Crossword Genius

Tweet about more efficient way to keep Tube open? (4,7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

pipe cleaner

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'way to keep tube open?' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'tweet about more efficient' is the wordplay.
'tweet' becomes 'pipe' (both can mean to make a high-pitched sound).
'about' becomes 'c' (abbreviation for circa).
'more efficient' becomes 'leaner' (I've seen this in another clue).
'pipe'+'c'+'leaner'='PIPE-CLEANER'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pipe cleaner that I've seen before include "one's wiry, for a smoker" , "Smoker's aid" , "Smoker might use such" , "Wire covered with tufts of wool" , "Smoker's accessory" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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