Weed pipes — also known as “bowls,” “pieces,” “glass,” and “plant holders” — are relatively easy to clean. The trick is remembering.
Keeping your pipe clean will prevent residue from blocking out smoke or contaminating the weed’s taste. This guarantees you can make the most of each hit. Follow these basic steps to clean weed pipes and other accessories.
1. Remove Loose Weed and Ash
First, shake your pipe over the trash to remove any excess ash. Then, use a toothpick or a similar tool to scrape off as much weed residue as you can. Much of the residue may have built up in layers, so don’t rush yourself. You may be surprised by how much space your bowl had the first time you used it.
2. Prepare a Primary Cleaning Method
Many people prefer different options for cleaning their weed pipes. Your best choice may depend on your available resources and how badly it needs cleaning.
Boiling your pipe is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to clean it. Many prefer this option because it doesn’t involve chemicals. Simply grab a cooking pot and pour enough water to completely cover your pipe — plus a little extra to account for evaporation.
Pipes with hard-to-scrape residue and other deep cleaning needs will likely require more than just water. In lieu of a cooking pot, fill a sealable plastic bag with hot water. Then, prepare at least one of the following cleaning ingredients to mix in:
- Rubbing alcohol
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Distilled white vinegar
- Coarse salt, such as Epsom, rock, or sea salt
- Baking soda
- Specialized glass pipe cleaning products
3. Submerge The Pipe
If you’re cleaning with boiling water, warm your pipe in your hands for at least several minutes before dropping it in. This will reduce the risk of it cracking from temperature changes. Lower the heat as soon as the water reaches its boiling point and keep your pipe submerged for about a half hour. Then, remove the pot from heat and use kitchen tongs to remove the pipe.
For all other options, start by mixing the rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or vinegar into your bag of hot water. Then, add your pipe and any salt or baking soda you’d like to use. Seal the bag tight and shake your bag of water thoroughly for at least two minutes. Then, let it soak for up to several hours, depending on how much residue it still has.
If you’re cleaning a bubbler, bong, or another type of glassware with multiple parts, take it apart and submerge each piece in a separate bag or pot.
4. Let Your Pipe Dry
After removing your pipe from the water, use a toothpick or swab to remove any leftover residue, including from inside the pipe. Give it one last rinse under water until all residue and cleaner are gone. Finally, let the pipe fully dry before using it — otherwise, you may end up with wet weed.
How Often Do You Clean Your Weed Pipe?
How often you clean your weed pipe ultimately depends on how often you use it. Many users scrape out their bowls after every use and deep clean them weekly or monthly. However, depending on how often you light up, you may need to wash your accessories more or less frequently.
Put Your Clean Weed Pipe to Use With Harbor House Collective
Now that you know how to clean weed pipes, you should have something to put in yours. Harbor House Collective offers a variety of cannabis products and accessories. Check out our online store to learn more.
