Salt and pepper shakers are typically easy to use. Simply unscrew the top lid or remove the bottom cap, and fill the shaker with your choice or salt, pepper, or another seasoning. When not in use, store the shakers in a cool, dry place to help keep the salt and pepper fresh. When in doubt, you can't go wrong with hand washing and air drying. Some shakers are dishwasher safe though, so your best bet is to read the fine print before cleaning. No matter how you clean them, make sure to thoroughly empty each shaker, scrub the inside and outside, and rinse with hot water. Salt and pepper shakers should be cleaned regularly, especially if they are used frequently. You can clean them as often as once a week, or more often if you have a busy household. The S or P on each mill’s top tells you what’s inside, but this might be a bit difficult to discern for some. You can find a salt and pepper shaker made in almost any material, from ceramic or porcelain to plastic, wood, glass, and stainless steel. There's no right or wrong answer to choosing a material type, though certain ones will require more upkeep than others. For example, stone or glass shakers are not always dishwasher-safe. If you're prone to dropping your kitchen tools, a more fragile material like glass or porcelain may not be right for you. Whichever you choose, make sure your shaker has a tight seal to maintain freshness.