Ever had that heart-stopping moment when your AirPods take an unexpected plunge into a puddle, a pool, or even a cup of coffee? It’s a common mishap that can leave you feeling helpless and worried. But fear not! In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to take when your AirPods get wet, offer tips on how to prevent future accidents, and even explore some handy tricks to help them dry out faster.
How To Safely Get Water Out Of AirPods And Prevent Water Damage?
When your AirPods drop in water or come into contact with any liquid, acting fast can make a big difference. Without the right steps, moisture can seep into the internal components, leading to malfunction or permanent damage. By using some simple techniques can help dry them effectively and reduce the chances of long-term issues. Below are methods you can use to safely remove water and protect your AirPods from damage.
Dry Exterior Of AirPods Using A Microfiber Cloth
The first step after your AirPods get wet is to gently dry the exterior using a microfiber cloth. A microfiber cloth is ideal because it’s soft, absorbent, and won’t scratch the delicate surfaces of your AirPods. Start by patting them dry, focusing on the speaker mesh and the edges where water could be trapped. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can push water deeper into the device.
It’s important to take your time and remove as much surface moisture as possible before moving to other drying methods. Thoroughly drying the outside helps prevent water from seeping into internal components that could lead to AirPods water damage.
Note: After you’ve dropped your AirPods in water, resist the urge to put them back in the charging case immediately. The charging case can trap moisture, causing further damage to both the AirPods and the case itself. Water can interfere with the charging process and potentially cause electrical issues. Keep the AirPods outside the case until they are fully dry.
Also Read: How To Get Water Out Of Charging Port?
Use Cotton Swab To Dry The Inside Of The Charging Case
If your charging case also got wet or was affected by water, it’s important to dry the inside carefully. Water can easily seep into the ports and internal components of the charging case, potentially causing charging malfunctions or corrosion over time. A cotton swab is a great tool for this, as it can absorb moisture from small crevices without causing any damage.
Gently insert the cotton swab into the inside of the charging case, focusing on the port area where your AirPods connect. Be thorough, but avoid applying too much pressure, as you don’t want to push any water deeper into the charging slots. Make sure to use a dry swab for each pass until no moisture is left. You may also want to lightly dry the exterior of the case using a microfiber cloth, as any leftover water on the outside can also seep in over time.
Put Them Upside Down
After your AirPods fall in the water, placing them upside down can help any trapped moisture naturally drain out. Gravity will work to pull the water away from the internal components, reducing the chance of it staying inside and causing long-term damage.
To do this, place the AirPods on a dry, flat surface with the speaker side facing downward. This allows any water inside to escape through the mesh area. Let them sit in this position for several hours to ensure that as much moisture as possible drips out. You can combine this method with other drying techniques, like using a microfiber cloth or silica gel packets, to maximize effectiveness.
Make sure not to shake or blow directly into the AirPods, as this can push water further into the device, causing more harm than good. Let gravity do the work, and give the AirPods time to dry out.
Use Desiccant/Silica Gel Packets
Desiccant or silica gel packets are small, moisture-absorbing packs often found in packaging to keep products dry. These packets contain silica, a substance that absorbs and holds moisture from the surrounding environment. When you’ve accidentally dropped your AirPods in water, placing them near these packets can help draw out the moisture more effectively.
To use them, place your wet AirPods and charging case in a small, airtight container with several silica gel packets. Let them sit for at least 24 to 48 hours, allowing enough time for the silica to absorb any lingering moisture. Make sure the AirPods aren’t touching the silica gel directly, as it works best when it’s close but not in direct contact with the device.
Avoid using methods like rice, which can introduce dust or debris into your AirPods. Silica gel is more reliable and cleaner for absorbing moisture without the risk of damage to delicate parts. After the drying period, check your AirPods to ensure they are free of any moisture before turning them on or placing them back in the charging case.
Use Water Eject Shortcut Feature
The Water Eject Shortcut is a handy tool that helps remove water from your AirPods using sound vibrations. When you’ve accidentally dropped your AirPods in water, this feature uses low-frequency sound waves to push moisture out of the speaker grills. It’s similar to how the Apple Watch ejects water after being submerged.
- Once you’ve removed as much water as possible from your AirPods, connect them to your iPhone or iPad.
- You’ll first need to install the Water Eject Shortcut on your iPhone. This shortcut isn’t pre-installed, but you can find it online by searching for “Water Eject Shortcut.” Once found, add it to your Shortcuts library.
- Launch the iOS/iPadOS Shortcuts app, then tap on Water Eject.
- Tap Start to begin the process. You’ll be prompted to choose an intensity level. Pick an intensity, and the shortcut will emit sound waves through the AirPods, which should force any remaining water out.
- Repeat the process until you see no more water coming out of the AirPods.
- After completing the process, disconnect the AirPods and allow them to sit and dry for a bit longer before using them again.
However, if you don’t have an iPhone or iPad and use a PC or Android to connect your AirPods, you can find YouTube videos that play similar sound frequencies designed to eject water from AirPods. Be sure to turn your volume up to the maximum for the best results.
Consider Getting A New Pair Of AirPods
If you’ve tried all the methods to dry your AirPods after water exposure but they’re still not functioning properly, it might be time to consider getting a new pair. Water damage can sometimes affect internal components beyond repair, especially if the AirPods were submerged for an extended period or if water reached sensitive areas like the speaker mesh or battery.
