AirPods may be small, but they're not indestructible. Whether they fell in the sink, got caught in rain, or were worn during an intense workout, trapped moisture causes muffled audio, crackling, reduced bass, or complete audio loss from one or both earbuds. Here's how to fix wet AirPods quickly and for free.
AirPods water resistance ratings
- AirPods (1st & 2nd Gen): no official water resistance rating
- AirPods (3rd Gen): IPX4 — splash resistant
- AirPods Pro (1st & 2nd Gen): IPX4 — splash resistant
- AirPods Max: not water resistant — avoid all moisture
IPX4 means the AirPods can handle splashing from any direction. It does not mean waterproof, and water can still enter the speaker mesh. Sweat and rain cause the same muffling as full submersion.
Signs your AirPods have water damage
- One AirPod sounds significantly quieter than the other
- Music sounds muffled or like it's coming through cloth
- Crackling on bass notes or during calls
- Sound cuts in and out during playback
- One AirPod stopped working completely after exposure
How to fix wet AirPods with sound wave ejection
- Open SpeakerRescue on your phone
- Select AirPods/Earbuds from the device menu
- Remove the AirPods from the case
- Hold one AirPod with the speaker mesh facing downward over a dry cloth
- Hold your phone next to it with volume at maximum
- Run the 165Hz Water Ejection mode for 30 seconds
- Repeat with the 528Hz Dust mode for 30 seconds
- Repeat for the other AirPod
You may not see visible droplets (AirPods are smaller), but you will hear clearer audio after the session.
Apple's built-in AirPods cleaning
Apple does not include a water ejection feature for AirPods. Apple Support recommends wiping with a lint-free cloth and using low air pressure to clear the mesh. SpeakerRescue's acoustic approach is safer and more effective for moisture removal.
Preventing AirPod water damage
- Don't wear non-Pro AirPods in rain or while swimming
- Use AirPods Pro for exercise and outdoor activities
- Dry them before placing back in the case — trapped moisture can re-enter the earbuds
- Run a monthly 528Hz maintenance session to keep the mesh clear