Following these FAQ tips should help you avoid problems related to wearing your Garmin watch. However, if you develop a skin rash, redness or irritation, stop wearing the watch until your skin has healed. Clean the watch and band thoroughly and follow the relevant use and care tips below. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor or dermatologist.
Wearing tips
The right fit
The band of your Garmin watch or activity tracker should be loose enough to move back and forth on your wrist. However, a watch with a wrist-based heart rate sensor should be worn snugly (but still comfortably) against your wrist during exercise. Wear the band two finger-widths above your wrist bone, and remember to loosen the band after your workout.
Keep things clean and dry
Rinse thoroughly and let the device dry after it has been exposed to sweat or water during exercise, swimming or showering. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause skin irritation.
Take a break
Give your skin a chance to rest from prolonged wear. To avoid skin irritation, switch the wrist you wear the device on.
Cleaning
We recommend cleaning the band frequently to remove build-up of sweat and other particles or residue and to prevent odour. Follow the cleaning tips below every time you shower. Select your band material below to see the cleaning recommendations.
Leather bands
- Leather or suede bands are designed for everyday activities and are not recommended for highly active pursuits.
- To clean, wipe the leather band with a soft, clean, lint-free cloth. If needed, you can slightly dampen the cloth to remove dirt. Let the band dry completely before wearing.
- Leather cleaners and polishes may cause the colour to fade.
- Please note that leather is a natural material and may develop a patina over time with normal use.
Metal bands
- To clean, wipe the metal band with a soft, clean, lint-free cloth. If needed, dampen the cloth with water. Let the band dry completely before wearing.
- Do not use metal polish or abrasive products to clean or shine a metal band. This may damage the finish.
Nylon bands
- To clean, wash the band in cold water. Mild soap can be used to remove stubborn stains or dirt. Rinse thoroughly with water and let it dry completely before wearing.
Silicone or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), elastomer bands
- Rinse with water and let the band dry before wearing.
- To remove residue from body lotion, sunscreen, insect repellent, etc., use rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth, then rinse with water. Let the band dry before wearing.
How do I clean the watch case?
- Rinse with water or clean with a damp lint-free cloth.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean dirt that has built up in the device's charging contacts.
- IMPORTANT: do not use a toothbrush to clean the watch's openings or cavities, especially on devices with cavities for speakers and microphones.
- Do not use sharp objects to clean the device, and never poke or prod any of the device's openings.
Can I clean my watch with disinfectant?
- The watch and silicone and/or metal band can be carefully cleaned with a cloth dampened with 70% isopropyl alcohol.
- A disinfecting wipe can also be used, but we recommend rinsing the watch under water afterwards to remove any chemical residue and avoid skin irritation.
- Do not use disinfectants to clean fabric or leather bands.
- Do not clean the watch or bands with bleach; do not immerse the watch or bands in cleaning agents.
- Avoid getting disinfectant in the openings of the watch case.
Can I use an ultrasonic cleaner?
- Ultrasonic cleaners are not recommended. Using an ultrasonic cleaner may damage the watch.
Care
What to avoid
To preserve your watch's appearance and avoid possible skin irritation, we recommend keeping the watch away from the following chemicals:
- hair dyes
- insect repellents
- moisturising creams and body lotions
- oils
- perfumes
- disinfectants
- soaps
- solvents, detergents or household cleaners
- sunscreens
Also keep in mind that exposure to these substances can reduce your watch's water resistance over time, so it is best to avoid them whenever possible.
