Answer first

Mix 91% isopropyl alcohol with coarse salt. Use 3 parts alcohol to 1 part salt. For a medium glass pipe, use 1/4 cup alcohol and 1 tablespoon salt. Put the pipe and mix in a sealable plastic bag or a jar with a lid. Shake for 1 to 2 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Repeat if resin remains.

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What you need

  • 91% or 99% isopropyl alcohol
  • Coarse salt, kosher or sea salt
  • Sealable plastic bag or glass jar with lid
  • Warm water
  • Dish soap for glass
  • Pipe cleaners or cotton swabs
  • Gloves and eye protection
  • Ventilated space, no flame

Steps

  1. Remove loose ash and debris. Scrape with a poker if needed.
  2. Put pipe in bag or jar. Add 1/4 cup isopropyl alcohol and 1 tablespoon coarse salt.
  3. Seal. Shake for 1 to 2 minutes. Salt acts as an abrasive.
  4. Let sit for 10 to 30 minutes for heavy resin.
  5. Rinse with warm water. Use dish soap and a pipe cleaner for small holes.
  6. Air dry.

Why it works

Isopropyl alcohol dissolves THC resin, which is nonpolar. Salt does not dissolve. Salt grains scrub the glass. Warm water rinses the mix away. Dish soap breaks up oil left after alcohol.

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Safety and disposal

Isopropyl alcohol is flammable. Keep it away from open flames, pilot lights, and sparks. Use in a room with open windows or a fan. Wear gloves. Do not drink the mix. Do not use on acrylic or plastic pipes. Alcohol can cloud or crack acrylic. For metal pipes, use a lower soak time. For silicone, use dish soap and warm water. Dispose of the used mix at a household hazardous waste site. Do not pour large amounts down the drain.

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What not to use

  • Acetone, it can damage glass coatings and plastic
  • Boiling alcohol, fire risk
  • Bleach mixed with ammonia, toxic gas
  • Oven cleaner on glass with decals

Alternative mix

For light resin, use 1 part white vinegar to 2 parts warm water and 1 teaspoon dish soap. This mix works on glass and silicone. It does not dissolve heavy resin as fast as isopropyl alcohol.

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Storage

Keep the solution in a labeled glass jar with a lid. Store away from heat and sunlight. Make a fresh batch every 1 to 2 months.