How to make a pipe wipe cloth

So, maybe you don't want to go to all the trouble of setting up a buffing/polishing station, maybe you don't want to buy the materials necessary to buff and wax pipes. Is there any other way you can preserve the shine of your pipes without actually buying buffing wheels and all that stuff?

Yes. You make a pipe wipe cloth.

Now, you can buy this stuff called Briar Pipe Wipe if you really want to. But chances are, you'll have to order it from somewhere unless you're lucky enough to have a local tobacconist who stocks it. And it will be relatively expensive for a small can of spray. The good news is, there's an easier to find and cheaper solution.

Go to any store that stocks regular household cleaning supplies and buy a can of Johnson & Johnson Favor dusting wax. Also get a pack of Handi-Wipes. I like to use Handi-Wipes, but I suppose any soft cloth would do.

Take out a Handi-Wipe, unfold it all the way and lay it down all spread out on a newspaper, or hang it up. If you hang it up, it would probably be a good idea to do it outside so you don't get Favor all over everything.

Once you have your wipe all spread out, thoroughly spray it with Favor. Spray until it's completely saturated and damp. Then, turn it over and do the same to the other side. Hang it up, still all the spread out and let it completely dry. You now have have a pipe wipe that will last for years.

Using a pipe wipe is only a substitute for a real buff & wax, but if you wipe down each pipe after every smoke, it will go a long way to preserve the shine and outer cleanliness of your pipes. Each time you finish a pipe, give it a wipe, including the stem, and don't forget to wipe the rim. This will really help reduce rim tar and will keep your pipes looking sharp.

In between uses, fold your pipe wipe and keep it inside a ziplock sandwich baggie to keep it clean.

I have several pipe wipes placed strategically where I usually smoke or handle pipes: my truck, my computer desk, and the bookshelf in the bedroom that serves as my pipe shelf. I never smoke in there, but hey, sometimes I like to just look at my collection, and a fresh wipe never hurts.