Can Airpods Get Wet? Understanding Water Resistance in Wireless Earbuds

AirPods, Apple’s popular wireless earbuds, have become a common accessory for people who are on the go. Despite their convenience, a common concern is their resistance to water. You might be relieved to know that models like the AirPods Pro and the third-generation AirPods offer a degree of sweat and water resistance, carrying an IPX4 rating. This means they can handle splashes of water from any direction, which is sufficient for non-water sports and exercise.

However, it’s important to understand that water-resistant is not the same as waterproof. None of the AirPod models are designed to be submerged in water. If your AirPods do come into contact with liquid, there’s a specific way to handle them in order to minimize potential damage. You should promptly remove them from the water source and dry them carefully with a lint-free cloth.

In the event that your AirPods get wet, whether from rain or an accidental trip through the laundry, there are recommended steps to follow to ensure their longevity. While the resistance to water can offer peace of mind for minor splashes or sweat, recognizing that these devices are not invulnerable to water is crucial for maintaining their functionality over time.

AirPods Water Resistance Overview

When considering the water resistance of your AirPods, it is important to know the specific model you have, as water resistance levels vary.

• Original AirPods & AirPods (2nd Generation): These models are not water-resistant. It is crucial to keep them dry to avoid damage.
• AirPods Pro (1st Generation) & AirPods (3rd Generation): These are IPX4 rated, meaning they’re resistant to water splashes from any direction. Hence, they can handle sweat during workouts or light rain.

Note: Water resistance is not the same as being waterproof. Do not submerge any AirPods model in water.

Charging Cases

• Original AirPods & 2nd Gen Cases: Not water-resistant. Keep them in a dry environment.
• AirPods Pro & 3rd Gen Cases: With the release of AirPods Pro 2nd generation, the case also becomes water-resistant, suitable for use in lighter scenarios like rain.

Tips for Care:

• If your AirPods get wet, wipe them with a dry, lint-free cloth.
• Let them dry completely before placing them in the charging case.
• Avoid charging wet AirPods to prevent damage.

It is important to refer to the official Apple guidelines for handling your specific AirPods model in wet conditions. Remember, water resistance can diminish over time due to normal wear and tear.

Understanding IP Rating of AirPods

When considering the AirPods’ resistance to water and dust, it’s essential to understand their IP rating. IP, or Ingress Protection, is a standard that defines levels of sealing effectiveness against intrusion from foreign bodies and moisture. AirPods Pro (2nd generation) have a rating of IP54, while other models like AirPods Pro and AirPods (3rd generation) also offer some level of sweat and water resistance.

Here’s what the IP54 rating stands for:

• IP5X Dust Protected: Ingress of dust is not entirely prevented, but it must not enter in sufficient quantity to interfere with the satisfactory operation of the equipment.
• IPX4 Water Resistant: Protects from splashing water, no matter the direction.

Keep in mind that the water resistance of AirPods:

• Applies to non-water sports and exercise.
• Does not mean they are waterproof.
• Can diminish over time.

Precautions:

• Avoid immersing AirPods in water.
• If they get wet, don’t use heat or rice to dry them, as this may cause damage.

Quick Tips:

• Do: Wipe off excess moisture and let AirPods air dry.
• Don’t: Expose AirPods to flowing water or submerge them.

Remember, the IP rating applies to the AirPods themselves, and for the AirPods Pro (2nd generation), this extends to its charging case. Other models, such as the original AirPods or AirPods Max, do not have an IP rating and therefore lack this ingress protection. Always refer to the user manual for specific care instructions for your particular AirPods model.

Precautions When Using AirPods Near Water

When using your AirPods near water, it’s important to recognize they are water-resistant, not waterproof. To prevent damage, follow these guidelines to keep your AirPods safe and functional:

• Before Exposure:

  • Ensure that no water infiltrates the speaker mesh or microphones as these are particularly vulnerable areas.
  • Do not wear your AirPods during activities that may lead to submersion, like swimming.

• During Exposure:

  • If your AirPods come into contact with water, remove them from your ears immediately.
  • Gently shake out any excess water that may have accumulated in the earbuds.

