When cleaning smoking pipes, it's crucial to use a water solution that won't affect the quality and taste of the smoke. Tap water may contain impurities, so it's best to use filtered or bottled water instead. To fill the water chamber of the pipe, carefully pour in the desired amount of water until it's complete. Avoid overfilling the chamber to prevent water from entering the mouthpiece or bowl. After use, empty the water chamber and rinse the pipe with hot water to remove any residue. Some smokers prefer to add a small amount of alcohol or other cleaning solution to the water chamber for better cleaning and maintenance of the pipe.