Your Apple Watch is exposed to a lot throughout the day, from sweat and sunscreen to dust, dirt, and everyday wear. Keeping it clean not only helps it look its best but can also ensure sensors such as heart rate monitoring and ECG continue to work properly.
Apple has shared several recommendations for cleaning your Apple Watch safely without causing damage.
Can you use disinfectant wipes?
Yes. Apple says you can gently clean the exterior of your Apple Watch using a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe, a 75% ethyl alcohol wipe, or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes.
These can also be used on compatible bands, including Solo Loop, Sport Band, Nike Sport Band, Ocean Band, and metal bands.
However, disinfectant wipes should not be used on fabric or leather bands. You should also avoid products containing bleach or hydrogen peroxide and take care not to get liquid inside any openings.
Keep your Apple Watch clean and dry
One of the simplest ways to maintain your Apple Watch is to regularly wipe it down with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Lotions, sunscreen, and other products can build up on the rear sensors over time, potentially affecting readings. Apple recommends cleaning the back crystal regularly and ensuring both your skin and the watch remain clean and dry for the most accurate sensor performance.
If your Apple Watch needs a more thorough clean, switch it off, remove it from the charger, and wipe it with a lightly dampened cloth. If debris is trapped around the speaker openings, Apple says it is safe to hold the watch under lightly running warm water until the debris is removed.
Owners of Apple Watch Series 10 and later can also use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean debris from the speaker ports.
Don’t use these cleaning products
Apple advises against using soaps, household cleaners, abrasive materials, compressed air, ultrasonic cleaning equipment, or external heat sources.
While it may be tempting to use stronger cleaning products, these can damage the finish and potentially affect the watch’s water resistance and overall performance.
Cleaning a stuck Digital Crown
If the Digital Crown feels stiff or isn’t rotating smoothly, debris may be trapped around the mechanism.
Turn off your Apple Watch and remove any leather band before holding the Digital Crown under lightly running warm water. As the water runs over the crown, continuously rotate and press it to help loosen any debris trapped between the crown and the watch case.
Once clean, dry the area thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth while continuing to rotate the crown.
Don’t forget the band
Different Apple Watch bands require different cleaning methods.
Sport Band, Solo Loop, Sport Loop, Ocean Band, Alpine Loop, and Trail Loop bands can usually be cleaned with a damp cloth and, if needed, a mild hypoallergenic hand soap.
Leather bands should never be soaked in water and should only be wiped clean with a slightly damp cloth before being left to air dry completely.
For all bands, make sure they are fully dry before reattaching them to your Apple Watch.
A few final tips
For the best experience, wear your Apple Watch with a comfortable fit that allows your skin to breathe, and clean both the watch and band regularly, especially after workouts.
Keeping your Apple Watch free from sweat, sunscreen, lotions, and dirt can help prevent skin irritation, improve sensor performance, and keep your watch looking like new for longer.