The lazy method!
If someone didn't "cut corners," how would the circle have ever been invented ?
If you have a dusty old unit and perhaps not too valuable, consider the express method for a lazybones like me, who does not have the equipment, patience or skill to do it the through way described earlier. In other words, if you have lucked onto an ancient cobwebby pile of tubes and wires with the name "McIntosh" at a yard sale, by all means do a more responsible job. But on the other hand, if you are de-cat-hairing a Behringer INuke NU6000 (I've done it) or cleaning up an old Kenwood the neighbor gave you, try the Soldermizer method.
I've had pretty good luck (not 100%) just basically giving the component a quick "shower" or bath. As noted, it's best to not immerse transformers, complex displays, etc. What I usually do is take the cover off, put unit in the sink and spray it with something that does not leave a residue. Ammonia in a sprayer is good. Let it soak in for a few minutes. Then if you have one, use the sprayer nozzle to thoroughly rinse off the top and bottom of the PCB's.
Drying: this is the important part! Of course, letting the unit "drip dry" is the most important. If it's dry and sunny outside, that is a good place. I leave the cover off to maximize air flow and evaporation. Change the unit's position (upside down, sideways) to help get all the liquid out.
Once the unit is initially dry then you need to: make sure it is completely dry. How you proceed depends on how impatient yoju are! I have an electric oven and can set it to very low (170 F by the control). I put the unit in the oven cold, then set it to 170 F and let it bake for about an hour. Then remove and let cool. I've had good luck cooking my electronics. The only casualty was an Apple Ipad (to loosen the adhesive.) It worked, but it killed the LCD. So if your unit has an LCD panel you may wish to avoid the oven.
What if you don't have an oven, or the balls to try it? The best solution I have is to let the unit dry for many days ideally in an air conditioned room.
Before power-up I like to lubricate (if needed) moving parts (usually with teflon spray). For electric and signal connections I like DeOxit.
Connect to power, say a prayer, and turn it on.