Cleaning cork handles -

[bassboogieman]

Just cleaned all my (cork) rod handles - using a tip from another board.  I used a soft scrub pad and TOOTHPASTE.  Cork cleaned up nice, very quickly and the toothpaste leaves no soap residue.  Small dab of paste, scrub them a little bit, wipe down with a damp cloth and towel dry.  They look ALMOST new. 

[dan61psu]

Did you do anything with the guides?  I hear there's some stuff you can put on to decrease friction and fill tiny nicks...but dont know what to use personally.

[docirv]

Denataured alcohol works great for cleaning cork handles.

[bassboogieman]

Nothing with the guides.  Possibly spray them with silicone spray or reel magic, but I haven't heard of anything to fill or smooth nicks.  Most of the ring inserts today are pretty tough, titianium, ceramic or zircon like mine hold up and don't show wear even when using braid.  You have a nick in your guides, best replace it.