How To Clean Your Pipe With The Most Neutral & Powerful Pipe Sweetener

[@SoopSammich339]

👍

[@hobbitonpiper]

🙏 Thank you so much for supporting my efforts, Jake, it is so appreciated!

[@steelball6543]

I absolutely am addicted to smoking my pipe and listening to your calming informative videos. Excellent work!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thank you so much for this feedback! It was always my goal to build a content library for this very reason. Good deal :)

[@adorsey3149]

Our orioles arrived last week too. They sure love those oranges. I like hearing the calls of the mourning doves @12:10 as well. Another very informative and well presented video. Good stuff Kevin.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thank you! I love the cooing of mourning doves!

[@bg7805]

I have to say it's funny that I came across this video! I am new to the pipe smoking hobby and have QUICKLY learned there are MANY schools of thought on the pipe hobby in general, but I was sitting down to clean my pipe for the first time (more than the dry pipe cleaner) and I came across your video and was watching while cleaning my pipe only to find out I am cleaning with what you consider to be the best pipe sweetener there is, LOL. Everclear is definitely not an issue to find here in Texas but it is also what was recommended the most for cleaning when I purchased my pipe at the Texas Renaissance Festival! I am glad to find that their recommendations were top notch. I look forward to watching more of your videos as I learn my new hobby :-) Thanks again for the great video

[@hobbitonpiper]

That’s cool! Yeah it works great. Be sure to see the Playlists tab, lots to explore! :)

[@umberpiper]

Kevin, a suggestion: When cleaning the shank, try folding the pipe cleaner into halves, thirds, or even fold it twice over with an extra long pipe cleaner. Wet with Everclear of course. You'll get a lot more gunk out because you're making contact with the walls of the shank. It also adds more pressure allowing for a more thorough cleaning. Your videos are some of the most delightful in all of the YTPC. Thanks for your informative and diligent work.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Very true! I like using fluffy pipe cleaners too for better coverage

[@gratefulpipeandcigar3239]

Hey there Kevin. As usual you haven’t failed to educate and contribute to the pipe community. Are usually just used I said propyl alcohol for the deep cleaning because I don’t have any liquor on hand. I actually didn’t even know that there were dedicated products for pipe cleaning called pipe sweeteners. This will definitely be broadening my horizons with how I take care of and enjoy my Pipes. And it’s great that we will be able to support you in a small but tangible way and thanks so much for the mention.

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re so welcome, thank YOU! :)

[@tmead07]

About high proof alcohol: I have heard that for medical cleaning they use a 75 or 80% concentration rather than 90 or 99% of isopropyl because that extra water actually helps increase surface contact. Kind of counterintuitive but the everclear might work even better diluted to 160 proof. Thanks for all the great videos!

[@hobbitonpiper]

That might be worth trying!

[@cult2Christ]

Another great and practical video, thanks again!

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re very welcome! Glad it was helpful

[@johnnyhoover5870]

Just found your channel and have watched almost all your videos. Love the channel. Out of all the pipe channels I've watched your the guy i would want to smoke with.

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@johnnyhoover5870 that is so nice to hear, thank you! More to come! :)

[@tnhillbilly1307]

Great informative video...I looked into the deep cleaning topic a bit but I've still alot to learn on keeping a pipe clean...I always use a pipe cleaner after every smoke but always dry... thank u for explaining it so well and giving the different options to use...I can hopefully keep my pipes cleaner from now on from basic cleaning 👍

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re very welcome! :) Thank you for this encouraging feedback!

[@pauljohnson165]

Cool. I’ll try it! I remember the artful codger uses listerine with clove . Ove been using pipe clean from smoking pipes .

[@hobbitonpiper]

Let me know what you think of it, Paul!

[@bobwallace6812]

Very good video. Thanks for the very educational lesson.

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re welcome Bob! :)

[@beardzzone]

Another great video I use pipe master but it has crossed my mind to use Jack Daniels I wasn't sure if it would damage my pipes but after seeing this I'll probably try the ever clear in my aromatic pipes and Jack Daniels in my English pipes

[@hobbitonpiper]

That should work just fine, Kevin!

[@wnm8888]

You’re an excellent teacher.

[@hobbitonpiper]

I’m glad you’ve found these videos helpful!

[@thomasdrudi9945]

Great vid as aways. After every smoke I just use Briar fresh and have doing it for years. Maybe my tastebuds are not as sharp as some but I have been very happy with it. I've never used Everclear and have known about it for years but now you have me thinking about giving it a try. Enjoy your pipes my friend.

[@hobbitonpiper]

If you give it a try let me know what you think!

[@thinktank8286]

New guy here with two questions: Would doing the cleaning pipe damage the cake buildup that I understand is desired? Any recommendations for and inexpensive, available, tobacco that has cocoa notes?

