Do Airpods Get Ruined If They Get Wet
If your AirPods have taken an unexpected dip or gotten caught in the rain, you’re probably wondering: do airpods get ruined if they get wet? The good news is that while AirPods aren’t completely waterproof, they won’t necessarily be destroyed by brief water exposure. AirPods Pro and newer models have water resistance ratings, but even older models can survive light moisture if you act quickly. Understanding how to respond when your earbuds get wet can mean the difference between saving them and needing replacements.
Why Water Damages AirPods
AirPods contain sensitive electronic components that don’t mix well with moisture. Water can create short circuits in the internal circuitry, corrode metal contacts, and damage the battery over time. The speaker mesh and microphone openings are particularly vulnerable entry points.
The level of damage depends on several factors: how much water contacted the AirPods, whether they were powered on during exposure, and how quickly you dried them. AirPods Pro (2nd generation) have an IPX4 rating, meaning they can handle sweat and light splashes but aren’t designed for submersion. Regular AirPods have no official water resistance rating, making them more susceptible to moisture damage. Salt water and liquids containing sugar are especially problematic as they leave residue that continues corroding components even after drying.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
- Soft, lint-free microfiber cloth
- Silica gel packets or uncooked rice
- Cotton swabs or soft-bristled toothbrush
- Small airtight container or ziplock bag
- Isopropyl alcohol (91% or higher, optional for cleaning)
- Compressed air canister (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Save Wet AirPods
Step 1: Remove from water immediately. Don’t wait to see if they still work—get them out of the moisture as fast as possible. If they’re in your ears during exercise when you notice wetness, remove them right away.
Step 2: Disconnect from all devices. Open your Bluetooth settings and disconnect your AirPods. Place them back in their case but leave the lid open. Do not attempt to charge them or test if they’re working yet.
Step 3: Dry the exterior gently. Use a microfiber cloth to pat down all visible water. Pay special attention to the speaker mesh, microphone holes, and charging contacts. Be gentle—don’t push water deeper into the openings.
Step 4: Shake out excess water. Hold each AirPod with the speaker mesh facing downward and gently shake to remove water trapped inside. You can also use compressed air at a safe distance to blow water out, but avoid high-pressure settings that might damage internal components.
Step 5: Air dry in an optimal environment. Place your AirPods in a dry, room-temperature location with good airflow. Position them speaker-side down on a clean, absorbent cloth. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources like hair dryers, as excessive heat can warp plastic components and damage the battery.
Step 6: Use desiccants for deep drying. Place the AirPods in an airtight container filled with silica gel packets. These absorb moisture more effectively than rice and won’t leave debris. Leave them sealed for 24-48 hours depending on exposure severity.
Step 7: Clean any residue. If exposed to salt water or sugary drinks, lightly dampen a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol and carefully clean the exterior surfaces and mesh areas. This prevents corrosion from developing after drying.
Step 8: Test carefully. After at least 24 hours of drying time, try powering them on. Check audio quality, connectivity, and battery function. If you notice issues, refer to How To Get Water Out Of Airpods for additional recovery techniques.
Natural Alternatives to Professional Repair
If you don’t have silica gel packets available, uncooked rice can serve as a makeshift desiccant, though it’s less effective and may leave dust particles. Simply submerge your AirPods in a bowl of rice for 24-48 hours.
Creating a drying station near a dehumidifier is another effective approach. The low-humidity environment accelerates evaporation without applying direct heat. You can also place AirPods near (not on) a fan to increase air circulation around them. Some users have success placing AirPods in a sealed bag with activated charcoal, which absorbs moisture similarly to silica gel. These methods work best for minor water exposure rather than full submersion.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Muffled or distorted sound: Water likely remains trapped behind the speaker mesh. Continue drying for another 24 hours in a desiccant environment. Gently tap the speaker mesh against your palm while facing downward to help dislodge trapped moisture.
One AirPod not working: This typically indicates that one earbud sustained more water damage. Try the full drying process again, focusing on the non-functional unit. If problems persist after 72 hours of drying, internal damage may have occurred.
Charging problems: Moisture on the charging contacts prevents proper connection. Clean the metal contacts on both AirPods and the case with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab. Ensure the case itself is completely dry before attempting to charge.
Prevention and Maintenance Tips
Invest in a waterproof AirPods case if you frequently exercise or work around water. These protective cases add a crucial barrier against moisture while maintaining portability.
Make it a habit to wipe down your AirPods after workouts to prevent sweat accumulation. Store them in their charging case when not in use—this provides some protection from environmental moisture. Consider applying a hydrophobic nano-coating product designed for electronics, which creates an invisible water-repellent layer. Avoid wearing AirPods in the shower, during water sports, or in heavy rain, regardless of their water resistance rating.
When to Seek Help or Replace
While many wet AirPods can be saved with prompt action, severe water damage may require professional intervention or replacement. If your earbuds still don’t function properly after 72 hours of thorough drying, or if you notice visible corrosion on the charging contacts, it’s time to contact Apple Support. Remember that water damage typically isn’t covered under standard warranty, but AppleCare+ may offer replacement options. Acting quickly when your AirPods get wet gives you the best chance of avoiding permanent damage.
