I have wanted to try a pocket snorkel for a while, but since a great deal of my diving has been CA diving where you either (1) shore dive or (2) have to make your way back to the boat - the surface swim and potentially rough water always made me question the reliabilty of velcro as a means for keeping the snorkel on the mask.
As for the cleaning of a snorkel - never really thought of it. I always rinse my gear (generally allowing it to soak in fresh water overnight) - but would you recommend more, like a light bleach solution?