What to do if you drop your airpod in water- A Simple Guide

Accidents happen, and if you’ve ever experienced that heart-stopping moment when your AirPod takes an unexpected plunge into water, you’re not alone. Whether it’s a sink, toilet, or a puddle, the sinking realization can be accompanied by a sense of panic. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do if you drop your airpod in water.

Immediately dry it off with a soft, lint-free cloth. Place the AirPod upside down on a dry surface and let it air dry for at least 24 hours before trying to use it again.

If you think there may still be moisture inside the AirPod, you can try placing it in a resealable container with a desiccant packet, such as those that come in new shoes or electronics packaging. Silica gel packets are also a good option. Leave the AirPod in the container with the desiccant for at least 48 hours before trying to use it again.

Once you are sure that the AirPod is completely dry, try connecting it to your device. If it does not connect or if it does not work properly, you may need to take it to an Apple Store or authorized Apple service provider for further assistance.

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What should I do if I drop my AirPod in water?

Here are some steps you can take if you drop your AirPods in water:

Retrieve your AirPods from the water immediately. The longer they are submerged, the more likely they are to be damaged.
Dry your AirPods off with a soft, lint-free cloth. Do not use a hairdryer or other heat source to dry them, as this could damage them.
Place your AirPods in a dry, airtight container with silica gel packets. Silica gel packets will help to absorb any remaining moisture in the AirPods.

Leave your AirPods in the container for at least 24 hours. The longer you leave them in the container, the better they will dry out.
After 24 hours, try to connect your AirPods to your iPhone. If they work, you’re good to go! If they don’t work, you may need to take them to an Apple Store for repair.

Can I use my AirPod after I drop it in water?

Whether or not you can use your AirPod after dropping it in water depends on how long it was submerged and how much water it absorbed. If you retrieve your AirPod from the water quickly and dry it off thoroughly, it is possible that you will be able to use it again without any problems.

However, if the AirPod is submerged for a long time or if it absorbs a lot of water, it may be damaged and will not work.

Here are some signs that your AirPod may be damaged after being submerged in water:

The AirPod does not turn on or connect to your device.

The AirPod has muffled or distorted sound.
The AirPod’s battery life is significantly reduced.
The AirPod’s charging case is not working properly.

If you notice any of these signs, it is best to stop using your AirPod and take it to an Apple Store for repair. Water damage is not covered under Apple’s warranty, but you may still be able to get your AirPod repaired for a fee.

Here are some methods to prevent your AirPods from getting water damage:

Keep your AirPods away from water. Do not wear them while swimming, showering, or bathing.

Dry your hands thoroughly before handling your AirPods.
Store your AirPods in a dry, airtight case when you are not using them.
Avoid exposing your AirPods to extreme temperatures.

How do I dry out my AirPod after I drop it in water?

If you drop your AirPods in water, it’s important to act quickly to minimize water damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to dry out your AirPods:

Remove the AirPods from the water immediately. The longer they’re submerged, the more likely they are to be damaged.
Shake off excess water. Gently shake the AirPods to remove any visible water droplets.

Dry the exterior with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using abrasive materials like paper towels or tissues, as these can scratch the AirPods.
Use the Water Eject shortcut (iOS only). If you have an iPhone, you can use the Water Eject shortcut to remove any trapped water. Open the Control Center, tap the Hearing icon, and select your AirPods. Then, tap on the Water Eject button.
Place the AirPods in a container with silica gel packets. Silica gel packets are desiccants that absorb moisture. If you don’t have silica gel packets, you can use uncooked rice, which also absorbs moisture.

Leave the AirPods in the container for at least 24 hours. This will give the moisture ample time to dry out.
Attempt to charge the AirPods. If the AirPods are completely dry, they should start charging normally. If they don’t charge, there may be further water damage.
Clean the AirPods. Once the AirPods are dry, gently clean them with a soft, damp cloth to remove any remaining water residue.

