Caitlin Cimino/Android Authority
Whether it’s sweating or sun protection, there are always things that make you wonder how to clean your Apple Watch strap. Follow the correct instructions for the material you are wearing. Broadly speaking, the safest way is to wipe your band first with a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth (the kind that is usually provided with a pair of glasses for free).
How to clean a leather Apple Watch strap
The grade and comfort of leather straps are hard to beat, but if fitness is the focus, you may need to think twice. The leather strap is not waterproof, so it is not easy to perform deep cleaning after a particularly sweaty workout. Do not immerse the leather strap in water, and try to avoid external heat sources.
- Remove the strap from the Apple Watch and wipe it clean with a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth. If necessary, lightly dampen the cloth, but avoid concentrating too much moisture in one place.
- Allow the strap to air dry before reinstalling it on the Apple Watch.
Like leather furniture, leather shoulder straps can get stains from lotion, oil, or frequent rubbing with your favorite jeans. Some third-party retailers recommend using warm soapy water on the stain, but Apple does not recommend this. Please follow the instructions of the specific retailer.
Leather care can be tricky. Nevertheless, many accessories use leather parts and look great (ie high-priced bags and traditional watches), so don’t be too scared.
How to clean silicone and sports Apple Watch straps
You can’t close those rings without sweating. Wristbands made of synthetic rubber or silicone are usually used exclusively for exercise, so ease of cleaning is a priority. These materials are waterproof and sweatproof and can be washed with soap and warm water.
- For mild cleaning, remove the strap from the Apple Watch and wipe it with a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth.
- For a deeper cleaning, rinse the wristband with warm water and mild hand sanitizer.
- Before reconnecting the strap to the Apple Watch, dry the strap with a dry, non-abrasive, lint-free cloth.
How to clean the Apple Watch metal strap
Metal straps can upgrade your Apple Watch on special occasions or help you adapt to office dressing requirements. When cleaning these high-end watch straps, make sure that your cloth is completely free of dirt and debris to avoid scratching the metal.
- Remove the strap from the Apple Watch and wipe it clean with a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth. If necessary, lightly dampen the cloth with warm water.
- Before reconnecting the strap to the Apple Watch, dry the strap with a dry, non-abrasive, lint-free cloth.
How to clean the nylon Apple Watch strap

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The price of woven nylon belts varies from affordable to astronomical. Depending on the amount of your investment in a particular nylon belt, it is best to proceed with caution.
- Remove the strap from the Apple Watch and wipe it clean with a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth. If necessary, lightly dampen the cloth with warm water.
- Let the strap air dry before reconnecting it to the Apple Watch.
Clean Woven Solo Loop
Apple’s woven Solo Loop is made of polyester yarn woven around a silicone thread, forming an eye-catching design. Unfortunately, it can also catch dirt and grime. Some users recommend using a soft toothbrush and warm water to clean this complicated strap, but you do so at your own risk. Apple recommends only using a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth, slightly dampened if necessary. Violation of these guidelines may invalidate the product’s one-year limited warranty.
- Remove the strap from the Apple Watch and wipe it clean with a non-abrasive, lint-free cloth. If necessary, lightly dampen the cloth with warm water.
- Allow the strap to air dry before reinstalling it on the Apple Watch.
You can also take a look: The best Apple Watch straps
How to clean the Apple Watch itself

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Before cleaning, remove the device from the charger and turn it off. If your Apple Watch is connected to a non-waterproof strap, please remove the strap at the same time.
- Wipe the Apple Watch with a lint-free cloth that is not easy to wear. If necessary, lightly dampen the cloth with water, or place the device under running warm water for ten to fifteen seconds.
- Rotate and press the digital crown under low-flow warm water to remove dirt or emulsion from the digital crown.
- Use a dry, non-abrasive, lint-free cloth to dry the entire front and back of the device.
According to Apple, you can also use Clorox wipes and certain alcohol wipes to disinfect your watch, but do not introduce any other soaps or cleaning products.
read more: Apple Watch common problems and solutions