I've received my first barrel polisher in the post, but want to ensure I use it right to make it and the shot last. I have a couple of questions.

It says in the product description that I should clean it first with an Ultrasonic cleaner. I don't have one of these. Do I need to get one first? Or is there another way I could clean it first?

Then as I will only use it now and again (I do jewellery as a hobby), do I need to remove the shot and clean it each time? If so, what is the best way to do this?

If in future I wanted to change to cutting cones to get a matte finish, do I need to do anything to clean it out inbetween to make it work better?

Any other tips for a first time barrel polisher?

Sorry for all the questions - I just want to get it right

Thanks so much!