I still wouldn't use the steel wool on the exterior of the tips unless they are outrageously dirty. A metal polish and soft towel should be all that is required. I hadn't cleaned mine for over a year and a half, and they came out pretty sharp - it would have been a waste of time and product for me to use the steel wool and then have to polish them. Though I will likely consider getting some of the #0000 steel wool for some grime still on the inside of the pipes