We runners often consider our running watches to be as important to our running success as our running shoes. We get pretty sweaty out there on our summer runs. Our watches are covered in dirt, sweat, and, sunscreen. However, most of us probably neglect to keep it clean. Try these 3 easy steps to clean your running watch.
How to clean your running watch in 3 easy steps
With just a few easy steps you can easily clean and maintain your running watch.
Try This
- fill a small bowl or sink with warm soapy water (any antibacterial soap will do)
- use a spare toothbrush to gently scrub the band and buttons to remove any grime
- Rinse and pat dry
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You can also wipe your watch with an antibacterial wipe or spray in a pinch. It is recommended to then wipe off any residue with plain water as well.
How often to clean your watch
Simple as that! Depending on how often you use your watch, cleaning it once every 1-2 weeks will keep it more sanitary.
Why clean your watch
Repeated exposure to dirt and other irritants, can lead to skin irritation. This will also help to prevent odors from building up on the band. Taking care of your running watch will help to extend the life of your watchband and prevent build-up from sunscreen and sweat.
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So, how often do you clean your running watch? It’s okay you can tell me. I never used to do it either.
Thanks for helping to make the Runners’ Roundup a huge success by visiting all of the hosts: Me, Debbie, Jen, Lisa
Great tips, Deborah!
The Garmin 245 also has a very sensitive recharging slot – as soon as it’s just a little dirty, it won’t work properly. So keeping your watch clean is important!
yes good point! I find the band gets really dirty too
I always shower with my watch so it gets rinsed off pretty well in there. Some days I’ll take it off to give in a better rinse.
that works too! I find the sunscreen seems to build up on the band
I haven’t done a formal cleaning of my Garmin but if I get dirt in it when I’m running on the trails, I’ll wipe it down then. I should take better care of it so it ‘takes care’ of me, lol
Yes, exactly! Never too late 🙂
I’m not very disciplined about cleaning my watch, but I don’t wear it very often. That being said, when I DO wear it, it’s for long runs or races (usually on hot days, LOL), so it could use a good wipe-down.
sounds good!
Er… what? I’m supposed to be cleaning my watch??? I guess it makes sense, especially since my new one is white. Thanks for the tips!
I had a white one for a while and it got very dirty! Yes, never too late to start
You’re supposed to clean your watch??
Obviously I never have. lol
Never too late to start! 🙂
I just cleaned my watch and commented at the time how I never cleaned my old watch with the black band. This watch has a white band.
I used a Q-tip and had a heck of a time getting in all the tiny spaces. A toothbrush makes so much more sense. Duh.
it works really well hope you give it a try!
Right now I’m trying to clean it more often to investigate the whole wonky HR thing. Not sure it’s helping but clean is never bad, right?
hope that helps! I wonder what is causing that/
Yup. It’s the time of year to be more diligent with that. This is a great reminder for me to get it done.
It never hurts!