A couple weeks ago I was looking at a clay trimming tool I used to use when I was making pottery. I thought it would make a great cake maintenance tool. After each smoke, I wipe the bowl with a paper towel, then follow up with this. I gently scrap the inside to remove loose pieces and smooth out damp lumps. I use the round end to get into the heel. My theory, and it seem to be working, is that it will help develop and maintain a hard, even cake. I imagine this is similar to what roth does with his dull pipe knife, although I've never seen it.