I just bought my first big full set, it's the Giraults. I left them in the box, they look pretty that way
and figure it'll be easy to carry around. When I get bolder, I might put the portrait colors closer together. The assortment of Doaks, I arranged them by placing portrait colors closer to me, dark to light. I plan to get the set of Unison's, will do the same with them after more experience. I personally favor the harder pastels for now, I'm still nervous using the softer ones.
As for cleaning my hands, I use baby wipes, they work grrrrr-eat.