This ash bucket is easy to use. Just place it in a convenient spot where you need to dispose of ashes, like near a fireplace. When using it, be careful not to overfill it to avoid ashes spilling. To maintain it, you can wipe it with a dry cloth regularly to keep the metal looking good. If there are stubborn stains, you can use a mild metal cleaner. But always make sure the bucket is completely dry before using it again.