Imagine the horror as you discover that your beloved AirPods have taken an unplanned trip through the washing machine. Panic sets in as you wonder about their fate and whether or not they can survive such an ordeal.
While the possibility of damage is genuine, there’s still hope for your precious earbuds. Let’s dive into the world of AirPods and their chances of surviving a spin in your washing machine.
AirPods aren’t entirely waterproof, but they do have some level of water resistance. This means that they can potentially endure minor splashes or accidental exposure to water, but prolonged submersion, like in a washing machine, is not recommended.
However, some real-life cases have shown AirPods surviving the washing machine for up to 60 minutes. In this situation, dealing with wet AirPods the right way might minimize the damage and help save your earbuds from an untimely end.
Key Points
- AirPods have some water resistance but may not be completely safe in a washing machine.
- Proper drying and care are crucial for dealing with wet AirPods to minimize damage.
- Knowing how to handle this situation can help preserve your AirPods and their warranty.
AirPods and Water Resistance
Let’s explore how water-resistant your AirPods truly are! We’ll look at the difference in the water resistance ratings for AirPods Pro and AirPods (3rd Generation).
AirPods Pro Water Resistance
AirPods Pro have an IPX4 water-resistance rating, which indicates that they can handle exposure to splashes of water from any direction. This means that your AirPods Pro can withstand rain, sweat, and light splashes, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor activities.
However, it’s important to understand that an IPX4 rating does not equate to being completely waterproof. So, avoid subjecting them to high-velocity water or a dunk in the pool!
While charging your AirPods Pro, you might wonder how long they take to charge. Rest assured that the charging process is quite efficient and designed to ensure you never have to wait too long to start using your AirPods Pro again!
AirPods (3rd Generation) Water Resistance
AirPods (3rd Generation) are also designed to handle exposure to water, but they don’t have the same level of resistance as the AirPods Pro. It is still crucial that you treat these AirPods with care, so don’t put them in the washing machine or expose them to high-velocity water.
It is recommended to avoid situations where water damage might occur, like water skiing or swimming with your AirPods.
A handy feature of your AirPods (3rd Generation) is their integrated microphone, which you can locate using this guide on where the microphone is on your AirPods. It will help you make the most of your AirPods for hands-free communication while ensuring great call quality!
Remember, even though your AirPods Pro and AirPods (3rd Generation) have some degree of water resistance, it’s still crucial to handle them with care and avoid exposing them to water whenever possible.
This way, you can ensure that your AirPods stay in their best condition and provide you with an amazing listening experience for a long time!
Dangers of Washing AirPods
Accidentally putting your AirPods through the wash can cause a number of issues that may result in permanent damage. Let’s explore some of the potential problems that can arise when your AirPods get wet.
Damage to Electronics
When your AirPods get soaked, water can infiltrate and damage the delicate electronics inside. It is crucial to dry them quickly and naturally to minimize the risk of ruining the internal components. There’s a chance your AirPods might survive the wash, but it’s not guaranteed, and the more water they’re exposed to, the higher the risk of harm.
Effects on Sound and Comfort
Exposure to water can also cause the sound quality of your AirPods to deteriorate. If they get too wet, you may notice they’re not as loud as they used to be, leading to a quieter listening experience and potentially reducing overall audio quality.
Additionally, wet ear tips can become slippery and uncomfortable, making it hard to keep them securely in your ears.
Battery Life Impact
Getting your AirPods wet may also have an adverse effect on their battery life. Moisture can harm the internal battery, which can lead to it dying faster than normal, significantly shortening the time you can enjoy your music or podcasts between charges.
Even if your AirPods seem fine after going through the wash, the long-term effect on the battery life can be detrimental, leading to more frequent disconnections or drop-outs.
Dealing with Wet AirPods
So, you accidentally put your AirPods into the washing machine! Don’t worry, it’s not the end of the world. With the right steps, you can potentially save your AirPods. In this section, we’ll discuss how to dry your AirPods, use rice and silica gel packs, and clean the charging case.
Drying AirPods
The first thing you should do is gently shake your AirPods to remove any excess water. Next, use a lint-free cloth or microfiber cloth to gently dry the surface. Avoid using a blow dryer, as the heat can cause damage. Instead, let your AirPods air dry.
Using Rice and Silica Gel Packs
To help speed up the drying process, you can try using rice or silica gel packs. Place your AirPods in a bowl of uncooked rice or a ziplock bag with a few silica gel packets. The rice or silica gel packs can help absorb moisture from your AirPods’ internal components. Leave them in there for at least 24 hours, then check if they’re dry.
Cleaning the Charging Case
While your AirPods are drying, it’s essential to clean the charging case too. Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to wipe the exterior of the case. To handle any debris in the charging ports, gently use compressed air or a cotton swab to remove lint.
What to Avoid
Heat and Dryers
If your AirPods accidentally get washed, it’s super important not to use heat or a dryer. You might think that a dryer could help them dry faster, but heat can actually damage your cool little earbuds. So, avoid using hairdryers, heaters, or microwaves to dry them – just let them air dry on their own!