[@hobbitonpiper]

You don’t ever put this in the bowl, so no it won’t damage the cake. As for a recommendation you should try this blend: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r6qpXpuZnrpgmqcsi=hokKfYYPqj_7gOlj

[@saifu1744]

It definitely is the best!!! I enjoy your videos

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@saifu1744 I’m glad you agree! :)

[@snaponjohn100]

When running a dipped pipe cleaner into the bit, hold the pipe with bit down. The excess alcohol will wick down the pipe cleaner instead of running onto your stem and possibly on down to the pipe.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Good tip!

[@jimtackett9403]

I've used Everclear for a long ti time. You're absolutely right, it works great. Once I did accidentally get a small amount on the body of a pipe and saw some of the stain run. I've been more careful since.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yes, very powerful, keep it off the finish! :)

[@roadkill3881]

I’ve been using Everclear for years. Definitely cleans well and leaves a nice flavor behind.

[@hobbitonpiper]

It’s great, isn’t it! I’m a big fan :)

[@craighertzog7260]

I apologize if this was already asked, I didn’t get to read through all the comments. How often do you do a second level cleaning, the sweetener without breaking the pipe down? In turn how often do you do a break down and clean? Love the videos, very informative and entertaining.

[@hobbitonpiper]

This is honestly a personal preference, and based on how many bowls you smoke in a given week. I probably over clean, as I do tend to take my pipes apart and clean with the sweetener at the end of each day

[@gtrmusic69]

I like your channel. Please keep em coming. I've been smoking pipes since the 1970's and I've never used anything other than just a basic pipe cleaner (I like the BJ Long) and occasionally a pipe knife to scrape the carbon build up, every few months or maybe once a year. I mostly smoke English blends and very rarely some VaPers.

[@hobbitonpiper]

You aren’t alone! That’s an absolutely great way of basic cleaning. I’m so glad you’re enjoying my take on things, it’s great to have you here!

[@couchescounselling]

I typically use Captain Morgan black spiced rum or an aged whisky/scotch that I have on hand. I don't feel the need to buy something specifically for my pipes. I figure the old boys 100 years ago wouldn't have had anything other than what was on hand. I smoke for the day with one pipe, run a pipe cleaner through it and set it aside until I have 2-3 pipes. Then I break them down and clean them with alcohol on my pipe cleaner. If I keep my rum clean I can enjoy a taste once I'm done ;). I have only been a regular pipe smoker for a 4-5 months but have found this to work well.

[@hobbitonpiper]

That should work just fine, James!

[@whitetail7516]

Thank you for talking about this, I never thought about using a whisky for light cleaning. I use Everclear to thoroughly clean an old pipe, I think I'll try some vanilla crown on the pipes I enjoy most of the time.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Awesome, let me know how they goes! :)

[@whitetail7516]

@@hobbitonpiper Do you use the sweetener before you smoke or just after?

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@whitetail7516 after. I’ve found it best to start your smoke with a completely dry pipe.

[@clarencewood1363]

Well Kevin as usual, very informative and helpful information. We cannot get Everclear in Virginia anymore. One of my local B&M's sell Blitz pipe cleaner. I use it all the time. Its not the greatest but I usually put a good amount on my pipe cleaner and work the stem and draft hole thoroughly. You can always tell a difference in the taste. I get no sour or bitter taste after cleaning. Your one of the best for us, say Happy Mothers Day to Mrs. Hobbiton and stay safe in those storms. Your friend Tommy

[@hobbitonpiper]

Will do Tommy!! Thank you so much for your continued viewing, support, and commenting!

[@clarencewood1363]

@@hobbitonpiper I never miss a Hobbiton video. Always enjoyable and relaxing

[@EsoxLVCIVS6776]

I use the same method with Everclear and a pipe cleaner and I use a pair of nail clippers to nip off the dirty end of pipe cleaner and it saves wasting most of the pipe cleaner

[@hobbitonpiper]

Wow that’s actually an excellent idea! #mindblown

[@bottleneckpiper]

Thank you for the very informative video! I've been using Clear Spring for years. Much less expensive than Everclear, comes in a plastic bottle that won't break if you drop it, and is exactly the same 190 proof. I've never had any issue with my acrylic stems so far, but I'm glad you mentioned that it's possible. I don't use it that often, just when the pipe starts to smell a little funky. By the way, if you have an inexpensive, unfinished pipe like the Savinelli seconds you can use grain alcohol on the rim to clean off the buildup. Since it doesn't have a finish on the outside, it won't cause any problems, and it makes cleaning the rim so much easier.

[@hobbitonpiper]

I’ve heard some use hand sanitizer on bowl rims with great success as well…but that’s a topic for another time :)

[@tallentstravels5727]

My Everclear is also in a plastic bottle.

[@blzbub8822]

Cleaned my pipes today with everclear. Pro tip from this video! I’d say an hr ago. How long before I can hit them up again? I did my briar, oak, and cob.

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re all good within minutes, just don’t clean the inside of the bowl with it. Follow the directions of this video and all is well

[@blzbub8822]

@@hobbitonpiper as always thanks. They came out smoking and tasting great. Thanks for the pro tip.

