AppleInsider Staff
Through regular daily use, the rotating Digital Crown on the Apple Watch can collect dirt, debris and general gunk underneath, making it feel sticky to turn or press. Thankfully, Apple recommends a simple and quick fix that should return it to normal.
As a wearable device, it's easy for dust, hand lotion, soap, and other common elements to come into contact with the Apple Watch. If it collects around the Digital Crown, its performance can be reduced.
But because the Apple Watch is waterproof for Series 2, and water resistant for Series 1 and the first-generation models, all of Apple's wrist-worn devices can be quickly cleaned in the sink.
Apple recommends powering off and holding the Digital Crown under lightly running, warm, fresh water from a faucet for just 10 to 15 seconds. Simply rotate and press the Digital Crown as the water runs to help push out any substances that have collected underneath.
There's no need to use any cleaning products, like soap, when repairing the digital crown — just water should do the trick. After completed, it's recommended to wipe the device with a non-abrasive, lint-free cleaning cloth.
If you have a water-resistant Apple Watch band, like the silicone sport option, or woven nylon, you can even leave the band on during cleaning — Â or leave the watch secured on your wrist. However, if you use your watch with a leather band, Apple recommends removing it from the device before cleaning, in order to prevent water damage.
For more, see how the Digital Crown can allow you to discreetly check the time in a dark environment, like inside a movie theater, with Apple Watch Series 2. And see AppleInsider's ongoing helpful tips and guides to get the most out of your Apple products, apps and services.
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
Chip Loder
Malcolm Owen
11 Comments
I push the crown a few times a day, but can't remember the last time I turned it.
I also didn't realize until a few months ago when the series 1 and 2 were introduced that my year-old Apple Watch wasn't waterproof. Don't let it know, though! It's been sprayed, sprinkled, dripped, showered, and submerged on many occasions while I was none the wiser - with no signs of water intrusion.
After a cup of soda got spilled on my arm and consequently on my Apple Watch, the crown wouldn't turn or press. Before taking it in for repairs, I took a chance and did exactly what it said above: I stuck it under a running water faucet. The crown now works fine. Whenever it gets a little stuck, I do it again.
I see Apple has updated its page on cleaning. Not long ago, it warned users against splashing it with water, which I thought was interesting since the CEO boasted it was his expensive rubber ducky.
I'm sorry, but there would be no way in heck that I would do this to my watch, Series 1 or 2. I'm very surprised that AppleInsider would publish such an article.
Here's a safer option <and one I do myself>:
1. Take off the watch.
2. Use a wet paper towel or rag and gently wipe off the crown.
3. Turn the crown to make sure it isn't still sticky.
4. Put the watch back on.
Problem solved.
Have problem not with the crown but with the side button sticking. A quick wash seems to fix that problem too.