The 1st– and 2nd-generation AirPods are not waterproof or water-resistant. This means they are not designed to withstand being completely submerged or even splashes of water. However, the newest versions are sweat- and water-resistant. The charging cases for all models of AirPods are not waterproof or water-resistant. Here’s everything you need to know about how water-resistant AirPods are, and what to do if your AirPods get wet.
How Water-Resistant are AirPods Pro?
According to Apple, the AirPods Pro have a water resistance rating of IPX4. This means they won’t get damaged from sweat or splashes of water, but they will get damaged if they are completely submerged in water.
What does this rating mean? The “IP” stands for Ingress Protection, which is the waterproof rating system. The first number after IP represents the device’s level of resistance to dust and other solid particles. The second number represents its resistance rating against liquids.
So, the AirPods Pro IPX4 rating means they are resistant to splashes of water coming from any direction. Their solid particle resistance rating of X simply means they did not undergo this specific test. They can resist sweat if you use them while exercising, but they should not be used for water sports. If you get caught in the rain, your AirPods Pro might survive while you make a run for it, but they will likely stop working if you drop them in a puddle.
Take note that the AirPods Pro charging case is neither waterproof nor water-resistant. Additionally, the AirPods Pro sweat and water resistance is reportedly not permanent. Over time, and with constant use, these conditions might diminish. If this happens, Apple will not reseal your AirPods Pro to make them better at withstanding splashes of water again.
To put it simply, you can wear your AirPods Pro (not the 1st– or 2nd-generation AirPods) while working out, but doing the following will damage them:
- Placing them under running water, such as the shower or faucet
- Swimming or diving with them
- Wearing them to the sauna or steam room
- Playing water sports
What To Do if Your AirPods Get Wet
Whether from sweat or a spin in your washing machine, here are the things you should immediately do if your AirPods get wet:
- Wipe the AirPods using a soft, dry cloth. Make sure the cloth is lint-free. We recommend a microfiber cloth.
- Allow the AirPods to dry completely. Do not use them right away. Do not place them in the charging case.
If the charging case gets wet, open the lid and leave it to dry upside down.
If the culprit is a heavier or different type of liquid, such as coffee, shampoo, soap, lotion, or sunscreen, take the following steps to clean and dry your AirPods:
- Dampen a piece of cloth with clean water.
- Wipe the AirPods clean carefully using the cloth.
- Leave them out to dry before placing them in the charging case.
- Do not use the AirPods until they are completely dry.
However, even if you follow the drying and cleaning steps above, it is still possible that your AirPods will stop working.
If you also have an iPhone, make sure to check out our previous article to find out which iPhones are waterproof.
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