[@joseluismanzur1973]

Hello kevin i am jose luis from argentina really very interesting this video.I used sometimed only a good whisky to cleam muy pipes.Thank you for this interesting video and goods smokes.

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re welcome! Whisky works great! :)

[@dapiddiboy]

I love the “blitz pipe cleaners” those have very voluminous bristles, don’t sting you and don’t get fuzzy. Thanks for the video!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Very cool, I’ll look those up!

[@dapiddiboy]

Smoking pipes has them. They are a charm. maybe a few cents more expensive but worth every bit of it. They look white/red.

[@misimcfarland5212]

I use it to make mint tincture (for use as mosquito repellant) so I knew what you were talking about before you showed it. lol Most folks use vodka to make tintures but I am alergic to vodka so... I've been using Jack Daniels to clean my pipes. It works well, with no aftertaste, but I might have to try this OR my mint tincture.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yeah give it a try…very powerful yet so neutral, I love it!

[@99biggee]

Hi Kevin. Just wanted to say that I truly enjoy your uploads and find them informative and educational. I appreciate you man ! Well I'm going to cut to the chase and lay it out there bare bones. I'm a recovering alcoholic and thank God, I've been sober since 1999. You can well imagine my apprehension around keeping alcohol any where near me, even just for pipe cleaning purposes. I guess my only option is Isopropyl. I was wandering if it leaves any noticeable residual chemical after taste ? If so, is there possibly a way of sweetening the ISO ? Thanks and take care.

[@hobbitonpiper]

ISO will work just fine! Maybe you should try the Pipemasters Clean & Cure

[@99biggee]

@@hobbitonpiper Thanks Kevin. I'll give it a try.

[@salthesicillian1752]

Great info! I've been using Disaronno (of course a Sicilian friend told me to) in my aromatic pipe and has a wonderful effect.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Very cool! For a more neutral, powerful option maybe give this a try as well if it’s available in your area

[@salthesicillian1752]

@@hobbitonpiper for sure will try. I can get any type of alcohol here in WA, just can't get tobacco! I've had to resort to road trips to try and find tobacconists here in the state (Eye roll).

[@junauralojipan3062]

Here in MI can only go as high as 154 proof. Works very well 👍 Thanks for the info. And teaching👍👍

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@junauralojipan3062 that’ll work!

[@RegesterForDinner]

Is there a way to clean the outside of your pipe without having to polish it? I just noticed mine has some scuff marks which I would assume is from the oils from my skin.

[@hobbitonpiper]

I use a little olive oil and a microfiber cloth

[@RegesterForDinner]

@@hobbitonpiper thank you for the fast response! I’m going to do that now! I’m a newbie to the pipe world but I have to say I’m loving it and your videos! You now have a subscriber from Tampa, FL.

[@RickRairdon]

You inspired me. Thanks. Although I did not go out and get some Wild Turkey 101 because of my wife. I did use her 90% I.A. Wow! what a good job of cleaning it did. Unlike the Wild Turkey the little bit will last a long time.

[@hobbitonpiper]

That’s great, Rick! Yeah that will last you a very long time for sure :)

[@RickRairdon]

@@hobbitonpiper I will do a pipe video when I get my new pipe from Poland. see Rick Rairdon channel.

[@SmokingCardboard]

I use that to serialize my jars before putting my tobacco in. I’ve yet to use any product to clean my pipe. I do clear my draft hole with the appropriate drill bit. Which works well. Thanks for all the info Kevin. Much appreciated. Happy smokes

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re so welcome man, hopefully we can all keep learning together, there’s so much out there to try

[@fivevs1]

Been using ever clear for a decade...totally forgot why I went to it (flavor neutral). Love the content my fellow Missourian. Where abouts you at? I'm in STL.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Southwest!

[@fivevs1]

@@hobbitonpiper beautiful part of the state. I go to Springfield on occasion for work.

[@armchairpiper]

Hey Kevin, great video. In my smoking life I have used about everything, but now 151 proof Everclear (you know Hillbilly sipping whiskey, Ha I can say that because I have lived in West Virginia) my liquor store doesn't sell a higher proof. Ed

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yes I should have mentioned the 151 proof version exists! I’m glad you did. (Ah, good ole sipping whiskey haha). I’m happy you enjoyed this video, Ed, that means a lot!

[@djsden6124]

Yeah man, I use the everclear also. I took a nod from Muttonchop, and added a little Frangelico to it for more of a hazelnut sweetness... really nice. So, Everclear straight - or with some added liquor works great. Awesome video, thanks for sharing...

[@hobbitonpiper]

Very cool, you’re welcome! :)

[@DoingitWrong]

I use Everclear 151 or vodka. Since I smoke with filter pull apart the pipe and do a level 3 cleaning at night, with a modification. I use q-tips to swab out the filter chamber and mortise. A lot of gunk accumulates in those spaces. As you mentioned, I also mop out the draft hole as part of that nightly cleaning. Haven’t had a sour smoke in all of my 14 months of pipe smoking. Also, haven’t ever had to do any deep cleaning.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Everclear 151 is something I wish I had mentioned in this video for those who can’t find the 190 or like more options!

