Kerosene does not leave water behind. That is why it is preferred. There is simply no other better degreaser for cleaning a chain. Diesel is not as effective as Kerosene, therefore you will use less.

As a motorcyclist, my chain health is critical to me staying alive. As a fixie rider you can appreciate this. If that chain is not lubed and cared for properly it will break, taking the engine case and my left leg with it. Imagine having a chain failure at 300kph. I degreased with kerosene, and then use a proper chain wax. Just like everyone else does and as per manufacturer spec.

I do this on my bicycles. Go ahead use Dawn or some diesel. The grease will come off at some point. Kerosene goes on clean, doesn't stink. Doesn't make your hands numb and evaporates cleanly with no corrosion afterwards. Remember we are talking about white kerosene. Which you buy at the store.