Guide · 3 min read · Updated
How to Clean a G-SHOCK: Resin, Metal Bands and Iced Bezels
Short answer
Wipe a G-SHOCK with a soft cloth often, and rinse it with clean fresh water after sea water or mud. Casio's care instructions are to wash a resin band with water and wipe it dry, and to scrub a metal band with a soft toothbrush and mild soapy water. A custom or iced-out G-SHOCK should be wiped rather than soaked, because modifications can affect water resistance.
How to clean a resin G-SHOCK
Casio's advice is to treat the watch like clothing worn next to the skin: wipe it frequently with a soft cloth to keep the case and band free of dirt, sweat and water. After sea water or mud, rinse it with clean fresh water.
Wash a resin band with water and wipe it dry with a soft cloth. A smudge-like pattern can appear on resin; it is harmless and wipes off.
How to clean a metal G-SHOCK band
Casio's method for a metal band, or a resin band with metal parts, takes four steps.
- Step 1: Wrap the watch case in kitchen plastic wrap so detergent does not touch it.
- Step 2: Scrub the band with a soft toothbrush and a weak solution of water and mild neutral detergent, or soapy water.
- Step 3: Rinse with water until all the detergent is gone.
- Step 4: Wipe dry with a soft, absorbent cloth.
Why cleaning matters
Casio warns that sweat or water left on a resin band or bezel, or storage somewhere very humid, can lead to premature wear, cuts and breaks. On metal parts, trapped dirt and sweat can lead to rust even on rust-resistant steel.
How to clean a custom or iced-out G-SHOCK
Wipe a modified watch with a dry microfiber cloth and lift dust from between the stones with a soft dry brush. Do not soak it: custom modifications can affect water resistance, and chlorine and harsh cleaners wear plating.
Common questions
Can I wash my G-SHOCK with soap and water?
Casio advises rinsing with fresh water and washing a resin band with water. For a metal band, use mild soapy water on the band only, with the case wrapped so the detergent does not touch it.
Why does my G-SHOCK band look smudged?
A smudge-like pattern can appear on the surface of a resin band. Casio says it is harmless to skin and clothing and wipes off with a cloth.
How often should I clean a G-SHOCK?
Wipe it whenever it has been sweated in or got wet, and rinse it after sea water or mud. Frequent light cleaning is what prevents premature wear of the resin.