How to Get Water Out of AirPods – (2025 Expert Guide)

Dropped your AirPods in water? Do this, fast:

• Power off immediately.
• Blot buds and case with a lint-free cloth.
• If they power on safely, run a Water Eject tone.
• Seal with silica gel in an airtight container for 24–48 hours.
• Avoid rice, heat, and compressed air.

I’ve saved mine and helped friends after rain, workouts, coffee spills, and even a wash cycle. AirPods are IPX4 at best splash-resistant, not waterproof.

In this guide, you’ll learn the first-minute actions and dry them safely without rice or heat. You’ll use Water Eject correctly. You’ll also see what changes for saltwater or detergent so your AirPods have the best chance to sound normal again.

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Are AirPods Waterproof or Water-Resistant? (Model-by-Model IP Ratings)

According to Apple’s official AirPods specifications and the IEC 60529 IP rating standard, AirPods aren’t waterproof. Some models are water-resistant, but only to a certain limit and knowing that limit can save you from permanent damage.

AirPods Pro & Pro 2 — IPX4 Splash Resistance Limits

• IPX4 rating as defined under IEC 60529, handles sweat and light splashes, but offers zero protection against immersion.
• No protection against submersion.
• Resistance can weaken with age and damage.

AirPods Max — Water Vulnerability Points

• No official IP rating — zero guaranteed water protection.
• Fabric headband and cushions absorb moisture quickly.

AirPods Gen 4 & AirPods 4 — Latest IP Updates

• IPX4 rating — same as Pro models.
• Splash-resistant, not swim-safe.

Bottom line: Even with an IPX4 rating, AirPods are vulnerable. This is the same standard used in devices like the Apple Watch Series 3 (IPX7) and many Samsung Galaxy Buds models, but AirPods remain far more vulnerable. Treat them as delicate electronics, not waterproof gear.

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Immediate Actions to Dry AirPods Fast (First 5 Minutes)

If you just dropped your AirPod in water, soaked your AirPods Pro, or found them wet after the washing machine, your next five minutes decide whether they live or die. Here’s the exact sequence that works:

1. Power Off & Disconnect AirPods Immediately

Cut the power immediately. Leave them off and unpaired, even if they still work right now, to stop water from shorting the electronics.

2. Dry AirPods Exterior with Lint-Free Cloth

Use a clean, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the buds and the case. Focus on the speaker mesh, charging contacts, and mic holes. Skip paper towels, fibers can get stuck inside.

3. Avoid Turning On Wet AirPods Until Fully Dry

Don’t “test” them. Turning them on too soon is the fastest way to cause permanent damage. Keep the case lid open to let trapped moisture escape.

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Step-by-Step Guide: Safest Methods to Get Water Out of AirPods

Follow these exact steps to safely remove water from your AirPods, AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Max, or the charging case, without causing more damage.

1. Dry AirPods & Charging Case Safely

• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to blot away visible moisture.
• Focus on speaker mesh, microphone holes, and charging pins.
• Avoid paper towels or cotton, fibers can get trapped inside.

2. Use the Water Eject Shortcut for AirPods

• Download the “Water Eject” Siri Shortcut.
• Place each AirPod near your phone’s speaker and run the tone.
• The low-frequency sound helps push moisture out of the mesh.
• Skip this if the AirPods won’t power on — never force sound through wet electronics.

3. Store AirPods in Silica Gel — Avoid Rice

• Place AirPods and case in an airtight container with silica gel packs.
• Silica works faster and cleaner than rice, with no dust risk.
• Leave sealed for 24–48 hours.

4. Why You Should Avoid Rice & Heat on Wet AirPods

• Rice: Leaves particles inside and dries slower than silica.
• Heat: Hairdryers, ovens, or direct sunlight can warp parts and kill the battery.

5. Gravity-Assisted Drying for AirPods

• Position AirPods so the speaker mesh faces downward.
• Keep the case lid open and upright to let moisture escape.

6. Wait 24–48 Hours Before Testing AirPods

• Minimum drying time: 24 hours.
• Turning them on too soon can cause permanent short-circuits.

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Special Recovery Protocols & Best Way to Dry AirPods After Water Damage

Different liquids damage AirPods in different ways. Use the exact fix for your case to stop further damage and improve your chances of recovery.

1. Freshwater Spills — Standard AirPods Recovery

• Power off immediately.
• Dry exterior with lint-free cloth.
• Use Water Eject and store in silica gel for 24–48 hours.
• In washing machine cases, act as soon as possible — trapped heat and detergent can worsen damage.

2. Saltwater or Chlorinated Water — Prevent Corrosion in AirPods

• Lightly rinse exterior only with fresh water to remove salt or chlorine.
• Dry with lint-free cloth.
• Follow silica gel method.
• Corrosion can start within minutes, especially with saltwater, which is why Apple Support advises rinsing the exterior with fresh water before drying to prevent irreversible damage.

