it's a good idea to learn how to undress your bike just for practice.
seriously, the more times you do it, the more you learn all the little tricks that make removing and reassembling the bodywork easier and faster without breaking/forcing anything.
as far as cleaning, I usually remove and clean everything that I can once every year or so with the bodywork removed. Once you're done cleaning, spray a light coat of rubber protectant on areas that were especially difficult to reach and next time clean up will be easier. just be sure to keep that stuff away from hand/foot controls and tires.