Cleaning the Stick

Cleaning Graphite Sticks

Information from George Sparr of Aerospace Composites Products

AVOID acetone or anything with acetone in it. They will damage the resins.
Rubbing alcohol generally won�t hurt the resins, but doesn�t do a good job cleaning, just smudges around the grime/oils from hands and fingers.
Avoid using abrasives in general, even high-fine grade steel wools since it does abrade the resin/graphite and over time, will will have a negative effect and dull the resin finish.
USE THIS: Auto paint stores carry products that clean the waxes and oils off of cars before painting, typically called Plastic Clean and Acrylic Clean. These are great for cleaning, don�t leave any residues, and are safe on various products such as acrylics, epoxy or polyester resins, etc.

Avoid spray cleaners that include wax or polish like Lemon Pledge.
Avoid guitar polishes as they also include wax.
Avoid abrasives. They will chew up the wood.
Contrary to popular belief, Stick Enterprises does use a treatment on wooden Sticks. For many years they used a Watco oil treatment. (They are rumored to be using a slightly different treatment these days.) If you have a very old Stick, your Stick may be due for another treatment. Check with Stick Enterprises to see what they recommend for your instrument.
Minwax wood cleaner, which is what Home Depot will try to sell you, says "not for oiled or unfinished wood". Use with caution!
Rubbing alcohol, over time, will strip the oils from the wood. Not recommended for regular use, though it will liquify oils left behind from your hand so they can by wiped off.
Household cleaners (like bathroom cleaners) have strong detergents and solvents, and are not recommended for anything wood.
The best approach is to use a mild detergent in warm water on a soft cloth. Make sure to completely dry the section of the instrument immediately after cleaning so the soapy water is not absorbed by the wood.
The best time to clean the instrument is while restringing. With the strings removed, the area between each pair of frets can be easily cleaned by wiping horizontally.