How to clean a sweaty Apple Watch Sport Band, Sport Loop or Solo Loop

Sweat, sunscreen and dust build up fast on an Apple Watch band in Indian heat. A gentle wipe with fresh water, done the way Apple suggests, keeps the band fresh and kind to your skin in about 10 minutes.

Take the band off the watch, then wipe it with a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with fresh water. For stubborn sweat on these bands, Apple allows a little mild hypoallergenic hand soap, wiped off afterwards with plain water. Dry the band completely before you put it back on, and skip harsh cleaners and heat.

• 1. Take the band off the watch: Place the watch face down on a soft, clean cloth. Hold down the band release button on the back and slide the band sideways out of its slot. If it does not move, press and hold the button again. Cleaning the band on its own keeps water and soap away from the watch.
• 2. Wipe with a damp cloth: Lightly dampen a lint-free cloth with fresh water and wipe the whole band, inside and out. Pay extra attention to the side that sits against your skin and the holes or weave where sweat collects. The cloth should be damp, not dripping.
• 3. Use mild soap only for stubborn grime: If the band still feels sticky or smells after a hot day, Apple says a small amount of mild hypoallergenic hand soap may be used on these bands. Work it in gently with the cloth, then wipe again with a second cloth dampened in plain water until no soap is left.
• 4. Skip harsh cleaners: Do not use bleach, hydrogen peroxide, abrasive scrubbers, household cleaners or strong detergents. Apple also says disinfectant wipes should not be used on fabric bands, so keep them away from a Sport Loop or Braided Solo Loop. Never put the band in a washing machine.
• 5. Dry the band completely: Pat the band with a dry lint-free cloth, then leave it to air dry in a shaded, airy spot until it is fully dry, including the metal lugs that slide into the watch. Woven bands hold water longer, so give them extra time. Avoid hair dryers, heaters or direct afternoon sun.
• 6. Wipe the back of the watch too: While the band dries, wipe the watch with a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with fresh water, then dry it, including the back crystal. Apple notes that lotion or sunscreen build-up on the back can affect the sensors. Do not use soap on the watch itself.
• 7. Reattach and check it locks: With the text on the band facing you, slide it into the slot until you feel and hear a click. Give it a gentle tug: it should not slide unless you hold the release button. If it moves freely, centre it and push it into place again, and do not wear the watch until it locks.
• 8. Wear it snug, not tight: Apple suggests a fit that is snug but comfortable, with room for your skin to breathe. Tighten the band for a workout and loosen it afterwards. After a sweaty day, a quick wipe and dry of your wrist, the band and the watch goes a long way towards avoiding rashes.