I prefer something like this to a swab: https://www.amazon.co.uk/HW-Alto-Sax-Pad-Saver/dp/B0007XE8YO
You slide it into the sax before you put it away. It saves you faffing around with a damp swab. When you take it out of the sax you put it in the case, then you can't forget to put it back in. I used to have trouble with sticky pads, but not since I used one of these. And the end of it works as a plug, to protect the octave key mechanism when the neck is removed.
Contrary to the major opinion here - I have positive experience with my pad saver.
Though, when I'm cleaning my alto I use both swab and the pad saver. My saxophone pads are less sticky than they used to be when I just used a swab. Even if I'm in a rush and just pop the pad saver back in without using the swab the pads are much less stickier compared to not using anything at all which almost always guaranteed sticky pads the next day.
A good pad saver that doesn't shed is what makes this work. I use this one. http://www.amazon.com/HWProducts-U-ALT-Alto-Sax-Saver/dp/B0007XE8YO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&m=A1WSD1LH3I5EQK&s=generic&qid=1204560294&sr=1-2
Also check this out. http://www.shwoodwind.co.uk/Testing/Padsavers.htm
Before I bought it I was also really skeptical,but hey - it actually works.