Whether you’re into fitness training or just need a smartwatch to keep track of your to-do lists, Apple Watch has a lot to offer. Smartwatches have evolved to combine the best of both traditional and digital technologies. While the watch itself has a variety of digital face customizations, the Apple watchstrap also adds styles and personality. These straps and bands are available in a variety of materials, from professional-looking leather to sporty braided straps. Cleaning them after a hard workout or a hot day not only helps to prevent skin irritation and other dermatological problems, but it also keeps the device looking nice. Whilst you are cleaning your AirPods, take some time to clean the strap and bands of your watch too.
A Short Introduction to Different Types of Apple Watchstrap
Knowing what kind of your Apple Watchstrap can help you choose the best cleaning solution for it. When cleaning your Apple Watch, take the proper precautions to avoid damaging the band and causing flaws in it.
- Sport Band is made of fluoroelastomer (a type of rubber) that can handle sweat and water.
- Sport Loop is made from woven nylon and a moisture-wicking design that is breathable.
- Solo Loop is made from UV treated liquid silicone that is stretchable, swim-proof and sweat-proof.
- Braided Solo Loop is made from 16,000 recycled polyester yarn filaments around ultra-thin silicone threads, and therefore it’s sweat and water-resistant.
- Nike Sport Band is made using lightweight fluoroelastomer to handle natural elements like sweat and water.
- Nike Sport Loop is made using flexible nylon weave with Nike exclusive reflective threads. The design ensures moisture does not bother you.
- Leather Bands are made from natural leathers from France. The leather develops a patina over age and discolors with exposure to liquids or direct sunlight.
- Hermès Jumping Single Tour is made using nylon (textile), and it is swim-proof.
- Hermès Leather Band is made from handcrafted calfskin leather. Leather is not suited for rough usage or exposure to elements like direct sunlight.
- Stainless Steel Band is made from stainless steel that offers the best durability of all styles.
Start with Removing Apple Watchstrap
The first step to cleaning the band is to remove it from the Apple Watch. Follow these steps to separate the band from your AppleWatch:
- Place your Apple Watch face down on a clean, smooth surface, such as a microfiber cloth or a soft mat on your desktop. Make sure your Apple Watch is turned off so you don’t tap anything by accident.
- Press the band release button on the back of the Apple Watch with your fingertip or fingernail. (For each strap, there are two band release buttons. They can be found at the top and bottom of the back of the Apple Watch. The buttons are the same color as the rest of the back of the Apple Watch, but they’re fairly easy to spot)
- While holding the button, slide the band across to remove it.
- Release the band release button once the band has slid out. If the band still won’t slide out, press the band release button again, this time making sure you hold it down.
- Do the same for the remaining strap.
Reinstalling the watch strap is a straightforward process that starts with sliding the strap while, at the same time, ensuring the watch face is down and with the text on the strap facing you. You should hear a click when the strap is successfully placed.
Do not force or use aggressive movements to insert the strap. If the strap does not click in, gently wiggle it up and down and slide it until it fits. It is recommended to avoid wearing your Apple Watch with an ill-fitted strap.
Cleaning Methods for Apple watchstrap
The following methods are based on the suggestions from Apple on how to clean the bands they offer.
How to Clean Leather Bands
The biggest enemy of natural leather is sunlight and water. For you to protect your Apple watchstrap as you can, be careful to avoid contact with sunlight, humidity or water. It’s best to keep your leather strap in a cool, dry place when not being used, and covered in a clean box or dust bag to prevent dust settlement. And the best way to clean a leather band is by using a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth.
If the band has some stubborn stains, you can lightly dampen a soft cloth with fresh water and wipe it. Soaking leather bands in water or any other cleaning products can cause serious damage. Leather is not water-resistant, and hence, such extreme cleaning approaches should be avoided.
Air-dry the strap or pat it with a soft cloth before reinstalling it. Apply a leather balm to keep the strap conditioned for better durability and flexibility.
How to Clean Solo Loop, Sport Band, and Nike Sport Band
Regular wiping with a soft, non-abrasive, lint-free cloth is sufficient for everyday cleaning. However, if the bands have sticky or oily residue you can use a soft cloth dampened with clean water to wipe it down.
Alternatively, you can also use a mixture of warm water and mild, hypoallergenic hand soap solution to wipe the bands. Using cleaning wipes, such as a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe or a 75% ethyl alcohol wipe, will also get the job done.
Braided bands can be cleaned using the method above. But the braided structure can hold dirt within its weaves. To address this, use a soft bristle brush like a baby toothbrush to gently sweep out the dirt. You can also dip the brush in a solution of mild soap and warm water.
Avoid using abrasive brushes on textile or woven straps, as these can damage the material. Always use gentle pressure to avoid disturbing the weaves or affecting the dyes. Nylon material can be soaked in water and gently washed.
Once you have cleaned the strap, make sure to completely dry it before reattaching.
How to Clean Stainless-Steel and Metal Bands
Using non-abrasive, lint-free cloth is the standard method to clean metallic surfaces or other watch band materials. You can also softly dampen the cloth with fresh water to wipe down surfaces to remove clinging dust particles.
Before reattaching the band to the Apple Watch, wipe it dry using a non-abrasive fabric such as a microfibre towel. Abrasive materials should be avoided since they can scratch and dull the finish of metallic bands and closures. It is also advised not to use harsh chemicals to clean metallic straps.
How to Clean Wood Bands
Wood, like leather, is another natural material that will change with age and usage. Daily cleaning with non-abrasive, soft microfibre cloth will keep the wood bands clean and fresh.
Alternatively, grime and stubborn dirt can be cleaned using a thoroughly wrung damp cloth. But a word of caution, moisture is the natural enemy of wood. Ensure you dry the band completely to avoid water damage.
You can use a wood conditioner to keep the band looking polished and clean. It also helps improve the durability of the band and protects it from the elements.
How to Clean Resin Bands
These durable bands come in a variety of designs, but can easily break when they hit hard surfaces. As with metal bands, abrasive cleaning products and materials can cause scratches and dull the look of these bands.
The best way to clean them is using a lint-free, microfibre cloth and wiping it down. It is highly advised to check for the cleaning instructions on the packaging before proceeding.
How to Clean Carbon Fiber Bands
This lightweight and extremely durable material can be cleaned with a soft cloth such as a microfibre cloth. While cleaning with a damp cloth is recommended for stubborn grime, ensure the water is fresh. Saltwater can affect the integrity of the material.
Always dry your Apple Watchstrap thoroughly before reattaching to improve its longevity.
How to Clean Velcro Bands
Velcro bands are notorious for getting threads and other materials stuck in them. While the general cleaning method is using a lint-free, nonabrasive cloth or warm water and soap solution, the Velcro part needs different treatment.
To get dirt and other fluff out, lay the Velcro part on a solid surface and, using a toothbrush, gently brush out all the lint and debris. Ensure you fully dry the strap before use.
