Keeping your water pipe clean is an integral part of prolonging its lifespan. Plus, by regularly cleaning water pipes the right way, you can ensure nothing messes with the incredible flavor of your vapor. We'll show you how to clean water pipes properly so you can keep the good times rolling.
Signs You Need to Clean a Water Pipe
If you use your glass water pipe on a regular basis, it's recommended that you change out the water after each and every use. But there are some telltale signs that you might need to give your water pipe a more intensive clean. These can include:
- A film-like residue on the inside
- Discolored or smelly water
- Resin build up
- Specks starting to appear on the walls of the pipe
Must-Have Tools for Cleaning Water Pipes
Before we teach you how to clean a water pipe, you first need to know what tools you'll need to keep your water pipe like-new. Most of these are basic items you might already have around the house. To clean your water pipe, you'll need the following:
- Pipe cleaner
- Q-Tips
- Rubbing alcohol
- Salt
- Water
- The water pipe you wish to clean
How To Clean A Water Pipe
Now that you have the required tools, you are ready to start cleaning a glass pipe. Follow these steps to keep your pipes clean and free of nasty debris and residue.
Step 1: Pour Salt into Your Water Pipe
Begin the cleaning process by pouring salt onto the stem and the bowl of your water pipe. Make sure to not pour so much salt that rubbing alcohol will be blocked from passing through.
Step 2: Pour Rubbing Alcohol into Your Water Pipe
Now that the water pipe has the salt added, pour in the rubbing alcohol. Plug the mouthpiece and joint of the water pipe, then lightly shake to combine the two.
Step 3: Rinse and Clean Your Water Pipe
Next, rinse out the salt and rubbing alcohol mixture with warm water. Use the pipe cleaners or Q-tips on the harder-to-reach areas of the water pipe if residue or buildup is still present.
If there is still significant buildup after this step, consider soaking your water pipe in a rubbing alcohol bath overnight. Soaking your water pipe overnight will help clean the tricky areas like the bowl and slides.
Step 4: Rinse Your Water Pipe Once More
Lastly, rinse your water pipe with water again. At this point, you are done with the cleaning process. And most importantly, you are ready to start using your water pipe!
Keeping Your Water Pipe Clean In Between Cleanings
Congratulations — you've now mastered the best way to clean a water pipe! Your water pipe should now be shiny and like-new.
If you use your water pipe regularly, it's recommended to use this cleaning method once a week. Also, be sure to rinse your pipe with hot water after each use to make sure it stays relatively clean in between cleanings with the rubbing alcohol and salt method.
By taking good care of your water pipe and using this cleaning method, you can keep your pipe in top shape, no matter how much you use it.
Shop Water Pipes, Cleaning Supplies and More at Thick Ass Glass
There's a reason so many people rely on our products for an enjoyable dabbing session. At Thick Ass Glass, we carry an affordable and reliable selection of glass water pipes, cleaning supplies and so much more. Contact our team of experts today for additional information or help finding the right product for your needs.