Are AirPod Pros Waterproof?

Key Takeaways:

• AirPods are not fully waterproof, only some models like AirPods Pro are water-resistant.
• AirPods Pro 1st gen, 2nd gen, and AirPods 3rd gen have an IPX4 rating for sweat and water resistance.
• IPX4 rating means AirPods can withstand splashing water but cannot be submerged underwater.
• Exposing AirPods to liquids beyond their water resistance capacity can damage them.
• To maximize their lifespan, AirPods should be kept away from moisture and high-velocity water.

What is the water resistance rating of AirPod Pros?

The AirPods Pro (both 1st and 2nd generation), AirPods (3rd generation), MagSafe Charging Case for AirPods (3rd generation), Lightning Charging Case for AirPods (3rd generation), and MagSafe Charging Case for AirPods Pro (2nd generation) have an IPX4 water resistance rating.

This IPX4 rating means these AirPod models are protected against splashing water from any direction. They can withstand accidental water splashes and exposure to sweat during workouts. However, an IPX4 rating does not make them fully waterproof.

Are AirPods waterproof enough for swimming or showering?

No, AirPods are not waterproof enough for swimming, showering, or any kind of water submersion. An IPX4 rating only protects AirPods from incidental water exposure like rain or sweat. It does not make them suitable for sustained water exposure or high water pressure.

Submerging AirPods in water can allow liquid to enter the earbuds through the speaker grilles or other openings. This can damage the internal components and electronics. AirPod models with an IPX4 rating are marketed as sweat and water resistant, not fully waterproof.

Should AirPods be worn in the rain?

AirPods with an IPX4 rating can withstand light rain showers thanks to their water resistance. However, it is not recommended to wear AirPods during heavy rain. The high volume of water droplets could potentially exceed the IPX4 splash resistance threshold and seep into the earbuds.

To be safe, it is best to avoid exposing AirPods to rain when possible. If caught in a light rain shower, wipe off any moisture from the AirPods and let them dry out completely before reusing them. Check for water in the charging ports as well. Repeated rain exposure can wear down their protective seal over time.

Can AirPods be cleaned with water?

No, AirPods should not be placed under running water or submerged to clean them. The water resistance rating does not cover exposure to water jets or soaking.

According to Apple, it is safest to clean AirPods using a dry, lint-free cloth. A small amount of isopropyl alcohol can be used to remove stubborn debris, but moisture should be avoided. Never use cleaning products or abrasives. Gently wipe down the earbuds and case to remove dirt and oils.

Do AirPods work for fitness activities and workouts?

Yes, AirPods models with IPX4 sweat and water resistance can reliably be used during fitness activities and intense workouts. Their water-repellent barrier protects the internals from damage due to exposure to sweat.

Just be sure to wipe off any excess sweat after your workout. Avoid submerging the AirPods underwater. The IPX4 rating protects against splashing but not pool, ocean, or other full-submersion water exposure during swimming.

Can you wear AirPods in the sauna or steam room?

No, AirPods should not be worn in saunas or steam rooms. The high heat and prolonged moisture exposure can damage the water seals and allow liquid ingress beyond IPX4 limits.

Steam rooms and saunas create conditions that exceed IPX4 splash resistance. The combination of high humidity, condensation, and temperatures over 100°F can harm AirPod components not designed for such environments. It’s best to enjoy saunas and steam rooms without AirPods.

Do AirPods work in hot tubs or pools?

No, AirPods should be kept far away from hot tubs and pools. Submerging them underwater exceeds the limits of their IPX4 splash protection.

Hot tubs can also expose AirPods to chemicals like chlorine and bromine that could seep into cracks and damage the electronics. Any water exposure beyond incidental splashing carries a major risk of causing permanent damage.

Can you shower with AirPods or wear them swimming?

Showering with AirPods or swimming with them is extremely risky and not recommended. The jets of water and complete submersion under showering or swimming conditions will exceed the IPX4 water resistance of AirPods.

Water can seep into the speaker, microphone, or charging ports under sustained water pressure or immersion. This causes internal corrosion and electrical shorts that can permanently destroy AirPods not designed for waterproofing beyond minor splashing.

Do AirPods work in extreme heat or cold temperatures?

AirPods are engineered to function in a moderate temperature range between 0° and 95° Fahrenheit. Exposing them to extreme heat or cold outside this range can potentially damage the battery and internal components.

In very cold conditions below freezing, the lithium-ion battery can lose power and lead to reduced playback time. Using AirPods in hot conditions like deserts can also overheat the battery. The electronics can become faulty if temperatures exceed the recommended operating range.

