A wristwatch serves a greater purpose beyond its function of timekeeping. It preserves your cherished memories, making it crucial to maintain its exquisite appearance. Learn how to clean your watch at home to ensure your valuable timepiece remains flawless and radiantly beautiful whenever you wear it.

At Ernest Jones, we recognize the immeasurable value of your prized possessions. Let us provide you with guidance on caring for your watch with the utmost tenderness, love, and care it deserves, ensuring it shines with the same precision as it ticks.

Prior to cleaning your watch, it is essential to identify its composition, as different materials may require distinct cleaning methods. For instance, a watch with a leather strap cannot be cleaned with water, as it poses a risk of damage. On the other hand, a gold watch is prone to scratching. Therefore, we recommend the following cleaning process for watches made from stainless steel or rubber.

Another crucial consideration is the water resistance of your watch model, as improper cleaning attempts could inadvertently cause damage. Most watches with a resistance rating of 50m should be suitable for cleaning. However, timepieces with lower resistance may require special precautions when contemplating cleaning.

What you need before cleaning your watch

To ensure a successful and safe cleaning process for your timepiece, it is advisable to gather all the necessary items in advance. This prevents the omission of crucial steps and minimizes the risk of accidental damage to your watch.

Here are the recommended items you’ll need to clean your watch: a mild soap (such as hand soap or dish soap), warm water, a bowl, a small and soft brush (like a gentle toothbrush), a designated cleaning area (preferably on a towel or layered surface), and a dry microfiber cloth.

Now that you have gathered everything you need, let’s proceed with a step-by-step guide to restore your watch’s sparkling appearance:

STEP 1: Begin the cleaning process by gently wiping the watch using a soft cloth to eliminate any initial dirt, dust, or grime. While a paper towel can be used, it is advisable to opt for a microfiber or chamois cloth, as they are softer and gentler on watches.

STEP 2: An essential aspect to remember when cleaning your watch is to use water at the appropriate temperature. Lukewarm water is recommended, as it is warm enough to effectively remove dirt while remaining cool enough to avoid any damage to your timepiece.

It is crucial to avoid hot water entirely, as it can cause the expansion or contraction of metal components, potentially leading to water entering the watch and causing harm to intricate internal mechanisms. Even water-resistant or dive watches, known for their durability, can be vulnerable to damage when exposed to hot water, making it important to refrain from wearing them in saunas or while showering.

After preparing a clean bowl with a mixture of lukewarm water and soap, carefully immerse the watch bracelet in the solution for a few seconds.

STEP 3:

Using a soft toothbrush or cloth, delicately eliminate any visible grime, oil, or dirt from the bracelet, ensuring it reaches into crevices. Be cautious not to submerge the watch face in the water to avoid potential damage. Remember to apply gentle pressure to prevent scratches, being mindful of the amount of force exerted.

To remove any lingering soap residue, employ a clean damp cloth or run the bracelet under a gentle stream of water for thorough rinsing. This step is crucial since soap residue can cause the steel to appear lackluster and tarnished. Ensure that all traces of soap are completely eradicated to restore the watch’s sparkle. Finally, gently pat the watch dry using a cloth.

How often watches should be cleaned?

We suggest performing a thorough cleaning, as described above, for your watch approximately once a month. Additionally, your timepiece will benefit from a quick daily cleaning routine, which involves simply wiping it with a soft cloth. This regular maintenance helps prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime, making the deep cleaning process easier when needed.

It is important to note that while watches can be cleaned at home, there is no guarantee of effectively removing invisible dirt and germs. For this reason, we recommend taking your watch to a professional service provider for professional service and cleaning. Our experts possess the expertise to polish scratches and conduct essential tests, such as checking gaskets and watch resistance, ensuring that your timepiece is in optimal working condition.

Do different watches need to be cleaned differently?

Indeed, leather watches cannot be washed with water, and it is advisable to avoid rinsing gold or vintage watches, as the metal may be prone to water damage. Additionally, specific watch brands may provide their own cleaning recommendations. For instance, some brands, like TAG Heuer, suggest deep cleaning watches every 2-3 months.

If you are unsure whether your watch can be cleaned or need further assistance, you can visit your local watch specialist or jeweler, where friendly experts will be happy to address your concerns and provide helpful tips to ensure your watch shines brilliantly, regardless of the type or brand.