Ever since Apple released AirPods, they’ve become a must-have accessory for modern tech enthusiasts. Whether you’re playing music on the go or taking calls and dictating messages, AirPods provide an effortless experience. But one question that plagues many Apple fans is this: Are AirPods waterproof? Will they survive a splash of water or a sweaty jog? In this blog post, we will dive into the details to answer these questions.
Are AirPods Waterproof?
The short answer is no, AirPods are not waterproof. Apple has never made any claims that the product is waterproof and even if it were, immersion in water would cause damage to its components. However, this doesn’t mean you should avoid using them while sweating or exposed to light rain showers – they can still survive brief exposure to moisture.
In general, it’s best to keep your earbuds away from water and other liquids as much as possible. If they come into contact with liquid, wipe them down with a dry cloth or tissue immediately. For more serious cases, such as dropping the earbuds in a pool or puddle, you should consult Apple support for further advice. [1]
Another important tip to keep in mind is that the charging case and its lightning port should be kept dry at all times. If you’re using your AirPods near water, remove them from the case and store it away before getting close to any source of moisture. This will ensure that both the earbuds and the charging case will be kept dry and at their best.
But now AirPods Pro 2 has been released, which means that these earbuds are now IPX4 rated. This indicates that they’re splash-proof and sweat-resistant. This doesn’t mean that you should submerge the AirPods in water – it only ensures protection from light rain and sweat.
Be careful when using AirPods near water, as any contact with liquid can cause long-term damage even if the product is rated for waterproofness. As a result, keep them away from pools, oceans, and other bodies of water.
Are AirPods Cases Waterproof?
The AirPods case is designed to be water resistant, but it is not entirely waterproof. This means that if the case gets wet, it will still help protect your AirPods from damage due to splashes or spills. Ensure that the case is dry before putting your AirPods back in. [2]
If you’re looking for a way to further protect your AirPods, there are several waterproof cases available on the market made specifically for this purpose. These cases provide additional protection against splashes and even deeper submersion in water. They can be a great option if you are likely to get your AirPods wet while out and about or during activities like swimming or fishing.
What is Water Resistance?
Water resistance is a measure of the ability of an electronic device to repel or resist water and other liquids.
IPX4 is the most common type that you’ll find on AirPods. This means that the device is protected from splashes and sprays of water from any direction, up to a certain limit.
IPX7 is slightly more advanced than IPX4, and offers protection from submersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. But it won’t protect your AirPods from deeper diving or longer submersion.
IPX8 is the highest level of protection and offers complete protection from submersion in water up to a depth of 4 meters for up to 60 minutes.
Do All Apple AirPods Have Water Resistance?
No, only the AirPods Pro have a water-resistant design. The regular version of Apple’s wireless earbuds does not have any type of water resistance capabilities. This means that you should avoid exposing either version of AirPods to liquids and moisture as much as possible. [3]
Waterproof vs. Water Resistant
Waterproof means that an item is completely impervious to water, while water-resistant implies that it can resist a certain amount of moisture without becoming damaged. For this reason, many electronic devices are labeled with IP ratings (Ingress Protection) indicating their level of water protection.
In addition to keeping your AirPods away from liquids, it is important to keep them clean and dry at all times. This will help ensure that the coating remains effective and that no moisture can enter into the device. You should also avoid exposing your earbuds to extreme temperatures, as this can cause the coating to become less effective over time.
Overall, if you are looking for a device that is completely waterproof, then AirPods are not the right choice for you. However, if you need something that is resistant to sweat and splashes of water, then they can be a great option. Just be sure to take proper care of them and keep them away from liquids whenever possible.
What is an IPX4 Rating?
IPX4 rating is a standard established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that measures the water resistance of electronic devices. This rating system provides consumers with an indication as to how well a product can withstand splashes from any direction. An IPX4 means that the AirPods can handle up to a few splashes of water for a short period of time. [4]
What to Do if Your AirPods Get Wet?
It’s important to act quickly. The best course of action is to:
- Immediately turn off your AirPods and disconnect them from any connected device.
- Dry the exterior surface with a lint-free cloth, ensuring you don’t press too hard on the earbuds.
- Place your AirPods in a bowl of uncooked rice and leave them there for at least 48 hours to help draw out any moisture that may be inside the earbuds.
- After 48 hours, remove your AirPods from the rice and test them out to ensure they still work.
It’s also important to note that if your AirPods do not work after being exposed to water, you may be able to contact Apple directly and have them replaced. While they are not waterproof, they are covered by a one-year warranty. So if you believe the malfunction was caused by water damage, it is worth making a call to Apple Support and trying to get a replacement.
How Should I Clean My AirPods?
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to keep your AirPods clean, the best thing you can do is give them a quick wipe down with a soft cloth every few days. For deeper cleaning, Apple recommends using wipe dampened with water or isopropyl alcohol and wiping down the AirPods and their case. You should never submerge your AirPods in water, as this could damage the internal components.