For best results, use AirPods in climate-controlled indoor environments and avoid leaving them unattended in extreme outdoor temperatures exceeding 95° F or below 0° F.

Can you wash AirPods under running water?

No, AirPods should never be held or washed under running water from a faucet or sink. The strong jets of water can exceed the IPX4 splash resistance and enter the earbud enclosure, speakers, or microphone.

Even brief exposure to running water poses a major risk of liquid damage to the AirPod circuit boards and electronics that are not fully waterproofed. Only wipe AirPods clean with a dry lint-free cloth instead of rinsing them with any kind of running water stream.

Is it safe to wear AirPods in the washing machine or dryer?

Absolutely not. Placing AirPods in the washing machine or dryer will completely destroy them. Both these appliances have strongly pressurized water jets and intense heat that far exceed IPX4 limits.

The turbulence and violent water streams inside a washing machine will flood AirPod components not engineered to withstand such forces. The extreme heat of clothes dryers, often over 150°F, will melt AirPod plastics and damage battery cells and electronics.

Can AirPods be repaired if water damaged?

Water-damaged AirPods can be repaired, but full restoration is not guaranteed. For the best chance of salvaging water-exposed AirPods, immediately power them off and allow them to dry for at least 5-6 hours.

Place them in front of a fan to speed up drying. Do not attempt to charge waterlogged AirPods, as this can short circuit them. After thoroughly drying, there is a chance components like the battery may still function, allowing limited repair by Apple. But liquid damage can often be catastrophic.

How can I maximize the water resistance lifespan of my AirPods?

• Avoid exposing AirPods to moisture beyond occasional light splashes.
• Do not shower, swim, or immerse AirPods in water under any circumstances.
• Keep AirPods away from steam rooms, saunas, and extreme heat over 95°F.
• Immediately dry off any sweat or light water exposure after workouts or rain.
• Use a dry soft cloth to wipe dirt off AirPods instead of rinsing them.
• Inspect AirPods routinely for any wear in the water-repellent mesh or seals.
• Avoid dropping AirPods into sinks, toilets, or other water sources.

Following these best practices ensures AirPods retain their designed water-resistance as long as possible until it’s time to upgrade to a newer model.

Do some AirPod models lack any water resistance?

Yes, older AirPod models including the 1st and 2nd generation AirPods lack any water resistance rating. They rely on basic internal sealing but are not engineered with the IPX4 water repellency of newer models.

Exposing these AirPods to water can easily allow fluid ingress that causes severe irreparable damage. 1st and 2nd gen AirPod users should take extra precautions to prevent any kind of moisture contact and never submerge them in water under any circumstance. Upgrading to the IPX4-rated AirPods 3 or AirPods Pro is recommended for reliability in moist environments.

Does AppleCare cover water damage for AirPods?

Apple’s AppleCare+ protection plans for AirPods do not cover liquid damage. The warranty excludes defects caused by exposure to liquids beyond normal IPX4 splash resistance.

Consumers have to pay an out-of-warranty fee for Apple to attempt any repairs on water-damaged AirPods. To avoid expensive liquid damage repair costs, it’s critical to keep AirPods away from water beyond occasional splashing and wipe them dry after workouts. Purchasing AppleCare+ for AirPods is still worthwhile for defects from standard wear and tear.

Do AirPod water damage indicators exist?

AirPods do not contain externally-visible water damage indicators that change color when exposed to moisture, unlike some waterproof electronics and smartphones.

However, Apple Geniuses can still detect internal water damage during inspection and diagnosis at Apple Stores. Signs like corrosion, shorted electronic components, or traces of residue can signal past water exposure even without a dedicated indicator. But this requires a thorough analysis by Apple’s technicians.

Can third-party waterproofing treatments help protect AirPods?

Aftermarket waterproofing sprays and coatings advertised to safeguard AirPods are risky and not recommended. Apple does not endorse using any chemical treatments on AirPods that could potentially damage the specialized water-repellent mesh.

These unapproved coatings can also void any warranties and lead to problems like reduced audio quality or device overheating. It’s safest to keep AirPods away from water altogether beyond light splashing within IPX4 limits.

In summary, no AirPods are 100% fully waterproof, but select newer models have useful IPX4 water and sweat resistance. This allows them to withstand common splashing and fitness use. However, AirPods should never be submerged or exposed to high-velocity water, which can easily damage internal components. Special care should be taken to prevent moisture damage beyond normal splashing. Following Apple’s instructions and the limits of the IPX4 rating is key to maximize AirPod lifespan. With proper precautions, AirPods can provide many years of high audio quality and reliability.

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