first turntable !!

hi i got for christmas the audio technica lp120x usb and i am so excited! it’s also my first time having a serious turntable since i owned a crosley.. anyway I set it up tonight and i need advice on some things: (sorry if they seem basic questions)

• should i remove the felt pad while playing my records? because for my crosley i didn’t but it was a rubber one.. so i don’t know

• how can i clean older vinyls? I found some of my parents’ records and i wanted to try them but i should clean them first from dust. i do not have any professional products so maybe if you have simple procedures to suggest me

Thank you everyone !!!