It is almost impossible to wipe it fast enough to get it clean. It's a good thing that the wand has a good chromium finish which makes it fairly easy to get it clean. When choosing a machine look for one that has a steam wand that is smooth, without nooks and crannies where burnt-on milk would be difficult to remove. A shiny, polished or chromium-plated surface would also be of benefit here. Silvia's steam production is quite impressive for a home machine.
Slight changes can make a difference.
Espresso tastes wonderful- a food that more people should learn to enjoy. If brewed properly it can easily be appreciated just as it comes from the filter basket, but I still recommend using a cup of some sort. Placing your mouth directly under the portafilter is to be avoided. The swishing in the mouth allows the many different tastes to be experienced. It becomes something completely different when consumed in this way.