Using these ChiaoGoo RED Circular Needles is a breeze. Start by threading your yarn through the cable and onto the needle tip. You can then begin your knitting project as you normally would. When using, make sure your hands are clean to avoid transferring dirt to the needles. As for maintenance, you can simply wipe the needles with a soft, dry cloth after each use. Store them in a dry place away from moisture to prevent rusting. If you're not using them for a long time, it's a good idea to keep them in a knitting case to protect them from damage.