After my 4th flush (12 total) I did the alternative method and still stick to it.
My 4th produced so many stones I couldn'e believe my eyes! I mean at least 800-1000 stones, all tan, most were separated and singular but two days later I was going #2 and it was all big globs of stones stuck together. They were all their own shape and size but in one big glob that floated. I had about 5 of these.
I feel incomplete now if I don't do the a;ternative method!
I think it is the best way, even if it takes a little more time.