[@reydabeast1331]

Great information Kevin! I was actually thinking about this over the past week and was going to message you on your cleaning routine. After reading a few forums a while back I picked up some Everclear 151. Planning to try that very soon cause I am definitely getting some sour taste with my pipes and I know it's from not being as thorough with my cleanings. Thanks again!

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re so welcome! Yes, there is a 151 option available, which is especially great for areas where the 190 is not for sale. Good luck with your cleanings, I think you’ll detect a noticeable difference.

[@purasangrethrash]

How often do you clean your pipe? Is it important to clean it after every use?

[@hobbitonpiper]

Not after every use, but at the end of the day I will normally do the simple light cleaning shown in this video.

[@purasangrethrash]

@@hobbitonpiper Thank you very much for the response! Im new to pipe smoking. Cheers!

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@purasangrethrash lots of helpful content here, be sure to see the Playlists tab!

[@williams3846]

Thanks for posting, Kevin. I usually use some Wild Turkey to clean my corncob pipes.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Great stuff! That reminds me I’m out of both 101 and Rare Breed, I need to fix that soon :)

[@michaelpage4199]

I can honestly say I have been using everclear for over a decade. It’s the best and just does a great job.

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@michaelpage4199 sounds like we are on the same page here! :)

[@nathenwallis5664]

I too have been using everclear, with great results. I must add though that ive never tried any of the commercially available pipe sweeteners. Ive also tried using bourbon that i enjoy drinking, but the Everclear dows seem to work much better for cleaning a pipe

[@hobbitonpiper]

And very neutral! You won’t begin to taste it over time like you will other sweeteners or whiskeys, thus giving you a more pure tobacco tasting experience

[@nathenwallis5664]

@hobbitonpiper plus, Buffalo Trace ( one of my main go to sippers ) is getting hard to find, and more expensive in my area. Thankfully your channel, and this video popped up in my feed, it served as a reminder to clean a couple of neglected pipes haha

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@nathenwallis5664 Buffalo Trace is one of my all time favorites! Yes, difficult to find here in arkansas too. Luckily I scored a couple of bottles in the spring

[@nathenwallis5664]

@hobbitonpiper yea, I just bought 2 bottles about 2 or 3 weeks ago, but the last time I could find any was back in December. They just doubled their production a few months ago, so maybe they'll be able to meet demand....in about 7 years. I'll be going to Georgia next month, and hopefully will be able to grab a couple bottles of eagle rare while I'm there. That's another favorite of mine, but I haven't been able to get one in a couple of years now in my area.

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@nathenwallis5664 me either, haven’t seen it at all, not for regular pricing, I have about a quarter bottle left, maybe

[@desijimenez1978]

Hi Kevin. Great channel. Whats the make and model of the pipe you are using in this video?

[@hobbitonpiper]

Here’s everything I know about it! Be sure to see my Pipe Stories playlist!: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4fXpK2njJioaMksi=5rwJ97jA7PD_Npev

[@Smartiebob317]

If you go back to my VR titled “Best Presenter in March IMHO” you will notice at the beginning I scan a table that I set and smoke by. On the table you will see the very same bottle of Everclear. I have been using it for a year now and clean all my pipes with it. A little drop on the tongue will “clean” out your palate also. I know a guy who dabs a soaked strip of cedar with Everclear on his cigar before he smokes it. Says it improves cigars tremendously. Thanks for the VR. Check out that old VR. 💨💨

[@Smartiebob317]

PS: Kevin, I just noticed in that VR of mine titled “The Best Presenter of March IMHO” that the presenter I chose was “Hobbiton Piper”. 💨💨

[@hobbitonpiper]

Everclear is great, I’ve been enjoying using it very much. Yes, I loved your video! :)

[@bjdenil]

I use everclear as a sweatner almost every time I clean my pipe. I do what you call a level 3 cleaning after each use. Started with other pipe sweetners but didnt like the taste found out you could use spirits and went out for everclear the next day.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Awesome! Isn’t it great!? Good stuff :)

[@bjdenil]

Sure is.

[@bjdenil]

@@hobbitonpiper the only pipes I dont use the everclear on each time is my wooden stemmed churchwardens. They only get it occasionally.

[@tokatulu]

I like to use Ol’ Smokey moonshine. It has those qualities you’re mentioning like high abv and sweet corn essence. It cool stuff. It comes in mason jar style containers and they make it in a mini mason jar that looks really nice next to my jars of tobacco. I’ve only tried drinking it once but it was not a good experience. But it’s awesome for cleaning a pipe. If you can acquire the Ol’ Smokey in your part of the world , I highly recommend it.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Very cool! It sounds like that would work nicely!

