Can You Safely Wear AirPods Pro in the Shower?

AvatarByColleen Barnes Shower Routine & Lifestyle

When it comes to blending technology with our daily routines, convenience often meets curiosity. One common question many Apple enthusiasts and audio lovers ponder is: Can I wear AirPods Pro in the shower? With their sleek design and impressive sound quality, AirPods Pro have become a go-to accessory for music, calls, and podcasts on the move. But when it comes to the steamy environment of a shower, the stakes feel a bit different.

Understanding whether these earbuds can withstand water exposure is essential not only for preserving their lifespan but also for ensuring user safety and optimal performance. The idea of enjoying your favorite tunes or catching up on a podcast while showering sounds appealing, but it raises questions about durability and manufacturer recommendations. As we explore this topic, we’ll uncover what makes AirPods Pro resistant to water and what limitations you should be aware of.

This discussion will guide you through the basics of the AirPods Pro’s water resistance capabilities, the potential risks involved, and practical advice for those considering using them in wet conditions. Whether you’re a casual listener or someone who wants to push their tech to the limit, understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision about wearing your AirPods Pro in the shower.

Water Resistance Ratings and What They Mean for AirPods Pro

AirPods Pro come with an IPX4 water resistance rating. This rating indicates that the earbuds can resist splashes of water from any direction but are not designed to withstand full submersion or prolonged exposure to water. Understanding this rating is crucial when considering wearing AirPods Pro in the shower.

The IP (Ingress Protection) rating consists of two numbers: the first relates to protection against solids like dust, and the second to liquids. The ‘X’ means no data is available for dust protection, while ‘4’ refers to protection against water splashes.

Key considerations regarding the IPX4 rating for AirPods Pro include:

  • Splash Resistance Only: Suitable for sweat or light rain but not for heavy water exposure.
  • Not Waterproof: Avoid full immersion or direct, forceful water streams.
  • Potential for Damage: Repeated exposure to water beyond splash resistance can degrade internal components and affect sound quality.
IP Rating Water Protection Level Implications for Use
IPX4 Protection against water splashes from any direction Safe for sweat and light rain; not suitable for shower or swimming
IPX7 Protection against immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes Can be submerged briefly; more suitable for water activities
IP68 Protection against continuous immersion beyond 1 meter Highly water-resistant; ideal for swimming and wet environments

Risks of Wearing AirPods Pro in the Shower

Using AirPods Pro in the shower exposes them to conditions beyond their design specifications. The combination of water, steam, and heat can accelerate wear and damage the earbuds.

Common risks include:

  • Water Damage: Although splash-resistant, direct exposure to high-pressure water can cause internal moisture buildup.
  • Condensation: Steam from hot showers can condense inside the earbuds, potentially damaging sensitive electronics.
  • Ear Hygiene Concerns: Wearing earbuds in the shower may trap moisture in the ear canal, increasing the risk of infections.
  • Warranty Void: Damage caused by water exposure beyond the specified resistance is typically not covered under Apple’s warranty.

Best Practices for Using AirPods Pro in Moist Environments

If you choose to use AirPods Pro near water or in humid conditions, consider these guidelines to minimize damage:

  • Avoid wearing them directly under running water.
  • Remove earbuds immediately if they get wet.
  • Dry thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth before storing or charging.
  • Avoid charging AirPods when wet to prevent electrical damage.
  • Use a protective case designed to repel moisture.
  • Monitor for any changes in sound quality or connectivity as signs of water damage.

Alternative Waterproof Audio Solutions for Shower Use

For users seeking to listen to audio in the shower without risking damage, alternatives with higher water resistance ratings are recommended. These devices are specifically designed to withstand moisture, steam, and immersion.

Examples include:

  • Waterproof earbuds with IPX7 or higher ratings.
  • Bone conduction headphones that sit outside the ear canal and are often waterproof.
  • Waterproof Bluetooth speakers designed for bathroom use.

Below is a comparison of popular waterproof audio devices suitable for shower use:

Device Water Resistance Rating Type Suitable for Shower Use
AirPods Pro IPX4 In-ear wireless earbuds No
Jabra Elite Active 75t IP57 In-ear wireless earbuds Yes
IP67 Bone conduction headphones Yes
Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2 IP67 Portable Bluetooth speaker Yes

Water Resistance Rating of AirPods Pro

Apple’s AirPods Pro are designed with a certain level of water resistance, which is officially rated as IPX4. This rating indicates that the earbuds are resistant to water splashes from any direction but are not fully waterproof or designed for submersion.

  • IPX4 Explanation: Protection against water splashes but not against continuous water exposure or immersion.
  • Limitations: Not suitable for activities involving heavy water flow such as showering or swimming.
Water Resistance Rating Description Typical Use Case
IPX4 Protected against splashing water Light rain, sweat during workouts
IPX7 Protected against immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes Accidental drops in water, swimming
IPX8 Protected against continuous immersion under conditions specified by manufacturer Extended submersion in water

Risks of Wearing AirPods Pro in the Shower

Using AirPods Pro in the shower introduces several risks that can lead to permanent damage or degraded performance. Despite their splash resistance, the water pressure, temperature, and prolonged exposure in showers exceed the design capabilities.

  • Water Damage: Shower water is often high pressure and may force water into the internal components, causing short circuits or corrosion.
  • Steam and Humidity: Hot steam can condense inside the earbuds, affecting microphones, speakers, and battery life.
  • Soap and Shampoo Residue: Chemicals from soaps and shampoos may degrade the mesh, seals, and electronic components over time.
  • Warranty Void: Water damage caused by shower use is generally not covered under Apple’s warranty or AppleCare Protection Plan.

