This is one of those topics that none of use will ever come to a common ground on. Based on my years as a mechanic I'll give you my opinions. Remember these are opinions only.

1. Auto brake cleaner will work extremely well at cleaning the chain. It evaporates very quickly.

2. Clean your chain when you can no longer read/or see the lettering on it.

3. Never remove your chain to clean it.

4. Lubricate when it no longer leaver a 'shiny-ness' on your fingers when rubbed.

5. Lubricate sparingly. Too much lube gets everywhere. Includung the braking surfaces of your rims.

6. Use whatever you want to lub it as long as its a lubricant. No WD-40, no 3-in-1 oil. I only ride in dry conditions so I use a lub for that purpose. But in the big picture it probably doesnt matter.