AsNoriuanswered grow question 10 months ago I ussually do first bottom clearing when plant occupied all pot width and lsted branches start to grow up.
Usually its around week 4 of veg. Then i do clearing weekly. Last one 3-4 days before flip.
In flower better leave them alone till final strech is over, but if you need, bottoms you can clean almost any day.
Always works better if you do it before watering, but i am soil man, you in other boat a bit ;))
Have fun !!!