Have you ever wondered why keeping your watch clean was of such immense significance? Sure, who doesn’t want a watch that shines as if you brought it yesterday? However, the reasons go beyond the outlook alone.
It turns out that giving your watch a good scrub every once in a while can make it last way longer compared to one that’s never seen the light of a good cleanse. Studies show that a well-maintained watch will ensure your handy time-tracker sticks around for a few decades.
Interested in diving into expert recommendations and a step-by-step guide with the latest ultrasonic cleaner that will make your watch last 30% longer? This comprehensive blog provides an in-depth guide into everything you need to know to make that happen!
Table of contents
Why Ultrasonic Cleaning Matters for Watches
Like all things in life, the durability of your wristwatches depends on their maintenance. Clean them regularly and they’ll last for years to come.
Before the idea of ultrasonic cleaners came around, DIY watch cleaning tutorials and even watchmakers relied on handy toothpicks, brushes, soapy solvents, and cloths. Some professionals added a touch of polishing powder as a watch buffer to retain that new-look polish.
Here’s the real question – watches have been cleaned with classic toolkit solutions for decades, so what makes ultrasonic cleaners stand out?
The classic methods worked, but let’s admit that they had their limitations. Your watch would never be clean enough considering brushes could only go so far and never into the deeper watch parts. Let’s not forget the residual marks and damage that often taint the surface with these conventional techniques.
Overall, the age-old watch cleaning methods worked to an extent. However, ultrasonic cleaners bring a range of benefits without the disadvantages. With this development in watch cleaning, you’re looking at technology that gets the junk out of the tiniest parts without the risk of damage.
Ultrasonic cleaners have in-built mechanisms that produce high-frequency sound waves. Consequently, these sound waves create microscopic bubbles using the cleaning solution. The bubbles implode, resulting in shock waves that enter the watch parts and push out dirt and debris.
Ultrasonic cleaners are nothing less than a revolution in the watch industry. We’ll get to the benefits of switching to this method in the next section. For now, the takeaway point is that it has become a go-to method for watch enthusiasts and professional watchmakers alike, owing to its many benefits that traditional methods struggle to match.
Benefits of Using an Ultrasonic Cleaner for Watches
Without a doubt, ultrasonic cleaners have leveled up the watch cleaning game. If you haven’t tested it out yet, it’s time you do. The results are bound to make you stick to this cleaning method for your watches. But you might be wondering what’s all the hype about.
For starters, this technique beats the handy toothbrush and cloth method by miles. The high-frequency bubbles produced in ultrasonic cleansers reach the tiniest compartments. In other words, the precision in terms of cleaning nooks and crannies is unmatched.
Are you still one of the watch owners who have to take out time of their day to clean their watch? That won’t be the case if you’re using an ultrasonic cleaner. Watch an episode of your current TV show or get those chores done once you’ve set up the cleaner. Ultrasonic cleaners reduce the time and effort needed to get your wrist adornments as good as new.
We’ve highlighted the precision and thoroughness of ultrasonic cleaners, but won’t this method damage your valuable timepiece? Not at all! In fact, ultrasonic cleaners are much more gentle compared to brushes and harsh chemicals such as alcohol-based solutions. As a result, you can expect your watches to last longer.
How to Clean a Watch with an Ultrasonic Cleaner
Although taking your watch to a professional cleaner gets the work done, going for the DIY method has its own pros. The care during the process and the satisfaction after the cleanup are unparalleled. But for that to happen, you need to be somewhat of a professional yourself in using an ultrasonic cleaner. Since we’ve got you covered here, there’s nothing to worry about.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Watch in Ultrasonic Cleaner
Now that you’re all geared up, here’s a brief and simple manual that will guide you through the process every step of the way.
Step 1: Setting Up the Ultrasonic Cleaner
First things first, you’ll need to set up your ultrasonic cleaner.
Choose a leveled surface to set up your ultrasonic cleaner to prevent any unnecessary movement during the cleaning process. Moreover, ensure that there’s a reachable power supply nearby to plug in the cord.
Turn your ultrasonic cleaner on and select the settings. It’s best to get a professional-grade ultrasonic cleaner if you’re investing in one, like Vevor’s dual-frequency ultrasonic cleaner with heater timing.
This advanced ultrasonic cleaner lets you choose between two frequencies – 28 kHz and 40 kHz. If you’re looking for a surface-level clean, the former works best. However, for a more thorough cleaning cycle, select 40 kHz.
