I know, its just I want to find out, if you use the sponge do you get to keep the +1 damage to apply it or sell it later or do you just lose the +1 damage stone...
You lose the stone and the attribute you're cleaning off. The cleaning sponge works only up to the level stated. A level 1 sponge won't clean off an attribute on a level 3 item.
I got there first
One thing I've found is that armor really tips the balance. I usually come out ahead from those 1-2 levels above me. I could be wrong but I value most in this order:1) Armor2) Skill3T) Agility3T) Strength5) Damage6) Constitution7) Charisma