Can You Wear AirPods in the Rain?

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Waterproof headphones would be a dream come true for anyone who loves to listen to music while they exercise or run errands in inclement weather. One brand of highly sought-after wireless earbuds, Apple’s AirPods, has elicited mixed responses regarding their ability to withstand rain. So, can you wear AirPods in the rain?

You cannot wear AirPods in the rain. Although AirPods are water-resistant, they are not waterproof. These gadgets can handle small splashes of water, but wearing them in the rain or while swimming could damage the delicate components.

This blog post will explain why you shouldn’t wear AirPods in the rain. I’ll also provide tips on protecting your AirPods from water damage. Read on to learn more!

Why You Shouldn’t Wear AirPods in the Rain

Here’s a rundown of the main reasons you shouldn’t wear AirPods in the rain:

AirPods Are Not Waterproof

You shouldn’t wear your AirPods in the rain because they are not designed to be completely submerged in water. 

To put things into perspective, it’s best to understand the difference between water-resistant and waterproof. A water-resistant product can withstand light exposure to water, such as sweat or a splash of rain. On the other hand, a waterproof product can be fully submerged in water without any negative consequences.

According to Apple, AirPods are IPX4 water-resistant. This means it’s fine to get a tiny drop or two of water on them. On the other hand, wearing AirPods in the rain could seriously damage and render them unusable.

Also, if water gets into the charging port, it could cause corrosion and damage to the internal components of your AirPods. Additionally, if water gets into the speaker grilles, it could cause problems with the sound quality of your AirPods.

The AirPods Warranty Doesn’t Cover Water Damage

Although Apple states that their AirPods are water-resistant, this doesn’t mean you should test the limits. Water damage isn’t covered by the AirPods warranty. So, if your pair gets soaked in the rain or falls into a body of water, you’ll have to pay for repairs or replacement. 

Therefore, wearing your AirPods in the rain is not worth the risk. It’s better to err on the side of caution and find an alternative option for listening to music or taking calls during rainy weather.

Your AirPods Could Fall Out

Another potential problem with wearing your AirPods in the rain is that they could fall out of your ears. If you’re doing something active (like running or hiking), chances are that your ears will become sweaty, making it more likely for your AirPods to slip out.

On top of that, you may lose the AirPods if they fall out while you’re outside in the rain. It’s a lose-lose situation: Not only could your AirPods be damaged, but they could also be lost forever.

What To Do If Your AirPods Get Wet

If your AirPods do happen to get wet (whether from sweat or accidentally being exposed to water), there are steps you can take to salvage them: 

  1. Ensure the AirPods are turned off, and don’t turn them back on until they are completely dry. If water gets into the internal components while they’re turned on, it could cause further damage. For example, if water gets into the charging port, it could potentially cause a short circuit.
  2. Using a lint-free cloth, dry off your AirPods. Try to absorb any excess moisture from the speaker grilles using a soft, absorbent material, like a cloth or paper towel. You should also make sure to dry out the charging case and the charging port.
  3. Allow your AirPods to air dry safely. Do not put them anywhere near direct sunlight or heat sources like stoves. For the best results, leave them to air dry in a warm, ventilated area for at least 24 hours before attempting to use them again.
  4. Don’t use a hairdryer or place them near other heat sources, as that could damage the internal components. If your AirPods still aren’t working after allowing them to air dry, consider taking them to a professional for repairs or replace them.

And speaking of rain and its effect on electronics, did you know that rain can cause connectivity issues? Check out my article discussing how rain affects WiFi signals for more information.

Tips for Protecting Your AirPods From Damage

Now that you know why it’s not a good idea to wear your AirPods in the rain, here are some tips for protecting them from damage:

Keep Your AirPods Dry and Clean

Regular cleaning will ensure that your AirPods stay in good working condition and last longer. In addition, it will help prevent ear infections and other health problems that may arise from wearing dirty earbuds. 

So, the next time you wear your AirPods during a workout or in the rain, give them a quick wipe-down afterward. It only takes a few seconds, but it can make a big difference in the lifespan of your beloved gadgets.

Avoid Exposing Your AirPods to Extreme Temperatures

You should keep the AirPods away from extreme temperatures, as they could potentially cause damage to the internal components. For example, leaving your AirPods in a hot car on a sunny day may cause them to overheat and potentially damage the battery.

Similarly, exposing your AirPods to cold temperatures for extended periods could damage them. So, it’s best to keep them in a safe, temperature-controlled environment when not in use.

Invest in a Protective Case

Another way to protect your AirPods is to invest in a protective case. These cases can help prevent damage from drops, scratches, and exposure to water or other liquids. Plus, they come in various styles and designs, so you can add some personality to your AirPods while keeping them safe and protected.

Here are a few things to consider when purchasing a protective case for your AirPods:

  • Ensure the case is explicitly designed for AirPods, as generic cases may not fit properly and leave gaps that expose them to potential damage.
  • Look for a case made from durable materials, such as silicone or hard plastic, that can protect from drops and scratches.
  • Ensure the case has a proper seal to protect against water and other liquids.

For starters, I recommend this Catalyst Waterproof Case for AirPods from Amazon.com. It’s waterproof up to three feet (one meter) and has a secure seal to protect against water damage. Plus, the durable silicone exterior helps prevent drops and scratches.

Store Your AirPods Properly

Lastly, keep your AirPods in a safe, dry place. That means keeping them away from any potential sources of damage, such as excessive heat or water.

You should also keep the charging case closed tightly to prevent dust or debris from getting inside and potentially damaging the AirPods.

And if you’re traveling with your AirPods, consider investing in a carrying case to provide extra protection while on the go.

Alternatives to AirPods for Rainy Weather

If you still want to listen to music or take phone calls in the rain, there are some alternatives to AirPods that may be better suited for rainy weather.

Waterproof Bluetooth Earbuds Are a Better Option

Several waterproof Bluetooth earbuds on the market offer similar features to AirPods, such as wireless connectivity and hands-free calling. These earbuds often have a higher waterproof rating, making them a better option for wearing in the rain or during strenuous activities like running or swimming.

Waterproof Smart Watches Can Provide Music

Another option is a waterproof smartwatch. These devices allow you to listen to music and make phone calls while also providing additional features like fitness tracking and notifications from your smartphone.

Plus, with a waterproof rating, you can wear them in the rain without worrying about potential damage.

Waterproof Portable Speakers Can Withstand Rain

If you want to listen to music in the rain with a group, consider investing in a waterproof portable speaker. These speakers can connect wirelessly to your smartphone or other device and provide high-quality sound for outdoor listening, even in wet conditions.

Note: Whichever option you choose, ensure it’s IP67 or higher rated for protection. An IP67 waterproof rating is the highest waterproof rating for electronic devices. The “6” in the IP67 rating means you don’t have to worry about dust wreaking havoc on the device at all. The “7” in the rating means that the device can be submerged in water that’s 3.28 feet (1 meter) deep for up to half an hour.

Anything lower than an IP67 waterproof rating, such as an IP65 waterproof rating, means that the device is not totally dustproof and may only be protected against light splashing or short periods of time submerged in water. 

Final Thoughts 

Although AirPods are marketed as water-resistant, this does not mean you should wear them in the rain. The water resistance rating for AirPods is IPX4, meaning it’s fine to touch them with slightly wet hands, but getting them soaked is not okay. Wearing AirPods in the rain can cause damage to the internal components and potentially ruin them completely. 

If your AirPods get wet, dry them as soon as possible with a soft, absorbent cloth and avoid using them for at least 12 hours.

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