Fitbit Strap Smells? Discover Why and How to Fix It Fast!

You’re not alone if you’ve noticed that your Fitbit strap smells slightly funky. It’s frustrating, right? You wear your Fitbit device daily, tracking your steps, workouts, and sleep. But after a while, that band starts to develop an slight odor. It’s not pleasant, and it can make wearing your Fitbit tracker less enjoyable. The good news? You can do something about it. In this article, FitstrapsUK (The world's most trusted supplier of Fitbit Straps) will dive into why your Fitbit strap smells and, more importantly, how to stop it. With just a few simple steps, you can keep your Fitbit fresh and ready to wear every single day of the week.

So, why does my Fitbit Strap smell?

Put simply, your Fitbit strap smells because it collects sweat, dirt, and oils from your skin. Whether you're using a metallic band, leather bands, or the standard silicone strap, your Fitbit device is always in contact with your wrist. This constant contact leads to moisture getting trapped beneath the strap, especially after your more intense workouts. Over time, this moisture causes bacteria to grow, making your Fitbit band smell bad. It’s not just the strap; even the back of your Fitbit tracker can hold onto sweat and oils.

Different materials like metal bands or leather bands can smell bad for different reasons. Leather bands tend to absorb sweat more, while metal bands might hold onto oils. The key to keeping your Fitbit tracker fresh is regular cleaning. Without regular care, even the best Fitbit trackers can develop an unpleasant odor.

How do I stop my Fitbit from smelling?

To stop your Fitbit from smelling, you need to make regular cleaning of the device a habit. After each workout or a long day of wearing, take a few minutes to clean your Fitbit band. Use a soft cloth with a bit of water to wipe down the strap and the back of your Fitbit device. This helps remove the sweat, dirt, and oils that can build up and cause odors.

For deeper cleaning, use a mild soap or a gentle, non-alcoholic cleaner. Be thorough but gentle, especially with leather bands, which can be sensitive to harsh products. If you have a metal band, make sure to dry it completely after cleaning, as moisture can get trapped beneath and lead to a smell.

Air drying is key. Always let your Fitbit band air dry fully before putting it back onto your device. This prevents moisture from lingering and creating a breeding ground for bacteria. By staying on top of these simple steps, you can keep your Fitbit tracker fresh and odor-free no matter how much your wear it.

How can you clean a smelly Fitbit Strap?

Cleaning a smelly Fitbit watch strap isn’t difficult, but it does require the right approach. Start by removing the strap from your Fitbit device. This makes it easier to reach every part of the band. First, give it a rinse with warm water. If the strap is a water-resistant one, this should help remove surface grime. For a deeper clean, use a gentle soap-free skin cleanser if you have it to hand, as this won’t damage the material of your band.

If your strap has a stubborn smell, mix a small amount of dish soap with water and gently wipe the strap with a soft cloth. Be thorough but don’t scrub too hard, especially if you’re dealing with leather bands. For metal bands, a quick rub with a cloth dampened in rubbing alcohol can help kill bacteria and remove any lingering odors. Just make sure that you dry it completely afterwards.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning wipes that contain insect repellent or other strong ingredients, as these can damage your strap over time. After cleaning, leave the strap to air dry for a few hours. Always, make sure it’s completely dry before reattaching it onto your Fitbit tracker. 

Remember, regular cleaning is the key to keeping your Fitbit strap fresh. A quick wipe-down after workouts and a deeper clean every few weeks will keep bad smells at bay, so your Fitbit tracker stays ready to wear every day.

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What should I clean the back of my Fitbit with?

Cleaning the back of your Fitbit is just as important as cleaning the strap. Sweat, oils, and dirt can also build up on the back of your Fitbit tracker, leading to irritation and even affecting how well your device works. To keep it clean, start by gently wiping it with a soft, lint-free cloth. This removes surface dirt and oils.

For a deeper clean, you can use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on the cloth. Rubbing alcohol is great because it evaporates quickly, so it won’t leave any moisture behind that could damage your Fitbit. Just be sure to gently wipe the back of your device, avoiding any ports or charging contacts. Another option is using a soap-free cleanser like Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser. This is a good choice if you prefer something milder than rubbing alcohol. Apply a small amount to the cloth and wipe down the back of your Fitbit. Make sure to remove any residue with a clean, damp cloth afterward.

Avoid using harsh chemicals, cleaning wipes with strong ingredients, or anything abrasive, as these can damage the sensors and finish on your Fitbit. After cleaning, let the back of your Fitbit air dry for a few minutes before clipping it back on or charging it. Regular cleaning keeps your Fitbit working well and prevents skin irritation, so it’s worth taking a few extra minutes to do it correctly. By using the right products and techniques, you’ll keep your Fitbit tracker in top shape, ready to help you reach your fitness goals.

How to stop my Fitbit Band from smelling?

To stop your Fitbit band from smelling, as we mentioned above, you need to stay on top of regular maintenance. Start by making sure you clean your band after every workout or whenever you notice it’s getting a bit grimy. A quick wipe with a damp cloth can remove surface sweat and dirt before they have a chance to settle in. For a deeper clean, use a gentle skin cleanser or a small amount of mild dish soap. Rinse it well and let it air dry completely before wearing it again.

Moisture is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to a smelly Fitbit band. After cleaning or if your band gets wet, make sure it’s thoroughly dry before putting it back on. This is especially important if you’re using leather bands, as they can absorb moisture more easily. For metal bands, make sure you dry them well to prevent water from getting trapped beneath the band.

Another tip is to take off your Fitbit when you’re not using it, like when you’re just lounging around at home. This gives both your skin and the band a chance to air out, reducing the buildup of sweat and oils that can cause odors.

Finally, avoid exposing your Fitbit band to things that can make it smell worse, like insect repellent or heavy lotions. If you’re using any products like these, take off your Fitbit until they’ve fully absorbed into your skin. By following these steps, you can keep your Fitbit band fresh and free of unpleasant odors, ensuring that it’s always ready to wear, whether you’re working out or just going about your day.

The Bottom Line

Cleaning your Fitbit and strap is crucial for both comfort and performance. Regular cleaning, drying and avoiding harsh chemicals will prevent stinky smells. Take just a few minutes after each workout to care for your Fitbit and it’ll be fresh and ready to wear every day.

Remember, different materials need different care so whether you have a metal band, leather band, or the standard strap, treat them accordingly. If you ever run into challenges or need more advice, don’t hesitate to make contact with us here at FitstrapsUK. With regular maintenance, your Fitbit will be your fitness companion for years to come.