For keeping degreaser out of bearings, wouldn't wory about this too much, unless using a high pressure washer, as the bearing should have sufficent sealing to prevent ingress.
For chain cleaning, in the UK we have a product called Fenwicks FS Foaming Degreaser
http://www.fenwicks.info/bike.htm spray on, agitate and wash off, gives a clean chain to use what ever new lube you like on, in the US, this looks similar from Simply Green
http://www.simplegreen.com/products_bike.php
Since using the foaming degreaser, have not used a chain cleaning device