idling problems

just recently, ive started having problems starting up. 96 gti vr6. when starting up, 75% wont start at all on its own, have to give it a lot of gas, then it wont idle on its own, just shuts off. the other 25% of the time, i still have to give it a lot of gas to start it up, but when i let off, it will jump between 250-750 rpm for a min or so then cut out. just reading some of the posts here, it sounds like something on the intake is dirty. can i go down to the local autoparts store and get some after market intake cleaners, or does this sound a little more serious?

Check your intake for carboning. especially on the throttle body.

Also check your intake boot from MAF sensor to Throttle Body for any cracks (common on the little hose that goes to the valve cover) It its wet with oil than you need to replace the intake boot 100.00 from vw)