When I get a new shaft I hit it with 2000, 3000 & 5000 grit. Then I wax the shaft and ferrule with Mothers Pure Carnauba Paste Wax (2 coats). I keep my hands clean before and during play. After I play I clean the chalk off the tip with a terry cloth towel and wipe off the shaft with a Selvyt Microfiber cleaning cloth. I usually only have to reapply wax every 1-2 months. If the shaft feels a little more dirty than usual, I hit it with 5000 and reapply wax.