It seems like organic cotton is more difficult to get it right (too dense and you def set yourself for a dry hits experience). It might be the sterilised one is less temperamental? (Based on what I've seen so far, I personally use the organic)
I had some cheesecloth around, I tried a wick and it's working good, easy to thread in and easier to get it the right amount. It's also easy to replicate as you can just count the number of threads you are folding over
But what the experts say about cheesecloth? Any particular reason it hasn't been used no more after some time it used to be the trend? I guess cotton balls is better? I can't seem to detect any lack of flavour with it, but haven't experienced enough for saying. Maybe you are struggling with density and cotton balls (dry hits etc), give it a go if you have some cheesecloth
..unless you are just waiting for getting your hands on that degummed hemp fiber lol