Spray on degreaser is definitely easier. Basically you just spray it on the chain (set the bike over some newspaper - or remove the chain from the bike). After letting it stand for a couple minutes, it cuts right through the grease and most of it drips off. Then wash the chain with water and a little dish soap or bike wash. Be sure to drip the water from above. If you spray sideways, you can lodge dirt, etc. into the bike's components.

Deb