When water gets into the electronics, it can lead to corrosion, which may not show up immediately but could cause long-term problems. This might include distorted sound, inconsistent connectivity, or even complete failure of one or both AirPods. If you’re noticing ongoing issues after drying them out, replacing them could be the most practical solution.
You can check if your AirPods are covered under warranty or AppleCare+ to see if repair or replacement is an option. Keep in mind that water damage is generally not covered under standard warranties, but AppleCare+ offers a replacement option with a deductible for certain situations. If your AirPods are no longer under warranty, buying a new pair might be more cost-effective than attempting further repairs.
Are AirPods Waterproof?
If you’re wondering whether AirPods are waterproof, it’s important to clarify the difference between “waterproof” and “water-resistant.” Waterproof means a device can be fully submerged in water without any damage, while water resistance means the device can handle some exposure to moisture, like sweat or light rain, but isn’t fully protected from immersion.
When it comes to AirPods, no type of model is truly waterproof. First Generation AirPods, Second Generation AirPods, and the AirPods Max offer no waterproofing or water resistance at all. If any of these models are exposed to water, they are highly vulnerable to damage. Extra care is needed to keep them dry and protected.
Despite the old models, newer models, like the AirPods Pro and AirPods (3rd Generation), come with an IPX4 or advanced water resistance rating. This means they can handle splashes of water and sweat, making them better suited for workouts or light rain. However, they are not designed to be submerged or exposed to heavy water, such as in pools or showers. Water resistance can wear off over time, so even with newer models, avoiding water exposure when possible is still a good idea.
Does AppleCare Cover Warranty For Water-Damaged AirPods?
AppleCare+ provides an extended warranty and support for Apple products, but it has specific terms regarding water damage. For AirPods, standard AppleCare does not cover water damage. Water damage is considered a type of accidental damage and is not included under the standard warranty, which generally covers only manufacturing defects.
However, if you have AppleCare+, it can cover accidental damage, including water damage, but it’s subject to a service fee. For AirPods, AppleCare+ includes up to two incidents of accidental damage protection, each subject to a service fee. This means if your AirPods suffer from water damage, AppleCare+ could help with the replacement or repair cost, but you’ll need to pay a deductible.
If you don’t have AppleCare+ or your coverage has expired, repair or replacement of water-damaged AirPods will not be covered under warranty. In such cases, you’ll likely need to purchase a new pair or pay for repairs out of pocket. Checking your AppleCare+ coverage and understanding its terms can help you manage costs if accidents like water damage occur.
Tips To Reduce AirPods Damage If Fell In Water
Accidents happen, and if your AirPods fall in the water, taking immediate action can help minimize damage and preserve their functionality. Here are some tips to reduce potential harm and increase the chances of recovery:
- Remove Immediately: As soon as your AirPods come into contact with water, take them out and dry them off with a soft cloth. The quicker you act, the less chance water has to seep into internal components.
- Avoid Charging: Don’t place your AirPods back in the charging case or connect them to a charger while they’re still wet. Charging wet electronics can cause short circuits and further damage.
- Use Proper Drying Techniques: Follow the steps for drying and cleaning your AirPods that we’ve covered, such as using a microfiber cloth, a cotton swab for the charging case, and placing the AirPods upside down. These methods help ensure that moisture is removed effectively.
- Keep Them In A Dry Place: After drying, store your AirPods in a dry environment. If possible, use desiccant or silica gel packets to help absorb any residual moisture.
- Avoid Heat Sources: Do not use a hairdryer, oven, or other heat sources to dry your AirPods. Excessive heat can damage the delicate electronics inside.
- Check For Functionality: Once you’ve dried your AirPods thoroughly and allowed them to sit for a while, test them to ensure they are functioning correctly. If you notice any issues, consider seeking repair or replacement options.
- Use Protective Cases: For future protection, consider using a waterproof or water-resistant case for your AirPods. This can help shield them from accidental exposure to water and other environmental hazards.
FAQs:
Yes, AirPods Pro have an IPX4 rating, meaning they are sweat and water-resistant, but not waterproof. They can withstand splashes and light rain but should not be submerged in water.
It’s not recommended to use a hairdryer or any heat source to dry your AirPods, as excessive heat could damage the delicate components inside. Let them air dry or use silica gel packs instead.
Signs of water damage may include distorted sound, muffled microphones, inability to charge, or no power. If you notice these issues after your AirPods are exposed to water, they may be damaged.
Yes, placing your AirPods near a dehumidifier can help to remove excess moisture. Avoid placing them too close, though, to prevent heat damage.
If your AirPods are continuously disconnecting after exposure to water, there may be internal damage affecting the Bluetooth connection. Consider resetting them or reaching out to Apple Support for further diagnosis.
Charging your AirPods while they’re still wet can cause serious damage to both the AirPods and the charging case, potentially leading to a short circuit. Always ensure they’re completely dry before attempting to charge them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dropping your AirPods in water can be a bummer. Try to remove them quickly and dry them thoroughly. If they don’t work, consider repair or replacement. To prevent this from happening again, use a case and avoid water. Let us know in the comments if this guide is helpful.
