What is the recommended tool for cleaning a file?

The recommended tool for cleaning a file is a file card. A file card is specifically designed for this purpose, featuring stiff bristles that effectively remove metal filings and debris from the grooves of the file. This cleaning method helps maintain the file's cutting effectiveness and prolong its lifespan by preventing clogging, which can occur when foreign materials accumulate on the file surface during use.

Using a file card ensures that the tool remains in optimal condition for precise metalworking tasks. The bristles reach into the file's teeth, allowing for thorough cleaning without damaging the file itself.

Other options, while potentially useful in their own contexts, do not provide the same level of effective cleaning for files. For example, a wire brush might be too abrasive and could damage the surface of the file, while sandpaper is not designed for cleaning and could also alter the file's cutting edge. A dust cloth may remove some surface dust, but it wouldn't effectively clean out the internal grooves and teeth of the file. Therefore, the file card is the best choice for maintaining the integrity and functionality of a file.