oh yeah, if the people at the shop didn't tell you, they should have had you soak the probe in plain water overnight before use. Between that and keeping your probe damp with a small piece of sponge in the meter cap, that should solve the wandering readings.
The sponge bit will get mouldy if not cleaned & sterilised (use water with 3ml 50% grade H202 per litre) once a week.
Could also simply replace the sponge bit every 1-2 weeks One cut up kitchen sponge (use a new one) will last you months. Clean the probe tip weekly with mild soapy water and a toothbrush.
If it came with cheapo batteries, buy a set of Duracells to replace them and keep a set spare. Can make a difference with some meters.