At a Macy's or similar department store, ask one of the clerks at a make-up counter for an eyelash brush that is used for sampling the mascara. They are great for cleaning. On a more personal note, my gynecologist uses a long handled (about 6 or 7 inches) brush that looks very similar to a mascara brush. I don't know what she does with the brush and I'm not asking, but she gave me several (new of course!) to use to clean my machine. You can really get into the deep corners with the gyno brush. Sorry Joe, you'll have to ask your wife for help here!