Similarly, you can choose the temperature settings between 0°C to 80°C. Normally, 40°C to 60°C is safe for cleaning watches without damaging any parts.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Cleaning Solution
The next step is to find the right cleaning solution for your ultrasonic cleaner.
Most ultrasonic cleaners will have a manual to guide you in terms of the cleaning solution. For instance, with Vevor’s ultrasonic cleaner, you don’t need a watch cleaning solution owing to the heating mechanism.
With that said, if you’re on the search for something for properly cleaning watch parts, there are several options.
For starters, tap water and a mild detergent is one of the most common DIY cleaning solutions that get the job done. Some experts suggest deionized water instead of tap water as well to prevent water stains and minimize residue.
Of course, the ideal route is to get a specialized watch-friendly ultrasonic cleaning solution. You’ll find a wide range of variety once you start exploring for enhanced cleaning, maintaining luster and shine, etc.
Based on your watch cleaning requirements and the ultrasonic cleaner’s manual, make an informed decision. Once you have the cleaning solution, add that in the ultrasonic cleaner.
Step 3: Placing the watch in the cleaner
Now that you have your ultrasonic cleaner ready for takeoff, it’s time to dunk in that watch.
This step is where you need to go over your watch manual and possibly even consult with a professional watch-maker. To clean or not to clean the watch completely without dismantling the parts depends on your watch’s water resistance and materials.
As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to clean the watch parts separately, meaning you’ll need to disassemble the bracelet, clasp, and watch face. Place the bracelet and clasp in the cleaner’s basket.
Additionally, you can also clean the watch face, but only if your watch movement is removable from the back. If not, it’s best to stick to a microfiber cloth and toothbrush for this part because ultrasonic cleaning vibrations can disrupt mechanical watch movements.
Step 4: Running the cleaning cycle
Finally, all that’s left is to let your ultrasonic cleaner do its magic.
Ultrasonic cleaners come with time selection, usually between 0-30 minutes. Once you select a time duration, the cleaner will automatically turn off after the given amount of time.
For a quick surface clean, 5-10 minutes on the timer will do the job. However, if your watch has dirt and grime stuck in the crevices, extend the duration to 20 minutes for a proper cleaning process.
Once that’s done, take your watch out and let it dry. There you have it – your watch will look good as new!
Best Practices for Effective Ultrasonic Watch Cleaning
Think of ultrasonic cleaners as an automatic washing machine for your watch. You can sit back and relax while the cleaner runs its due course. With that said, it’s equally important to tick a few tips off the checklist, especially if you’re new to this.
Keep the following pointers in mind when getting started with an ultrasonic cleaner:
- Check Water Resistance
It’s best to only clean the bracelet and clasp unless your watch face really needs a good wash. If that’s what you decide, run the watch model and double-check the water resistance level with a professional first. You don’t want any potential damage that could be easily avoided.
- Secure the Watch in a Basket
If you’re considering a shortcut where you place the watch directly in the tank, stop right there! The basket protects watches from any potential scratches from direct contact with the tank, so you want to ensure that your watch is properly secure in the basket.
- Avoid Overcrowding
It may be tempting to clean all your watches or accessories in one go. However, that will only prevent the waves from reaching your watch compartments thoroughly. Therefore, avoid overcrowding the ultrasonic cleaner.
- Use Soft Tools
When it’s finally time to get your watch out, ensure you’re not using any tools with sharp edges that can cause scratches or damage to your watch’s surface. Tweezers are a safe option for this purpose.
Watch Cleaning Ultrasonic: Common Queries Answered
- Can you put a watch in an ultrasonic cleaner?
Yes, you can clean your watch with an ultrasonic cleaner to remove dirt and debris from places you otherwise wouldn’t reach with a standard cleaning kit. However, make sure that you remove the watch movement and opt for a mild or watch-friendly cleaning solution to prevent any potential damage.
- How to use an ultrasonic bath for watch cleaning?
To use an ultrasonic bath for watch cleaning, experts suggest ensuring that you’re using the right cleaning solution that works for your watch and the cleaner. Set the timer as per your watch’s cleaning requirements.
A few practical tips to keep in mind include rinsing and drying the watch properly after taking it out of the cleaner. Furthermore, instead of cleaning your watch once the dirt has settled in, take out your ultrasonic cleaner every few months for proper maintenance.