When wiping down your AirPods, avoid getting any moisture in the openings or their charging case. Be sure to only use soft cloths — nothing abrasive or harsh — and don’t use solvents, aerosol sprays, oils, or abrasives. [5]
To keep your AirPods case clean, you can also take it off the charging base and give it a wipe with a damp cloth every few days. Apple’s official instructions recommend avoiding contact with hair products, lotions, perfumes, and aerosols.
Finally, if you don’t want your AirPods to get dirty in the first place, consider investing in a case to keep them safe from scratches and dirt. There are a variety of cases available that can help protect your AirPods while still allowing for easy access and portability.
How to Avoid Water Damage to Your AirPods
Here are some tips to keep your AirPods safe:
- Never submerge your AirPods in liquid and try to avoid exposure to moisture as much as possible.
- When using your AirPods near water, make sure to keep them away from splashes and puddles.
- Wipe off any sweat or moisture that builds up on the AirPods with a soft cloth.
- Keep your AirPods in a case when not in use, as this will provide an extra layer of protection.
- If you are using your AirPods in wet environments, such as the rain or a pool, dry them off immediately after use.
- If you do get your AirPods wet, turn them off and let them dry naturally before trying to use them again.
With proper care, your AirPods can provide you with many years of listening pleasure.
FAQ
Can I Wear AirPods to Shower?
Unfortunately, the answer to this question is no. AirPods are not waterproof and should not be worn in the shower or any other wet environment. Apple has stated that AirPods have a water resistance rating of IPX4 which means they are splash-resistant but not suitable for swimming or submersion in water. [6]
Does Rice Work for Wet AirPods?
In the last few years, more and more people have been asking if rice can help rescue their wet AirPods. Rice is not the best method of drying them off, since the little grains can’t get into all of the tiny crevices that collect water. You’re much better off using a specialized drying solution or getting your AirPods professionally serviced if you do happen to get them wet. That being said, some people have found success with using rice as an emergency method to dry out their wet AirPods. [7]
If you’re going to attempt to use rice, keep in mind that it may not be as effective as other solutions, and there’s no guarantee that it will work. If you do decide to try using rice, make sure to use only the uncooked variety (not instant or microwaveable).
If you find that your AirPods are still wet after 24 hours, you may want to try the rice method again for another day or two. If the AirPods still don’t seem completely dry after a few days, it’s best to get them professionally serviced or purchase a new pair of AirPods.
How Long to Leave AirPods in Water?
It is not recommended to submerge your AirPods in water for any length of time. The best practice is to wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth or rinse them under running water for no more than 10 seconds. Anything longer than that could potentially damage the components inside the AirPods. If you do accidentally drop them in a pool, lake, river, or other body of water, remove them as soon as possible and allow them to dry completely before attempting to use them again.
If your AirPods do become submerged in water for an extended period of time and appear to be functioning normally afterwards, you should still consider replacing them if they were new when the incident occurred. Even though Apple advertises that their products are water-resistant, there’s no guarantee that they won’t be damaged in the long run if exposed to water for too long.
Can AirPods Survive Washing Machines?
The general consensus among AirPod users is that while they are generally water-resistant, AirPods should not be subjected to any kind of washing machine cycle – no matter how low the spin speed! But AirPods can survive a washing cycle including the charging case. It is important to note that even with this protection, AirPods are not guaranteed to survive being washed in a machine! [8]
How Much Does It Cost to Fix Water Damaged AirPods?
Replacing a single AirPod can cost anywhere from $69 to $89, depending on the model you own. You may also have to pay for shipping charges if you’re not able to take your AirPods into an Apple Store or authorized service provider. If your entire set is damaged, then it’s likely that you’ll need to purchase a new pair of AirPods.
The cost of repairing water-damaged AirPods is usually more expensive than replacing them, as it may require specialized tools and parts. If you’re considering having your AirPods repaired by a third-party technician, be sure to compare costs before making a decision. [9]
Remember that Apple Care+ can provide coverage for accidental damage, including water damage. If you have Apple Care+, then it’s likely that you’ll be able to get your AirPods repaired or replaced at a discounted price.
Useful Video: AirPods Drop & Water Test! Secretly Waterproof?
Conclusion
The answer to the question of whether AirPods are waterproof — unfortunately, the definitive answer is `no`. The AirPods’ IPX4 rating means they can withstand some water splashes or sweat but cannot be submerged underwater. So if you’re planning on taking a dip while wearing your AirPods, it’s best to leave them at home.
However, in case your AirPods do get wet accidentally, the best thing to do is to dry them off and let them sit for a while before attempting to use them. If you’re extra worried about water damage, there are also waterproof cases available that can be used to protect the AirPods from liquid.
In short, being careful with your AirPods and taking a few extra steps to protect them will go a long way in ensuring that they last as long as possible.
References:
- https://www.headphonesty.com/2023/01/waterproof-airpods/
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210711
- https://mashable.com/article/how-to-fix-wet-airpods
- https://suprabeam.com/technology/ipx4/
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/102672
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT210711
- https://earrockers.com/airpods-rice-water-damage/
- https://alvarotrigo.com/blog/washed-my-airpods/
- https://discussions.apple.com/thread/251699844
