The stuff you are taking off is in fact, NOT the bast chain lube there is. It is nasty wet greasy gunk that needs to be removed so the chain can be dipped in hot paraffin.

I have always used mineral spirits with great success. in a plastic trim painting bucket with a toothbrush. I let it soak, then scrub, then let it soak some more, then remove and hang to dry.

Sheldon