The enclosure should be cleaned once a week and spot cleaned every day. As for handleing, a couple times a week will be fine, some will strike if "snuck up on". Give him a little tap on the head with a hook, coat hanger, ect to let him know it is you and to make sure he is awake. Pick him up firmly from behind, he will get used to your touch and should be ok. Some are just bitters no matter what you do!