I love my AirPods. I use them everywhere—at the gym, on walks, even when I’m cooking. But one thing always makes me nervous: water. What if I get caught in the rain? Can I wear them while sweating? Will they survive if I drop them in the sink?
I decided to find out the truth about AirPods and water. I’ve seen mixed answers online—some say they’re fine in light rain, others warn against any moisture. So, I did some research to clear things up. If you’re wondering the same, here’s what you need to know.
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Are My AirPods Truly Waterproof? Let’s Find Out
I take my AirPods everywhere. But every time it rains, I worry. Can they handle water, or am I one splash away from disaster?
Apple’s AirPods, including the newest models, are not waterproof. That means they can’t survive a dip in water or heavy moisture. But some models offer water and sweat resistance, making them safe for light exposure.
Here’s what that means for daily use:
- No swimming or showering – They aren’t built for full water contact.
- Sweat and rain? Depends on the model – Some handle light moisture better than others.
- Charging case matters – Most cases aren’t water-resistant, so keeping them dry is key.
If you’re like me and worry about water damage, understanding their limits is a must.
Decoding Water Resistance Ratings: What They Mean for You
I wanted a clear answer on what my AirPods can handle. Turns out, Apple gives each model a water resistance rating—but it’s not as simple as “yes” or “no.”
- AirPods Pro (1st & 2nd Gen) and AirPods (3rd Gen) have an IPX4 rating.
- Good for sweat and light rain but not for submersion.
- AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) USB-C version gets an IP54 rating.
- That adds dust resistance, along with splash protection.
- Standard AirPods and charging cases? No protection at all.
These numbers tell us how much water they can handle, but they don’t make AirPods waterproof. If they get wet, dry them fast and never charge them while damp.
Real-World Experiences: What Users Are Saying
I’ve seen wild stories online about AirPods surviving water accidents. But do they really hold up? Some users swear their AirPods lived through washing machines, puddles, and even pools.
Here’s what people have shared:
- Washed in a machine, still working – Some users forgot their AirPods in a pocket. After drying them out, they still worked.
- Dropped in a pool, but survived – A few reported quick recoveries after accidental dips.
- Sweaty workouts, no issues – Many say they use AirPods in the gym with no problems.
These stories sound promising, but they don’t mean AirPods are waterproof. Some get lucky, others aren’t so fortunate. Keeping them dry is still the safest bet.
Best Practices: Keeping My AirPods Safe from Water Damage
I don’t want to risk ruining my AirPods. Water damage isn’t covered under warranty, so staying careful is the only option. I follow a few simple steps to keep them safe.
- Avoid Water at All Costs – I never wear them near pools, in the shower, or during heavy rain. A little caution goes a long way.
- Dry Them Fast if They Get Wet – If I ever drop them in water, I wipe them with a soft cloth and leave them out to air dry completely.
- Never Charge When Damp – Plugging in wet AirPods or a case could cause permanent damage. I always wait until they’re fully dry.
- Use a Protective Case – A water-resistant case helps, especially during workouts or outdoor activities.
Being extra careful helps me avoid costly mistakes. AirPods aren’t cheap, and I’d rather keep mine working as long as possible.