Benefits of using this type of cleaning is that it does not reduce the heat of the iron, nor will it increase your chances of oxidation or rust. Constant temp changes that using a wet sponge can cause premature tip failure due to the tip temperature repeatedly rising and falling and thus the different layers in your tip to repeatedly expand and contract.
You can easily order HAKKO or other brand cleaners but your local Dollar Store/Grocery/Mart has a great option.
These pads cost only a dollar. They work perfectly.
They fit pretty well in most round stands BUT are easily trimmed with a scissors to fit other stands.
Hope it helps some of you.
