Hi,
For 1 a well sanitized bucket for sure and personally I keep the lid partially on top to reduce the chance of dust or contaminant infiltration.
and for 2 I usually use a sulfiter with a starsan solution. I sanitize my bottles and i let them drain a bit while i'm preparing my other stuff to...
I'm looking foward to buy this http://www.omega.ca/shop/pptsc.asp?ref=PHH-7000&Nav=grebb02 pH meter for my all grain brewing (a bit expensive but really sensitive). Do you have any suggestions or advice on that kind of product? I need something available to Canada !
Thanks!