Apple’s AirTags, known for their compact design and ease of use, have become a global favorite for tracking everything from keys to pets.

Before placing an order for yourself, you may wonder about their durability, particularly their water resistance. This article focuses on the key question: Can AirTags get wet and still function?

I’ll explore the water resistance capabilities of AirTags, offering you a complete guide on what to expect when you’re exposed to water.

Let’s get started:

What are AirTags?

AirTags are small, coin-sized Bluetooth trackers designed to help you locate your belongings. They are part of Apple’s ecosystem and work in conjunction with the Find My app on iOS devices.

Their primary use is to keep track of your valuable items, such as keys, wallets, or bags, by attaching the AirTag to them and providing real-time location details.

Key Features of AirTags

Find My Integration: AirTags utilize the extensive Find My network, which consists of millions of Apple devices, to help users find their lost items even when they’re far away from them.
Precision Finding: Using Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology, AirTags offer remarkably accurate and precise tracking, enabling the user to find what they’re looking for more easily.
User Privacy and Security: AirTags are built with privacy and security in mind. They have a secure and encrypted connection and don’t store location data on the device itself.
Customizable: Users can personalize their AirTags with engravings, and emojis, or even pick from various accessory options to suit their preferences.
Compact design: AirTags are small, lightweight, and designed to be easy to attach to various items without adding noticeable bulk.

Can AirTags Get Wet?

Yes, Airtags can get wet.

Moving beyond the specifications, it’s crucial to consider how AirTags perform in real-world scenarios. On paper, AirTag possesses an IP67 water resistance rating.

This rating is a technical standard that indicates the device’s level of protection against water and dust ingress. Specifically, for AirTags, IP67 means they can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for about 30 minutes.

However, there’s a significant difference between being water-resistant and waterproof. Water resistance means a degree of protection against water ingress but doesn’t guarantee that AirTags will work or not.

The IP67 rating, while reassuring, is not an all-clear for exposing AirTags to water without concern. Prolonged or repeated exposure to water, especially beyond the conditions of the IP67 rating, poses a risk. The AirTag’s enclosure, though well-sealed, is not impervious to water. Sustained exposure could lead to moisture seeping in, potentially damaging the battery or internal electronics.

Another often overlooked aspect is the durability of the water resistance feature. Like many water-resistant devices, the AirTags’ ability to resist water influx may decline over time due to regular wear and tear.

Consequently, you should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary water exposure.

Testing AirTags in Wet Conditions

An ideal way to test your AirTags in wet conditions is to try them out in different circumstances. Here’s how I tested them –

My Test Results

The Washing Machine Test: I tried putting an AirTag through a full cycle in the washing machine. Surprisingly, it came out working perfectly fine! It was able to connect and play sounds, just like before.
Submersion Experiments: I also tested submerging AirTags in a basin of water. Most of the AirTags I tested managed to take this underwater adventure and continued to function properly afterward.
Lost at Sea: In an interesting twist, I had an AirTag that got lost at sea. When I found it on a beach a few days later, it was still working. This was a real testament to its durability in water.

Takeaway for You

From my tests, it’s clear that AirTags have a decent level of water resistance. However, they’re not indestructible when it comes to water exposure.

While they can survive occasional splashes or dips, I recommend keeping them as dry as possible to maintain their longevity. Remember, these were just my experiments and water damage isn’t covered by Apple’s warranty. So, it’s best to play it safe with your AirTags!

What to Do if Your AirTag Gets Wet?

Call it your bad luck or a twist of fate, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. And somehow if your AirTag has got wet, here are some immediate steps you should take right away –

Immediate Steps to Take

Remove from water: If your AirTag is submerged, the first step would be to get it out of the water as quickly as possible.
Pat dry: Pat the AirTag dry using a soft, dry, lint-free cloth immediately.
Do not apply direct heat: Refrain from using a blow dryer or other heated devices to hasten the drying process. The intense heat could damage the internal components.
Let it air dry: Allow the AirTag to air dry completely in a room-temperature, well-ventilated area. This may take a few hours.

Remember, even though AirTags have a water resistance rating of IP67, they’re not entirely waterproof. Therefore, immediate and proper drying is essential.

How to Check Functionality

Once your AirTag is completely dry, it’s time to check whether it’s working or not:

Ping the AirTag: Open the Find My app on your iPhone or iPad, select the Items tab, and choose your AirTag from the list. Tap the ‘Play Sound’ button to ping the AirTag. If it responds, it’s still functioning.
Check precision finding: If your AirTag supports Precision Finding, try to locate the AirTag using this feature. If things work smoothly, it’s a good sign.
Check connection: Ensure your AirTag is still appearing in your Find My app and updating its location.