When my tool gets sticky and kinda smelly, I usually take it to the cleaner. It works much better afterwards, especially if it's finished off with some wax. I recommend beeswax, though a chemical product will protect your tool just as well. No matter how clogged it gets, never put your tool in boiling water! I tried that once, and couldn't use it for three weeks! Just use lukewarm water with a little rubbing alcohol, or do like me and just take it to the cleaner, twice a month. There they know how to clean your tool properly. Don't ever let your grandparents clean it They use outdated methods that might actually damage your tool.