How to Clean Clock Mainsprings Safely at Home

Cleaning clock mainsprings is an essential part of mechanical clock maintenance. Over time, dirt, old oil, and hardened grease can build up inside the mainspring barrel, causing sluggish performance, loss of power, and even damage to the movement. Knowing how to clean clock mainsprings safely at home helps extend the life of your clock and keeps it running smoothly.

Step 1: Understand When to Clean Clock Mainsprings

Mechanical clocks rely on mainsprings to store and release energy that powers the movement. Over years of use, the lubricating oils inside the mainspring barrel dry out, turn sticky, or attract dust. This buildup can prevent the mainspring from unwinding smoothly, reducing the clock’s power and accuracy.

Clean your clock’s mainsprings when you notice:

• The clock runs for fewer hours or stops prematurely.
• The timekeeping becomes erratic or slows down.
• You hear a grinding or scraping noise from the barrel.
• You haven’t cleaned the mainsprings in 5–7 years.

Regular cleaning prevents unnecessary wear and helps avoid costly repairs.

Step 2: Gather the Right Tools and Supplies

Before you begin, collect these tools and supplies:

• Clock cleaning solution
• Clock mainspring clamps (if needed)
• Clock oil 

Clockworks offers all these tools, including cleaning kits and lubricants, designed specifically for clock mainsprings.

Step 3: Remove the Movement and Barrel

1. Remove the clock hands, dial, and movement from the case.
2. Let down the power using a mainspring let-down tool or key to prevent accidental release.
3. Locate the mainspring barrel inside the movement.
4. Remove the barrel carefully, keeping track of the position and order of parts.

Take photos during disassembly to help with reassembly.

Step 4: Safely Remove the Mainspring

1. Use a mainspring winder to extract the spring safely from the barrel.
2. Clamp the spring securely with a mainspring clamp if needed.
3. Avoid pulling the mainspring out by hand—it can snap back forcefully and cause injury or damage.
4. Once removed, inspect the spring for cracks, rust, or distortion.

If the mainspring shows severe wear or cracks, replace it rather than clean it.

Step 5: Clean the Mainspring and Barrel

1. Apply clock cleaning solution to the mainspring using a soft brush or soak the spring if heavily soiled.
2. Wipe away old oil, grease, and dirt with a lint-free cloth.
3. Clean the inside of the barrel thoroughly, removing all old lubricant and debris.
4. Dry the parts completely with a clean cloth or let them air-dry.

Avoid using harsh chemicals like gasoline, paint thinner, or WD-40—they can damage the metal and leave harmful residues.

Step 6: Lubricate the Mainspring

After cleaning:

1. Apply a thin layer of clock mainspring grease or high-grade clock oil to the entire length of the mainspring.
2. Spread the lubricant evenly, making sure all coils are covered.
3. Avoid over-oiling, which can attract dust and cause sticking.

Proper lubrication allows the mainspring to deliver smooth, consistent power without binding or jerking.

Step 7: Reinstall the Mainspring and Barrel

1. Use the mainspring winder to safely wind the spring back into the barrel.
2. Check that the spring sits flat and evenly inside the barrel.
3. Reassemble the movement, ensuring all gears and pivots align properly.
4. Install the movement back into the case, reattach the dial and hands, and start the clock.

Step 8: Test and Monitor Performance

Run the clock for at least 24 hours after cleaning:

• Listen for smooth ticking without grinding or scraping noises.
• Check that the clock keeps time accurately.
• Monitor the power reserve to ensure the mainspring delivers a full cycle.

If issues continue, recheck the spring installation or consult a clock repair expert.

Tips to Avoid Damage

Always use a mainspring winder—never remove or reinstall springs by hand.

Use clock-specific cleaning solutions and oils, not household cleaners.

Keep work surfaces clean and organized to avoid losing parts.

Replace heavily worn or cracked mainsprings instead of trying to clean them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Forcing the mainspring out or in by hand — Use proper tools to prevent injury.

Skipping lubrication — Dry mainsprings will bind and fail prematurely.

Over-oiling — Too much lubricant attracts dirt and creates new problems.

Using the wrong chemicals — Household cleaners can damage the spring and barrel.

Summary

Cleaning your clock’s mainsprings safely at home improves power delivery, accuracy, and lifespan. By using the right tools, cleaning solutions, and techniques, you can restore your clock’s performance and avoid unnecessary repairs. Always handle mainsprings with care, lubricate properly, and test thoroughly before returning the clock to service. For premium mainspring tools, cleaning kits, and expert support, visit Clockworks.com or email clockworks@clockworks.com—we’re here to help you keep your clocks running beautifully.

Updated on: 28/09/2025