I also soak mine the night before planting. When I ordered my garlic seed from Gourmet Garlic Gardens, it came with directions for soaking the cloves. I use apple cider vinegar (I can't remember if it specifically called for the cider type; it may be that was all I had) to soak it over night, rinse them in alcohol right before planting, and I don't peel my cloves. I've had good success with my garlic so far.
Chris

I tried this for the first time this year. You can use either cider vinegar OR baking soda, and liquid seaweed, then either dip in alcohol OR 140 proof vodka. I chose the baking soda and alcohol, but I must admit - dipping the cloves in rubbing alcohol just seemed wrong! I hope it all turns out ok - hopefully I'll remember to post my results next summer.

I had read one of flutesee's post's before and another similar. I soaked mine in red wine vinegar, I forgot about them so instead of overnight it was like 36hrs. I noticed the skins had become very loose, I rinsed in 91% rubbing alcohol and planted. It was only five in a container, I think I might do five more when I pull up the basil in a similar container.

I soak my cloves for up to 24 hours in a mix of Maxicrop liquifed seaweed,11%nitrogen water soluble fishfert,Mycorrhizal fungi(water soluble)and worm tea.A tablespoon or so of each to the gallon,if in doubt use more.Most of it is available at Peaceful Valley,Farm &Garden Supply.Buy the maxicrop as a powder and reconstitue at home,saves on shipping costs.

Seems like a lot of trouble, for something that usually grows quite well with no treatment whatsoever. What are the supposed benefits of soaking?