I like chain cleaning doodads. They get between the links better. That's where I get most of the crud from riding gritty chip seal and gravel.

Even the cheap crappy White Lightning chain cleaning tool works, for awhile. It's good for about six uses before too many bits and pieces break or get lost (I use it outside and little pieces get lost in the grass). But even with one missing brush from the three, and one that doesn't spin anymore, it still cleans quickly and efficiently between the links. I use a homebrewed solution of Dawn or Stanley degreaser with 90% isopropyl alcohol and follow up with WD-40 and Tri-Flow.

If I didn't ride so much in gritty conditions I might not be a fan, but they're great for some purposes. I plan to get another better quality chain cleaning tool since the White Lightning doodad loses pieces every time I use it.