Questions about cleaning a chain without special tools

[j beede]

I enjoy riding with a freshly cleaned chain--so clean my 10-speed chain often. I use a quick link in my chain so I can pull it easily. I use an empty GOOP hand cleaner tub with ~50cc of mineral spirits to strip it, then wash it with Simple Green. Rinse until clear with tap water. Shake off the water, sometimes I use compressed air to dry it, sometimes I hang it up in the sun to dry. I will usually give it a light spray of Tri-Flo then wipe dry with lint free paper towel. Shines like a diamond bracelet and runs/shifts smooth as silk. I hate a gritty chain. I have found no way to clean the chain on the bike that is as fast or effective.