[@CrossTimbersSon]

Great wealth of information Kevin! I too have used the Everclear and Frangelico liqueur. Unfortunately one of the first times I was cleaning a straight grain Peterson pipe of mine that has a dark red stain, I touched a little amount on the outside while handling it and smudged the stain. The grain is no longer visible on that side and it just looks like a darker spot, the size of my thumb print. 😕 Hard lesson learned.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yes, as I said in the “words of caution” section of this video, we must be diligent to keep these “sweeteners” off the finish! Very important

[@leonine9463]

Nice topic. Very informative. I just have a question, Inside my bowl I can see some little fissures. They look like they are in the carbon cake and they don’t seem to reach the actual wall. My carbon cake is a little uneven overall. Is it normal or something is terribly wrong here? It is a Stanwell 207 poker.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Email me a picture of the bottom of your bowl and I’ll be able to respond more accurately for you

[@leonine9463]

@@hobbitonpiper I will as soon as I can. Just wanted to add, you have the most interactive channel on KZbin that I know of and it’s awesome. Thank you.

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@leonine9463 you’re so welcome, thank you!

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@leonine9463 I’ve responded to your email. To practice reaming you can literally use a popsicle stick to be safe.

[@Raskolnikow28]

Nice Video like always. But what is the best way to clean your pipe from outside?

[@hobbitonpiper]

I’m not sure what you’re asking. The exterior finish of the pipe?

[@Raskolnikow28]

@@hobbitonpiperYes I mean the whole outside part from the pipe.

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@Raskolnikow28 if you mean the outside of the bowl, a little olive oil and a microfiber cloth works nicely

[@slimpsy]

Thanks for sharing such good tips.

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@slimpsy you’re very welcome!

[@jonlynnseward2745]

Great lesson, once again! Thank you so much for all you do!

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re very welcome! It’s great to see you here today :)

[@derekvedenoff1021]

I have been using a grapefruit flavored vodka that someone brought to my place years ago. I do enjoy some vodka but I prefer mine unsweetened/flavored. This vodka has just a slight citrus taste and makes the stems clean and just slightly sweet if you will.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Many use flavored alcohols, so it’s just whatever you prefer. If you want a very neutral sweetener/cleaner with no added flavors to give you a more uninfluenced experience, this is something to try out and see what you think :)

[@godstemplar46]

I went and got some Everclear and cleaned my pipes. They have never been cleaned with a solution. I just cleaned them with pipe cleaners once they cooled. How often would you say to clean them with the solution? They didn’t have the 190 all they had was 151 but I’m thinking it is good enough? It even took the black soot off the rim. Do you clean the inside of the bowl with it? Thank you for the video.

[@hobbitonpiper]

No, with the exception of removing dottle and excess leaf, you can pretty much leave the inside of the bowl alone until the cake inside gets too thick…that’s when you will use a reamer. 151 will work great. Be careful using it on the outside of the pipe though because it can strip the finish. You can feel free to use the techniques shown in this video at the end of each day of smoking if you choose.

[@piathemermaid2762]

What pipe are you playing for this video? Really like the look!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Here you go!: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4fXpK2njJioaMksi=HGFsyFKCasrNGciL

[@johnvirgin13]

Hey Kevin, great video as always. Have you heard about the new Sutliff limited release series "birds of a feather"? It looks like something that would really catch your interest. They released the first tin "Uno" yesterday May 10th, if you're able to get any I'd love to see a blend review someday. At any rate, can't wait for the next video, cheers.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yes, I was on that day 1! Got 2 tins on the way of Uno. You’re right, that marketing hooked me immediately! :)

[@Rubber_Ring]

Thanks for the useful information (again), Kevin. I have only used the Pipemaster's up to now. Never thought about using a spirit like Whisky or Vodka.

[@Rubber_Ring]

You just gave me an excuse for ordering more special whiskies though. "honest dear, it's for cleaning my pipes!"

[@hobbitonpiper]

Haha yes, I think it’s a great excuse!! :)

[@jeromejackson2018]

Did not know Bee wemt out of business. Quit smoking years ago, but just started my pipes again last month. I have 1/2 bottle of Bee left, just as tou described. Question though..... what about pipes which use filters. I'm big on corn cobs (6 of them) and of the 6 5 use 6 or 9 mm pipe filters. I've been using the Bee to clean them. What would alcohol, etc do to their surfaces? Thinks this might deserve a shout or two. Thank you. Jerry Jackson 🐶 🐶 (Longwood, FL)

[@hobbitonpiper]

Hi Jerry, are you asking what alcohol would do to the filters themselves?…

[@jeromejackson2018]

@@hobbitonpiper N0, what would the Everclear due to the stems and cobs? I know they put a special finish on the stems & cobs prior to selling to keep them from burning out. Would it mess up or eat away at the special finish?

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@jeromejackson2018 I really don’t think so at all. I’ll verify with one of my knowledgeable piping friends for you!

[@jeromejackson2018]

Thank you. Love your show.

