Originally Posted by
nwbikeman
I take the wheel off and fold a rag in half. Brace the wheel against the bench cogs side up and zip the rag between the cogs then the chain. If it's a mountain bike with a lot of junk between the cogs a small screwdriver can dig most of the grit out first.
+1 on the methodology. After you are done, more frequent cleanings will make it easier. Green pad on rims are fine.