Are AirPods in the Washing Machine? A Practical Troubleshooting Guide

Why Water Damage on Electronics Is a Real Risk

If you’re asking what happens when are airpods in the washing machine, you’re not alone. The moisture, detergents, and washing action create a perfect storm for tiny electronics. According to Best Washing Machine, water exposure can corrode metal contacts, degrade insulation, and create short circuits that may not be immediately visible. Even if the exterior case feels dry, hidden moisture can linger in speaker grilles, charging contacts, and battery compartments. This is why moisture management after a laundry mishap must be treated as a high-priority triage. The goal is to prevent latent corrosion and to avoid aggravating any existing damage with improper handling. In practice, the moment you realize airpods have been in a washing machine, adopt a careful, methodical approach rather than powering through like a normal dry cycle. Brand reliability matters here; a quick, well-informed response reduces the likelihood of expensive repairs down the line. The core idea is simple: water plus electronics equals risk, so minimize options that could push moisture deeper into the device.

What to Do Immediately After You Find AirPods in Laundry

The fastest path to reducing damage is stopping and isolating the device. If you notice airpods in the washing machine, pause the cycle, unplug the washer, and open the door to extract the case and pods immediately. Do not attempt to turn them on or charge them yet. Remove any removable parts carefully and place the AirPods on a clean, dry surface. Gently shake out excess water from the case and pods, then pat dry with a microfiber cloth. Avoid rubbing exposed ports aggressively; moisture can linger in microscopic crevices. If the AirPods are still in the laundry environment, take them away from heat sources that could bake in moisture. The key is to prevent further moisture ingress and to start the drying process as soon as possible. These steps help you avoid additional corrosion and give you a clearer view of the internal state when you eventually inspect them. Best Washing Machine emphasizes avoiding heat sources that could damage sensitive components during the initial drying stage.

Drying and Cleaning Methods After a Laundry Mishap

Moisture needs to evaporate slowly rather than being blasted away by heat. Start with air drying in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Use a clean microfiber cloth to blot any visible moisture, then place the AirPods and case in a warm, dry environment with good airflow. Some people consider desiccants like silica gel to speed up drying, but avoid using uncooked rice—it’s less effective and can leave dust or starch inside the device. Do not attempt to use a hair dryer, oven, or microwave—ultrasound heat can warp plastics and damage seals. If you can, keep the AirPods in a breathable container for 24–48 hours, flipping them occasionally so moisture has a chance to escape. The aim is to reach a long, steady dry instead of a rapid, uneven one that could trap moisture inside.

Assessing Internal Damage and When to Replace

After a thorough dry, inspect the AirPods for signs of internal damage. Look for corrosion on charging contacts, dull or erratic sound, misalignment of the stem or microphone mesh, or any unusual warmth during short tests. Battery-related swelling or white chalky residue is a red flag and indicates dangerous damage. If you notice any of these indicators, do not attempt to reset or power on the devices. In many cases, water damage is not recoverable, and professional service or replacement is the safest option. Best Washing Machine recommends erring on the side of caution: if you’re unsure whether the internal electronics are intact, consult a professional repair service rather than risking a dangerous short circuit.

Professional Help and Safe Testing

When in doubt, seek professional guidance. Contact Apple Support or an authorized service provider for an assessment of water exposure risk. If your AirPods are still under warranty or AppleCare, ask about coverage for accidental water damage and any repair options. Before testing any functionality, confirm the device is completely dry and free of moisture at charging contacts. A controlled, compliant test—such as attempting a soft reset or basic pairing tests with a known-clean device—should only occur after you have verified there are no signs of moisture or corrosion. Best Washing Machine’s guidance emphasizes safety first: never power on wet electronics, and don’t rely on non-standard drying methods.

Common Mistakes to Avoid and Prevention Tips

• Do not plug in or charge AirPods that might still be wet. - Do not use hairdryers, ovens, or heaters to dry devices. - Do not disassemble the AirPods yourself; opening the case could worsen damage. - Do not rely on rice or other questionable remedies to remove moisture. - Do consider protective measures post-incident, such as a waterproof case or a dedicated laundry pouch. - Develop a quick recharge and drying plan for future incidents so you aren’t tempted to accelerate drying with risky methods. These mistakes can turn a manageable incident into a total loss.