I generally buy cheap soldering irons which is probably my biggest problem, but I would like to a show on using and caring for soldering irons. for example if I get a new (yes, el cheapo) iron it works great for a while, I keep a damp sponge to clean off the tip regularly, but after a while the tip always gets discolored and doesn't heat as well. often the very end of the tip curls up a bit. I then think about replacing the tip, but by then the retaining screw is oxidized and the tip is often stuck. I can extend the use by filing the oxidation off the tip, but it is still not good.
I noticed that your soldering iron always looks clean an new.
I would buy a better iron, but I don't want to get one and destroy it with poor maintenance, so I'd like to see some advice on proper care and maintenance.
I realize solder iron care sounds a bit new-b, but I am fairly decent at soldering, just suck at caring for the (main) tool of the trade.
