I used to use the hot soapy water method exclusively. Now I use a great product called Turkey Tracks muzzleloader cleaner from Fort Chambers Muzzleloading. http://www.fortchambers.com/httpdocs/ I use this product as directed to remove powder fouling, dry, a couple alcohol patches, dry, and coat with Montana Bore Conditioner. I shoot saboted bullets out of some of my sidelocks and I haven't noticed any buildup of plastic.