How to Clean a Glass Piece
A nice glass piece is often a smoker's pride and joy. It's no wonder why they would want to keep it working and looking great. There's several simple effective methods for a cleaning even the most fragile smoking accessories.
Method 1: Pipe Cleaning Fluids
At virtually every smoke shop you'll come across offers liquid chemicals specifically for cleaning glass pipes. In most cases, they're very efficient and easy to use. Most brands will come with it's own set of directions for maximum efficiency. The brand most would recommend would have to be Orange Chronic.
PROBLEMS WITH THIS METHOD: Costly; Limited availability(smoke shop's not always near or open); Usually a waiting period.
Method 2: Simple Green
Simple Green is a cleaning agent that can be found almost anywhere. Any grocery store should carry it, some tool and hardware stores do to. It's an extremely powerful multi-purpose cleaning liquid. The beauty of it is that it's absolutely non-toxic. So natural that you could safely drink it, however I wouldn't suggest it. The only warning indicated is that it's an eye irritant. It comes in variable quantities, from small bottles to gallon jugs(maybe larger). Very affordable and effective, it normally comes as a concentrate. Mix with a balanced amount of hot water and let piece soak for at least a few hours. The water:chemical ratio should depend on the filthiness of the pipe. No more than half Simple Green should ever be needed for any application.
PROBLEMS WITH THIS METHOD: Waiting period.
Method 3: Salt and Alcohol
This method is one that has been used regularly for a long time. It requires epsom salt, isopropyl rubbing alcohol, and a ziplock sandwich bag. The best alcohol concentrate to use is 90%, but a lower percent should do just fine. Place the pipe in the baggie then pour in a generous amount of the alcohol and epsom salt. Tightly seal the bag and shake up the contents, making sure to let the mix flow through the piece. The idea of this method is for the alcohol to break down the buildup, and the coarse salt to scrape it away. Be vigorous when shaking it up, but still be careful not to let it fly out of your hands. Afterall a dirty pipe is better than a broken one. When you're done, simply remove the pipe, rinse it thoroughly in hot water.
PROBLEMS WITH THIS METHOD: Can only be done with smaller pieces.
