Ever pulled a load of laundry from the wash and discovered an AirPod sitting at the bottom of the drum? If so, you’re not alone. Accidents happen, and with how often we use our earbuds, it’s all too easy for one to slip into a pocket.
But can your AirPod really survive a trip through the washing machine? This article dives into the real risks, answers your burning questions, and offers practical steps and tips if you find yourself in this all-too-common situation.
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Can an AirPod Survive the Washing Machine?
If you’ve ever found your AirPods rattling in the washing machine after a forgotten laundry cycle, you’re not alone. Many people have accidentally sent their wireless earbuds through a wash. Naturally, the urgent question is: Can AirPods survive the washing machine? The answer isn’t as straightforward as a simple yes or no—so let’s break it all down.
The Simple Answer
AirPods are not designed to be waterproof. While they may offer some degree of water resistance (especially certain models like AirPods Pro), they are not built for submersion or exposure to the rigorous conditions inside a washer. Therefore, while some lucky users report their AirPods survived a washing machine cycle, there’s a significant risk of damage, malfunction, or even complete failure.
Your AirPods might survive—but don’t count on it.
What Happens When AirPods Go Through the Wash?
What AirPods Face in the Washing Machine
The inside of your washing machine is a hostile environment for electronics:
- Water Exposure: AirPods encounter not just water, but also detergent, which can corrode sensitive components.
- Agitation and Spinning: Impact from tumbling inside the drum can physically damage the pods.
- Heat: Warm or hot cycles introduce thermal stress.
- Duration: Extended soaking increases the chance for moisture to seep deeper inside.
Possible Outcomes
After a wash, your AirPods could:
- Continue Working Perfectly: You might get lucky, especially if the wash cycle was brief or on a cold setting.
- Work but with Issues: There might be muffled sound, connectivity problems, or inconsistent battery performance.
- Stop Working Entirely: Water can cause short circuits or permanent damage to internal components.
What To Do If Your AirPods Went Through the Wash
Discovering your AirPods after a laundry cycle can be stressful. Here’s how to give them the best chance at survival.
1. Act Fast
- Retrieve your AirPods from the washer immediately.
- Remove them from the case if they’re still inside.
- Power them off, if possible (though AirPods lack a dedicated power-off button).
2. Dry Them Gently
- Do not use the AirPods or plug them in to charge.
- Gently wipe off excess water with a soft, dry cloth.
3. Remove Moisture
Try to get moisture out of all the nooks and crannies:
- Leave them out: Place the AirPods (and case, if affected) in a dry area at room temperature.
- Open the lid: Let the case air dry with the top open.
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Use desiccants: Place your AirPods in a container of silica gel packets. Silica gel absorbs moisture more effectively than rice.
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Tip:* Avoid using rice. While a common DIY suggestion, rice isn’t as effective as silica gel and might introduce particles into your AirPods.
4. Wait—Patience is Key
- Leave your AirPods and case to dry for at least 24-48 hours. Longer is better if you suspect heavy water exposure.
- Don’t rush to use or charge them—moisture inside can short-circuit the electronics.
5. Test Carefully
- After waiting, check your AirPods for signs of moisture.
- Gently try connecting and using them.
- If the case or pods are still damp, give it more time.
What Not to Do
Sometimes, your eagerness to rescue your AirPods can backfire. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Don’t use a hair dryer or microwave. High heat can melt components or further damage batteries.
- Don’t charge wet AirPods. Plugging in wet electronics can cause a short circuit, damaging the internals permanently.
- Don’t use cleaning sprays or isopropyl alcohol. Chemicals may react with internal electronics or case materials.
The Science of Water Resistance in AirPods
Not all AirPods are created equal when it comes to water resistance.
- AirPods (Gen 1 & 2): No water resistance rating.
- AirPods Pro & AirPods (3rd generation): Rated IPX4 (resistant to splashes of water but not submersion).
What Does IPX4 Mean?
- Splash-proof, not waterproof.
