I use regular canning wax w/ some PTFE powder mixed in and have started wiping them down. After coming out of the crock pot I hang the chain up and as soon as it cools enough so I can handle it without burning myself I give it a thorough wipe down with a rag. Definitely reduces the flaking and still leaves the wax between the pins and rollers which is where it matters. I don't care about the outside of plates. Then when it comes time to wax my 4 chains I generally pull off the cassette and give a good cleaning with Naphtha which cuts right through the wax. It only takes few minutes and while it really isn't necessary from a functional perspective I like a clean looking drivetrain.