Glass pipes are very useful in a wide range of fields. If you have your favorite glass pipe, you will want to take good care of it.

However, it tends to develop resin that can be frustrating to handle. You wouldn't want to use a dirty glass pipe or bong. This is because a dirty pipe won't work as effectively as a clean one.

Therefore, if you have a dirty glass pipe, you need to clean it right away. Thankfully, there are three easy methods you can use to clean your glass pipe. Read on to learn more about these methods. 

Method One: The Alcohol and Salt Method

This is a common method of cleaning glass pipes. If you want to use this method, follow the following steps. 

  • Step 1: Start by gathering all the supplies. Thankfully, the supplies needed for this process are easily accessible.

You can find most of them laying in your home or shop for them at the nearest hardware or drug store. Remember to get the right quantities. 

  • Step 2: In the next step, you should de-gunk your glass pipe. This means that you should remove any toxic or loose particles in the glass pipe. You can do so by rinsing the dirty glass pipe with hot water or holding it upside down and gently tapping.

If necessary, you can also use a paperclip or pipe cleaners to get rid of the resin. Remember to be gentle when doing this to avoid damaging or breaking the glass. You should also be careful when handling the hot water. 

  • Step 3: After that, you should place the pipe in a Ziploc bag. Pour rubbing alcohol into a Ziploc bag until it's full then gently place the glass pipe in. This will ensure it is totally submerged.

Using alcohol is highly effective because it will dissolve all the tar and resin. It will also easily get rid of the stains on your glass pipe. Ensure all the stains are neutralized before moving to the next step.

  • Step 4: In this step, add salt. Add moderate salt to the mixture and allow it to dissolve. Note that salt allows you to get rid of all residual particles.

Besides, salt will help you reach places that a sponge or brush wouldn't easily reach. You have the freedom to choose the kind of salt to use in this step. However, you are encouraged to go for kosher salt because it is highly abrasive. 

  • Step 5: Then, seal the Ziploc bag and shake it rapidly. Ensure the glass pipe is deep in the solution to avoid hitting the walls of the bag. Shake it vigorously to ensure the salt has reached all parts of the pipe.

This is important because it guarantees the cleanliness of the glass pipe. For the best results, you should shake it for around 90 seconds to two minutes. You shouldn't stop until the glass is visibly clean.

It is important to check all the parts of the glass to ensure it is clean. Avoid getting into the delicate components of the pipe because they could be damaged.

  • Step 6: In the last step, you should pour out the solution. At this point, the solution will appear dark brown or nasty. Pour it out and repeat the process in step 5.

This is done to ensure the glass pipe is thoroughly clean. After washing it twice or thrice, leave the glass pipe to dry. You should expose it to any heat because it could crack. If possible, wipe it inside. 

Method Two: Use Alternative Cleaning Agents

You can also clean your glass tube by using other cleaning solutions other than salt and alcohol. Follow the same steps described in method one to thoroughly clean your glass tube.

You might also want to freeze the glass piece first before initiating the cleaning process. This is helpful because it allows the resin to harden and makes cleaning much easier. You also won't struggle to get rid of the tough stains. 

Method Three: Use Boiling Water

The third method you can use involves using boiling water. If you don't want to use the alcohol and salt method, you should consider using another method that gives the same results. 

The steps involved in cleaning the pipe with boiling water are the same as those used in the first method. However, when it comes to boiling water, you shouldn't use a Ziploc bag. This is the case because boiling water can easily damage the bag.

Allow the pipe to soak in the water for about 30 minutes — it could take up to an hour for dirty pipes. After soaking the pipe, carefully remove it from boiling water.

Keep in mind that at this point, the pipe will be very hot. Therefore, you should give it time to cool down first. 

Clean Your Glass Pipe Easily

It is vital to clean up your glass tube especially when it gets dirty. A clean pipe is easier and more effective to use.