I used to use the alcohol preps, but now I use Goo Gone. I just love that stuff. A while back when DH's friend was doing some construction in our house there was some sticky tar like stuff on the floor saddle. He didn't think it would come off, I got it off in seconds with Goo Gone, he was amazed!
To clean the scissors I use a cotton ball and keep the scissors flat on the table as LindaBabe said BE careful!