Watches are beautiful pieces that can help you tell time, no matter where you might be in the world. Like all things, they’ll eventually get dirty. You’ll need to clean them off to keep them in use. Windex is a cleaning liquid that comes in handy for everything from windows to counters. You might wonder – is it safe to use Windex on a watch? After I’ve done my research, I found the answer to this question.
Although it’s possible to use Windex on a watch, it’s strongly advised not to. Windex is a liquid-filled with chemicals. In moderation, it serves well as a light cleaner. However, it can quickly damage your watch and eat away critical components. It’s best to stay away.
If you’re interested in learning more about using Windex and other cleaners on watches, you’ve come to the right place! Read on to learn more about why it isn’t best to use Windex, the best way to clean, and more. There’s quite a bit to cover, so let’s get started right away.
Why Isn’t It Safe to Use Windex On a Watch?
Some people have stuck by Windex as a primary cleaning liquid for their watch. It’s an excellent product, but is it ideal for cleaning a time-telling device? Windex is an effective way to clean streaks off outdoor furniture, windows, and counters. Many assume that the same goes for watches. Why should it be any different?
There are a few reasons why Windex isn’t safe to use on a watch. A few of the most prominent include:
- It is corrosive thanks to the addition of ammonia in the liquid
- It can be harsh compared to other cleaning products
It’s a material that should be kept off watches if possible, despite what many watch owners recommend.
There are plenty of less harsh liquids that will work well to clean watches. There are also less corrosive glass cleaners that lack the ammonia Windex contains. Let’s talk about these next to give you a better idea of what to purchase for your cleaning. You might pick from one of these choices instead.
Can You Use Another Glass Cleaner On a Watch?
If you can’t use Windex on a watch, are there other glass cleaners that will work as tools for cleaning off a time-telling device? Although several glass cleaners claim to be eco-friendly alternatives to Windex, the best glass cleaner you can use for a watch is a concoction you make yourself. Let’s talk about some of the best out there.
A few of the ideal liquids you can utilize to clean your watch include:
- A few drops of non-toxic soap and water
- A gentle rinse in warm water
- A tiny amount of vinegar and water
- A little bit of non-toxic detergent and water
These should improve the surface without damaging the timepiece.
Not only are these cleaners effective, but they’re also more affordable than Windex. You can buy each of these items in bulk and replenish the supply whenever necessary. It only takes a few minutes and a spray bottle to prepare this mixture, and you’re ready to go. Most people like the soap and water choice – just a drop or two is enough.
The majority of the time, the best way to clean is to give your watch strap a gentle soak in warm water and wipe the surface with a cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and unnecessary exposure to liquids the watch doesn’t need to touch unless necessary since it may shorten the overall lifespan of the timepiece.
What is the Best Way to Clean a Watch?
The best way to clean a watch is to lightly soak it in warm water, which I mentioned above. Let’s talk about the simple process you can follow if you want to clean your watch.
Here is how you can clean off your watch with nothing but water and a few tools:
- Ensure your watch doesn’t have any chips or cracks that might let water inside
- Take off the strap
- Wipe the watch down with a little water and a microfiber cloth
- Soak the bracelet portion in warm water and a tiny bit of soap if necessary
- Let everything dry
After this process, you can put everything back together right away.
When cleaning a watch, ensure you’re gentle. Keep Windex away if possible for the best results.
What is the Ideal Tool to Use for Watch Cleaning?
Cleaning fluid is not the only critical part of cleaning a watch. You will also need to consider the tool you use to apply the cleaner to the face and the individual components of the technology. You want to find something strong enough to clean properly, but not so harsh that it causes more damage than necessary.
Some of the best tools you can use to clean a watch include:
- Soft-bristled toothbrushes
- Microfiber towels and wipes
- Watch-specific brushes
- Soft wipes that are also eco friendly
These are effective and safe to utilize on even the nicest piece of technology.
Several companies sell brushes intended for watch cleaning. Search for items with soft bristles rather than firm. Don’t use old brushes, as the toothpaste and other residues potentially left on the top could cause further damage to the piece of technology.
Conclusion
Cleaning a watch is a critical part of helping it last longer. If you let grime and grit build on the surface, you will need to replace the item sooner rather than later. Windex is a corrosive liquid, so you should avoid putting it on your watch. Instead, use a homemade soap and water mixture or a cleaner that doesn’t have ammonia inside. Utilize a gentle cleaning tool to minimize any damage.
I hope this information was helpful! There’s a lot to consider when taking care of your watch, whether it’s received a recent stain or you’re performing regular maintenance on the device. The cleaner you keep it, the longer it will last. Windex should never be your go-to as you perform upkeep on this piece of technology.