Quote Originally Posted by Euclid440 View Post
Yes, I too have had better result from regular cleaning, I have use the supplied dual grit stone, small arks, coticules, high grit diamond plate and scotch brite sponge.

Most anything improves the finish on the razor. If I am at the bench I use a small stone or scotch brite, if at the sink a 1k diamond plate.

I find keeping the stone clean does make for a more uniform stria pattern or polish. I clean frequently or when I feel the stone is not cutting.

I also do the same, with the Naniwia 12k. When I don’t, I find irregular stria on the bevel.
Fortunately for me, I guess, I don't hone that much, so I haven't used the 20k a lot. I'm sure you've seen this post of bobski's contact with Stuart of Tools Of Japan. Of course cleaning with a diamond plate is not as rigorous as lapping, but I'm spooked about going near my 20k with a plate now. For cleaning swarf, IIRC, I probably just hit it with a nylon bristled fingernail brush.