Screen Looks Dirty - Won’t Clean off

[TRICKorDEVICE]

Hi all,

I have a series 3 stainless steel, so a crystal sapphire screen. After visiting Palm Springs for four days (111° heat, chlorinated pool, sunscreen) there are what look like smudges or water spots on the watch face.

Normally some water and a soft rag, or some hot breath and a t-shirt wipe will clean it off quickly. These spots/smudges won’t come off.

Anything else I should try to clean it off with before taking it to Apple?

Has this happened to you?

 

[DotCom2]

You could try eye glass cleaner or one made especially for computer screens.
Apple Store uses one that has become quite popular.
If I remember the name of it I'll post back.

 

[TRICKorDEVICE]

You could try eye glass cleaner or one made especially for computer screens.
Apple Store uses one that has become quite popular.
If I remember the name of it I'll post back.

Thanks, please do. Is it possible water got in and the spots are on the inside of the glass?

 

[Julien]

Sounds like the oleophobic coating. It is an organic compound so heat and strong chemicals could likely damage it (make it look sporty or opaque). You can simply remove it using isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber. May need to soak a little and take a few tries but this will 'clean' it down to the sapphire. If you really want the oleophobic coating back you can buy a kit and re-coat it.

 

[DotCom2]

Thanks, please do. Is it possible water got in and the spots are on the inside of the glass?

OH I just found it. It's called WHOOSH.
It says:
alcohol-free, ammonia-free, haze-free, anti-static and streak-free formulation.

Of course it's possible, but unlikely since the series 3 is highly water resistant and made for swimming with.
If the cleaner doesn't work, then yes, a trip to the Apple Store is appropriate.
(Thanks for your post. I just ordered some myself from Amazon for an upcoming trip. )

 

[TRICKorDEVICE]

So helpful, thanks everyone!

 

[44267547]

Thanks, please do. Is it possible water got in and the spots are on the inside of the glass?

Curious to know your update once you try to remove the smudges from the glass. Otherwise, it is possible the moisture could penetrate past the water resistant seals and be trapped under the glass, especially with a combination of that heat and 111° and pool water. Especially with hot tubs, others have had that issue due to the steam that can penetrate pass the water seals.