Cleaning Your Smartwatch: Two Methods Tested
Tired of your aging smartwatch looking less than shiny? After purchasing a new Apple Watch to replace my old, grubby one, I decided it was time to take care of it. Here's a guide to test-driving two different cleaning methods for your beloved smartwatch without damaging it.
Method 1: Soap and Water
Searching for reliable cleaning methods, I discovered that mild soap and water was a common method. If your watch is waterproof, you can submerge it in a bowl of warm water with a few drops of gentle dish soap. (I used Mrs. Meyer's.) Make sure your watch is waterproof before attempting this - I didn't want to ruin my efforts to sell the old one. Gently wipe the dial and sensor with a soft towel, rather than submerging it in soap suds. Avoid becoming waterlogged; there's no need to deep-dive into forgotten technology.
If you're unsure about your watch's waterproof rating, use a lightly dampened, soft cloth to wipe around the watch, ensuring you reach every groove and crevice. You'll be glad you did, as a suspicious, unknown substance - possibly an old spray paint splatter - mysteriously disappeared. Afterward, wipe down the watch using a dry towel to remove any excess moisture.
I found an issue when checking the tiny groove where the band attaches to the watch. Since my cloth was too large, I thought perhaps that was the secret sauce behind people submerging their watches for a bath. But after carefully folding and shaping the cloth to fit the groove, it worked like a charm. If you have rough patches on your skin, try using a damp, soap-infused paper towel instead.
Method 2: Isopropyl Alcohol
With a new watch in hand, I was determined to continue the cleaning process, this time using isopropyl alcohol. While my new watch wasn't as grimy as my old one, it still had a faint smell of lotion and sweat. I suspected that alcohol would be more effective than water for removing oily residue.
I had read numerous debates online about whether cleaning smartwatches with alcohol was a good idea. However, after discovering that tiny, isopropyl alcohol-soaked swabs were safe, I felt confident giving it a try. Be forewarned: Isopropyl alcohol can damage certain materials, so consult your watch's user manual before trying this method.
If your watch has a significant amount of grime, start with water and soap first. If you have small, alcohol swabs, they will work amazingly on targeted areas that have developed an oil slick. Wait until the alcohol has completely evaporated before powering up the device, and ensure the alcohol doesn't come into contact with leather bands or enter watch openings.
Additional Tips and Tricks
I tried to find hidden dirt and debris within the watch's nooks and crannies but couldn't locate any. According to research, if you feel a stubborn residue, carefully brush it away using a soft, gentle toothbrush or a dull, bent-over Q-tip. Abstain from dousing your watch in water beforehand, and be extra cautious when brushing delicate areas to avoid damaging the watch.
The Apple Watch has no known widespread vulnerabilities simply due to grime buildup. Be sure to wipe your watch down with a wet towel or paper towel after prolonged use, or before charging, to prevent further dirt accumulation. Avoid using excess water, even on waterproof devices; dry it off before powering back up.
Caring for your smartwatch's armband will depend on the material. My fabric-based Apple Watch band can be washed in the washing machine, but rubber or leather bands may require a different approach. Wipe off any residue or excess lotion with a soft, moist towel, and if a mild soap is needed, gently use a little bit on a soft towel to clean the surface. Let the leather dry naturally, and consider smearing a bit of leather care cream on the band for extra protection.