- Designed to withstand sweat or light rain.
- Not intended for washing machines, showers, or swimming.
Key Point: Even the most water-resistant AirPods should NOT be exposed to complete submersion, spinning drum impacts, or detergent.
Risks and Challenges: What Can Go Wrong?
If your AirPods have experienced a ride in the washer, here’s what might happen:
- Short Circuits: Water can bridge connections inside, frying circuits.
- Corrosion: Detergent and minerals in water can corrode metal contact points.
- Speaker Damage: Water in speaker grills or microphones can muffle sound or stop them from working entirely.
- Battery Issues: Lithium-ion batteries can suffer damage or even become unsafe if exposed to water or heat.
- Connectivity Problems: Bluetooth chips and antennas may be adversely affected.
Signs Your AirPods Might Be Damaged
Watch out for these common issues after accidental washing:
- Distorted, muffled, or no sound
- Inability to charge or hold a charge
- Intermittent Bluetooth connections
- The case doesn’t close or latch properly
- Physical cracking or warping
If you notice any of these symptoms, further drying might help, but permanent damage is possible.
Tips To Prevent AirPods From Going Through the Wash
A little prevention can save a lot of hassle. Here’s how you can avoid a repeat incident:
- Establish a Storage Habit
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Always keep AirPods in their case and in a consistent spot (like your bag, desk, or nightstand) when not in use.
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Check Pockets Before Washing
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Make it a routine to empty all pockets before tossing clothes in the machine.
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Use an AirPod Case with a Clip
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Attaching your AirPods to your keys or bag using a case with a carabiner reduces the chance of forgetting them in a pocket.
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Reminders
- Set a recurring phone reminder on laundry day to check for electronics.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your AirPods still don’t work after thorough drying, consider these steps:
- Contact Apple Support: Explain the situation; Apple technicians can assess the damage and suggest repair or replacement options.
- Check Your Warranty: Standard Apple warranties do not cover water damage, but it’s still good to check if you’re eligible for replacement.
- Explore AppleCare+ Options: If you have AppleCare+ with accidental damage coverage, you might be able to get a replacement at a reduced fee.
Summary: Can AirPods Survive the Washing Machine?
While some users have gotten lucky, the general consensus is clear: AirPods are not made to withstand the wash. Though they may survive a quick, cool cycle now and then, every trip through the machine increases their risk for permanent damage. Acting quickly can improve your chances of recovery, but prevention is ultimately the best solution.
Keep your pockets empty, dry your AirPods thoroughly if disaster strikes, and remember—they’re just not built for laundry day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are AirPods waterproof or just water-resistant?
AirPods (Pro and some newer models) are water-resistant to a degree (IPX4 rated) but not waterproof. This means they can handle sweat and light rain but are not protected against immersion or high-pressure water—like the interior of a washing machine.
2. How long should I dry my AirPods after they’ve been washed?
It’s best to dry your AirPods and their case for at least 24-48 hours in a dry, airy environment. If you’re unsure about internal moisture, leaving them out for 72 hours is safer. Using silica gel packets can help speed up the drying process.
3. Is it safe to use rice to dry my AirPods?
While rice is a commonly suggested home remedy, it is less effective than silica gel packets and can leave dust or particles inside your AirPods. Using silica gel is safer and more effective.
4. What happens if I try to use or charge wet AirPods?
Attempting to use or charge damp AirPods can cause short circuits, permanent damage, or even pose a safety risk due to battery complications. Always ensure the device is completely dry before use.
5. Does Apple’s warranty cover water-damaged AirPods?
Standard Apple warranties do not provide coverage for water damage. However, if you have AppleCare+ with accidental damage protection, you may be eligible for a discounted replacement. Always check your coverage details.
Taking care of your AirPods means keeping them dry and out of the wash. If you ever make that all-too-easy mistake, act quickly, dry them thoroughly, and hope for the best. For long-term reliability, prevention is always the best policy.