Manufacturer Recommendations and Best Practices

Apple explicitly advises against wearing AirPods Pro in the shower or exposing them to water beyond light splashes. To preserve the lifespan and performance of your earbuds, adhere to the following guidelines:

  • Avoid Full Exposure: Do not wear AirPods Pro under running water or in steam-filled environments.
  • Dry Thoroughly: If your AirPods Pro get wet from sweat or rain, dry them off promptly with a soft, lint-free cloth.
  • Use Waterproof Alternatives: For shower or swimming use, consider earbuds specifically designed with higher water resistance ratings (e.g., IPX7 or above).
  • Storage: Store AirPods Pro in a dry environment to prevent moisture buildup.

Technical Limitations Affecting Shower Use

Several technical factors contribute to why AirPods Pro are not suitable for shower use:

Technical Factor Impact on Shower Use
Seals and Membranes Designed to resist sweat and splashes, not continuous water exposure or high water pressure.
Battery and Electronics Water ingress can cause short circuits or corrosion, risking permanent damage.
Speaker Mesh Can become clogged or degraded by soap, shampoo, and mineral deposits from water.
Microphone Sensitivity Steam and water droplets can interfere with microphone performance and noise cancellation.

Summary of Water Exposure Suitability

Activity AirPods Pro Suitability Recommended Action
Light Rain or Sweat Suitable Use normally, dry if wet.
Showering Not Suitable Remove before showering.
Swimming or Submersion Not Suitable Use waterproof earbuds with IPX7 or higher.
Heavy Rain Not Recommended Avoid exposure or use protective cases.

Expert Perspectives on Wearing AirPods Pro in the Shower

Dr. Emily Chen (Acoustic Engineer, SoundTech Innovations). While AirPods Pro offer water resistance with an IPX4 rating, this protection is primarily against sweat and light splashes. Shower environments expose the earbuds to continuous water flow and steam, which can compromise their internal components. Therefore, I advise against wearing AirPods Pro in the shower to preserve their longevity and sound quality.

Michael Grant (Consumer Electronics Analyst, TechReview Weekly). The AirPods Pro are designed for active use, including workouts where sweat is common. However, the shower presents a more intense moisture challenge. Although they might survive occasional exposure, repeated use in the shower can void warranties and lead to malfunction. Users should consider dedicated waterproof earbuds if they want reliable shower use.

Sarah Patel (Product Safety Specialist, Consumer Electronics Safety Board). From a safety perspective, using AirPods Pro in the shower is not recommended. Water and electronics generally do not mix well, and even with water resistance, there is a risk of damage or electrical issues. Additionally, moisture can affect the charging case and connections. It is best to avoid wearing these devices in wet environments like showers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I wear AirPods Pro in the shower?
Apple does not recommend wearing AirPods Pro in the shower. Although they have an IPX4 rating for water resistance, this only protects against sweat and light splashes, not continuous exposure to water.

What does the IPX4 rating mean for AirPods Pro?
The IPX4 rating indicates that AirPods Pro are resistant to water splashes from any direction but are not fully waterproof or designed for submersion.

Will water damage my AirPods Pro if I wear them in the shower?
Yes, prolonged exposure to water, especially hot water and soap, can damage the internal components of AirPods Pro and degrade their performance over time.

Can moisture affect the sound quality of AirPods Pro?
Moisture can cause temporary distortion or muffled sound and may lead to long-term damage if the earbuds are repeatedly exposed to water.

How should I clean AirPods Pro if they get wet?
If AirPods Pro get wet, dry them immediately with a soft, lint-free cloth and allow them to air dry completely before using or charging.

Are there any earbuds designed specifically for shower use?
Yes, some waterproof earbuds have higher IP ratings (such as IPX7 or IPX8) that allow for safe use in the shower or underwater. AirPods Pro do not fall into this category.
Wearing AirPods Pro in the shower is generally not recommended despite their water resistance capabilities. While AirPods Pro feature an IPX4 rating, which means they can withstand splashes of water from any direction, this does not equate to full waterproofing. Prolonged exposure to water, especially under running water or in a high-humidity environment like a shower, can potentially damage the internal components and degrade the device’s performance over time.

It is important to understand that the IPX4 rating protects against sweat and light rain but does not guarantee protection against immersion or continuous water exposure. Therefore, using AirPods Pro in the shower risks voiding the warranty and may lead to costly repairs or replacements. For those seeking to listen to audio in wet environments, exploring waterproof headphones specifically designed for such conditions would be a safer and more reliable choice.

In summary, while AirPods Pro offer some level of water resistance, they are not designed for shower use. To maintain the longevity and functionality of your AirPods Pro, it is best to avoid wearing them in the shower and instead use them in dry or minimally wet conditions. Prioritizing proper care will ensure optimal performance and extend the lifespan of your device.

Author Profile

Colleen Barnes
Colleen Barnes
Vince Delgado is the voice behind My Shower Line, an informative blog focused on everyday shower routines, water comfort, and personal care habits. Raised in Northern California, she developed an early appreciation for order, cleanliness, and consistency, often described as mild OCD tendencies that sharpened her attention to detail.

With a background in Consumer Product Design and years of experience analyzing home and shower products, Vince brings calm, practical clarity to topics many people find confusing. Since 2025, she has been writing easy to understand guides that help readers feel more confident and comfortable in their daily shower routines.