Doesn't all that spongy stuff require a lot of lube just to be able to release some? And all the dirt of the chain will be in the foam, so you need to replace it every once a while? I see that creates quite a problem with contaminated waste and more use in lube.
Maybe I shouldn't laugh. I once was gullible enough and bought and used one of those Park tool chain washing machines and cassette floss to clean.... now i just wipe the chain after the ride and put some lube on every once a while...