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How to Clean a Watch

Wearing a watch day-in and day-out, can result in dirt, sweat and sunscreen building up on the bottom and in the strap or bracelet. If not cleaned out, the disgusting black gunk that builds up on your watch will start to leave marks on your wrist.

Things You'll Need

  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Lint-free cloth
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda

Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the bracelet if you can. If you can't remove the bracelet, take care not to get the watch itself wet while you're cleaning the bracelet, even if it's water-resistant.

    • 2

      Soak the bracelet in water and dish soap or rubbing alcohol for a few minutes to a few hours. The longer you soak the bracelet, the more dirt will be loosened, making scrubbing easier.

    • 3

      Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub between the links of the bracelet both on the inside and outside.

    • 4

      Dry the bracelet with a lint-free cloth to avoid getting fibers stuck between the links. Reattach the bracelet to your watch, then use the slightly dampened cloth to wipe down the watch itself.

    • 5

      Clean leather straps with a mixture of white vinegar and water and a toothbrush. Let the straps dry completely before wearing the watch again. You can go longer between cleanings if you wipe off the straps each night after removing your watch.