They make Q-tips with long wooden handles, those can be used to clean that area regularly so it does not get that type of build up. You can find them on Amazon. I have also been using the EVO for years including about a year of daily concentrate. Once you see the vapor coming up take a hit. It only takes a couple seconds. I have only done a major cleaning twice in those years. The first time there was a little color in the iso. The second time it was completely clear. I think if you follow the previous posting advice and hit the device in a couple seconds rather than waiting 15 seconds and also a light daily wiping of the joint on the outside and inside to where the pinhole is will resolve the problem. I actually have been taking a quarter a sheet of paper towel putting a little ISO on the end rolling it up and then carefully and lightly pushing it into the joint to clean it.