Rim & Tire Cleaning Suggestions?

[ReZurrected]

So I'm trying to take better care of the new Z, and I've been working on the tire/rim portion because I didn't do so well with caring for it before.

I found that break-dust loves clinging to my rims and can be a pain to clean off completely. My questions to you guys are:

1. What products do you use to clean your rims aside from the usual soap and elbow grease?

2. What is your favorite tire cleaner/dressing to use?

3. What's a better recommendation for cleaning rims: Sponge, towel, or brush? I'm scared that if I use a brush it might scratch the rims - but this is also my paranoia talking.