3. Sugary or Sticky Liquids on AirPods — Residue Removal Before Drying

• Lightly dampen microfiber cloth with fresh water, wipe away all residue.
• Clean speaker mesh gently, dried sugar can block sound permanently. Apple’s repair guidelines recommend using a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with 70% isopropyl alcohol to dissolve residue without damaging the mesh.
• Then follow standard drying process with silica gel.

4. Mud & Dirty Water on AirPods — Hygiene Precautions

• Brush off loose dirt.
• Lightly rinse exterior with clean water.
• Dry thoroughly and store in silica gel.
• Avoid soaking the charging contacts — water plus dirt can short the pins.

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Post-Drying Troubleshooting & How to Tell if AirPods Have Water Damage

Once your AirPods have dried for at least 24–48 hours, follow these checks to confirm they’re working and catch any hidden damage early.

1. Test AirPods Audio Quality After Water Damage

• Play audio at normal volume.
• Listen for muffled sound, distortion, or imbalance between earbuds.
• If muffled, gently brush the speaker mesh or rerun the Water Eject Shortcut to clear trapped moisture.

2. Check & Clean AirPods Microphones Safely

• Record a short voice memo.
• If the sound is faint or unclear, inspect the mic holes for debris or residue.
• Clean safely with a soft, dry brush or slightly damp microfiber cloth, never sharp tools or high-pressure air.

3. Diagnose AirPods Charging & Battery Issues

• Place AirPods in the case and confirm both start charging.
• If one doesn’t, inspect the contact pins for corrosion or dirt.
• Wipe with a dry cloth — avoid liquids on charging points.

Expert note: If sound or charging issues remain after cleaning, corrosion may still be inside. Contact Apple Support promptly water damage can worsen over time even if the AirPods seem mostly functional now.

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AppleCare, Repair & Replacement Options for Water-Damaged AirPods

If drying didn’t save your AirPods, here’s exactly what Apple covers, what you’ll pay, and when third-party repair makes sense.

Apple’s Official Liquid Damage Policy for AirPods

• Standard warranty: liquid damage is never covered.
• Claims must be filed while coverage is active — expired plans don’t apply.

Replacement Costs for Different AirPods Models

• AirPods (1st–3rd Gen): $69–$89 per earbud
• AirPods Pro / Pro 2: $89 per earbud
• Charging Case: $59–$99 depending on model
• AirPods Max: $79 per ear cushion, ~$299 for full replacement

When Third-Party AirPods Repair Makes Sense

• Makes sense if:
  • You’re out of warranty
  • Apple’s fee is close to the price of a new set
• Choose shops with micro-soldering skills basic cleaning won’t fix internal corrosion. Trusted options include iFixit-certified repair centers or Apple Authorized Service Providers, though once opened by a third party, Apple will not service the device in the future.
• Warning: once opened by a third party, Apple won’t service it in the future.

Expert advice: If you have AppleCare+, use it, the service fee is far less than paying full price. Without coverage, compare repair cost to buying new, especially if your battery life is already short.

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How to Prevent Future Water Damage to AirPods

Even water-resistant AirPods can fail after one bad splash. Here’s how to protect them so you never face another costly repair.

1. Best Waterproof Cases for AirPods

• Choose a case with IP67 or higher rating for full water protection.
• Look for tight port seals and hinge covers to stop leaks.
• Proven options include the Catalyst Waterproof Case, Spigen Rugged Armor, and OtterBox Core Series all of which offer IP67-level water protection far exceeding the AirPods’ built-in IPX4 rating. For extreme use, brands like Pelican also make durable waterproof storage cases.

2. Avoid Moisture-Heavy Environments for AirPods

• Avoid bathrooms after showers, gym lockers with damp clothes, or leaving them near kitchen sinks.
• Store in a cool, dry place moisture buildup can corrode charging contacts over time, a problem Apple Authorized Service Providers often flag when handling warranty claims.

3. Sweat Protection for AirPods During Workouts

• Use sweat-resistant ear covers or hooks that divert moisture away from speaker mesh.
• Wipe AirPods down immediately after intense training sessions.

• For heavy sweaters, pair with a waterproof case for full protection during storage.

Expert tip: An $8 waterproof case or $5 sweat cover can save you from a $200 replacement. Prevention is always cheaper and safer than repair.

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AirPods Water Damage Recovery Chances (By Exposure Type)

Here’s the exact recovery likelihood chart showing how to get water out of AirPods depending on the liquid type, time submerged, and your first actions. Use this as a quick reference to see your chances of restoring full sound and battery performance.

