How to fix a sticky Digital Crown on your Apple Watch
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 --?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.
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 --?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.
Comments
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.
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.