How long does it take for an AirPod to dry out after being dropped in water?

The drying time for an AirPod that has been dropped in water depends on several factors, including the amount of water it absorbed, the humidity of the environment, and the method used to dry it. In general, it can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours for an AirPod to dry out completely.

Here are some general guidelines for drying out an AirPod:

If the AirPod is only slightly wet, you may be able to dry it out simply by wiping it off with a soft, lint-free cloth and allowing it to air dry for 24 hours.
If the AirPod is more heavily wet, you may need to use a desiccant, such as silica gel packets or uncooked rice, to absorb the moisture. Place the AirPod in a sealed container with the desiccant and allow it to sit for 24-48 hours.
If you have access to an Apple Store, you can take your AirPod in for service. Apple has specialized equipment that can dry out AirPods quickly and effectively.

Here are some additional information for drying out an AirPod:

Do not use a hairdryer or other heat source to dry the AirPod. This could damage the internal components.
Do not put the AirPod in the microwave or oven. This could also damage the AirPod.

Do not use a vacuum cleaner to dry the AirPod. This could suck up the AirPod and damage it.

What should I do if my AirPod is still not working after I dry it out?

If your AirPod is still not working after you try to dry it out, there are a few things you can do:

Try resetting your AirPods. This can sometimes fix minor software glitches that may be causing the problem. To reset your AirPods, place them in their charging case and close the lid. Wait 15 seconds, and then open the lid. Hold down the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes amber, then white. Your AirPods will now be reset.

Clean your AirPods. Dirt and debris can build up on the AirPods’ charging contacts and interfere with their ability to charge. To clean your AirPods, use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to gently wipe down the charging contacts.
Check for physical damage. If your AirPod has been dropped or otherwise damaged, there may be internal damage that is preventing it from working properly. If you suspect physical damage, you will need to take your AirPod to an Apple Store for repair.
Contact Apple Support. If you have tried all of the above steps and your AirPod is still not working, you can contact Apple Support for further assistance. They may be able to troubleshoot the problem or recommend a repair service.

Is it possible to fix a water-damaged AirPod?

It is possible to fix a water-damaged AirPod, but the success rate depends on the severity of the damage. If the AirPod was only submerged for a short period of time and dried out quickly, there is a good chance that it can be repaired.

Conversely, if the AirPod was submerged for a long time or if it absorbed a lot of water, it is more likely to be damaged beyond repair.

If you think your AirPod may be water-damaged, the best thing to do is to try to dry it out as quickly as possible. Follow the steps I outlined in my previous response to dry out your AirPod. Once the AirPod is dry, try to connect it to your iPhone or iPad. If it works, you’re good to go! If it doesn’t work, you may need to take it to an Apple Store for repair.

Here are some signs that your AirPod may be water-damaged:

The AirPod does not turn on or connect to your device.
The AirPod has muffled or distorted sound.

The AirPod’s battery life is significantly reduced.
The AirPod’s charging case is not working properly.

How can I prevent my AirPods from getting water damaged?

Water damage is a common cause of AirPods malfunction, so it’s important to take steps to prevent it. Here are some tips to keep your AirPods safe from water damage:

Avoid using your AirPods in wet or humid environments. This includes swimming, showering, bathing, or using them in the rain.

Dry your hands thoroughly before handling your AirPods. Moisture from your hands can transfer to the AirPods and increase the risk of water damage.
Store your AirPods in a dry, airtight case when you’re not using them. This will help to protect them from moisture and dust.
Avoid exposing your AirPods to extreme temperatures. This can damage the internal components and make them more susceptible to water damage.

Clean your AirPods regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth. This will help to remove dirt and debris that can clog the charging ports and make them more difficult to dry out if they get wet.

What are the signs of water damage in AirPods?

