AirPods in Sauna: Can They Survive the Heat?

by | May 16, 2023

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Short Answer:

No, it’s not recommended to use your AirPods in a sauna. Despite some water resistance, they aren’t built to withstand the extreme heat and steam of a sauna.

The surge in popularity of health and wellness trends has led to an interesting question for tech enthusiasts: Can you wear AirPods in a sauna?

In this article, we discuss the specifics of Apple’s AirPods’ water-resistance capabilities, how the sauna environment affects these devices, and what you should do if your AirPods have been exposed to extreme heat and moisture.

AirPods Water Resistance

You need to understand each device’s level of water resistance before exposing them to water and high heat.

Let’s discuss the water-resistance capabilites of various AirPods models:

AirPods 1st and 2nd Gen

The first and second-generation AirPods do not have any official water or sweat resistance rating.

While these models may survive minor splashes, they are not designed to withstand any substantial exposure to moisture.

Using them in a heavy rain, for instance, or in a sauna, is not advisable and could result in damage to the device.

AirPods 3rd Gen

The third generation of AirPods boasts an IPX4 water resistance rating, similar to the AirPods Pro.

This makes them resistant to water splashes from any direction, but they are still not waterproof.

They should not be submerged in water, and it’s best to avoid using them in high-moisture environments like saunas.

AirPods Pro

The AirPods Pro model, on the other hand, ups the ante with a water resistance rating of IPX4.

This means that they are certified to resist splashes from any direction, making them more suitable for sweaty workouts or a light drizzle.

However, this doesn’t make them waterproof. Submerging them in water, exposing them to high-pressure water, or using them in a sauna is still not recommended.

AirPods Max

The AirPods Max, Apple’s high-end over-ear headphones, do not come with any official rating for water or sweat resistance.

They are more vulnerable to moisture damage, and therefore, should be kept dry at all times. Using them in environments with high moisture content like a sauna can lead to damage and is not recommended.

Remember, while these ratings indicate a level of water resistance, this resistance can decrease over time with normal wear and tear. To ensure the longevity of your AirPods, it’s best to avoid pushing these resistance limits.

AirPods in Sauna: Can It Be Done?

Now that you understand AirPod water resistance levels by model, we can get to the question, “Can I use my AirPods in the sauna?” The answer is, no.

While your AirPods may survive a brief encounter with a sauna, the heat can potentially harm the battery and the internal components, while the high humidity can further degrade the water resistance capability.

Over time, this can lead to diminished sound quality, battery life, and them eventually breaking.

What to Do If Your AirPods Have Been Exposed to Sauna

If your AirPods have been exposed to a sauna, the first step is to remove them from the environment immediately. Allow them to cool down and dry out in a room-temperature, low-humidity environment.

Do not attempt to use or charge them while they’re still hot or damp, as this could lead to further damage.

Once they’re fully dry, test them out to see if they’re working properly. If you notice any issues, it’s best to reach out to Apple Support for further assistance.

If they aren’t working, they likely are broken as a result of the sauna, and you’ll need to buy another pair. Here’s a quick link:

Key Takeaway

While the water and sweat resistance of AirPods might make them seem indestructible, it’s crucial to understand their limitations.

Using AirPods in a sauna is not recommended due to the potential for heat and moisture damage.

To maintain their performance and ensure a long lifespan for your AirPods, it’s best to keep them in a cool, dry environment and avoid exposure to high temperatures and moisture whenever possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you wear AirPods in a sauna?

No, it’s not advisable to use any model of AirPods in the sauna due to the high heat and moisture, which can damage the internal components.

What happens if I accidentally wear my AirPods in the sauna?

Exposure to high heat and moisture can potentially damage your AirPods. If they still work, dry them thoroughly. If not, contact Apple support for potential repair options.

Can sweat damage my AirPods?

Excessive sweat can potentially damage your AirPods. While AirPods Pro and 3rd Gen are sweat-resistant, it’s best to dry them off after heavy workouts.

Can I wear my Apple Watch in the sauna?

For more information, check out our Apple Watch in Sauna guide.

Ken Lynch

by Ken

Ken is a Data Analyst in the Healthcare industry and the owner and sole contributor to The Wearable Guy.

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