Using this Harper table lamp is a breeze. First, find a stable surface in your room to place the lamp. Since bulbs aren't included, you'll need to buy a bulb with a maximum wattage of 150W. Screw the bulb into the socket carefully. Then, plug the 6 - foot cord into a power outlet. The 3 - way switch allows you to adjust the brightness according to your needs. As for maintenance, dust the mercury glass body and brass accents regularly with a soft, dry cloth to keep them looking shiny. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that could scratch the glass or damage the brass. Also, don't place the lamp in direct sunlight for long periods as it might fade the natural linen shade. Keep the lamp away from water and other liquids to prevent electrical hazards. Enjoy the warm and elegant glow this lamp brings to your home!