Well as to whether it's a good or bad idea, I'm rather paranoid and wouldn't want Microsoft accusing me of failing to follow their usage instructions if they perchance find some melted components (as a result of the towel trick) and then refusing the fix it. That said, I doubt Microsoft would be able to tell you've used it and even if you did you still haven't voided the warranty and you'll still get your refurbished box anyway so go ahead
/ 
