If you’ve got an Apple Watch, you know that the band can smell a little funky from time to time, particularly if you’re active or if you wear it daily. Of course, high quality materials can help, but beyond that, over time, there are plenty of watch band odor causes that can include sweat, natural oils and the buildup of bacteria on the watch band surfaces.
Don’t let this mix fester — not only does it smell bad, it can also hold the keys to being the perfect breeding grounds for bacteria! It’s important to clean regularly, as not even the best material can overcome the grime that will build up as a result of constant use.
Routine Cleaning to Prevent Smells
Keeping your Apple Watch band smelling fresh doesn’t require a lot of work – just a quick, consistent routine. The best way to prevent unwanted odors is by giving your band a gentle cleaning with soap and water for watch band maintenance. Here’s a watch band cleaning guide to keep it simple and effective.
First, detach the band from your Apple Watch. This makes it easier to handle and ensures that you’re not exposing the watch face to moisture.
Next, use a mild soap with warm water to clean the Apple Watch band effectively. Apply the soapy water to a soft cloth or sponge rather than directly onto the band, gently wiping down the entire surface. Be especially mindful of any textured areas, as these spots can trap sweat and oils over time.
After cleaning, thoroughly rinse off any soap residue with clean water. Avoid soaking the band or using abrasive cleaners that could damage it. Finally, let the band air dry completely before reattaching it to your watch.
Using Baking Soda for Deep Cleaning
For a deep clean of a watch band that’s battling persistent odors, using baking soda for watch band odor can be your go-to solution. Just mix baking soda with a bit of water to create a thick paste, then spread it over the band, covering any areas prone to smell.
Leave it on for about 10-15 minutes; this lets the baking soda absorb and neutralize odors effectively. Rinse thoroughly with water and pat dry, making sure no residue remains.
Avoiding Smells During Intense Activity
As sweat collects quickly under your Apple Watch band during intense activity, over time you may start to experience odors. If you are using an Apple Watch for workouts as well, then a simple way to dodge watch band odor would be to choose breathable bands that let more air flow around your wrist — that includes fluoroelastomer or woven nylon sports bands.
If you can also take off your watch (at least briefly) when performing high sweat activities, that will be great, as it will give your skin some time to breathe in-between, which helps reduce the amount of sweat building up on the watch band.
Using Odor-Eliminating Sprays Safely
When it comes to keeping your Apple Watch band from smelling bad, it’s important you know that you can use a deodorizing spray. Since most Apple Watch bands are made from materials such as silicone or rubber, hunt down odor eliminators that are specifically designed for accessories made from these materials.
Harsh chemicals in any spray should be avoided to prevent them from degrading the band and causing skin irritation. Always begin by applying the odor eliminator for Apple Watch out to a small, inconspicuous area on the band to make sure that you don’t affect it’s color or texture. It’s safe to use on the Apple Watch because it’ll remove odors without affecting the watch’s comfort or look.
Apple Watch Bands Less Prone to Odor
If you’re sick of the odor on your Apple Watch band, it can make a big difference to try alternative options. If you’re looking for the best Apple Watch band for odor resistance, you’re likely going to be drawn to some breathable material that won’t trap sweat or bacteria.
A great option is the Nike watch band, which has ventilation holes (for airflow) to prevent odor build up from workouts.
This Nike edition of the odor resistant watch bands is made from lightweight, water resistant materials that help keep your watch fresh, even after intense activities.
Storing Your Apple Watch Properly
If the Apple Watch band isn’t on your wrist, store it in a clean, dry place where it won’t absorb moisture or promote odor buildup from trapped moisture in the materials. Also, ventilation of the watch band every so often lets it get some air out and prevents trapped sweat or skin oil from sitting on the material.
Just setting the watch and band on a shelf or in a drawer that isn’t encased can go a long way to prevent that odor, and keep your band ready to go for its next wear.
Conclusion
There are a few simple habits you can adopt to make keeping your Apple Watch band fresh much easier than you’d expect. The most critical thing to stop odors from building up in time is to keep up the regular cleaning and take care of your Apple Watch band. Odor resistant materials and use of watch band odor tips can do wonders in eliminating offensive odor.
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