[@russhicksart]

@@jeromejackson2018 ,This response is at Kevin's request. I believe most normal MM cob stems are a proprionate plastic though some of my MM cobs have a variety of of materials. I've found these cheap plastics aren't affected by Everclear but keep in mind if for some reason they are damaged just know they extremely inexpensive stems (dare I say cheap beyond belief) and can be replaced for nearly nothing. Most will get chewed through before damaged from cleaning and it's my belief that MM intends for these to expendable items. As for the wooden shanks, I've never had Everclear harm them and I have many MM cobs from the 60's. If you were to get Everclear on the exterior of the shank it may over time remove the little "cob" printing but as a test I just used Everclear to try and remove the printing and plaster coating on the outside of the bowl and I can't tell that anything happened. I imagine there is a shellac coating (at least that what it looks like under the microscope) that would eventually come off of the shank though. As far as I know there is no special internal finish in the bowls or shanks. There certainly is no conventional bowl coating. I do quite a bit of work to my MM cobs prior to smoking them where I remove the wooden "spoon" of the shank and any of the excess glue which is used to secure the hardwood insert that becomes the bottom of the tobacco chamber. This spoon will often burn away or cake over time but I find the taste of the burning spoon and glue to be noxious. I also use pipe mud (cigar ash and water) to make the draft hole sit at the bottom of the bowl. On the other hand if you get Everclear on the finish of a nice briar pipe it will immediately eat away the stain if you're not careful. I treat this solvent with the utmost care on all my nice pipes. Oddly enough tonight was the first time in 35 years I tried to purposefully clean the outside of a MM cob with Everclear and surprisingly they seem nearly impervious to it. I imagine after humanity is extinct all that will be left are cockroaches and MM cobs.

[@PiperCalvinist]

How often should I use a liquid cleaner on my pipe cleaner? Every smoke? Every 3-4 smokes? 8-10? Also will Everclear be okay to use on a corn cob pipe?

[@hobbitonpiper]

A little touch of everclear to run through the stem and draft hole is fine whenever you wish

[@wvrnstng]

Thanks for the video! Personally I always prefer to disassemble my pipes, run one pipe cleaner tipped in 70% ethanol and another dry cleaner. On pipes with larger draft holes I also use ear sticks, works great. In the end I like to just wipe the pipe with a tissue and call it a day.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Ooh I like that ear sticks idea! The fluffy thick pipe cleaners I like for draft holes aren’t as accessible :) Might have to try that…

[@theambienceofdreams]

Awesome! Thank you for sharing, friend 😊

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re welcome! Thank you for being here :)

[@uptonsavoie]

Over the many years of pipe smoking, I have used a number of commercial pipe sweet solutions. At the moment, I am using Kraken rum, which works as well or better than the commercial sweeteners. Being rum, it has a good alcohol content and is naturally sweet (it's the only use I have for the rum, since I quit drinking alcoholic beverages over forty years ago). What do you think the pirates and other seafarers used to clean the sludge from their clays?

[@hobbitonpiper]

They probably didn’t, not very often anyway :)

[@dp2pl8]

Sorry if you said it in the video, i didn't catch it if you did, but would this be a good one to use for cobs as well or is this mainly just for briar pipes?

[@hobbitonpiper]

This is mainly for stems and shanks, so it works just fine on cobs as well

[@dp2pl8]

@hobbitonpiper thanks for the info! I had already gone out and gotten some Ole Smokey Blue Flame, so it would still be a corn based alcohol and a little less alcohol content, it worked amazing!

[@gordonrobinson8771]

Everclear was known as Alcool in Canada . It is now everclear now . All other cleaner i feel leave a chemical after taste which is off putting . My father-in-law told me about Alcool 52 years ago . i agree 100% on Your tips .

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thank you so much for this feedback Gordon, and for the education on Alcool, that’s really neat! It sounds like you and I are on the same page here :)

[@mokgable]

That's what I use too! And I have tried a shot glass worth back in my college days lol

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yeeaaaaaaah….it’s possible I have as well :)

[@piperken1656]

Thanks for sharing Kevin. I generally use ISO happy smokes

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re welcome Ken!

[@gradywhite]

Do you ever use the bristle pipe cleaners for a step up from the regular pipe cleaners?

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yes! I think you should carry regulars, bristle, and fluffies for a variety of cleanings. Ideally your pipe cleaner will most closely match the diameter of your stem and/or draft hole (rubbing the walls snugly). You won’t need to use bristle as much as others but they are quite effective when needed

[@bopeswiththemost4415]

How much is that Everclear bottle in the US? Here in Canada it's around $50 with taxes. I have some high alcohol dark spiced rum (I think around 57%) that may do the trick, maybe not as good but should be less potent and gross than isopropyl alcohol.

[@hobbitonpiper]

I want to say around $20 but I haven’t priced it recently

[@UncleBurntApostrophe]

Out of curiosity, as this video develops, is the sweetener you go on to endorse, in effect both a sweetener and a thorough cleaner? *got to stage now, approx a year in to being a proper pipe smoker, whereby I need to get onboard with the deep cleaning addition to maintenance… was putting it off, using just the routine pipe cleaners after use bottom tier, and have actually started to get a few bunged pipes now, lol!😅

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’ll want to use other methods on the rim and inside the bowl. This is just to use on a pipe cleaner for the stem and draft hole, and yes it both sweetens and cleans.

