How to clean and maintain your Apple Watch strap

It's important to regularly clean your Apple Watch strap to ensure its longevity. While Apple Watch straps are durable and are generally long-lasting, they will get dirty over time and degrade the strap. 
A man holding a black silicon watch strap on an apple watch series 8

 

Leather Straps

  1. First remove the leather strap from the watch. You can do this by pressing the release button on the back of the watch or by sliding the band out of the watch case.
  2. Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe both sides of the strap.
  3. Dampen the microfiber cloth with a small amount of mild soap and gently rub the strap surface.
  4. Use a separate damp cloth to wipe the leather clean, being careful not to use too much water.
  5. Allow the strap to air dry completely.
  6. To protect and maintain the leather's softness, you can apply leather oil or conditioner. Make sure the leather is fully dry before application.
  7. For the metal parts such as the adaptor and the buckle, you can use oil-based lubricants.

 

Metal Straps

  1. Remove the metal strap from the watch. You can do this by pressing the release button on the back of the watch or by sliding the band out of the watch case.
  2. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away any dust or dirt.
  3. Use a mixture of lukewarm water and soap or metal cleaner
  4. Next, wipe the strap down with a cloth or use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the strap as required
  5. To maintain the band's plating, avoid contact with cleaning agents, beauty products and chemicals.

 

Nylon straps

  1. Remove the nylon strap from the watch.
  2. Soak the strap in water and soap for 1-2 hours
  3. Gently use a cloth to rub the strap to ensure all stains and dirt are removed
  4. Rinse the strap under water to ensure all soap is gone
  5. Use a towel to dry the strap
  6. Air dry the strap completely before wear

 

Silicon straps

  1. Remove the silicon strap from the watch.
  2. Dampen a cloth in water and soap
  3. Gently use the cloth to rub the strap to ensure all stains and dirt are removed
  4. Rinse the strap under water to ensure all soap is gone
  5. Use a towel to dry the strap completely

 

In addition to regular cleaning, there are a few extra pointers to keep your band in good condition. If you have a leather band such as the brown single tour leather band, you should avoid getting it wet, as water can damage the leather. If your band is silicon or metal, avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures, as these can cause the band to degrade over time.

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