Understanding the Types of Scratches on Your Apple Watch
If you own an Apple Watch, it’s most likely that you use it every day. With daily use, the chances are high that your watch will get minor scratches and some wear and tear. Scratches are inevitable, but they don’t have to stay there forever. Before attempting to fix the scratch, it’s essential to determine the type of scratch on your Apple Watch as some scratches are easier to remove than others.
Surface Scratches
Surface scratches are the most common type of scratches on an Apple Watch. They happen when your watch comes in contact with rough surfaces or accidentally gets scraped against a hard surface. These scratches only affect the surface of your watch’s screen—meaning they don’t go too deep. The scratches, in this case, are typically not a cause for concern. They will not affect the function of your watch, although they are not aesthetically pleasing. The good news is that surface scratches can be quite easy to fix using some common household items.
Deep Scratches
Deep scratches are often a more significant concern than surface ones. It means that the scratch goes deeper than the surface and can damage your Apple Watch’s functionality. Deep scratches happen from a significant impact to your watch’s screen or exposure to sharp objects. If there is a deep gash on your watch, it’s best to take it to a professional for repairs. Attempting to fix it yourself may only aggravate the situation, causing further damage.
Cracked Screen
A cracked screen is a severe type of damage that requires urgent attention. When your Apple Watch’s screen cracks, it is often an indication that there has been severe damage to the watch. A cracked screen would require immediate repair as the damage could worsen over time. Cracks on the watch screen can cause malfunctions and other faults that can lead to more significant problems if you don’t fix them on time. It’s essential to seek professional help while taking care not to use the device further as using it can only worsen the situation.
Scratches on Stainless Steel Apple Watch
Scratches on the stainless steel Apple Watch are quite challenging to hide, and they are known to be more prominent than the ones on the Aluminum or Sport versions. Stainless steel is highly durable and resistant to scratches, but it’s not entirely immune. Over time, scratches will inevitably arise on the watch’s surface, ranging from small scuffs to deep scratches.
While these scratches do not affect the watch’s functionality in any way, they can be annoying to the eye. There are different methods for removing scratches from a stainless steel Apple Watch, one of which is using a microfiber cloth with some water. Another approach is using a stainless steel cleaner, which will work to eliminate even the deepest scratches in your watch.
Scratches on Aluminum Apple Watch
Unlike the stainless steel Apple Watch, Aluminum is delicate and prone to scratches as its surface is much softer. Using abrasive materials on the Aluminum watch, cleaning with harsh chemicals, or bumping into hard surfaces can lead to scratches on the watch’s surface. Although the scratches can’t be entirely removed, you can find some measures to make them less noticeable.
One of the easiest ways to cover the scratches on the Aluminum Apple Watch is by using some petroleum jelly. Dab a small amount of petroleum jelly on your fingers and gently rub it on the affected area. Using a screen protector or a bumper case can also help prevent future scratches from happening on your Apple Watch.
Using Toothpaste to Remove Minor Scratches
Have you ever experienced minor scratches on your Apple Watch? Don’t worry, you can easily fix it using toothpaste, a product you might already have in your bathroom cabinet. This cost-effective solution is effective in removing minor scratches on your Apple Watch. Here are the steps on how to use toothpaste to remove minor scratches on your Apple Watch:
- Find the right toothpaste – It’s important to use the right type of toothpaste, preferably non-gel-based. Avoid using toothpaste with additives or crystals as it may cause further damage to your watch. Choose white toothpaste as it does not contain any added dyes or colors that can harm your watch. Next, make sure you have a white, lint-free cloth and a small bowl of water ready.
- Using a white lint-free cloth, dampen it with water and rub it gently on the scratch to remove dirt and grime. Wipe the watch clean and dry it with a soft cloth. This step will ensure that you don’t add more scratches to the watch.
- Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste onto the lint-free cloth. Be sure not to use too much as a small amount will do the job.
- Apply the toothpaste onto the scratch. Using circular motions, gently rub the cloth onto the scratch for two to three minutes. Be patient and work carefully on the scratched area, being mindful not to press too hard.
- After rubbing the toothpaste onto the scratch, rinse your Apple Watch with warm water and dry it with a soft lint-free cloth.
- If the scratch is still visible, repeat the process as needed. Be advised that this solution may not work on deep scratches, and if that is the case, you can take your watch to a professional for repair.
Using toothpaste is a quick and cost-effective solution to remove minor scratches on your Apple Watch. It’s a good idea to do a spot check first before proceeding with the toothpaste method to see if there is any discoloration or damage to the watch. Remember to be gentle and take your time when working on the scratch and always use a white, lint-free cloth when cleaning your watch. In any case, if the scratch is too deep, consider taking it to a professional to avoid further damage.
Polishing the Scratch with a Silver or Brass Cleaner
If you’re in a hurry and don’t have time for a professional repair, there’s a way to buff out minor scratches on your Apple Watch’s screen using a silver or brass cleaner. Keep in mind that this method is only intended for minor scratches, not for deeper gouges or cracks. Follow these simple steps if your Apple Watch’s screen has been scratched:
1. Clean Your Watch
Before you begin, you should put the watch to the side and polish the scratch with a silver or brass cleaner. Make sure your watch is clean by using a microfiber cloth dampened with a little bit of water. You don’t want to use anything abrasive or have any particles on the surface before you start polishing.
