Your favorite watch accumulates dust and marks over time, but improper cleaning risks scratching the case or damaging its movement? Discover how to safely clean your watch using methods tailored to each material. We reveal the essential tools such as microfiber cloths, tips for stainless steel or leather straps, and mistakes to avoid to preserve the shine of your watch accessory.

Important Preparations for Successful Cleaning

Essential Tools to Have on Hand

A microfiber cloth and a soft-bristled brush are fundamental for safe cleaning. These accessories prevent scratches on sapphire glass or the polished finishes of modern watches.

The appropriate tools vary depending on the materials and practical situations:

  • Microfiber Cloth – Universal solution for removing marks without scratching the glass or case
  • Soft-bristled Brush – Economical alternative using an old toothbrush for joints and links
  • Mild Soap – Neutral household product that effectively replaces specialized solutions
  • Isopropyl Alcohol – Effective disinfectant for stainless steel straps
  • Specialized Watch Strap Cleaning Kit – A wise investment with ergonomic tools for collectors

Before any intervention, check the water resistance rating engraved on the back of the case. For non-waterproof models, limit cleaning to dry methods.

Safe Disassembly of Components

Gently remove the strap using a Bergeon tool (available in our strap changing kit), by pressing the spring bars. This allows access to hidden areas under the lugs without risking scratching the case.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Techniques

Gentle Case Cleaning

For waterproof models, immerse the watch in a mixture of lukewarm water (40°C max) and Marseille soap. Use an old soft toothbrush to dislodge residues between the lugs without risking scratching the metal.

Non-waterproof watches require a different approach: apply a slightly dampened microfiber cloth, avoiding sensitive areas.

Specific Strap Maintenance

Articulated metal link bracelets require meticulous brushing. Immerse them for 10 minutes in soapy water before scrubbing each crevice with a wooden toothpick.

For patent leather, use makeup remover milk on cotton pads, applying in concentric circles. Cork or vegetable fiber straps require specific maintenance – eco-friendly alternatives are cleaned with a white vinegar/water mixture (1:3) and immediate drying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Prohibited Cleaning Products

White vinegar and ammoniated detergents attack rubber gaskets and oxidize steel hands. Solvents like acetone dissolve the adhesives of luminescent markers – always prefer pH-neutral solutions.

Abrasives like scouring powder create irreversible micro-scratches on mineral glass. Even watches with synthetic sapphire lose their anti-reflective coating when exposed to these aggressive products.

Improper Handling

Overly vigorous brushing can erase engravings. Use pressure equivalent to that of a watercolor brush – the brush should glide without resistance on surfaces.

Avoid resetting the crown immediately after rinsing. Allow residual moisture in the grooves to evaporate for at least 30 minutes to preserve the case’s water resistance.

Frequent Oversights

Neglecting the spaces between the lugs and the strap allows corrosive residues to accumulate. Use a wooden toothpick to extract these deposits without scratching the stainless steel.

Unrinsed soaps on titanium straps can cause electrochemical reactions. Always double the rinsing time for these materials, which are sensitive to alkaline products.

Solutions to Common Problems

A stuck strap can be freed by applying a drop of silicone oil to the spring bar recesses. Allow it to penetrate for 10 minutes before attempting disassembly again with the appropriate tool.

Superficial micro-scratches can be faded with non-abrasive scratch removal products. Apply in regular circles for a maximum of 3 minutes – beyond that, you risk altering the finishes.