SOS! My AirPods Took a Bath: A Survival Guide for Waterlogged Wireless Wonders

So, you’ve done it. The unthinkable. Your beloved AirPods (or AirPods Pro, or even AirPods Max – no judgment!) have taken an unexpected dip. Don’t panic (yet!). While your stomach might be doing acrobatic flips of dread, a measured response is crucial. Here’s the immediate action plan, distilled from years of tech troubleshooting (and a few accidental laundry cycles myself):

What to Do, Step-by-Step, if You Washed Your AirPods:

1. Immediate Retrieval: Time is of the essence. The longer your AirPods are submerged, the greater the chance of irreversible damage. Fish them out ASAP.
2. Power Down (If Possible): If your AirPods are still powered on (you can sometimes tell by a blinking light), immediately try to power them off. This is easier said than done, as there isn’t a physical power button. The best bet is to place them inside a dry charging case. The case will attempt to communicate with the AirPods and potentially turn them off.
3. Resist the Urge to Test: This is paramount. DO NOT, under any circumstances, try to connect them to your device or listen to audio. Powering on wet electronics is a recipe for short-circuiting and frying the internal components.
4. Dry, Dry, Dry (Exterior): Gently pat down the AirPods and the charging case with a soft, lint-free cloth. Pay particular attention to any crevices or openings where water might have pooled. Microfiber cloths are ideal for this.
5. The Rice Myth (Sort Of): The classic rice trick has its drawbacks. While rice can absorb moisture, it can also introduce dust and starch particles into the sensitive electronics. If you choose to use rice, submerge the AirPods and case in a bag or container of uncooked rice for at least 24-48 hours. Make sure the rice completely covers the devices. As a superior alternative, consider using silica gel packets, which are much better at absorbing moisture without the risk of contamination. You can usually find these packets in new shoe boxes or electronics packaging.
6. Air Drying (Recommended): The best and safest method is to simply let the AirPods and case air dry in a warm, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight or extreme heat, which can damage the internal components. A well-ventilated area is ideal. Point a fan at a low setting toward the devices to encourage evaporation. The drying process can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours.
7. Battery Depletion: Let the AirPods and case completely deplete their batteries during the drying process. This helps to minimize the risk of a short circuit when you eventually power them back on.
8. Patience is Key: Resist the temptation to check on them every hour. Give them the full drying time. This is the most crucial step in the restoration process.
9. The Moment of Truth (After Drying): After the recommended drying time, carefully inspect the AirPods and case for any signs of corrosion or water damage. If everything looks clear, try charging the case. If it charges without any issues, try pairing the AirPods to your device and playing audio. Start at a low volume.
10. Assess the Damage: If the AirPods are working perfectly, congratulations! You’ve dodged a bullet. However, if you experience any issues, such as distorted audio, no sound, or charging problems, it’s time to consider your options.
11. Contact Apple Support: Even if your AirPods seem to be working fine, it’s a good idea to contact Apple Support. They can run diagnostics and check for any potential long-term damage.
12. Consider AppleCare+ or Replacement: If your AirPods are covered by AppleCare+, you may be able to get them repaired or replaced for a fee. If not, you may need to purchase a new set.

AirPods & Water: Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a deep dive into some common questions that arise when your AirPods decide to go for a swim:

How Water Resistant are AirPods Actually?

The level of water resistance varies depending on the AirPods model.

• AirPods (1st and 2nd Generation): These have no official IP rating, meaning they offer minimal protection against water or sweat. A single splash might be their undoing.
• AirPods (3rd Generation) & AirPods Pro: These have an IPX4 rating, which means they’re resistant to sweat and splashes from any direction. They can handle a workout, but aren’t designed for submersion.
• AirPods Max: These have no official IP rating either, and have no water resistance.

Remember that water resistance degrades over time. The older your AirPods are, the less effective their seals will be.

Can I Use a Hair Dryer to Dry My AirPods Faster?

Absolutely not! The heat from a hair dryer can severely damage the delicate internal components of your AirPods. Stick to air drying or silica gel.

What If I Washed My AirPods with Soap or Detergent?

Soap and detergent can leave residue that can damage the AirPods. After the initial drying steps, gently wipe them down with a damp (not wet!) cloth and then dry them thoroughly again.

How Long Should I Wait Before Testing My AirPods After Washing Them?

Patience is a virtue. Wait a minimum of 24-48 hours, but 72 hours is preferable, to ensure they are completely dry. Rushing the process can lead to further damage.

Is AppleCare+ Worth It for AirPods, Considering Water Damage?

If you are a AppleCare+ subscriber, this covers two incidents of accidental damage every 12 months for a service fee. This is one of the reasons you would consider having AppleCare+ for your AirPods, the other being the battery.

My AirPods Case Got Wet Too. Does It Need the Same Treatment?

Yes! The charging case is just as vulnerable to water damage as the AirPods themselves. Follow the same drying steps for the case.

My AirPods Seem to Be Working, But the Sound is Muffled. What Should I Do?

Muffled sound often indicates that there’s still moisture trapped inside. Continue drying them for another 24-48 hours. If the problem persists, contact Apple Support.

Can I Use a Vacuum Cleaner to Suck Water Out of My AirPods?

Avoid using a vacuum cleaner. The suction can damage the internal components. Gentle drying methods are always best.

My AirPods Are Under Warranty. Will Apple Replace Them If They’re Water Damaged?

Standard warranties typically do not cover water damage. However, if you have AppleCare+, you may be able to get them repaired or replaced for a fee.

What Are the Signs of Permanent Water Damage in AirPods?

Signs of permanent damage include:

• No power
• Inability to charge
• Distorted or no audio
• Corrosion on the charging contacts
• Overheating

Is There Any Way to Prevent Washing My AirPods in the First Place?

Prevention is the best medicine! Get into the habit of always placing your AirPods in their case when not in use. Double-check your pockets before doing laundry.

Are There Any Third-Party Repair Services That Specialize in Water-Damaged AirPods?

Yes, there are third-party repair services that specialize in electronics repair, including water damage. However, using a third-party service may void your Apple warranty or AppleCare+ coverage. It’s generally recommended to contact Apple Support first.

Water damage is a frustrating experience, but by following these steps and exercising patience, you give your AirPods the best chance of survival. Remember, a calm and methodical approach is your greatest asset in this situation. Good luck!