[@UncleBurntApostrophe]

@@hobbitonpiper ok thanks (yeah, meant for that part of pipe, like!)👍

[@mansheallaalojipan2974]

It is very effective… thanks

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@mansheallaalojipan2974 you’re welcome!

[@thegreatone-australia1851]

Hi Kevin - can you suggest a cleaner for my pipe stem? - thanks and love your channel

[@hobbitonpiper]

This will work great with your pipe stems as described in the video

[@thegreatone-australia1851]

@@hobbitonpiper Appreciate your help thank you.

[@droidlittle582]

I have a bottle of Everclear I use just for pipe cleaning and salt treatments. Oh back in the day we used to drink the stuff along with all manner of alcoholic beverages. Those days are long gone now. In fact I almost never drink alcohol of any kind much to the benefit of society. But man Everclear works great on my pipes. Has taken the ghost out of many of my estate finds.

[@hobbitonpiper]

It’s great stuff!!

[@SoopSammich339]

Very helpful! Thanks for sharing

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re welcome Jake!

[@johanbrink5600]

Great info....thanks!!!

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re very welcome! :)

[@timberboy1984]

I tried the rubbing alcohol one time for cleaning my collection and Actually it made me put down the pipe for a while now. I actually just recleaned all of my pipes using whiskey and the salt method

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@timberboy1984 many use various whiskeys…they are not the most neutral but are still quite effective!

[@timberboy1984]

@@hobbitonpiper I haven’t lit one yet but plan on it soon I hope to make sure whatever the running alcohol did to my pipes is gone

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@timberboy1984 hopefully you only used a dab on a pipe cleaner to clean the stem and draft hole as shown in this video. Never use it to clean the inside of the bowl.

[@timberboy1984]

@@hobbitonpiper it’s funny you say that I did use it on the bowl

[@pickingandpiping]

I use everclear as well. Works great.

[@hobbitonpiper]

It really does. So neutral yet so powerful, great stuff

[@piperced-said1964]

I use what I learned from Muttnchop Piper Everclear and a little Frangelico liqueur. Has a slight Hazelnut flavor!

[@hobbitonpiper]

That does sound great! Very cool :)

[@crazyivan779]

Great tips!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thanks Ivan!

[@BossHogg38]

Great info.... I'll try the ever clear

[@hobbitonpiper]

Let me know how it works for you! I think it’s great for this purpose

[@catdadpiper3745]

Thanks for the tip!🔥 Never even attempted drinking Everclear, but I do love me some Buffalo Trace!!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Me too!

[@catdadpiper3745]

@@hobbitonpiper it's a great bourbon at a great price!

[@yveskc1]

Thanks for the information

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re very welcome! :)

[@AaronHawley]

I use Everclear on my corn cobs and it's great. I had no idea it was banned in certain states! Not a problem here

[@hobbitonpiper]

Not a problem here either thankfully, Aaron! :)

[@philipdeppen3189]

It’s banned here in pennsylvania where I live to sell but we can still legally order it online. But I always do a mix of 99% isopropyl with a little southern comfort liqueur. Makes a great sweetener cleaner that’s extremely effective

[@RichardT2112]

I use a peaty scotch… Works on so many levels!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Cool!

[@cephasmcpher67peteroutdoorspip]

I use the yellow Listerine. It's what my Dad used all the time to clean his pipes cause it was always in the medicine cabinet. It has plenty of alcohol to clean the pipe and it's safe.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Nice! It’s neat that you’re using what your Dad used :)

[@johnkkkj]

Thank you for all the info. If I can add one thing do not put any alcohol in any plastic especially our mutual friend Everclear. I use Everclear for cleaning period nothing works as well and is neutral, however I have different takes on flavoring. After clearning with Everclear, I wait for it to dry don't take that long as you know. After it is dried I go ahead and use another alcohol as a sweetener. You should not deny yourself the great flavor of a rum sweetener and combine it with a rum tobacco. I get keeping things at baseline, but there is such a thing as overdrive. You must try combos like this, once you like a tobacco and want that complexity of a having a brier that already has been rum sweetened can be a fantastic combo.

[@hobbitonpiper]

So many fun things to try! I love that about pipe smoking :)

[@BallisticSamFishing]

Bourbon for the win! Old Grand Dad 114 but I will try and find a small bottle of Everclear

[@hobbitonpiper]

It’s a great neutral option, and powerful ! :)

[@brianquilty687]

Ya, I used to use Isopral but switched to vodka some time ago. I have a small container of Bee pipe sweetener ( similar to the one you showed ) that I bought about 30 years ago. As for the draft hole .... I smoke all my pipes ( usually only one at a time ) for about 3 or 4 days. I then clean my pipe to be put away until next time. When I take the mouthpiece out I run a 5/32 long drill bit thru the stummel draft hole all the way down to the bowl ...... brings out all sorts of gunk and fibers.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Is your Bee Sweetener still usable after 30 years? Does it still smell sweet? It’s so cool that you have one!

