alcon and some other pipes such as the Dr Plumb twin bore, Dr Plumb Peacemaker and Peterson P.Lips have very small holes, which the majority of pipe cleaners will not fit through without causing damage. Falcon extra thin pipecleaners are designed specifically for this job. They are made well using quality materials which don’t fall apart during use.

Pipes need to be cleaned, ideally after every smoke. Moisture collects in the base of the bowl and inside the stem, if this isn't cleaned the pipe can become very bitter and taint the taste of subsequent smokes. To prevent this becoming problem it is advisable to run a pipe cleaner through the stem after every smoke. Some smokers also run one down the stem during smoking to soak up any moisture at the base of the bowl and give a dryer smoke. Never remove the stem to do this while the pipe is hot, as you can damage the shank.