AirPods fell into water or got wet? How to save them

Did your AirPods fall into water? Then you should act quickly. None of the AirPods models are waterproof. That means there is no guaranteed protection once they’ve fallen into water. You’ll now learn what you should do (and what you should not do) in this article. At the end, we also answer frequently asked questions. For example, whether or not you should go jogging with AirPods in the rain.

What happens if an AirPod falls into water?

AirPods are not considered waterproof, but some of the models are water-resistant. Specifically, the AirPods Pro and the AirPods 3rd generation. According to Apple, these models can handle dripping and splashing water. However, this does not apply to the respective charging cases.

Fortunately, according to some users, the AirPods and AirPods 2 are also relatively resistant to water. However, it is important to note that these are not official manufacturer specifications. Water, liquids, and sweat should therefore be avoided as much as possible.

But what happens now if the AirPods have fallen into water?

If you’re unlucky, your AirPods may now be damaged. With a bit of luck, however, you may still be able to save them. We’ll take a look at how to do that now.

Instructions: What to do if AirPods fall into water?

Now follow these instructions quickly to possibly save your AirPods:

Step 1: Gently dry the charging case and the AirPods with a soft cloth. Alternatively, you can also use paper towels.

Step 2: Then carefully shake out any water from the AirPods. Be careful not to blow into the AirPods, as this may cause the water to get deeper into the device.

Step 3: Now check the connectors and inspect them for any dirt. If necessary, you can gently clean the charging contacts with a cotton swab and then carefully dab them dry with new cotton swabs.

Step 4: Now place your AirPods with the opening facing down on a dry cloth or paper towel so excess liquid can drain away more easily. If you have AirPods Pro, remove the silicone ear tips as well. If the charging case has also gotten wet, leave it open and upside down to dry on a dry cloth or paper towel.

Our recommendation:

Ideally let the AirPods dry for at least 24 hours. However, we recommend a drying time of 2-3 days, preferably 3 days.

Warning: What you should not do if your AirPods have fallen into water

1. Do not use them again immediately: Avoid using the AirPods again immediately or trying to turn them on if they have fallen into water. This could cause further damage.

2. Do not dry with heat: You also should not blow-dry them, place them on a radiator, or treat them with other heat sources, as this could damage the sensitive electronic components. It is crucial to let them dry first and only then carefully check and use them.

3. Do not open the case: It is also not advisable to open the case yourself to let the liquid drain out. The AirPods are not designed to be opened by the user, and attempting to do so could very likely damage them. 

4. The “rice trick” does not work: You sometimes read online that you can place the AirPods in dry rice because the rice would absorb the moisture. That is not true and should therefore not be tried. 

Now it matters: Test your dried AirPods again 

First try to charge your AirPods by placing them in the charging case. If the LED light turns on, that indicates that they are charging. That is a positive sign at first. 

Then pair the AirPods with your iPhone and test various functions one by one:

Does music playback work? 

1. Can you make phone calls? 
2. Does noise cancellation work? 

Do the earbuds restore normal sound in these functions? Congratulations, then everything seems to be in order again! 

Important: Test several functions, as some users report that the AirPods worked perfectly again in some functions, but not in others.

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What can you do if the AirPods now sound strange or are defective? 

If your AirPods are hissing, crackling, or have muffled sound that seems to come from far away, there is a chance the problem can be fixed by drying them for longer. 

If this approach does not bring any improvement, they may have suffered water damage and may be defective. It is important to note that even with an existing warranty, water damage caused by improper handling is not covered. 

In such a case, it makes sense to consider buying new AirPods. If only one of the AirPods is not working, it may be possible to replace only the affected single AirPod instead of buying a complete AirPods bundle. 

Although Apple does not sell single AirPods, in our online shop you can buy original replacement parts, including single AirPods. We purchase complete AirPod bundles, take them apart, and sell the individual parts separately. So whether you need a single new left or right AirPod, you can find it with us, save money, and do something good for the environment. 

What should you do if AirPods only got a little wet? 

If the AirPods did not fall into water but only got a little wet, you can follow the same steps we have already described above. You just do not have to wait quite as long before drying them. 

Even though AirPods are not considered waterproof (with some models only being described as “water-resistant”), according to user reports they are still relatively resistant to a bit of water.

Expert tip:

Drying will speed up if you place your AirPods in a sealed container with silica gel bags.

Conclusion: Quick action can save your AirPods

Even though no AirPods model is fully waterproof, falling into water does not automatically mean the end for your headphones. What matters is that you react quickly and correctly: dry them immediately, do not blow-dry them, do not charge them, and above all, be patient. With a drying time of 2-3 days and a bit of luck, your AirPods will work as usual again.

If one AirPod remains defective after drying, you do not have to buy a complete new set right away. At OneEarPod you will find original replacement AirPods available to buy individually – good for both your wallet and the environment.