Showering and Swimming
Okay, now let’s talk about water activities! Your AirPods are not waterproof, so try not to wear them while you’re showering or swimming.
Even though they might look like perfect companions for your water adventures, your AirPods won’t be able to handle all that water. So, always remember to take them off before diving into your next pool party or taking a relaxing shower.
Exposure to Steam and Sauna
Lastly, we need to discuss steam and saunas! You might love the soothing sensation of being in a steamy room, but your AirPods don’t.
It’s best to avoid wearing your earbuds in places like saunas or steam rooms because the hot steam can damage them. Keep them safe by leaving them outside the door and enjoy your steamy, relaxing moment without them.
AirPods Warranty and Replacement
Hey, did you know that Apple offers some pretty cool warranty and replacement options for your AirPods? Let’s explore this together, so you know what to do if something ever happens to your precious earbuds.
Coverage under AppleCare+
AppleCare+ is a fantastic option to consider for your AirPods. When you choose AppleCare+, your AirPods are covered not only for manufacturing defects but also for accidental damage! How awesome is that?
With AppleCare+, you get two incidents of accidental damage coverage every 12 months. Just remember, there is a small service fee for each accidental damage claim, but it’s definitely worth it for peace of mind.
Battery Service and Repairs
No need to worry about battery issues either, because Apple’s got you covered. With AppleCare+, if your AirPods battery gives you trouble or won’t hold a charge, it will be serviced for free! If you don’t have AppleCare+, you can still get battery service, but there will be a fee.
Serial Number and Replacement Process
Now, imagine you need to replace your AirPods or get them serviced. The process is super easy! First, locate your AirPods serial number. You can find it on the original packaging or engraved inside the charging case. Keep this number handy, as you’ll need it when you contact Apple Support.
Next, call or chat with Apple Support, and they will guide you through the replacement process. They’ll let you know about any repair or replacement fees, depending on your warranty and AppleCare+ coverage.
Proper AirPods Care
Ensuring that your AirPods maintain their excellent sound quality and performance requires taking good care of them. Here are some essential tips for safeguarding your AirPods against damage from dirt, sweat, and water.
During Workouts
While engaging in physical activity, you may find yourself sweating a lot. Although AirPods aren’t completely water-resistant, they can handle a certain degree of perspiration. If your workout is intense and generates lots of sweat, it’s essential to air dry your AirPods afterward. This prevents any potential corrosion caused by moisture.
Protection from Water Splashes
Rain and accidental water splashes can create issues for your AirPods. Although they are not designed as splashproof devices, taking precautions is essential. Bringing along a case or a small pouch to store your AirPods during unexpected rainfalls or while near water is a smart move.
As a general rule, try to avoid wearing your AirPods during water-based activities or under heavy rain.
Regular Cleaning
Taking the time to clean your AirPods regularly not only maintains their appearance, but also ensures their optimal functionality. Dirt and debris can cause blockages, which may affect their performance.
To clean your AirPods, gently remove dirt using a soft, dry, and lint-free cloth. Remember to also pay attention to the charging case – pairing mode and battery life can be impacted by a dirty case.
By protecting them from water splashes, cleaning them regularly, and making sure they air dry after workouts, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite tunes without any issues. And remember, if your AirPods happen to go missing, you can always use Find My iPhone to locate them!
Real Life Cases and Tests
Survived Washing Machine Stories
There are plenty of real stories out there of people accidentally putting their AirPods through a laundry cycle and discovering to their surprise that they still worked! One person even found their AirPods in their golf pants after a full cycle in the washer. They let them air dry for about 10 hours before trying them out, and they worked just fine.
Another example includes the AirPods being left in a pocket and surviving the wash. The owner shook off any excess water, gently dried them with a microfiber cloth, and left them in a simple drying solution. So, you can see that with some care, AirPods have a chance of surviving the washing machine!
Failed AirPods after Washing
Not every washed AirPod will survive the ordeal. Some people have had their AirPods stop working after being exposed to water, detergent, and conditioners during the laundry cycle. This could be because the water and chemicals damaged the sensitive electronic components in the AirPods.
If your AirPods go through the wash, immediately pat them dry with a lint-free cloth and avoid using a blow dryer, as the heat may further damage them. Allow them to air dry before testing them out.
One thing to remember: AirPods are not fully waterproof, so the results of these tests and real-life cases might vary depending on the specific conditions and how long they were exposed to water.
While there are cases where washed AirPods can survive, it’s important that you take care during normal wear and try to avoid laundry accidents to keep your AirPods in tip-top shape.
From a young age, I have always had a big interest in technology, and this blog is an extension of that interest. Through this blog, I hope to provide others with all of the information they need regarding tech options to consider, and things such as compatibility. Some of the different items I will be discussing include headphones, smartwatches, and how to fix common issues.
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