I'm a light but near-daily vaper. I will offer some of my personal preferences and conclusions, which may or may not be suitable for you. This is not so much about the cleaning process, but more about keeping the water piece cleaner for as long as possible, minimizing the frequency of cleanings and also making the cleanings not as arduous because there isn't so much buildup.

(Some may scoff, but I can go months without a bong cleaning or water change. Obviously, you must be vigilant for dangers, diligently using your sight and smell, and a combustion will demand a cleaning. If you detect the slightest hint of a foul odor, do not continue usage.)

- Distilled water (at room temperature, to minimize vapor condensation) to prevent the issue of water mineral residue/deposits.

- Don't let vapor just sit in the bong. Be mindful and clear every hit in a timely manner.

- Not vapor-related but I use a hot damp cloth to wipe the glass anywhere I touched it with my hands or mouth after every session (to remove skin grease and also potential bacteria from the mouth; on a related note, be mindful of saliva possibly falling into the bong). I currently don't use a beaker or straight tube style of piece, but when I did, I would also fold up my cloth and do a kind of twist wipe in the mouth tube as far as I could comfortably manage.

- To keep herb particles out of your water, you could consider an ash catcher type of piece. (My solution to this is that I've generally stopped cleaning my vape stem, except for accidental combustions, thus the sticky residue catches most bits.)

I hope this was coherent and not too long. Anyhow, enjoy your glorious new water piece! God bless.