| | [* black] As you're soldering, regularly wiping off the hot iron tip with a brass or damp cellulose sponge is your first line of defense in keeping the tip functional. |
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| | [* black] ***Brass sponge***: Small brass coils that have a similar texture to steel wool, but more wiry. Also called "brass wool," "brass tip cleaner," or "brass cleaning ball." Many solderers prefer it because it's long-lasting, low maintenance, and doesn't drop tip temperature. |
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| | [* black] ***Cellulose sponge***: Usually come with most soldering workstations. Not as long-lasting as a brass sponge and ***must be kept damp*** (not soaking wet!) with distilled water while in use. |
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| | [* icon_caution] Synthetic sponges can melt and damage your iron tip. If you're using a sponge, be sure it's made out of cellulose. |
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| | [* icon_note] P.S: Most kitchen sponges are synthetic! |
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