Earbuds

Dropped Airpod in Water? Here is What You Should Do

Eric Chan

AirPods are still the best wireless earbuds available. Despite the high cost, consumers prefer to acquire these over their less expensive ones. This is because they are more long-lasting and of higher quality. But what do you need to do after you accidentally dropped Airpod in water?

If you unintentionally or accidentally drop your AirPods in water, Apple recommends using a microfiber towel to dry the earphones and charging case. Then, lay both the earbuds and the charging case upside down on the cloth. The charging case should be open and facing down. Allow at least 4 hours before putting them to the test.

We put considerable effort into making sure you knew what to do if your AirPods got wet the next time. This article will cover if your AirPods are water-resistant or waterproof, how to save them from water damage, and Apple's guarantee.

Are Airpods Waterproof?

The answer to the question "Are Airpods waterproof?" is a little more difficult than a simple yes or no. The question is really about the word "water resistance."

Apple AirPods are water-resistant and sweat-resistant but are not waterproof. It simply means that AirPods won't experience damage from light contact with water but

First, you need to figure out which AirPods model you have. Remember, the 1st generation AirPods, 2nd generation AirPods, and AirPods Max are neither waterproof nor water-resistant.

This is bad news for individuals who prefer to exercise while wearing AirPods, as sweat may easily get into the openings. You'll have to decide whether the danger is worthwhile.

Some people tend to be able to exercise without damaging their AirPods; however, sweat has been known to cause damage to them. Water will seep through all those open audio holes and ports, especially if you've dropped your AirPods in water.

Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof

Many people will mistakenly believe that these two terms are interchangeable. However, they are not the same. It's critical that you understand the distinction because many earphones are promoted in both ways.

If you don't understand the differences, you can end up wasting your money on a feature that doesn't exist. If a device is water-resistant, it means it can withstand water to some extent. The device's ability to fall into water is likewise limited.

The IPX grade is a common and accurate way to measure water resistance. Ingress protection which is referred to as IP is used to assess a device's ability and defend itself against external pollutants like water, sweat, dust, and dirt.

It usually consists of two digits where the first represents a device's ability to defend against solids, while the second indicates its ability to protect against liquids.

In the IPX rating system, the greater the number, the better. Devices can be rated from IPx0 (no moisture protection) to IPX8 (complete moisture protection- can be immersed in water with a depth of 1 to 3 meters).

Dropped AirPod in Water? How to Save Airpods From Water Damage

white and black plastic toy

The terrible experience of dropping your AirPods in water doesn't have to end in disaster and a new charge on your credit card. Do not put your precious AirPods inside the charging case after they have been submerged in water.

The AirPods will not be able to dry properly in the enclosed space, and any water that leaks out of the AirPods would certainly damage the charging case. When you're sure your AirPods are totally dry, put them back in their case.

Here are a couple of options for saving dropped AirPods from water damage.

1. Using a Dry Cloth

Apple's own maintenance advice may just cure the issue. Simply dry them well with a microfiber cloth or a lint-free cloth and lay them upside down to air out before trying to connect them to your phone or use them.

Do the same to the charging case. Once your AirPods dry overnight or after a few minutes of air dry, go ahead and use them. If this method doesn't work, don't give up just yet, you can try the next method.

2. Using Desiccant Packets

If your AirPods still have remaining moisture and appear to be damp, get a container and some desiccant packets. Those are the "do not eat!" paper packets that are commonly found in shoes, electronics, and another product packaging.

Desiccant packets

Moisture is absorbed by the beads in these packets. Fill the container with a few packets and your wet AirPods, then shut it for a few hours. This should remove any lingering moisture from the AirPods, allowing them to completely dry and function again.

3. Using Air Waves to Eject water

Another approach is to use airwaves to help remove any water that may have become trapped inside your AirPods. This is extremely similar to the water ejection mechanism on the Apple Watch.

To begin, connect your AirPods to your iPhone and turn the volume all the way up (don't put them in your ears!). Then, on your iPhone, install the Siri Shortcuts app. While covering the sensors on each AirPod and then enable the Water Eject shortcut.

Your AirPods should vibrate, and water should start to drip out slowly. This procedure can be redone or repeated as many times as necessary.

If your AirPods still don't work even after all these options, then it's time to replace your Apple earpods.

