Cleaning standing rigging

[Kevin Henderson]

I have been noticing some indications of rust in the shrouds as of late.  It does not appear to be anything too serious and a rigging inspection done a little over a year ago indicated my standing rigging is approximately 5 years old.  I have cleaned the rust stains (which wipe away easily) as far up as I can reach. 
Is there an easy way to clean the standing rigging without climbing the mast?  I was thinking of using a halyard attached to a line on deck and wiping a rag up and down the shrouds. 
Any suggestions or concerns?    

[Ralph Masters]

Kevin,
When I talked to Roco the Rigger he said the only way to clean the rigging is up the mast and start from top and come down.  He said the only thing to use is one of the stainless steel scrubby that we grew to love in the navy and water.
He did say he knows a guy that will do it at a reasonable price.

Ralph