Thanks to everyone for explaining the benefits of larger sized devices. I'm "upgrading" soon and getting ideas.
RE: Isopropyl alcohol
OK, I'm not being cheap (I don't think). But, why would anyone waste cannabis by "cleaning" it off?
It's not dirt! Stop wiping it off and throwing it away. That's concentrated cannabinoids that are already decarboxylated. Translation: it's good shit.
What did you put in or on your VapCap besides fresh herb? You didn't combust, didn't drop it in dog crap, didn't use the device to stir your soup, you didn't do one bowl of cheese. What exactly are you removing from the device other than what you specifically tried very hard to get INTO YOUR BODY. Now, it's trash?
It's just my opinion and I'm not saying anyone is doing anything WRONG, I just think it takes about the same amount of time energy and effort to do a decent iso wipe, soak, rinse, dry as it does other non-chemically based processes.
However, at the end of a iso cleaning you only have a clean VapCap and nothing else. After cleaning wirh fatty liquids you have a clean device AND a cup of infused beverage.
RE cap cleaning:
I understand there may be a need for specific situations - a dynacoil may get it funky up inside, keif might get up under, or you accidentally submerged the device.
However, with my limited experience, I see zero need for cap cleaning - ever. It just doesn't need to be cleaned (yet, by me).
If one day it requires cleaning I imagine an iso soaked qtip would be more effective than soaking.
Also, of note... I notice if the cap does get a little ugly after several alcohol lamp sessions, simply wiping the device (with the cap on) on a shirltail and then using a torch for the a few sessions seems to improve the look.
Does anyone else notice that a cap that looks less that perfect can oftentimes be restored to a beautiful patina by simply using it? Or is that just me?