We wear our Apple Watch everywhere—to the gym, to sleep, and to dinner. Naturally, the bands collect sweat, skin oils, and lotions. Over time, this buildup can not only look gross but also cause skin irritation. Here is how to clean your bands without destroying them.
Always start by removing the band from your Apple Watch.
Silicone: These are the easiest. Wash with warm water and a mild, oil-free hand soap. Dry thoroughly before reattaching.
Nylon: Similarly to silicone, these are easy to clean. Remove the band from your Apple Watch. Wash with warm water and a mild, oil-free hand soap. Dry thoroughly before reattaching.
Leather: Never soak leather! Water is the enemy. Use a slightly damp cloth to wipe it down, then apply a specialized leather conditioner to keep it supple. If your leather band smells, it’s likely due to trapped sweat—air it out for 24 hours.
Vegan Leather: Like leather, never soak it! Use a slightly damp cloth to wipe it down, then apply a specialized leather conditioner to keep it supple. If it starts to smell, it’s likely due to trapped sweat—air it out for a day.
Stainless Steel: Body oils get trapped between the links. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a drop of dish soap to gently scrub between the crevices. Rinse and dry immediately to prevent water spots. Leave this out to dry overnight or longer if you can.
A Note on Replacement: Cleaning extends the life of a band, but materials do degrade. If your silicone band feels sticky (degrading rubber) or your leather is cracked, it has done its job and it's time to replace it. A compromised band is a risk for your Apple Watch.
