How to effectively clean a smart watch

Apple Watch, Fitbit, Garmin or Amazfit, here is the small guide to cleaning smart watches. It is important to clean them well so that they continue to function well.

To clean something that you wear all day and everywhere, a quick wipe with a cloth can’t be enough. Since these watches work with the help of some well-placed sensors, you have to make sure to remove the dirt properly so as not to damage the sensor.

The tools needed to clean on a smartwatch

In general, the tools you need are: some rubbing alcohol, a soft toothbrush and of course a lint-free cloth.

On the other hand, avoid using tools such as bleach, creamy cleaners, wire brushes or even scouring pads.  These tools often damage the finish of watches and trackers. Also be careful not to insert objects into the holes in the case as you could damage a sensor.

How to effectively clean an Apple Watch

Apple recommends using a dry, lint-free cloth for daily cleaning.

For a thorough cleaning, you can remove special bands such as leather bands. Now wipe the watch with a damp cloth or rinse it very gently with warm running water. Finally, dry it before putting it back on your wrist.

You can also clean the crown under running water, turning it and pressing it down as the water flows to remove any accumulated dirt. You’ll dry it properly when you’re done.

If you are using a silicone bracelet, it is advisable to clean it lightly with water and a mild, hypoallergenic soap.

How to effectively clean a Fitbit watch

According to Fitbit, you can clean the watch with rubbing alcohol and a dry tissue or cloth. Be careful not to use a tool that frays.

Never use anything metallic to clean the watch. And make sure the watch is completely dry before you put it back on your wrist or charge it.

Again, do not use hand sanitizer, let alone soap. To clean your watch band, use plain water or a very mild cleaner.

How to effectively clean a Garmin watch

Garmin watches are probably some of the toughest in the world. They can last for many, many years if you maintain them properly.

The first thing to do when you finish a sport activity with these watches is to rinse them with water and dry them. Garmin also recommends not using a leather or suede strap for sports activities. Instead, use a silicone strap.

You can clean leather or metal wristbands with a dry or damp lint-free cloth. Nylon bracelets can be simply rinsed. Finally, silicone bracelets can be either rinsed or wiped with rubbing alcohol if they are too dirty.

To clean the case of your Garmin, use a soft toothbrush without pushing its bristles into the holes and openings of the watch. It is necessary to pass it very delicately on the shell of the watch by rubbing gently.

Garmin also recommends cleaning the outside of the case with a wipe soaked in 70% isopropyl alcohol. A disinfectant wipe can also do the trick. Of course, you will rinse and dry the watch before wearing it.

How to effectively clean an Amazfit watch

Amazfit advises to thoroughly clean the heart rate sensor with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. Then wipe it with a clean cloth to dry it.

You can clean the watch’s charging contacts and charger pins with a toothpick or toothbrush to remove debris. Then use a cotton swab and alcohol.

The band can be cleaned with rubbing alcohol applied to a cotton swab or cloth. If you have a leather strap, avoid getting it wet at all costs.

In general, if your watch has been used for swimming, or if you often shower with it, it should be dried regularly; otherwise it will cause corrosion of your skin.

Finally, if you have any doubts, go to your watch manufacturer’s website. There are always instructions on how to clean a particular watch.

Also read :

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• Garmin Vivoactive 5: all you need to know