Cleaning and Caring for Your Smartwatch

Your smartwatch lives on your wrist through workouts, showers, sleep, and everything in between. That constant contact means accumulated sweat, dead skin cells, bacteria, and grime that can cause skin irritation, sensor issues, and general unpleasantness. Regular cleaning keeps your watch hygienic, functioning properly, and looking its best.

This guide covers safe cleaning methods for different watch materials and common maintenance tasks that extend your smartwatch's lifespan.

Daily Care Basics

Simple daily habits prevent major buildup:

• Dry your watch after sweating: Wipe the watch and band with a soft cloth after workouts or heavy perspiration.
• Remove during certain activities: Take off your watch when applying lotions, sunscreen, or hand sanitiser to prevent chemical buildup.
• Give your wrist a break: Periodically remove your watch to let your skin breathe, especially overnight if you don't use sleep tracking.
• Keep the underside clear: Ensure nothing obstructs the sensors on the back of your watch.

Cleaning the Watch Body

What You Need

• Soft, lint-free cloth (microfibre works well)
• Fresh water
• Optional: 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes (for disinfecting)

Safe Cleaning Method

1. Power off or water lock: If possible, turn off your watch or enable water lock mode to prevent accidental inputs during cleaning.
2. Dampen your cloth: Slightly moisten a soft cloth with fresh water. Don't use dripping wet cloths.
3. Wipe the case: Gently wipe the entire watch body, including the underside with sensors.
4. Clean around buttons: Use a dry, soft brush (like a clean toothbrush) to remove debris from button crevices.
5. Dry thoroughly: Use a dry part of the cloth to remove moisture before wearing.

Disinfecting Your Watch

For deeper sanitisation, especially during cold and flu season:

• Use 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes (not higher concentrations)
• Gently wipe non-porous surfaces (glass, metal, ceramic)
• Avoid leather bands and speaker/microphone openings
• Apple, Samsung, and Garmin all confirm this method is safe for their devices

Cleaning Different Band Materials

Silicone and Rubber Bands

The most common and easiest to clean:

• Rinse under lukewarm running water
• For stubborn buildup, use a soft brush with water
• Dry completely before reattaching—moisture trapped between band and watch can cause skin irritation
• Deep clean weekly if worn during workouts

Nylon and Fabric Bands

These require more care as they absorb sweat and odours:

• Remove from watch before cleaning
• Hand wash with mild soap and lukewarm water
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap
• Air dry completely (may take 24+ hours)
• Consider having two bands to rotate while one dries

Leather Bands

Leather requires the most delicate care:

• Never submerge in water—leather absorbs moisture and can crack when drying
• Wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth
• Use leather conditioner occasionally to prevent drying
• Allow to air dry fully if it gets wet
• Accept that leather will develop a patina over time
• Consider removing leather bands before workouts

Metal Bands (Stainless Steel, Titanium)

Durable but can trap debris between links:

• Rinse under water to dislodge trapped particles
• Use a soft brush between links
• Wipe with a damp cloth
• Dry with a lint-free cloth to prevent water spots
• Metal polish can restore shine but use sparingly

Maintaining Sensor Accuracy

Dirty sensors provide inaccurate readings. The optical heart rate sensor on the back of your watch is particularly sensitive:

• Clean sensor windows with a soft, damp cloth
• Remove any sunscreen, lotion, or debris buildup
• Check for scratches on sensor covers—deep scratches can affect optical readings
• Ensure nothing is blocking the sensors when wearing

Caring for the Display

Your screen faces the world and accumulates fingerprints and smudges:

• Wipe with a soft, dry microfibre cloth daily
• For stubborn marks, dampen the cloth slightly with water
• Consider a screen protector if you work in abrasive environments
• Most smartwatch screens are scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof

Storage and Protection

When Not Wearing

• Store in a clean, dry place
• Avoid extreme temperatures (hot cars, freezing conditions)
• Keep away from magnetic objects
• Use a charging stand that allows airflow

Travel Considerations

• Use a protective case for packed luggage
• Keep the watch accessible for security screening
• Bring your charging cable and adapter

Common Issues and Solutions

Skin Irritation

If you develop a rash or irritation under your watch:

• Clean the watch and band thoroughly
• Switch to a hypoallergenic band material (silicone is usually safest)
• Wear the watch more loosely to allow airflow
• Give your wrist periodic breaks from the watch
• Consult a dermatologist if irritation persists

Persistent Odour

Smelly bands despite cleaning:

• Replace fabric bands—sometimes odour is permanent
• Soak silicone bands in diluted white vinegar
• Ensure bands dry completely after cleaning
• Consider antimicrobial band materials

Sensor Issues

If heart rate or other readings seem inaccurate:

• Clean sensors thoroughly
• Check for scratches on sensor windows
• Ensure proper fit—not too loose, not too tight
• Move the watch higher on your wrist, away from the wrist bone

When to Replace Components

Some parts wear out and need periodic replacement:

• Bands: Replace when showing significant wear, cracking, or permanent odour. Most users replace silicone bands every 1-2 years with regular use.
• Screen protectors: Replace when scratched or peeling
• Battery: After 2-3 years, battery capacity diminishes. Some manufacturers offer battery replacement services.

Regular maintenance extends your smartwatch's functional lifespan and keeps it comfortable against your skin. A few minutes of weekly care prevents the buildup that causes most hygiene and sensor issues, ensuring your watch remains a reliable daily companion.