The regular cleaning of your silicone pipe is critical to its longevity. By performing routine cleanings, you can enhance the performance of your silicone pipes as well. But many wonder how to clean a silicone pipe correctly.
The popularity of silicone pipes has exploded since the late 2010s. A large variety of colors and styles make them appealing to people because they are affordable, durable, and durable.
In addition to their non-stick silicone construction, they are easy to clean and guarantee a clean smoking experience. A simple soak (or two) and a light scrub will give it a brand-new appearance.
Improper cleaning or neglect of your silicone and glass pieces is not a good thing. To make your pieces last longer, you should clean them thoroughly with suitable materials and tools for the best performance. This article will break down exactly how to clean a silicone pipe and clean glass pipes correctly.
Is it necessary to clean your Silicone Pipe?
As you burn herb in your pipe, ash (i.e., the combustion) and resin (tar-like residue) are generated that settle into the innards of your smoking device. This residue will build up inside the apparatus. This is true of any smoking device, silicone and glass included.
This gunky residue consists of a number of components, including cannabis plant matter, oils, and burnt ashes. Upon combining all of these elements, a slimy substance is created that resembles grease.
You may not be able to enjoy your smoking experience if you are left with this residue. An obstructed pipe can adversely affect the flow of smoke, and leftover ash and resin can impair the quality of your herb. Meaning you won't get a good pull, and your pipe will not taste pleasant.
However, you will get the most enjoyment from each session if you keep your silicone pipe clean. Furthermore, it ensures that your pipe will remain in good working condition so that you can make the most of your investment.
Cleaning Silicone Pipes
Unlike glass or wood pipes, silicone pipes are much easier to clean because of their strength and flexibility. The following steps will show you how to clean silicone pipes:
Take apart the silicone pipe
Glass bowls and metal spoons are typically included with silicone pipes. The bowls should be washed thoroughly in warm and soapy water after being separated from the silicone bodies. It would be best if you placed the bowls aside to dry while the silicone parts are being handled.
Let the pipe freeze
The silicone pipe should be rinsed in some water, then placed into the freezer for 30 minutes to an hour. The freezing process helps the residue become brittle and, therefore, easier to remove.
Remove any loose residue.
You can tap out the residue by tapping your silicone pipe gently on a surface when it has hardened. The residue should fall right out. If the residue doesn't come out, you can use a cotton swab or a small brush.
Immerse the silicon pipe in water
In a Ziploc bag, place the silicone pipe and fill it with a DIY homemade cleaning solution (steaming hot water, a few drops of dish soap, and a little white or apple cider vinegar). Or, you can use 70% isopropyl alcohol. Cleaning silicone pipes with a cleaning solution specifically made for them is also an option.
It is important to note that silicone pipes contain dozens of tiny air pockets that harsh chemicals and materials can damage. These are best avoided.
After soaking the pipe for one to two hours or overnight, rinse it under warm running water. If desired, include the glass bowl and metal spoon as well.
Rinse & Dry
Wash the pipes and their components with warm water after they have been cleaned. Use a small brush or cotton swab to remove any remaining stubborn residue from the pipe after it has been soaked. After thoroughly drying everything, reassemble and use it again.
Trick: Add a few drops of alcohol to the inside of your pipe to remove any leftover water from cleaning if you want to make sure it's dry. Alcohol evaporates!
How to Clean A Glass Pipe?
What if you don't have a silicone pipe, and you use glass strictly? Don't worry; cleaning glass pipes is relatively simple.
Glass pipes can be cleaned with the same recipe as silicone pipes, but since they tend to have smaller and more narrow chambers, they can be harder to scrub completely clean. However, the Ziploc baggie trick will help you get them to sparkle like new without using so much cleaner.
- Before you proceed, make sure you remove any screens or water from the pipe.
- You should cover the entire pipe with a hot cleaning solution after placing it in a Ziplock baggie. Remember, baggies are thin, so you'll have to be careful with how much you use unless you're using a freezer version that can withstand heat.
- Let it soak away the grime for at least an hour, preferably in a sink to prevent leaks.
- To remove any leftover resin, carefully scrub the pipe with a cotton swab or gentle plastic brush after removing it from the cleaning solution.
- You are now ready to clean the device with warm water. Allow to completely air dry and you can add any new screens as needed.
Looking For a New Silicone Pipe?
Kaws silicone pipes are adorable and surprisingly easy to use. These silicone pipes make wonderful gifts for friends and family, or yourself!
The renowned online headshop INHALCO helps you find high-quality bongs, dab rigs, hand pipes, and vaporizers of all types, as well as dab pens and other cool counterculture products. Our collection of hemp products includes herb grinders, travel pouches, and butane lighters for the ultimate smoking experience.
