How to Clean Watch Parts with an Ultrasonic Basket

Quick Answer

Use a fine mesh ultrasonic cleaning basket to hold small watch parts like screws, springs, and jewels during cleaning, preventing them from falling to the bottom of the tank.

How to Clean Watch Parts with an Ultrasonic Basket

1. 1. Load the Basket: Open the basket by squeezing the spring-loaded handle. Place one or two small watch parts inside. Avoid overfilling — parts should not touch each other during cleaning. Overloading can reduce cleaning effectiveness and cause parts to scratch each other.
2. 2. Close and Secure the Basket: Release the handle to close the mesh hemispheres around the parts. Give the basket a gentle shake to confirm nothing can fall out through the weave. Check that the mesh is fully closed; a partially open basket can still lose a tiny screw or spring.
3. 3. Submerge in the Ultrasonic Tank: Lower the closed basket into the ultrasonic cleaner filled with the appropriate cleaning solution. Ensure the basket is fully submerged but not touching the tank bottom. Letting the basket rest on the tank bottom can dampen ultrasonic waves and reduce cleaning performance.
4. 4. Run the Cleaning Cycle: Set the timer according to the manufacturer's instructions for watch parts — typically 3 to 5 minutes. Do not exceed the recommended time to avoid damaging delicate components. Longer cycles do not mean cleaner parts; over-cleaning can loosen oils and lubricants needed for movement function.
5. 5. Rinse and Dry the Parts: Remove the basket from the tank. Open it over a clean, lint-free cloth. Rinse the parts with distilled water if needed, then pat dry with a soft cloth or use a gentle air blower. Always dry parts completely before reassembly to prevent rust or water spots on polished surfaces.
6. 6. Clean the Basket After Use: Rinse the basket itself under running water and shake off excess moisture. Let it air dry completely before storing to prevent corrosion of the stainless steel weave. Residual cleaning solution left in the mesh can crystallize and clog the weave over time.

Product Highlight

• Ultrasonic Cleaning Basket, 45mm Fine Mesh — Small Parts Holder for Watch Work: This 45mm fine-mesh basket is woven stainless steel in two hemispheres; a squeeze of the scissor-action, spring-loaded handle opens it for loading and retrieval. The scissor handle lets you open and close the basket with one hand, so you can drop parts in or take them out without touching the cleaning solution.