There's nothing quite like a fresh, clean pull through one of our handcrafted glass pieces. But just like a good malt, the magic is in the upkeep. Here's how to keep your glass water pipe in tip-top shape — the Malt Shop way.
What You'll Need
- Isopropyl alcohol (91% or higher is your best friend)
- Coarse salt (the big kosher kind works a charm)
- Resealable plastic bags or plugs
- Pipe cleaners or a bottle brush
- Warm water
- Dish soap for a final rinse
Step 1: Empty and Rinse
Pour out any old water and give your piece a quick rinse with warm water. Don't use boiling water on cold glass — thermal shock is no friend to fine craftsmanship. Lukewarm is the sweet spot.
Step 2: Salt and Alcohol Shake
Pour a generous amount of coarse salt into the base, followed by enough isopropyl alcohol to fill it about halfway. Plug the openings with your fingers (or provided stoppers), then shake it like you're mixing a milkshake. The salt acts as a gentle abrasive while the alcohol dissolves resin buildup. Give it a good 2–3 minutes of vigorous shaking.
Step 3: Let It Soak (For Stubborn Buildup)
If your piece has seen some heavy sessions, let the salt-and-alcohol mixture sit for 30 minutes to an hour before shaking. Patience pays off — just like waiting for the perfect malt to blend.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with warm water until the water runs completely clear and you can no longer smell the alcohol. Then do a final wash with a drop of dish soap and rinse again. You want absolutely no residue left behind.
Step 5: Dry Completely
Set your piece upside down on a clean towel or dish rack and let it air dry completely before your next session. A wet piece can dilute your experience — and nobody comes to the Malt Shop for a watered-down shake.
How Often Should You Clean?
For daily users, a quick rinse after every session and a deep clean once a week keeps things fresh. Casual users can get away with a thorough clean every two weeks. Your taste buds will thank you.
Shop Our Glass Collection
Ready to upgrade your setup? Browse our handcrafted (M) Glass collection — each piece is one-of-a-kind, upcycled, and built to last a lifetime of good sessions. Pieces like 4 Little Birds and I Can Not Tell A Lie are crowd favorites worth keeping pristine.
Got questions about caring for your piece? Slide up to the counter anytime — we're always happy to help. MSB