Your smartwatch is probably harboring bacteria. How to clean it: Pocket lint
The central theses
- Most smartwatch bands are contaminated with bacteria, but harsh cleaning products can damage the devices.
- Cleaning methods vary depending on manufacturer recommendations and belt materials.
- Wipes containing 70% isopropyl alcohol are recommended for disinfection, but always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Because smartwatches and fitness trackers are devices that can be worn anywhere, from the gym to hiking trails, debris and bacteria can quickly build up. In fact , a 2023 study found that 95% of smartwatch bands were contaminated with bacteria. Still, using the wrong cleaning products for your smartwatch can, at best, void your warranty and, at worst, cause permanent damage. Harsh cleaners can leave residue on the band that can even cause skin irritation.
Related From the latest Apple Watches to Android options, these are the best smartwatches for time and fitness tracking, according to our tests. The best way to clean your smartwatch depends on what the manufacturer specifically recommends, what material the bracelet is made of and whether the watch is waterproof . However, most brands have similar recommendations and microfiber cloths are consistently recommended and can also clean your smartphones , tablets, and monitors . If you have glasses or lens cleaning wipes on hand, those work well too. However, a quick wipe with a dry cloth may be necessary for complete disinfection.
Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
Here's how to keep your smartwatch or fitness tracker clean and functional, whether it needs daily cleaning or thorough disinfection.
Cleaning a device with a product not recommended by the manufacturer may void the warranty or even cause damage. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations before using water, soaps, or cleaning chemicals on your smartwatch or fitness tracker.
How to clean the case of a smartwatch
A lint-free microfiber cloth is your friend
Major smartwatch manufacturers, including Apple , Samsung , Google , and Garmin, recommend only one product for cleaning the case of your smartwatch: a clean, non-abrasive, lint-free cloth. Microfiber cloths and glasses cleaning cloths that have been specially developed for cleaning glasses are suitable for this purpose. Using this method, cleaning your smartwatch is safe, easy, and inexpensive, making it a great method for regular cleaning.
- Make sure your smartwatch is disconnected from the charger. You may also want to turn off the watch first : Apple and Google recommend turning off the watch before cleaning it.
- Remove the watch straps. While you can clean it with the cloth daily if the watch is intact, it's a good idea to remove the bracelet from time to time to remove any trapped residue or debris .
- Wipe all sides of the watch case with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dirt.
- Optional: If you use a waterproof smartwatch or fitness tracker, dampen the cloth to remove stubborn debris.
How to disinfect a smartwatch
70% isopropyl wipes can help
Cleaning your smartwatch regularly can help prevent skin irritation caused by the buildup of sweat, sunscreen, and other residue on the watch. However, sometimes your watch needs more than just a cloth to clean it. Maybe you accidentally dropped your smartwatch in the toilet, maybe you just had a particularly sweaty workout, or maybe it's time for some spring cleaning. In any case, a dry microfiber cloth alone is not enough.
Some manufacturers recommend using isopropyl alcohol if you need to disinfect your watch. Rubbing alcohol with a cotton swab or this microfiber cloth works. Alternatively, cloths moistened with 70% isopropyl alcohol also work. You can often find them in the first aid section of a pharmacy or grocery store.
Do not use soaps, bleach, or cleaning chemicals on a smartwatch. Soap and chemicals can leave a buildup that can irritate your skin, while harsh cleaning chemicals can damage your watch.
Although not all manufacturers include alcohol wipes in the list of recommended cleaning options, they almost agree on one point: do not use soaps, bleach, or cleaning chemicals on a smartwatch. Soap and chemicals can leave a buildup that can irritate your skin, while harsh cleaning chemicals can damage your watch. Additionally, you should never insert anything into the openings of the watch as this could damage the electronics.
How to disinfect your smartwatch:
- Check the manufacturer's guidelines for your specific watch to find out what cleaning products can be used. Both Apple and Garmin recommend isopropyl cloths for cleaning. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid damage to your watch.
- Prepare your watch for cleaning. Remove the strap from the watch, turn it off and remove it from the charger.
- Clean the surface of the watch with a cloth containing 70% isopropyl alcohol or the manufacturer's recommended cleaning agent. Make sure that no liquid gets into the connections or openings.
- Once the watch is clean, wind it up.
How to clean smartwatch bands
Materials are the most important thing
Sweat and dirt can quickly build up on smartwatch bands, but the exact instructions for cleaning the band vary depending on the material. In most cases, you should remove the streaks before cleaning them thoroughly. However, if you do daily cleaning with a dry cloth, this is not necessary. All straps must be dry before putting them back on.
- For leather: Use a dry, lint-free cloth to clean. Leather bracelets are not waterproof, but it may be necessary to slightly moisten the fabric to make it more resistant. Real leather develops a patina over time. This is a normal property of the material.
- For silicone or rubber: Remove the straps and then clean them with water. If necessary, alcohol wipes can be used to remove debris. Dry with a lint-free cloth.
- For nylon: Wash loose straps in cold water. Use a mild soap for sensitive skin or, in more serious cases, a soap-free cleanser. Allow the strap to air dry before replacing the watch.
- For metal: Studies show that metal strips are among the cleanest. However, that doesn't mean you should never clean a metal band. Do not use scouring rags or metal cleaners on metal watch bands. Instead, use a lint-free microfiber cloth to polish the metal. If the metal band between the links has debris that cannot be cleaned with a cloth, use a new soft-bristled toothbrush.
Frequently asked questions
Q: How often should you clean your smartwatch?
Smartwatch wristbands can breed bacteria: A 2023 study found bacteria on 95% of wristbands. Ideally, incorporate a simple quick clean into your daily routine, e.g. Such as wiping your band with a microfiber cloth after a shower or cleaning your watch after a workout at the gym. It is advisable to carry out a more thorough cleaning once a month, e.g. B. follow the manufacturer's disinfection instructions.
Q: Can you use isopropyl alcohol to clean a smartwatch?
Using a cleaner not recommended by the manufacturer may void your warranty. However, several manufacturers recommend using a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe for disinfection, including Apple and Garmin. Do not immerse the watch in water, just use a cloth and be careful not to get any moisture on the ports.
Q: What is a soap-free cleanser?
Some manufacturers recommend cleaning a smartwatch band with a soap-free cleaner, but what does that mean? A soap-free cleaner does not use fats or alkaline ingredients that can cause buildup. On the soap aisle, look for bottles labeled "detergent" instead of soap. Products designed for sensitive skin are often a good choice for cleaning watch straps, as they generally do not contain irritating fragrances.
Q: How do I clean a Fitbit charger?
Fitbit chargers have metal contacts that must be connected to the metal of the watch to charge. If these metal parts are dirty, the fitness tracker may not charge properly. FitBit recommends using a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol to clean the contacts on the charging cable.
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