Content

• Steps
• Part 1 of 3: Cleaning the wristband
• Part 2 of 3: Cleaning the watch case
• Part 3 of 3: Finishing Touches
• Tips

Cleaning stainless steel watches involves cleaning both the bracelet and the watch case. To clean these parts, you will need a solution of mild soap and warm water, a soft cloth, and toothbrushes. If you have trouble cleaning your stainless steel watch, or if the task seems overwhelming to you, contact a jeweler who will do all the work for you. To avoid damaging your stainless steel watch, do not use chemical cleaners.

Steps

Part 1 of 3: Cleaning the wristband

1. 1 Detach the watch from the bracelet. The way to detach the bracelet depends on the watch itself. Sometimes a simple push of a button is enough to unhook the bracelet from the watch case. Otherwise, you cannot do without a special screwdriver. For more information on how to remove your watch from the bracelet, check the manufacturer's instructions.
2. 2 Soak the bracelet. Dip it in a small bowl filled with soapy water or rubbing alcohol. This will make it easier to remove grit and dirt that has accumulated while wearing the watch. The time you soak your watch will depend on how dirty it is.
   • If the watch is rather dirty, leave it in the solution for a few hours.
   • If there is little dirt, leave the watch in the solution for about half an hour.
   • If the watch case does not detach from the bracelet, wrap it with a paper towel or cling film, and then secure it with a thread or elastic band. Alternatively, the watch can be taken to a jeweler for professional cleaning.
3. 3 Wipe down the links of the bracelet. Dip a soft-bristled toothbrush in alcohol or soapy water. Remove the bracelet from the liquid and use a toothbrush to gently brush away any dust or dirt that has accumulated between the bracelet links.
4. 4 Do not use chemicals to clean your watch. Some chemical cleaners contain benzene or similar substances that can damage stainless steel. They can also irritate your skin, even if you wash them off quickly. When cleaning stainless steel watches, it is safer to use soapy water or alcohol.

Part 2 of 3: Cleaning the watch case

1. 1 Wipe down the watch case. Take a damp cloth and gently wipe off any sticky stains on the watch case. Wipe down both sides of the case.
   • Do not remove the cover from the dial. It protects the dial from dirt and rust.
2. 2 Do not immerse the dial in water. Unless you are 100% sure that this will not harm your watch in any way, do not soak the dial in soapy water or other cleaning agent. Even water-resistant watches need to be checked periodically or the seals should be replaced before exposing them to water again.
   • To find out more about water resistance of your watch, check the manufacturer's instructions.
3. 3 Wipe down the watch case. If you think the watch case is still dirty after cleaning, do a deeper cleaning with a soft bristled toothbrush. Dip the brush in soapy water. Place the brush on the body and brush over it in a gentle circular motion. Repeat the same on the reverse side.
4. 4 Be extremely careful when working with designer watches. If there are engravings or precious stones on the dial, clean it with a cotton ball. Dip a cotton ball in alcohol or soapy water and use gentle circular motions to sweep across the dial.

Part 3 of 3: Finishing Touches

1. 1 Wipe the watch with a soft, lint-free cloth. This is to prevent liquid from getting between the links of the bracelet, thereby limiting the possibility of rust and corrosion on the watch. Use another soft, lint-free cloth to wipe down the watch case.
   • Wipe your watch regularly, especially after exercise or exposure to rain.
2. 2 Let the watch dry. Even after you wipe the bracelet, there may still be liquid between the links. To completely dry the watch, place a dry towel under it and let it sit for about an hour.
3. 3 Take the watch to the jeweler. If you have trouble cleaning your watch, take it to your jeweler. Jewelers have the tools and knowledge needed to clean stainless steel watches. Of course, you will have to pay for this service, but this way you will not only save time, but also avoid possible damage due to inaccurate cleaning.
   • Use the services of a jeweler if you need to clean your antique stainless steel watch.

Tips

• Clean your stainless steel watch every two to three months.