In reply to Simos:
> For some reason since I started climbing I never really felt the need to use chalk so I am wondering whether it would actually improve my climbing if I did?
So try it, make your own mind up.
> Also as a bonus question - what's with the toothbrush obsession? Does cleaning holds really make a significant difference?
To a big plastic jug: No. To a tiny slopey thing you can just about hold when the conditions are right and you're in tip top shape: Yes, texture and dryness make all the difference in the world.
> I'm assuming maybe for harder routes it does but then again I tend to view holds 'as they come' if that makes sense? (i.e. if it's covered in chalk, it's just part of the conditions).
Fine but I suspect you'll change that view as your climbing progresses and you encounter more only-just-there holds that need to be clean.
jk