Some signs of water damage in AirPods:

Visual signs:

Visible water droplets or moisture inside the AirPods or charging case: This is a clear indication that water has entered the device.
Corrosion or rust on the charging contacts: Water can cause corrosion or rust on the metal components of the AirPods or charging case, which can interfere with charging and connectivity.
Sticky or discolored adhesives: Water can cause adhesives inside the AirPods or charging case to become sticky or discolored, which can affect the opening and closing mechanisms.

Functional signs:

Difficulty connecting to devices: Water damage can interfere with the Bluetooth connectivity of the AirPods, making it difficult to pair them with your iPhone or other devices.
Muffled or distorted sound: Water can damage the speakers or microphones inside the AirPods, resulting in muffled or distorted sound quality.

Reduced battery life: Water damage can affect the battery’s performance, leading to shorter battery life and frequent charging needs.
Charging problems: Water can damage the charging ports or charging circuits, making it difficult or impossible to charge the AirPods.
Malfunctioning controls: Water damage can affect the touch sensors or buttons on the AirPods, making it difficult to control playback or answer calls.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to stop using your AirPods and take them to an Apple Store for evaluation and repair. Water damage is not covered under Apple’s warranty, but there are authorized repair services that can assess the damage and provide options for repair or replacement.

What should I do if I think my AirPods are water damaged?

If you think your AirPods are water-damaged, here are some steps you can take:

Remove them from the water immediately. The longer your AirPods are exposed to water, the more damage they will likely sustain.

Dry them off with a lint-free cloth. This will remove any excess water from the surface of your AirPods.
Run the Water Eject shortcut. This shortcut can help to remove water from the internal components of your AirPods.
Allow the AirPods to dry completely. This may take several hours, or even overnight.

Place the AirPods in a container with silica gel packets. This will help to absorb any remaining moisture.

Once your AirPods are completely dry, try turning them on to see if they are working properly. If they are not, you may need to replace them.

Here are some additional tips:

Do not use heat to dry your AirPods, as this could damage them further.
Do not put your AirPods in the rice. While rice can absorb moisture, it can also leave behind starch particles that can damage your AirPods.
If your AirPods are still not working after you have tried the above steps, you can contact Apple support for assistance.

Here are some signs that your AirPods may be water damaged:

They are not turning on.
They are not charging.

They have muffled sound or no sound at all.
They are disconnecting from your device frequently.
They are corroded or have other signs of water damage.

If you are experiencing any of these problems, it is best to take your AirPods to an Apple Store or authorized Apple service provider for further diagnosis and assistance.

Can I use my AirPods in the rain or snow?

AirPods are not water-resistant or waterproof, so it is not recommended to use them in the rain or snow. Exposure to water can damage your AirPods and void the warranty.

If you must use your AirPods in light rain or snow, it is important to dry them off immediately afterward. You can use a lint-free cloth to dry the exterior of the AirPods, and the Water Eject shortcut to remove water from the internal components.

However, it is best to avoid using your AirPods in wet conditions altogether. If you need to listen to music or make calls in the rain or snow, it is better to use a different pair of headphones, such as water-resistant sports headphones.

Can I use my AirPods while swimming or showering?

No, you should not use your AirPods while swimming or showering. AirPods are not waterproof, only sweat and water-resistant. This means that they can withstand some exposure to water, such as sweat or light rain, but they should not be submerged in water.

If you use your AirPods while swimming or showering, they are likely to get damaged. Water can enter the internal components of the AirPods and cause corrosion, which can lead to a variety of problems, such as muffled sound, disconnection issues, and even complete failure.

In addition, using AirPods in the shower or bath can be dangerous. If the AirPods fall out of your ears and into the water, they could pose an electrical hazard.

If you need to listen to music or make calls while swimming or showering, it is best to use a different pair of headphones, such as water-resistant sports headphones.

Here are some ways for choosing water-resistant headphones:

Look for headphones that have an IP rating of IPX4 or higher. This means that they are sweat and water resistant, and can withstand some exposure to water.
Avoid headphones that have any exposed electrical components.

