Keeping the Bowl Clean

[michaeljayjay]

Hi,
I have two meers (one whole meer and one briar meer lined pipe).
I'm noticing on the sides of the bowls that a bit of a 'cake' is forming. Once the bowl is finished I wipe it out several times with a coarse paper towel but there's always a little bit left on so i use my fingernail to gently scrape off the cake that's forming.
How much cake is ok and how much is too much? What else do people use to stop cake forming in the bowl?
I don't want to ruin the pipes...
Cheers,

Michael.
Edited by jvnshr: Title capitalization (please check Rule #9)

 

[deathmetal]

Possibly relevant:
http://pipesmagazine.com/forums/topic/removing-cake-from-meerschaum-chamber

http://pipesmagazine.com/forums/topic/meerschaum-cake-prevention-coloring-and-general-maintenance

http://pipesmagazine.com/forums/topic/meerschaum-cake-removal

 

[michaeljayjay]

Hmm ok seems everyone has a different method. I've got a nice dull knife I can use too.

 

[Chasing Embers]

Unscented baby wipes are magic for meer and cob cake removal.

 

[admiral]

I have issues with these (even if unscented) being soaked in oils and etc.

 

[Chasing Embers]

Have used them for over 10 years, and no issues. When the wipes dry out, there are no residues. Plus no chance of scoring the bowl like a reamer, paper towel, or pipe cleaner.