1. The AirPods Rice Drying Myth

• Rice doesn’t pull out moisture faster than air drying.
• Dust and starch from rice can clog speaker mesh or damage charging contacts.
• Better fix: silica gel — clean, safe, and more effective.

2. Dangers of Hairdryer & Microwave “Fixes” for AirPods

• Hairdryers, even premium models like the Dyson Supersonic, blow hot air that can warp the plastic and damage the battery.
• Microwaves, regardless of power setting, destroy electronics instantly, void AppleCare coverage, and can start a fire.
• Better fix: dry at room temperature in a sealed container with desiccants.

3. Compressed Air Risks for Wet AirPods

• Strong air pressure can push water deeper into the internal circuits.
• If you use air, keep it at low pressure and a safe distance.

Expert takeaway: Every time you try a risky “hack,” you reduce the chances of recovery. Stick to safe, proven drying methods for the best results.

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AirPods Water Damage Recovery Likelihood Table

Not all water damage is equal. Recovery depends on the liquid type, time submerged, and what you do immediately afterward. This chart shows realistic chances based on common repair results.

Exposure Type	Time in Water	First Actions Taken	Recovery Chance
Freshwater	< 30 sec	Power off → Dry exterior → Silica gel 24–48 hrs	95%
Freshwater	1–5 min	Same as above	80%
Freshwater	> 5 min	Same as above	55%
Saltwater / Chlorinated	< 30 sec	Rinse exterior → Dry → Silica gel	75%
Saltwater / Chlorinated	1–5 min	Same as above	45%
Sugary Liquid (soda/juice)	Any time	Wipe residue → Dry → Silica gel	50%
Washing Machine	Full cycle	Power off → Dry → Silica gel	35%
Mud / Dirty Water	< 1 min	Brush debris → Rinse exterior → Dry → Silica gel	65%

Expert insight:

• Fast action is the biggest factor. Even in bad scenarios, cutting power and drying immediately can raise recovery odds.
• Salt, sugar, and detergents are more damaging than clean water because they leave residue and cause corrosion.
• The longer the AirPods stay wet, the lower the chance — every extra minute matters.

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FAQs About AirPods Water Damage

1. How to get water out of AirPods Pro?

Power them off immediately, dry with a lint-free cloth, run the Water Eject Siri Shortcut, and store in silica gel for 24–48 hours. Avoid rice and heat, as they can damage components.

2. How to get water out of AirPods case?

Wipe the outside with a soft cloth, keep the lid open, and place it in silica gel for at least 24 hours. Do not charge until completely dry.

3. Can AirPods Survive Water Damage & What Are the Warning Signs?

Yes, if exposure was brief and you act fast. Common AirPods water damage signs include muffled sound, charging issues, and reduced battery life.

4. How to use Water Eject on AirPods?

Install the “Water Eject” Siri Shortcut, connect your AirPods, and run the shortcut to play a tone that helps push out trapped water.

5. Are AirPods waterproof?

No. Some models, like the AirPods Pro, have an IPX4 water-resistance rating, which protects against splashes but not immersion.

6. How long to leave AirPods in silica gel?

At least 24 hours, ideally 48 for deep moisture removal. Opening too soon risks hidden corrosion.

7. Will sound quality return after drying?

Often yes, but if audio is muffled, clean the speaker mesh gently and rerun Water Eject. If distortion persists, internal components may be damaged.

8. Does AppleCare cover water damage?

Standard warranties do not. AppleCare+ covers liquid damage under accidental damage, but a service fee applies for each incident.

9. What to do if AirPods got wet in washing machine?

Power off, dry thoroughly, and store in silica gel for 48 hours. Washing machines often leave detergent residue, so wipe the exterior before drying.

10. What’s the Best Way to Dry AirPods After Water Damage?

The best way to dry AirPods is to power them off, blot with a lint-free cloth, avoid rice and heat, and seal them with silica gel for 24–48 hours. This method works faster and cleaner than rice and prevents further corrosion.

11. How to Tell if AirPods Have Water Damage?

Signs include muffled or distorted sound, one earbud not charging, battery draining unusually fast, and visible corrosion on charging contacts.

Conclusion:

Recovering water-damaged AirPods is all about speed, precision, and patience. Cut the power instantly, dry the exterior, use Water Eject if it’s safe to do so, and keep them sealed with silica gel for 24–48 hours before turning them on. Avoid rice, heat, and any “quick fix” that risks pushing water deeper or damaging the battery.

Once they’re safe, protect them. A waterproof case and avoiding high-moisture environments will save you from repeating this process. Even with IPX4 resistance, AirPods aren’t waterproof treat them like delicate electronics, not sports gear.

Do it right the first time, and you’ll give your AirPods the best chance of full recovery and keep them working for years to come. Bookmark this guide so you can act instantly if it ever happens again speed is everything when saving water-damaged AirPods.