Choose headphones that fit snugly in your ears to prevent them from falling out.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable listening experience while swimming or showering.

What is the IP rating of AirPods?

All current-generation Apple AirPods have an IPX4 rating. This means that they are protected from splashes, drips, and sprays of water from any direction. However, they are not waterproof or sweatproof, so they should not be submerged in water or used in heavy rain or snow.

The following table shows the IP ratings of the different AirPods models:

Model	IP Rating
AirPods (3rd generation)	IPX4
AirPods Pro (1st generation)	IPX4
AirPods Pro (2nd generation)	IP54
AirPods Max	No IP rating

It is important to note that the IP rating of AirPods only applies to the earbuds themselves. The charging cases are not water resistant or sweatproof, so they should be kept away from water.

Are AirPods waterproof?

AirPods are not waterproof. They are sweat and water resistant, but they should not be submerged in water. If you use your AirPods in the rain or snow, dry them off immediately afterwards. If they get wet, it is best to avoid using them until they are completely dry.

Here are some things to keep in mind to protect your AirPods from water damage:

Do not use them in the shower or bath.
Do not swim with them.

Keep them away from heavy rain or snow.
If they do get wet, dry them off immediately.

If you need to listen to music or make calls in wet conditions, it is best to use a different pair of headphones, such as water-resistant sports headphones.

Are AirPods sweatproof?

AirPods are sweat-resistant, but not sweatproof. This means that they can withstand some exposure to sweat, but they should not be submerged in sweat or used for strenuous activities that produce a lot of sweat.

Sweat can contain salts and minerals that can corrode the internal components of AirPods, leading to problems such as muffled sound, disconnection issues, and even complete failure.

If you plan on using your AirPods while working out or engaging in other activities that produce a lot of sweat, it is important to take some precautions to protect them. Here are a few tips:

Wipe down your AirPods with a soft, dry cloth before and after using them.
Avoid using them in extreme heat or humidity.
If they do get sweaty, wipe them down immediately with a soft, dry cloth.

Consider using a sweatband or other headgear to help keep sweat away from your AirPods.

If you find that your AirPods are not working properly after being exposed to sweat, it is best to contact Apple support for assistance.

What is the best way to clean my AirPods?

To clean your AirPods, follow these steps:

Remove the ear tips. If you have AirPods Pro or AirPods 3, remove the ear tips. This will give you better access to the speaker mesh.
Wipe down the AirPods and ear tips with a soft, dry cloth. This will remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the surface of your AirPods.

Use a cotton swab to clean the speaker mesh. Be careful not to push the cotton swab too far into the speaker mesh, as this could damage the internal components of your AirPods.
Use a slightly damp cloth to clean the charging case. Avoid getting any liquid inside the charging port.
Allow the AirPods and charging case to dry completely before using them again.

Here are some additional information for cleaning your AirPods:

Do not use any harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners to clean your AirPods.
Avoid using water to clean the speaker mesh.

If your AirPods are heavily soiled, you can use a mild soap and water solution to clean them. However, be sure to dry them completely before using them again.

It is recommended to clean your AirPods on a regular basis, especially if you use them frequently or in sweaty conditions. By following these steps, you can help to keep your AirPods clean and in good condition.

Conclusion

What to do if you drop your AirPod in water: In the event that you accidentally drop your AirPods in water, swift and decisive action can make a significant difference. Firstly, resist the urge to immediately use or charge them. Instead, power them off and allow them to dry completely. Patience is key, as attempting to use wet AirPods can cause irreversible damage.

Consider placing them in a bowl of uncooked rice or using a desiccant, as these can aid in absorbing residual moisture. If the water exposure is extensive or if issues persist, reaching out to Apple Support may be the best course of action. Remember, taking prompt, cautious steps increases the likelihood of salvaging your AirPods and restoring them to optimal functionality.