Using this Smathers & Branson toiletry bag is a breeze. Just unzip the solid brass outer zipper, and you can put your toiletries into the main compartment, the zippered pocket, or the leather - trimmed accessory pockets. When packing, arrange your items based on how often you'll need them. For example, put your toothbrush and toothpaste in an easily accessible pocket. As for maintenance, use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the leather parts regularly to keep them looking good. If the nylon interior gets dirty, you can gently clean it with a mild detergent and water. Be careful not to expose the bag to sharp objects to avoid scratching the leather or tearing the nylon. Also, try not to overfill the bag to prevent damage to the zippers or the overall structure.