You don't do it with Q tips.
Remove it and use spray can Throttle body cleaner until it runs out clean.
Do the same with the throttle body plate and insides without taking it off..
After this you should do a reboot of the PCM.
.
Normal operation for cold start is to go high idle then it comes down to about 750 rpm as the motor heats up.
Anything lower than 750 or no high idle indicates the IAC is stuck closed because it controls the air bypass around the throttle plate.
You may have other issues but clean this up first.
Good luck.