Are AirPods Waterproof? Every Model’s Rating Explained

Short answer

No AirPods are waterproof. Apple rates them as sweat- and water-resistant. Older models handle sweat and splashes; AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods 5 (IP57) can survive an accidental drop into water. None are designed for swimming or showering.

Water resistance rating for every AirPods model

Source: Apple’s support article on AirPods sweat and water resistance.

What IPX4, IP54 and IP57 actually mean

• The first digit is dust protection (X = not tested, 5 = dust-protected).
• The second digit is water: 4 = splashing water from any direction; 7 = temporary immersion up to 1 metre for 30 minutes.
• Ratings are measured in lab conditions with fresh water. Soap, shampoo, salt water, chlorine and high-pressure water are not covered, and resistance can decrease over time.

Can you swim or shower with AirPods?

No. Apple says AirPods aren’t designed for swimming, showering, water sports, saunas or steam rooms — even the IP57 models. Bluetooth also barely works underwater, so audio cuts out as soon as you submerge.

What to do if your AirPods get wet

1. Wipe them with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.
2. Don’t put them back in the case. Let them dry for at least two hours (Apple’s guidance) with the mesh facing down.
3. Don’t use heat or compressed air.
4. Once dry, connect them and play the AirPods water eject sound mesh-down to push out water still trapped in the speaker mesh.
5. Test both buds with the headphone test.

Wet charging case?

Open the lid, turn it upside down to drain, wipe it with a lint-free cloth and leave it open to dry. Don’t charge it until it’s completely dry. AirPods Pro 1 cases have no rating at all, so be especially careful.

AirPods went through the washing machine?

They sometimes survive. Dry them for 24–48 hours before charging, then test. If they crackle, won’t charge, or one bud is silent, contact Apple — water damage is generally not covered by the standard warranty, but AppleCare+ covers accidental damage for a service fee.

Frequently asked questions

Are AirPods Pro 3 waterproof?

No, but they are rated IP57, so they can survive accidental submersion up to 1 metre for 30 minutes. Apple says they are not designed for swimming or showering.

Can AirPods get wet in the rain?

Rated models (IPX4, IP54, IP57) handle rain and sweat. AirPods 1 and 2 have no rating, so dry them quickly.

Are AirPods 4 waterproof?

No. AirPods 4 and the case are IP54: protected against dust, sweat and splashes, not submersion.

What happens if AirPods go in water?

Older models may stop working or sound muffled. Dry them for at least two hours, do not charge the case while wet, then play a water eject sound.