Just get some double gate clips. MKS make a plastic set that are large and should cost about $5 (¥500 here in Tokyo). New pedals won't make any difference in getting out of the clips. Also, try to wear slim shoes.

Oh yeah, and you really shouldn't be able to touch the ground when in the saddle. Your legs should be fully extended when on the pedal in the bottom of the stroke.

so is that something i can remedy by just bringing the seat up a couple inches or is sizing up on the frame a better (although a much larger hassle) option?

Depends on how extended your seat post is currently. There's a minimum depth the seat post needs to be (number escapes me now), but most posts have a lot of room to adjust.

yeah, usually the seat post has a minimum insert mark.

how often should i be pumping my tires? i still haven't since i first got it. also does anyone have any recommendations? i don't have one of my own.

As often as it takes to keep them properly inflated.

Ideally, you should have two pumps: A floor pump with a gauge, and a pump to take with you on rides. Everyone has their own opinion on pumps, and there are tons of threads on it, so do a search, grab a beer, and enjoy the hours of reading pleasure.

My personal favorite for a floor pump is the Topeak Joe Blow Sprint.

do the ones with gauges automatically detect what range it should be pumped at or is it different for different wheels? i'll definitely get one with a gauge as a guide as i have no idea how much is too much.

also how often should i be cleaning the bike? i hear you should remove and clean the chain every so often for example. considering i don't know how to take it off/put it back on i haven't done that yet in the time i've had it. bad?

it says on the side of your tire how high you should pump it.