom of the chamber. Use 90 percent isopropyl alcohol if possible, as it will be more effective than a 70 percent solution. Also use coarse salt, like kosher salt, for maximum effectiveness.

Start by removing any loose particles from the water pipe. Run hot water through the piece, hold it upside down and tap it, or even use a pipe cleaner or paperclip to dislodge the larger, more stubborn bits. Be gentle with this step. Remember, the alcohol and salt are going to do most of the work.

Now, pour some salt into the bowl and onto the stem of the water pipe. Be sure not to clog the passageway entirely. Next, pour in the rubbing alcohol. Finally, put the bowl back into place and shake the water pipe. Watch as the glass magically goes from dirty to clean!

When finished, rinse the water pipe with warm water. Use a pipe cleaner or Q-tip to get any stuck-on particles or to clean any hard-to-reach places. If it’s still dirty, consider soaking with rubbing alcohol overnight and cleaning again.

The hot water method

If you have a smaller water pipe and a big-enough pot, you can clean it using nothing more than boiling water. The idea behind this method is pretty much the same as the method above, and doesn’t require alcohol or salt.

First, bring a pot of water to a boil. Then, reduce to a simmer and place the water pipe in the pot. Let it soak in the simmering water for about 30 minutes to an hour. Remember when removing the pipe that it will be hot, so take precautions.

When it has cooled off enough to handle, use a pipe cleaner or thin bristle brush to remove residual particles and resin. Cotton swabs would also work in a pinch. Then rinse it out and enjoy your freshly cleaned water pipe.

For more tips on how to clean your water pipe, or to find the best water pipes in Rutland, VT, visit Emporium Tobacco & Gifts today.

Categorised in: Water Pipes

This post was written by Writer