• After Exposure:

  • Dry your AirPods: Use a dry, lint-free cloth to absorb water from the outer surfaces.
  • Air dry: Let your AirPods air dry completely before placing them back in the charging case.
  • Charging Case Precautions: Make sure the AirPods are dry before putting them in their case to avoid potential water damage to the case itself.

Remember: Sweat and water resistance are not permanent conditions and can diminish over time as a result of normal wear. Therefore, minimize the exposure of your AirPods to water to maintain their condition. If your AirPods are routinely subjected to moist environments, periodically check for signs of water damage.

What To Do If AirPods Get Wet

If your AirPods become wet, it’s essential to act immediately to prevent damage. Here’s a straightforward guide to dealing with wet AirPods:

1. Wipe Them Down: Gently dry the AirPods using a soft, lint-free cloth, like a microfiber cloth.
2. No Heat Sources: Avoid using hairdryers or other sources of heat, which can damage the internal components.
3. Leave Them to Dry: Set your AirPods in a dry location with good airflow. Resist the temptation to put them in rice as it can lead to dust and debris getting inside the device.

For Your Charging Case:

• If the charging case is wet, open the lid and place it upside down to let moisture escape.

Precautions for AirPods Pro and AirPods (3rd generation):

• These models are IPX4 rated, meaning they’re resistant to splashing water from any direction.
• Submerging them in water is not recommended.
• Ensure the devices are completely dry before putting them back in the case or plugging them in for charging.

Warning: AirPods (1st and 2nd generation) are not water-resistant. Extra care should be taken to avoid getting them wet.

If your AirPods have come into contact with anything other than water, for example, soaps or other chemicals, lightly dampen the cloth with water and wipe them clean.

After drying, if your AirPods are not functioning as expected, it may be necessary to seek professional repair or replacement.

Limitations of AirPods in Wet Conditions

When considering using your AirPods near water, it’s important to understand their specific limitations. Although certain models of AirPods, like the AirPods Pro and the AirPods (3rd generation), have some degree of sweat and water resistance, this resistance is not a permanent condition and can diminish over time.

Be aware that:

• Sweat and Water Resistance: While resistant, your AirPods are not waterproof.
• Submersion: You should never submerge your AirPods in water. This includes avoiding any activities like swimming or taking a shower with them on.

Tips to Protect Your AirPods:

• Avoid placing AirPods under running water, such as showers or faucets.
• If they do get wet, wipe them off promptly with a microfiber cloth.
• Leave the charging case open and upside down to air dry if it gets wet.

Remember, the charging case is not water-resistant at all. If an accident happens and your AirPods are exposed to water:

1. Act fast to mitigate any potential damage.
2. Avoid heat sources for drying, as this may cause damage.

In summary, treat your AirPods with care in wet conditions. If they get wet, taking immediate and appropriate action can help prevent long-term damage.

Maintenance Tips for AirPods After Water Exposure

If your AirPods encounter water, prompt and proper care is essential to minimize damage. Below are steps you can take to ensure your AirPods remain functional after water exposure.

• Immediate Action: Remove your AirPods from the liquid and place them on a flat, dry surface without delay.

• Case Care: If the charging case gets wet, open the lid and invert the case to let any liquid escape. Do not attempt to dry the case by exposing it to high heat or airflow directly into the charging ports.

• Drying Process:

  • Wipe your AirPods with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.
  • Position them in a well-ventilated area with the charging case open and let them air dry for at least 24 hours before attempting to use or charge them.

• Avoidance of Heat: Never place your AirPods on or near heat sources to speed up the drying process. Excessive heat may cause additional damage.

• Testing After Drying: Once your AirPods are dry, check for sound quality and charging functionality.

  • If you notice any irregularities, it may indicate internal damage.

Important Note: The AirPods Pro and AirPods (3rd generation) have some water resistance, but this does not imply they are waterproof. Water resistance can decrease over time, and damage from water or other liquids is not covered by the warranty.

Remember that prevention is key. To avoid water contact, always remove AirPods before engaging in activities where they could become wet.