July 22, 2023, 7:31 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Owners of a smartwatch likely wear it very regularly. Therefore, like other everyday items, the device needs to be cleaned from time to time. Sweat and contact with various surfaces can cause germs to spread on both the case and the band of the watch. TECHBOOK provides a detailed guide on what to consider when cleaning a smartwatch.
Do you have a waterproof smartwatch? Then it seems straightforward: You can simply hold the device under running water, as you can swim and shower with it. But be careful: With a band made of leather, for example, that wouldn’t be a good idea. And you probably won’t remove stronger dirt from the case that way. TECHBOOK has compiled the individual steps involved in gently cleaning the smartwatch.
Overview
How often should you clean your smartwatch?
There is no fixed rule here. If you notice dirt on your smartwatch, you should clean it, of course. And if you wear it regularly, such as for sports, it often comes into contact with sweat; in that case, it’s best to follow these tips more frequently. In all other cases, with regular use, an interval of about a month is reasonable.
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The right approach for the smartwatch case
Remove the smartwatch from the charger and turn it off. It’s not always necessary, but–if possible–it’s better to detach the band from the case for cleaning. You can use a microfiber cloth or a glasses cleaning cloth to wipe it down–but please don’t use the disposable type soaked in cleaning solution; use the classic fabric ones. Alternatively, an unused coffee filter works too. Lightly dampen the cloth or household item with water and possibly a bit of dish soap to wipe the display and the underside of the case.
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Caution when using alcohol
If stubborn dirt cannot be removed this way, you can treat the affected areas with a cotton swab soaked in cleaning solution. Depending on the manufacturer or surface texture, an alcohol-based product may be allowed; it’s best to check in each case. Apple, for example, recommends using 70% isopropyl alcohol or 75% ethyl alcohol for cleaning the “hard, non-porous surfaces” of its products, alongside Clorox disinfecting wipes. However, Apple advises against cleaners containing bleach or hydrogen peroxide.
Whether alcohol-based or not, the cotton swab should not be dripping with liquid. Also, be sure that no moisture gets into sensitive parts or the speaker opening.
Consider the band material
Do you use a silicone band? Then cleaning is particularly easy. Silicone can be cleaned effortlessly under running water and possibly with a bit of soap. Leather bands, on the other hand, don’t like such treatment. In that case, use a damp cloth and proceed gently. Otherwise, as its name suggests, a leather cleaner is a safe choice.
For smartwatch bands made of metal, you can use a lukewarm soap-water mixture again. Otherwise, removing coarser stains works well if you add a little baking soda to the water. Simply scrub the band with a cloth. Some websites recommend using a toothbrush. On a metal band, you can’t do much harm, but please avoid it with any other materials.
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Reassembling the smartwatch–what to watch out for!
Before reassembling the smartwatch, you should let it dry thoroughly; overnight is best. If you’ve only done a quick clean with alcohol, make sure it has completely evaporated before putting the wearable back into operation.