What to Do If You Accidentally Washed Your AirPods: A Comprehensive Guide
Washing your AirPods is an all too common scenario that can cause anxiety and worry. But fear not, with the right steps and precautions, it’s possible to save your precious wireless earbuds. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the immediate actions you should take, the dos and don’ts of drying, and expert tips to minimize the risk of permanent damage.
Immediate Actions to Take
If you discover that your AirPods have been through the wash, act swiftly. The longer they stay submerged in water, the higher the chance of damage.
- Remove AirPods and Case: Retrieve your AirPods and the charging case from the washing machine or dryer as soon as possible.
- Disconnect from Devices: Turn off Bluetooth on all connected devices to prevent short circuits.
Drying Your AirPods: Dos and Don’ts
Drying your AirPods requires patience and care. Here are the key dos and don’ts to follow:
Do:
- Use a Soft Cloth: Gently pat dry the exterior of the AirPods and charging case with a clean, absorbent cloth.
- Place in a Ventilated Area: Leave the AirPods in a well-ventilated, warm, and dry area for several hours.
- Use a Silica Gel Pack: Place the AirPods in a sealed container with silica gel to absorb moisture.
- Rice Trick: If you don’t have silica gel, put the AirPods in a bowl of uncooked rice for at least 12 hours. Rice is an excellent moisture absorber.
Don’t:
- Use Heat Sources: Avoid drying your AirPods with a hairdryer or placing them in the oven. Heat can damage the sensitive components.
- Shake or Blow: Shaking or blowing into the AirPods can force water deeper into the device.
- Use a Vacuum Cleaner: The suction force of a vacuum cleaner can damage the delicate mesh that protects the speakers.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
After drying your AirPods, you may encounter some common issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:
- No Sound: Check if the AirPods are securely seated in your ears. If the issue persists, gently clean the speaker mesh with a soft brush.
- Crackling or Distorted Sound: Water may have entered the speakers. Try removing the mesh and cleaning it gently with a soft brush.
- Battery Not Charging: The charging case may not charge due to moisture. Wipe down the charging pins with a dry cloth.
Expert Tips for Minimizing Damage
- Freshwater is Better: If your AirPods were exposed to salt or chlorinated water, rinse them with clean water before drying.
- Remove Moisture from Case: Carefully wipe down the charging case with a damp cloth to remove any water droplets.
- Check for Corrosion: After a few days, inspect the AirPods and charging case for any signs of corrosion. If corrosion is present, contact Apple Support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I put my AirPods in the washer intentionally to clean them?
A: No, AirPods are not waterproof and putting them in the washer can cause permanent damage.
Q: How long does it take for AirPods to dry completely?
A: It can take several hours to a few days for AirPods to dry completely. The time depends on the amount of water they were exposed to and the drying method used.
Q: Should I bring my AirPods to an Apple Store if they still don’t work after drying?
A: Yes, if your AirPods are not functioning properly after drying, they may have sustained internal damage. Consult Apple Support or take them to an Apple Store for further assistance.
Conclusion
Accidents happen, but following these steps and expert tips can increase the chances of salvaging your AirPods after an accidental wash. Remember to act quickly, dry them properly, and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. By taking the necessary precautions, you can minimize the risk of permanent damage and enjoy your AirPods for years to come.
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I Washed My AirPods: What to Do & Things to Avoid Apr 13, 2022Then, open the lid of the AirPods case and press and hold the setup button on the back for about two seconds. Next, open the Bluetooth settings on your other device and look for “AirPods” in the list of available devices. Once you see “AirPods,” select it and wait for the connection to be established.
