Yeah, this tradition has its origins in the 70's of the last century. You changed cars, when the ashtray was full

Steve, I just love your humor...Go steve, Go !

DDDD Hahahahaa ...

Shady ( are you the real slim Shady? )

this might help- I saw Emmett at Interlochen cleaning the strings after each time he played.

My luthier ( past guitar life) recommended a piece of cotton fabric, like a piece cut from an old cotton T_shirt, be placed down around the strings, and then given a slight twist to tighten against the strings, and pulled up and down the neck, or touchboard in our case. you won't believe what comes off, and keeps the bottom of the strings freer to vibrate. I also used to use FastFret to clean the surface and cut down on squeak. although on an open wood my luthier did not recommend it.

this might get you a little more miles on those tires!
also pick up a gig and charge $33 plus s/h, and you have your new set paid for!
hope this helps,
dave brosky - Pittsburgh

Actually you can use a regular guitar string for the 1st one. Unless maybe it's an extended scale Stick. I've done it a few times and you don't even notice the difference.

I have to change my strings every 2 or 3 months (if possible). I wear 'em down pretty quickly.