Glue Sticks:
I have used "Elmers Washable School Glue Sticks, goes on purple, dries clear" for years. I do lots of applique work. I've never had problems with the purple staining the fabric. I buy a bunch at the beginning of the school year because WalMart and such places usually sell them cheaply then for back-to-school sales.
When I rinse out the glue, I always use a large vat of water like the bath tub or washing machine for big projects, but just the kitchen sink for a single block.
You can usually get these for about a dollar a stick. I get the multi packs. I prefer the smaller sticks and use more of them, than the larger sticks which may dry out once opened if you don't use them up right away.
So thats my two cents worth!
hugs, Jup