Learn the best method for cleaning your watch band, no matter the material.
Jacob Fox
An Apple Watch is the ultimate accessory and the productivity hack of the century.
Not to mention, it is fashionable and waterproof.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Apple Watches are ubiquitous and worn constantly, so the band can become dirty over time.
Regular cleaning at least once every two weeks will help maintain its fresh-out-of-the-box appearance.
Cleaning methods differ depending on the material.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Heres what it’s crucial that you do to get started.
Remove the Band
To avoid damaging the watch during cleaning, remove the band from your wrist.
Identify Material and Clean Accordingly
How you clean your Apple Watch band depends on its material.
Credit:Jacob Fox
See the instructions below for specific watch bands and their cleaning considerations.
However, leather is not waterproof.
Water deforms leather and causes discoloration.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Even when water dries, it can crack a leather watch band.
They are waterproof and easy to clean.
Avoid harsh cleaning agents that could degrade the protective coating.
Credit:Jacob Fox
However, nylon absorbs water, so avoid cleaning it under running water or popping it in your washer.
Let it dry thoroughly before reattaching the band to the watch.
If water remains on the material, it will start to smell.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Apple recommends only using a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth to wipe the band.
If thats not enough to remove stains or smudges, consider other cleaning methods that wont damage the band.
Try warm, soapy water with a cloth.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Dry the band thoroughly to avoid rusting.
Harsh cleaning agents may degrade the bands protective coating and affect the color.
For tough residue, mixone part water and one part vinegarto clean a stainless-steel watch band.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Apply the solution with a cotton swab and gently rub away any stains.
To improve shine and help remove scratches, use a high-quality metal polish specificallyintended for jewelry.
Prolonged exposure to water causes wood to deform or crack.
Unlike woven nylon, these bands are water-resistant.
Consider using a soft-bristle toothbrush to scrub the band gently before rinsing it with water and letting it dry.
The popular sports bands are made from fluoroelastomer, a flexible yet strong material made of chemical compounds.
It is safe to use while swimming or getting sweaty.
Wipe the band clean with a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth.
Lightly dampen the cloth with fresh water.
Use mild, hypoallergenic hand soap to clean these bands.
Dry the band before reattaching it to your Apple Watch.
For all other bands, buckles, and closures, wipe clean with a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth.
For bands not made by Apple, read the manufacturers instructions for care and handling.
Cleaning your Apple Watch band will help maintain its original luster.
Change Your Apple Watch Band.
Apple Inc.
How to Clean your Apple Watch.Apple Inc.
