It’s every AirPods owner’s nightmare – you’re going about your day, listening to your favorite tunes, and then splash! Your precious earbuds take an unexpected dive into the water. But fear not, because with a few simple steps, you can rescue your AirPods from their watery peril. In this article, we’ll walk you through what to do if your AirPods fell in water.
Step by Step Tutorial: What to Do If Your AirPods Fell in Water
Before we dive into the steps, let’s quickly understand what we’re trying to achieve here. Water and electronics don’t mix well, and the goal is to dry out your AirPods as fast as possible to prevent any lasting damage. Now, let’s get started.
Step 1: Retrieve your AirPods from the water
As soon as you realize your AirPods have fallen into water, retrieve them immediately. The longer they stay submerged, the higher the risk of damage.
Once you’ve got them out, the real challenge begins. Time is of the essence, so move quickly to the next step.
Step 2: Dry the outside of your AirPods
Gently wipe the outside of your AirPods with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Avoid using tissues or paper towels as they can leave residue or even scratch the surface.
This step is crucial as it removes as much water as possible from the outer surface, reducing the risk of water seeping further into the device.
Step 3: Open the charging case and remove any water
Open the AirPods charging case and gently tap it on a dry cloth to remove any water droplets. Be careful not to shake it vigorously as this could push water further into the AirPods or the case.
The charging case is just as important as the AirPods themselves, so give it the attention it deserves in the drying process.
Step 4: Let your AirPods air dry
Place your AirPods and their case in a dry area with good airflow. This can be near a window or in a room with a dehumidifier. Let them air dry for at least a few hours, or ideally, overnight. Do not use a hairdryer, as the heat can damage the components.
Patience is key in this step. The air drying process is gentle and can help evaporate any remaining moisture without causing further damage.
Step 5: Test your AirPods
After you’ve given your AirPods substantial time to dry, test them out. Start with a low volume to check audio quality and gradually increase it to a comfortable listening level.
If your AirPods are working fine, breathe a sigh of relief. If not, it’s time to consider professional help or a replacement.
After completing these steps, your AirPods should be safe and sound. If they’re still working, it’s like nothing ever happened! But if they’re not, you might need to contact Apple support or visit an Apple store for further assistance.
Tips: Protecting Your AirPods from Water Damage
- Always keep your AirPods away from water and high humidity environments.
- Consider investing in a waterproof case for extra protection.
- If you’re near water, be extra mindful of your AirPods and ensure they’re securely in your ears or in their case.
- Don’t charge your AirPods until you’re certain they’re completely dry.
- Review Apple’s warranty and accidental damage coverage for your AirPods to understand what’s covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can AirPods survive water damage?
It depends on the duration and extent of the exposure. AirPods are not waterproof, but they may survive minimal and brief encounters with water if dried out properly.
How long should I let my AirPods air dry?
It’s recommended to let them air dry for at least a few hours or, ideally, overnight. This gives enough time for any trapped moisture to evaporate.
Can I use rice to dry my AirPods?
Using rice to dry electronics is a common myth, but it’s not recommended for AirPods as it could leave behind dust and starch, which can cause further damage.
Is it safe to use a hairdryer to dry my AirPods?
No, using a hairdryer can be too harsh and potentially damage the internal components with excessive heat.
Will Apple replace water-damaged AirPods?
Apple’s warranty does not cover water damage, but you can check with Apple support for possible solutions or to inquire about the cost of a replacement.
Summary
- Retrieve your AirPods from the water quickly.
- Dry the outside of your AirPods with a soft cloth.
- Remove any water from the charging case.
- Let your AirPods air dry in a well-ventilated area.
- Test your AirPods to see if they’re working.
Conclusion
Dealing with water-damaged AirPods can be a stressful experience, but as we’ve seen, all hope is not lost if your AirPods fell in water. By following the steps outlined in this article, you have a fighting chance of saving your beloved earbuds. Remember, the quicker you act, the better the outcome. And if the worst comes to pass, and they’re beyond saving, take this as a learning opportunity to be more cautious in the future. Water and electronics will never be best friends, but with the right protective measures and quick thinking, you can keep your AirPods safe and sound for years to come.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.