4. Get Your Airpods Replaced

There's still hope for you if your AirPods got wet and are irreversibly ruined, even if you don't want to buy brand-new retail ones. AirPods are covered by Apple's warranty program.

Apple's extended warranty is known as AppleCare+, and it covers a lot more than the usual one-year warranty. For an additional charge, you can get it when you buy your AirPods. AppleCare+ also covers "accidental damage," which includes things like drops, water damage, and heat damage, among other things.

If you have AppleCare+, the fee is actually rather reasonable. Out-of-warranty expenses are a little higher, but they're still cheaper than brand-new AirPods in both cases. Apple's official AirPods Repair page will most likely address your exact problem.

The standard Apple AirPods warranty, on the other hand, does not cover water damage or any other accidents that could harm your AirPods. If you only have the basic warranty, you're only protected for issues that are Apple's or the retailer's fault, such as a charging case that breaks right out of the box.

How To Take Care Of Your AirPods

1. Using Them

Proper care of your AirPods while they're in use can make a big difference. Remember that the longevity of a device is mostly determined by how you use it.

Since AirPods aren't the most durable items on the market, keeping them away from severe temperatures and moisture is advisable. You may use foam tips to keep dirt and moisture out of your AirPods while you're using them. After a long period of use, inspect your AirPods for dirt or water damage.

2. Cleaning

A mild soap, water, or 70% isopropyl alcohol can be used to clean AirPods. Wipe the surface of your AirPods with a lint-free soft cloth. Moisture can get into the mesh if you wipe it.

You can clean the mesh with a dry, lint-free cloth or a microfiber cloth. When cleaning your AirPods, avoid using abrasive materials or sharp items. Even though some Airpods pro has a water-resistant seal, don't run the AirPods in water.

3. Storage

When you're not using your AirPods, it's ideal for storing them in the charging case that came with them. After every use, put your AirPods away.

In addition, the case should be kept in a clean, dry environment. Avoid storing it in extremely hot or extremely cold temperatures. Also, when storing your AirPods, avoid exposing them to direct sunlight.

Tips on How To Avoid Water Damage on AirPods

  • AirPods should not be worn when swimming.

  • AirPods shouldn't be used in the shower.

  • When it's raining hard, don't wear AirPods when outside.

  • AirPods should not be worn when participating in aquatic activities or water sports.

  • AirPods should not be put in the washing machine.

  • AirPods shouldn't be worn in a sauna or steam room.

  • Keep your AirPods away from damp or wet surfaces.

  • Maintain a safe distance between your AirPods and other people's beverages.

  • When you're done or not using your AirPods, store them in the case.

  • Since the water-resistant seals degrade easily, avoid dropping your AirPods.

  • Remove any makeup, perfume, lotion, or other items that have gotten on your AirPods right away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Apple Airpods

1. How much water can AirPods take?

Although AirPods are wonderful, they aren't waterproof. AirPods aren't water-resistant by default; however, AirPods Pro is. They are, in reality, IPX4 rated.

This means that if the AirPods Pro are gently splashed with water, they should be fine. If you don't dry your normal AirPods or AirPods Pro right after they fall into the water, they may be destroyed.

Unfortunately, water-resistant seals deteriorate over time, so your AirPods Pro will become less water-resistant as it ages. Water-resistant seals are also unable to be resealed. As a result, the older your water-resistant AirPods Pro becomes, the more cautious you should be.

2. Are my AirPods water resistant?

Only AirPods Pro is water-resistant, and there are no waterproof AirPods. While you should avoid getting your AirPods Pro wet on intentionally, they should be able to withstand the occasional splash.

Don't get your original Apple's AirPods or AirPods (2nd generation) wet or Airpods cases because they aren't waterproof or water-resistant. The same applies to any Airpods charging case.

3. Can you put AirPods in uncooked rice to fix water damage?

If you do a fast Google search on how to fix wet AirPods, you'll notice that most of the advice is to soak them in rice. Unfortunately, this solution is no better than merely air-drying your AirPods. The rice method is a fallacy that should be debunked worldwide.

The rice method is a misconception that should be debunked when it comes to Apple devices. In fact, the rice grains and other particles can get stuck within the AirPods, causing more harm than good.

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