2. Apply the Cleaner
Once your watch is clean, cover up any holes or exposed ports with a piece of tape. This is to prevent any liquid from getting inside and causing further damage. Apply a small amount of the cleaning solution to the scratch. Only use a tiny amount of the cleaner so that it doesn’t damage the screen or any other parts of the watch.
3. Buff the Scratch
Place a soft, microfiber cloth onto the screen to remove any excess cleaner. Gently buff the scratch in circular motions until it disappears. Avoid applying too much pressure, as this can damage the screen further. Be patient and buff the scratch in small, circular motions until it disappears. It may take several minutes, or even longer, but eventually, the scratch will disappear.
4. Clean and Inspect
Once you’re satisfied with your work, clean the screen with a microfiber cloth and warm water. Carefully remove the tape that was placed over any holes or ports. Inspect your watch’s screen carefully for any remaining scratches or damage. If there are remnants of the scratch left, repeat the process until it is completely gone.
This method is a quick fix, but it will only work on minor scratches. If there is a large gouge or crack on your Apple Watch’s screen, it’s best to take it to a professional repair shop. The screen is an expensive component of the watch and requires a delicate touch. Using a silver or brass cleaner too often can also damage your screen after prolonged use. Keep that in mind when deciding whether or not to use this method.
Removing the Scratch with a Professional Scratch Removal Kit
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution to remove the scratch on your Apple Watch, a professional scratch removal kit is the way to go. These kits usually come with a compound that fills in the scratches, allowing you to buff them out until the surface is smooth and scratch-free.
Before using the kit, you’ll need to check what kind of material your Apple Watch’s screen is made of, as some scratch removers may only be effective on certain types of materials. If you’re unsure about which kit to use, it’s best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or a professional before proceeding.
Here are the steps to using a professional scratch removal kit on your Apple Watch:
Contents
Step 1: Clean your Apple Watch
Before applying any compounds or solutions, you need to make sure that your Apple Watch is clean and free from any dirt, dust, or debris that could further damage the screen. Gently wipe the surface of your watch with a microfiber cloth or a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose particles.
Step 2: Apply the scratch removal compound
Using the applicator that comes with the kit, apply a small amount of the compound onto the scratch. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how much to use, as using too much may cause further damage.
Step 3: Buff out the scratch
Using the polishing pad that comes with the kit, gently buff the scratched area in a circular motion. Apply light pressure, and make sure not to overwork the area, as this may cause more damage. Keep polishing until the scratch is no longer visible and the surface is smooth.
Step 4: Clean your Apple Watch again
Once you’ve finished buffing out the scratch, wipe your Apple Watch again with a microfiber cloth or a soft-bristled brush to remove any residual compound or debris.
It’s important to note that while using a scratch removal kit can effectively remove scratches from your Apple Watch, it may not be a foolproof solution for deep or severe scratches. For more serious damage, it may be necessary to take your watch to a professional for repair or replacement of the screen.
In addition, taking proper care of your Apple Watch can prevent scratches from happening in the first place. Avoid wearing your watch during activities that could cause damage, such as sports or manual labor, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals. Using a screen protector or a case can also help protect your Apple Watch from scratches and other types of damage.
With these tips and tricks, you can keep your Apple Watch looking as good as new for years to come.
When to Seek Professional Help for a Deep Scratch on Your Apple Watch
If you find yourself dealing with a deep scratch on your Apple Watch, you might be wondering what your options are. While there are plenty of DIY methods out there for fixing minor scratches, deep scratches are a different story. In this case, seeking professional help might be the best course of action. Here are some things to consider when deciding whether to seek professional help for a deep scratch on your Apple Watch.
The Severity of the Scratch
The first thing to consider is the severity of the scratch. If the scratch is relatively minor, you might be able to fix it yourself with a scratch removal kit or a polishing cloth. However, if the scratch is deep enough that it goes through the coating and exposes the underlying metal, it’s unlikely that any DIY method will be successful.
Your Level of Expertise
Another thing to consider is your level of expertise when it comes to repairing electronics. If you’re not comfortable taking apart your Apple Watch, working with delicate components, and reassembling the device, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Even if you’re confident in your skills, keep in mind that opening up your Apple Watch could void the warranty, so proceed with caution.
The Cost of Professional Repairs
The cost of professional repairs is another important factor to consider. If your Apple Watch is still under warranty, you might be able to get the scratch repaired for free. However, if your warranty has expired or the scratch isn’t covered by the warranty, you’ll need to pay for the repair out of pocket. Depending on the severity of the scratch and the extent of the damage, professional repairs could end up being quite expensive.
The Timeframe for the Repair
Finally, consider the timeframe for the repair. If you need your Apple Watch fixed quickly, professional repairs might be the best option. Most repair services offer quick turnaround times, so you can get your watch back as soon as possible. If you try the DIY method and it doesn’t work, you might end up wasting time on a solution that doesn’t pan out.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the decision to seek professional help for a deep scratch on your Apple Watch is up to you. Consider the severity of the scratch, your level of expertise, the cost of repairs, and the timeframe for the repair before making a decision. Remember, if you’re unsure of how to proceed, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek the help of a professional.