[@brianquilty687]

@@hobbitonpiper I only used it once or twice when I first bought it. I never did think it smelt sweet even when I bought it. Don't know if it would still be usable. I'm sure it wouldn't hurt your pipe. I'm sure it's illegal to sell Everclear in Canada.

[@briandawkins984]

I am also in Canada. I have never found ever clear in BC. I use rye whiskey or for really gummed up estates 99% iso. For lava on rims I use alcohol gel hand sanitizer without perfume. And yes care must be taken not to allow 99 % iso to contact bowl finishes. I also use a 5/32” drill hand driven to ream out really gummy draft holes.

[@thomasstreich6564]

I use Prima Sprit with 69.9 % Vol. alcohol. it is nearly tastless and it cleans very well. I could get an equivalent to Everclear here in Germany, but the price for it would be nearly 50% higher than the lower Alcohol content variant. The 69,9% Vol. is about 22$ and the 96 % Vol. would be 30$ and it is also harder to fin in stores here.

[@hobbitonpiper]

It sounds like you have found a great local option to use!

[@benjamincarter6095]

I mix bourbon with everclear. Works great. Smells and tastes good afterwards.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Nice! That sounds like a great middle ground

[@benjamincarter6095]

@@hobbitonpiper Plus, multiple little bottles gives me a little flexibility in taste. Seasoned rum and everclear is a nice alternative for summer too.

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@benjamincarter6095 yeah if you want flavored sweeteners it sounds like a great idea! For something neutral, however, everclear will be a good option for you on its own.

[@benjamincarter6095]

@@hobbitonpiper too true

[@bigernbladesmith]

Yep. I use the same thing.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Works great, doesn’t it! :)

[@bigernbladesmith]

@@hobbitonpiper Yes. Yes it does. It also works really well at making tinctures for home brewing. For my Christmas ale I like to put spices in a vile of Everclear and put that in the beer after fermentation is done. It helps extract the flavors and it sanitizes the spices. Lots of uses for that stuff.

[@frankgallik2653]

Hey Kevin, excellent topic and video. I use the Pipemasters clean and cure. Now I may want to see about getting some everclear just to try it out. I usually break down the pipe after it cools and run a cleaner tipped with the clean and cure through. The airway always does seem to be the dirtiest part. Loved hearing your Cardinals singing. Have a good one my friend until next time.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thanks Frank! I started out using bourbon, then switched to the Pipemasters Clean & Cure, but after being introduced to the neutrality and power of Everclear I haven’t looked back. If you do give it a try let me know what you think!

[@tomsmith5901]

I appreciate this video a lot especially how careful you are in describing the range of potential liquids. That said, I think there is a confusion here - is the goal cleaning or is the goal sweetening? These are not always the same thing. I use Port wine because I am more into ‘bringing out the loose ash’ and ‘bringing some sweetness to the briar’ than I am in cleaning per se. When I do a deeper clean, then it’s salt in a bowl with some brandy or a higher ABV alcohol, again with the priority being clean + sweet. All that said, I think we all tend to over-clean our pipes. I think it is better for people to associate five pipes for English/Balkan blends, five pipes for Aromatics, etc, OR associate individual pipes with individual blends. Thanks though!

[@hobbitonpiper]

The goal here (for me) is to utilize the most powerful yet neutral sweetener. There’s a light corn sweetness here that acts as a sweetener, but there are no flavorings effecting future smokes. So it’s both: excellent cleaning with a very neutral sweetener.

[@tomsmith5901]

@@hobbitonpiper Yeah I see that. In my case, I am unsure of the value in being ‘neutral’ - and am less concerned about cleaning in the sense that most of my pipes are taking very similar blends time and again. So, if one gets ‘accustomed’ (the wood itself I mean) to Latakia, then this English or Balkan blend or the next will still have the same ‘tuning’ as the last. I hope this makes sense.

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@tomsmith5901 oh it makes sense. Here are my full thoughts: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqqoi6RsZrqsaassi=XOZPr4vOLZnuojbB

[@scotthead8249]

I use a 70 30 mixture of everclear and peanut butter whiskey. I recommend it highly.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Wow, sounds great!

[@ronh.798]

Agreed, nothing works better.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Sounds like we are on the same page here, Ron :)

[@gtbtone]

Appreciate this video Kevin! Gonna try the whiskey method forsure. Cheers!

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re welcome! Cheers!

[@thundervalleycbshop]

Great tips

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thanks!

[@philipdeppen3189]

For people that don’t know this certain states where grain alcohol is banned you can order it online from a state where it is legal and still have it shipped to you. That’s the way it is in Pennsylvania however. However there is a cheap good alternative to making a sweet strong pipe sweetener is by taking 99% isopropyl alcohol and adding a little southern comfort or any sweet liqueur to your liking

[@hobbitonpiper]

Good tip!

[@philipdeppen3189]

@@hobbitonpiper it’s strange for sure lol. It’s banned to sell it in pennsylvania but it’s legal to order it online from a state where it’s not banned