How do I keep my metal watch strap beautiful?

Stainless steel and titanium are popular materials for watch straps. They are strong and very durable. Nevertheless, these bracelets will get dirty or scratched with daily use. Fortunately, you can do something about that, because if you clean the bracelet every now and then, it will stay beautiful and last longer. With these tips you will certainly succeed.

Steel and titanium bracelets

Dirt such as dust, grease and skin flakes can easily accumulate between the links of a metal bracelet. To get it hygienically clean again, it can be gently washed with lukewarm water.

Remove the strap from the case whenever possible, especially if the watch is less than 5 ATM water resistant. If this is not possible, work carefully. If necessary, wrap cling film around the watch case to prevent water from entering it.

If the bracelet is very dirty, you can use a soft toothbrush with some soap and water to brush the dirt away. Then rinse well with water and dry with a soft cloth. Do not scrub too hard, as this can cause minor scratches, especially on color-coated bracelets. There are special cleaning sets available for steel bracelets containing a mild cleaning agent.

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Top Tip: If you get a rash from your metal bracelet, you may be allergic to steel or other metals. You could consider purchasing a titanium bracelet or watch. Titanium is naturally anti-allergenic.

You can also use a simple polishing cloth to rub a shiny metal watch strap.

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Top Tip: Is your watch bracelet very dirty and scratched? Then bring your watch to our watchmaker for some TLC. He or she will ultrasonically clean the bracelet down to the smallest corners and polish and the bracalet until it looks like new.

Gold plated and gold watch bracelets

Gold plated watch bracelets are steel bracelets with a thin layer of precious metal such as gold. This type of bracelet must be cleaned very carefully so as not to damage the precious metal layer. Bands made of solid gold - a soft metal - are also susceptible to scratches and discoloration.

If possible, detach the strap from the case, especially if the watch is less than 5 ATM water resistant. If this is not possible, work carefully. If necessary, wrap cling film around the watch case to prevent water from entering it.

Do not use soap or other cleaning agents to clean gold plated or precious metal bracelets, but use a damp cotton ball and / or cotton swab. 6 parts water with 1 part ammonia works best. If, like me, you don't like ammonia, only water will do just fine. Dry the strap with a soft cloth. Preferably a cloth especially for jewelery.

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Top Tip: Use a cleaning cream especially for jewelry.

Plastic and silicone parts

Some metal bracelets contain plastic or silicone parts or linings. You can easily clean these bracelets with water. Do dry the band well, because if the strap is left damp for a long time or is exposed to sunlight, the quality of the strap can deteriorate and cracks may appear in the plastic or silicone.

Transparent or white plastic and silicone are also sensitive to discoloration. Unfortunately, little can be done about this, but fortunately it does not happen often.

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Top Tip: Always rinse your watch strap well after a day at the beach. This way, wear and discolouration from salt and sunscreen does not stand a chance.

Still in need of a new watch strap?

Despite all good care, a metal bracalet can start to look a little less nice over time. Or you want to change the look of your watch with a leather strap. At Watch.co.uk we have a huge range of brand watch straps. With our unique strap finder you will find the original metal bracelet or a replacement leather strap for your watch in a few mouse clicks.

More information about the maintenance of leather watch straps can be found here.