Jewelry

How to Clean Watch

Your watch will sparkle like the day you got them with the right cleaning technique. Here's the safe way that jewelers recommend.

What You'll Need

  • Soap-Man Lemon Glow Dish Soap
  • Lukewarm water
  • Soft toothbrush
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Cotton swab

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Check water resistance rating

    Confirm your watch is water resistant before any cleaning. Non-water-resistant watches must be cleaned with a damp cloth only -- never submerged.

  2. 2

    Remove the watch from the strap if possible

    If you have a leather strap, remove it before cleaning. Leather and water do not mix. Metal bracelets can be cleaned attached.

  3. 3

    Clean with soapy water

    For water-resistant watches with metal bracelets, scrub the bracelet and case with a soft toothbrush dipped in soapy water.

  4. 4

    Clean tight spots

    Use a cotton swab dipped in soapy water to clean between bracelet links, around the case, and behind the lugs.

  5. 5

    Rinse and dry

    Rinse with clean lukewarm water if water-resistant. Pat completely dry with a microfiber cloth, including all crevices.

Pro Tips

  • TIPHave your watch professionally serviced and water-resistance tested every 3-5 years to maintain reliability.
  • TIPWipe your watch daily with a soft cloth to remove sweat and skin oils that cause buildup and corrosion.
  • TIPNever operate the crown or pushers underwater unless your watch is rated specifically for diving (200m+).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • XSubmerging a watch that is not water resistant, which damages the movement permanently.
  • XCleaning a leather strap with water, which causes the leather to crack, warp, and develop mildew.
  • XPulling the crown out before cleaning a water-resistant watch, which exposes the movement to moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Never. The high heat and harsh detergent damage watch movements, gaskets, and finishes.