VEVOR Ultrasonic Cleaner: A Game-Changer
Looking for an all-in-one ultrasonic cleaner that’s versatile and includes all the latest features for commercial-grade watch cleaning? Look no further than VEVOR’s powerful ultrasonic cleaner. This one-time investment not only makes your watches shine bright like a diamond but also saves countless visits to a professional watchmaker for those intensive cleaning sessions.
If you’re tired of ultrasonic cleaners that make big promises but fail to deliver, this product won’t make it to that list. VEVOR’s state-of-the-art ultrasonic cleaner relies on the latest technology and premium material for an immaculate cleaning like no other.
VEVOR’s ultrasonic cleaner offers a range of benefits. One of its most impressive features includes a rust-proof stainless steel structure, meaning this cleaner will stick by your side for decades without any exterior wear down.
The adjustable heating feature is another added bonus. Your watches will thank you, especially the ones that need a deeper cleanse than a routine surface-level wash. Furthermore, the 28/40kHz dual-frequency mode allows you to select one as per your watch cleaning requirements.
This ultrasonic cleaner, unlike others, comes in multiple capacity limits. If you only have a handful of watches, the 10L tank will do the job. However, if you’re a watch enthusiast, you’d want to invest in a bigger 30L tank to save time with a one-go cleaning cycle without overcrowding the tank.
With so many features in one ultrasonic cleaner, you might be wondering if you should take a step back with such a complex interface. Luckily, VEVOR has got you covered there, too, with an incredibly easy-to-navigate user interface. You’ll get the hang of it in your first try, it’s THAT simple!
Currently, with the boom in ultrasonic cleaners and their usage, you’ll find tons of models in the market. From top-tier titans like Branson B200 to compact on-the-go tanks like Kaitse, there’s no limit to the varieties available. Even the smaller models like TreeDental’s 600ml steel tank aren’t short on features like a digital timer display.
Keeping that in mind, VEVOR continues to stand out from the crowd. This ultrasonic cleaner already offers multiple tank capacities fit for various needs, but it has other features that beat most ultrasonic cleaners you’ll find in the same price range, including:
- Premium Material: VEVOR’s stainless steel construction is built to last with industry-grade resilience that ensures anti-corrosion, rust-proof, and leak-proof performance for decades.
- 3 Cleaning Modes: Need an ultrasonic cleaner that cleans both delicate and complex items with precision alongside targeted cleaning options? With sweep, turbo, and degas modes, the VEVOR Ultrasonic Cleaner adapts to various cleaning needs, whether it’s surface dirt or deep-seated grime.
- Adjustable Heating & Timing: Precise heating and timing controls are essential for customized cleaning cycles. After all, not all your watches require a standard 40℃ setting for 7 minutes. VEVOR allows this option, ensuring you have full control over your watch cleaning as per the requirements.
Tips and Tricks from Watch Cleaning Experts
Regularly cleaning your watch has numerous benefits apart from the obvious one that you get a clean, slick watch. It improves the longevity of your watch, in addition to adding to its value and optimizing its performance. So, let’s get right down to several tips and tricks from watch cleaning experts.
Although you won’t need cleaning tools since the VEVOR Ultrasonic Cleaner will take care of the cleaning process, you will have to disassemble the watch prior to it. For that, make sure you don’t apply too much pressure and use soft microfiber cloths. Moreover, choose a cleaning solution that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals to give the watch a pristine look while preserving its integrity.
Some practical advice might also come in handy for you. For instance, regularly winding your watch ensures that the lubricant doesn’t set in. Avoid exposing your watch to extreme temperatures and magnetic fields. The most important thing to keep in mind is the finer details of your watch and its material, which influence the entire cleaning process most significantly.
Summing Up
Now that you know the key to a long-lasting watch lies in regular maintenance, what are you waiting for? It’s time to grab an ultrasonic cleaner, a watch-friendly cleaning solution, and dunk that watch in!
Not quite sure where to start? First things first, your watches deserve the best, like like Vevor’s ultrasonic cleaner, which goes above and beyond in getting that dirt and grits out with advanced features at an unbelievable price.
Once you have the entire setup, the step-by-step instructions will guide you on how to clean a watch, and the tips and tricks from experts to get it right. After all, there’s a world of difference between just cleaning a watch and cleaning it right.
