Using this lamp is super easy. First, find a nice spot in your lake house or wherever you want to place it. Since the bulbs aren't included, you'll need to buy a 40W bulb and screw it into the lamp. Then, plug the 6 - foot cord into an electrical outlet. You can turn the lamp on and off using the on - off switch. As for maintenance, use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the resin base and the lamp shade to keep them clean. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as they might damage the lamp. Make sure to keep it away from water to prevent any electrical hazards. Also, since it's UL/ETL approved, you can be confident in its safety, but always follow basic electrical safety rules.