Let's see if this forum works:
I used to work as a line locator for a public utility company years ago and my first L-rods were brass welding rods stolen from the construction department. I had electronic devices provided by the company as well, but they were of little value locating underground PVC lines or valve boxes. . .but I stray from my point.
I used those rods relentlessly and just tossed them in the truck after using. Later, I even incorporated the pendulum into the act. Later still, I began dowsing diseases both physical and emotional. What I had never considered during those early days was the maintenance of the dowsing tools themselves. Whether we call it "cleansing", "clearing", or "cleaning", our dowsing tools are subject to induced subtle energy "dirt" or influence and require cleaning.
I have used magnets, sunlight, sea salt, smudging and lately energy cleansing programs using technology I ran into here in the former Soviet Union where dowsing is seen in a more traditional light. Would anyone like to comment or kick-in their $0.02 on the subject?