How to remove sand from a watch bracelet? Some practical tips

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How to remove sand from a watch bracelet? Some practical tips

Asher Brown

Asher follows the latest trends and fashions. He is fond of luxury clothing and accessories, especially watches. Asher’s interests include tennis and travel.

29 Jun 2023

Summer is a time dedicated to unwinding and embarking on various journeys, whether they're quick weekend getaways or longer stays. You put on your fave watch with a steel or titanium bracelet, wear comfy flip-flops and head for the beach. But when you get back home, you notice that sand is stuck between the tiny links of your watch bracelet. How can you clean it properly without damaging the bracelet? Don't worry, we've got some great ways to help you out.

 
 

The beach - an extreme test for your watch

A trip to the beach is quite a challenge for your watch. It undergoes rigorous testing in every possible way. A lively game of beach volleyball puts its shock resistance to the test. We test the water resistance of the watch both during lazy drifting on a mattress and surface swimming. Some even take it a step further and venture into the depths of the sea. Once we've enjoyed a refreshing dip and cooled off our watch, the time comes to expose it to the scorching sun. If your watch manages to survive all of this, there's still the ultimate showdown awaiting — the clash of the titans: the watch versus the sand. The sand proves to be a formidable opponent, stealthily scratching the glass, the case, and stubbornly wedging itself between the links.

 

tissot seastar collection

 

How to prevent this effectively? The easiest way is to avoid wearing this type of watch when heading to the beach. Instead, consider wearing a smartwatch equipped with sports modes and a silicone strap that is easy to clean. Another great option is to choose a shockproof, waterproof, and even mudproof Casio G-Shock watch. This significantly reduces the risk of damaging the device while still allowing you to track your heart rate and monitor your swimming progress.

 

certina men's watch with an interesting bezel

 

Effective ways to clean sand from your bracelet

If, like us, you can't part with your watch and unfortunately find sand lodged between the links of the bracelet, there's no need to panic. We’ll tell you how to clean your watch effectively. If your bracelet has links connected by spring bars, simply use a screwdriver (for screws) or tweezers (for spring bars) to detach them. Gently clean the disassembled bracelet with a soft, dry cloth, being careful to prevent the grains of sand from scratching the metal. Alternatively, you can seek the assistance of a watchmaker who can provide a similar service for a fee. By opting for professional help, you can ensure your watch is returned to you looking as good as new.

 

jacques lemans women's watch

 

The case is different when it comes to mesh bracelets because unfortunately their links can’t be unfolded. So, what then? Compressed air can come in handy. By applying pressure, the sand should dislodge and fall out. It's advisable to begin on the inside of the bracelet. Remember to be careful not to damage the outer layer. Another option is to use the cold air from a hairdryer. Make sure to detach the bracelet from the watch case. Additionally, if you notice your watch has fogged up after sunbathing, there's a simple home remedy to remove the moisture. Place the watch in a container filled with rice or moisture-absorbing packets. Allow the watch to dry naturally. This trick also works for other devices, such as a mobile phone, if they have been exposed to moisture. Remember, however, that if your watch consistently fogs up, it's advisable to consult an authorised watchmaker for further assistance.

 

skagen women's watch

 

Take care of your watch on a daily basis!

A watch is a personal device that accompanies us at all times. Through our activities we expose it to extreme experiences. It's important to remember that certain environments, such as saunas or beaches, may not be suitable for certain models. Exposing your watch to water or chemicals can have adverse effects on its functionality and appearance. In the event of damage or uncertainty about home remedies, we strongly recommend seeking assistance from a reputable and professional watchmaker.

 

Asher Brown

Asher follows the latest trends and fashions. He is fond of luxury clothing and accessories, especially watches. Asher’s interests include tennis and travel.