Jakobi has the key. Removing them often.
I find that the longer I go between services, the more draggy it is.
That being said, I put on a coating of water-proof grease (I use Bel Ray), and I take off all but a thin coating with a paper towel. Also, when removing the axle, I use an appropriately-sized drift punch and mallet. Wiggling the bike by the seat helps to reduce binding, then I pull it out with channel lock pliers.